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360driver
Netherlands
454 Posts |
 Posted - 09/21/2010 : 09:22:04
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Right you are patrick! My collection started out as die cast but Hans (Moriaan) convinced me about the beauty of handbuilts so almost three years ago I switched and started my handbuilts collection. Not just a particular theme, but I only collect those models I love most.
I have some modern cars, but the oldies have a whole story behind them sometimes which makes them more desirable. Therefor I more and more buy the classic ones too.
I also have startecd a section of prototypes/one offs....... |
Edited by - 360driver on 09/21/2010 09:26:07 |
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Models123
USA
196 Posts |
Posted - 09/21/2010 : 12:33:56
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360 Driver,
Yes, I also like some of those too. It's just a shame that they make so many, many, many versions. Seems to be that many of these model makers have an interesting interpretation of Limited Edition. I don't think that some of them have a clue as to what a true Limited Edition is, and if they do, then they obviously don't care. I like making money as much as the next guy, but I'm not going to sacrifice my brand, my name and reputation, devalue all my models and brand, and alienate most of my customers just to make some extra money for a short time.
And, as a collector, I now buy only what I really like (no more brand loyalty for me), in all scales, but these days, I also very seriously consider the over production of many 1:43rds which does keep me away from buying practically any of the standard 1:43 hand builts. The few recent hand builts I've received (all made in China!) had quality problems, and.....
So, in the hand built category, I'm sticking with only the true limited editions, and very special custom builts - essentially the best ones that Mike offers.
Marshall |
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Ferrari2006
Germany
352 Posts |
Posted - 09/21/2010 : 23:38:23
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Hi to all,
when i beginning to collect Ferrari Models (ca. 200BC) i buy Burago´s, Minichamps, Bang......now i buy only Readybuilds like BBR or MR but i buy (like you Marhall) only what I really like.
My Passion are the older Styling Models from BBR and i must say if you follow the Prices on eBay, i must be right. Befor i buy a new BBR like a Ferrari 458 Italia (in the xx color and driven by Mr. Nobody) i will buy my wife a pair new Shoes.
What all we can see is that BBR and also the other Brands build to much Versions of each Model. When a new BBR Models is coming out the Price are ca. 185Euro up to 205Euro then "Ouer Dealers" sale it very good for some weeks and many "of us" are buying the Models for a high Price and then 3 months latter check out ebay you will get it for 125Euro
Strange World. |
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cpete
USA
53 Posts |
Posted - 09/22/2010 : 07:45:36
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I'd like to add one more comment to this thread.
I, like most everyone else, check ebay regularly, and will find deals on things that I might be interested in once in a while (mainly kits).
I cant afford to buy tons, and even though I only have about 30 models, my wife thinks my collection is HUGE!!
With getting married recently and buying a house there are lots of expenses in my life (appliances, roof, and yes, new shoes for my lady)-and this hobby doesn't get the money I would like to give it: )
The main point I want to make is that I do look foward to getting the next new model from Mike. I know I may be paying a little more now, and that it may be cheaper on Ebay in a year, but to me, one of the most important things in this hobby is a place share, and see what others in the hobby are doing.
This site is easily the most visited site on my computer, and making sure that Miniwerks comes first is my main objective lately.
I can only afford one every couple of months or so, but when I do, I want to make sure that the person that has made this hobby twice as enjoyable for me, stays right where he is.
Thanks again Mike and also to Jono to giving us a place to gather.
Chad |
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LQDA4
USA
40 Posts |
Posted - 09/22/2010 : 12:24:05
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| I used to buy a lot of diecasts on eBay, but I have never been brave enough to buy handbuilts on eBay, except from Mike's eBay page. |
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250GTE
Netherlands
295 Posts |
Posted - 09/22/2010 : 12:32:44
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The commercial tactics of cranking out a model in every possible version and color and type of base doesn't bother me too much. It doesn't do anything for me, but I simply do not buy it.
