Since I was 4 Years Old

Sept/Oct 2018 edition
Issue #1 AutoMobilia Resource Magazine
Marshall Buck

Models and toys date back centuries. For real model cars, it may have been just a few miniatures during the 1700s replicating some of the finest horse drawn carriages of that time, and certainly there are a handful from the 1800s. The few that were made would have been for the very well- heeled and royalty. Nowadays the rest of us mere mortals, can acquire some rather fantastic models of all types of automobiles. Most are pieces manufactured from the 1950s to current day, with prices ranging from under $100 to over $100,000. 

1935 Morgan Three-Wheeler.

I have been collecting model cars since I was about 4 years old. Actually, they were toy cars at first (Corgi, Dinky, Solido, and others) and I still have rug burns on my knees from “driving” my fleet across the great land of carpet. There is a significant distinction between ‘toy’ and ‘model.’ Today, I collect mostly high quality, accurately detailed models.... limited editions, custom built one-of-a-kinds, and some semi mass market as well.

My perspective and view on all types of model cars comes from an admittedly unusual combination of factors. I am passionate about automobiles, the work I do, and all types of collecting. For our first issue, I am going to dispense some general information regarding model collecting. The majority of “collectible” automobile models (not kits) have been made from the mid 1960s onward.  Be it a one-off scratch built piece, or a production run., some are easily attainable and of course, some are not.

If you are new to collecting (anything), follow this rule: collect what you like, and buy the absolute best you can afford.

​The 1:1 collector car market has changed a great deal over the years, and so has the collectible model market.  As with the real cars, and anything  collectible, there is a great deal of misinformation coming from all directions. There are many factors to consider, and no simple, pat answers. Do your homework, and beware of reviews in model car magazines, as well as the many “arm chair experts” dispensing opinions, advice and information, which is all too often about as accurate as a blind (and certainly drunk) sharp-shooter. 
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