I think we are all pretty much knowledgable enough to exactly know what we want and what we don't want. |
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Trossi
232 Posts |
Posted - 09/22/2010 : 12:40:04
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| That topic made me also think a lot. Regarding my collection, I have completely switched to pure artisan (no CAD etc.) handbuilts (vintage and new). Limited Editions are not important for me. I dont care if a model has been released 10 or 200 times as long as I am satisfied with the craftsmanship and the presentation. |
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ALFA100
United Kingdom
2 Posts |
Posted - 09/22/2010 : 12:42:55
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I have collected models since I was a child mainly Ferrari but now Alfa Romeo. I sold all my toys (Matchbox,Corgi) to purchase good diecasts like Minichamps. As I got older and had more spending power I started buying handbuilts!! It is like a drug and Miniwerks website is allways the first site I look at when the computer is switched on in the morning.
There are several points in this thread, themed collections is the way to go if budgets are tight,if you want to collect every variation/colour then good on ya I try and stick to showcars and one offs which leads onto the next point BBR concept have just released a one off car the p540 superfast. From the pictures on the web I think it looks basic especially around the front wing side air vents (compare Looksmarts version which has just appeared on there website and you will see the difference) also the paintwork looks wrong. I think BBR are falling behind very quickly which is a shame maybe they have taken on too much!!
I love the models in my collection from Make UP but they are clinical! and dont have the same feel as say a handbuilt from Tron or MG. As allways you will never be able to please everyone just enjoy what you have I do. |
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the.x.man
New Zealand
877 Posts |
Posted - 09/22/2010 : 17:54:35
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quote:
Originally posted by cpete
Thanks again Mike and also to Jono to giving us a place to gather.
Don't blame me - all the credit goes to Mike :o)
I am only responsible for all the errors...
________________________________________________________
The only substitute for cubic inches is more cubic inches!
~ Max Balchowsky |
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Radical Racing
USA
16 Posts |
Posted - 09/22/2010 : 22:20:07
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Since I started the thread, I guess I should explain my goals. I will just address my Ferrari goal.
I do not collect for investment and have no particular loyalty to one brand of hand built over another. I want the best version of the car available at the time but do not upgrade my handbuilt Ferraris. I do however upgrade my Le Mans cars to the latest Spark or IXO for example because I consider them far superior to Brumm and Top Model for example. All my Le Mans Ferraris are or will be BBR, Tron, Renaissance or Technomodel.
My goal is to tell the story of Ferrari road car and custom one off styling in 1:43 scale. I leave the competition Ferraris to what is required for my Le Mans collection. I am especially drawn to the styling of the cars moreso than the engineering or the competitive history. I love the curves and the details of the lights and trim pieces and how it all comes together. I find it very interesting to see a car that looks so right in so many ways but the designer has made the grill opening too large or the taillights an awkward shape. Yes I do have enough ego to criticize some styling and envision how I would have done it. That is also part of the fun for me.
Though in our new home most of my models are not on display, I visit them each morning and every evening pulling out a box to check out one or two. The artistry of the the real 1:1 designer and the 1:43 scale model maker in duplicating the design give me great pleasure...the same as someone who collects paintings or sculpture I suspect. I consider these models true art.
Since I want to tell the whole story, I am driven to collect all the latest production Ferrari (one color only) and all the custom one offs from the 1940's on. I especially like the Vignale bodied cars from the 1950's. That is why I am so sad that Ilario lost his Ferrari license.
Todd |
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Mazmatt
Australia
55 Posts |
Posted - 09/23/2010 : 03:25:09
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what an excellent thread as it delves into the psychology of the collector which ultimately transcends even the subject of the collection. The most fascinating thing about collecting is that other than those that build a collection based on speculation (ie making money in the future) it is really not a rational pasttime. In fact most collectors on this forum probably have some form of mental illness such as OCD but the flip side is that I would say that the vast majority of contributors to this forum have above average intelligence and good education. This thread also prompts us to think about why we actually collect which I think is very healthy as well.
I really enjoy reading everyone's contribution but the one contribution that I really identify with is Paul Wylie's. Very moving and very honest and frankly probably encompasses most emotions etc that we will all experience at some time. But also the frank and shrewd observations about the behaviour of manufacturers is very aligned to my thoughts. The fact is that collecting for me is quite complex. On the one hand I love the accuracy, subject and craftmanship of the model, on the other the whole concept of handbuilt implies a rarity above and beyond the mass produced. Therefore, when there appears to be a flooding of the market by manufacturers eager to extract the last dollar in profits it is hard not to get a sense of betrayal, not just because of the adverse financial impact on one's investment but more the dilution of the sense that one has invested in something quite special and have been willing to pay a premium for it.
This forum is rich in its content and passion and a haven to come to escape from the mundane. The goodwill and warmth that is visible here is very impressive especially since the collector community spans many different divides
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360driver
Netherlands
454 Posts |
Posted - 09/23/2010 : 08:25:28
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quote:
Originally posted by Models123
360 Driver,
.........
So, in the hand built category, I'm sticking with only the true limited editions, and very special custom builts - essentially the best ones that Mike offers.
Marshall
Marshall,
I totally agree with you!
in the beginning when Ferrari introduced a new model, I bought it in 1:43.....
Nowadays I am much more sellective and try to get indeed only the REAL LEs!!
The classic Ferrari's that I own, are only the early BBRs, so the real handbuilt ones, not from China.....
The new ones I buy are going to be by RGM or Calsito....... |
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moriaan
Netherlands
510 Posts |
Posted - 09/23/2010 : 10:26:40
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Fantastic post Mazzmat!
Collecting is one of the flaws of the human design!
In reality this hobby makes litle sense..
Its an escape from daily life, and can become obsessive "something the manufacturers will encourage".
Being a longtime collector (started at 18, now being 43) I have experienced the same things Paul does now..
Sometimes the collector grabbs you, and its kind of obsessive, other times, its not important at all.
But overall, it only hurts my bank-account, and its healthier than smoking, gambling or drinking..
@ Lars and other starting collectors, please select a goal in your collection, its a lot easier for your wallet and your mind!
Re-think on a regular base and dont lose track!
I retain my collection to 150 pieces for a reason..
Less is sometimes more.. Invest in quality and rarity, rather than numbers.. You can't have it all anyway!
Hans
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250GTE
Netherlands
295 Posts |
Posted - 09/23/2010 : 10:53:12
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I can relate to pretty much all that has been said in this thread. The philosophy of collecting touches upon an interesting aspect of our hobby. Many times I have searched for a rationale to justify my expensive hobby. And every time I came to the same conclusion: there isn't one. So I looked upon it in a broader sense: would there be a more sensible hobby to spend my money on? Again, no. I have to be honest: for many, many years, this has been my favourite way to pass my free time and it keeps evolving.
Today, it isn't only the buying of the models, it is also the research to getting to know the actual cars and their history, the interaction with fellow-collectors such as you guys, fighting the dilemma's of what to buy on my limited collection and the joy when you know you made the right decision. And then in the end, there is the collection itself. And to me, it never gets old. Each day I take a look and every time I feel blessed and fortunate to have these beautiful handbuilts in my collection. I don't regret one dime of the thousands and thousands of dollars I have spend on it. |
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Lars T.
Germany
21 Posts |
Posted - 09/24/2010 : 03:29:28
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quote:
Originally posted by moriaan
@ Lars and other starting collectors, please select a goal in your collection, its a lot easier for your wallet and your mind!
Re-think on a regular base and dont lose track!
I retain my collection to 150 pieces for a reason..
Less is sometimes more.. Invest in quality and rarity, rather than numbers.. You can't have it all anyway!
Hans
Hi Hans,
I understand your point, although I'll probably not entirely follow your suggestion I'm afraid. Partly because I'd really love to see way more than "just" 150 models in my collection one day. Partly because 250 Euros is really the maximum I want to spend for a model car - So a leather-based RGM is the ceiling for me. These models are already so beautiful that I don't feel any urge to go into even higher exclusiveness and/or quality for even higher prices.
But then again these RGM's are probably the only ones that I'm buying at full prices. The normal BBRs and Make Ups that I have all came from Ebay for quite good prices. Should I ever wish to sell them, I think I can at least get my money back for them. So for the time being I'll just happily let the collection grow, adding old and new models, BBRs, Make Ups and RGMs. I already feel that I'm limiting myself by only buying handbuilts from these companies, and staying away from the F1s (which don't interest me). Should I, at a later stage, wish to focus much more on certain models only, I could always sell what I don't need anymore, just like you're doing now :-)
Meanwhile, I think a new RGM might be added very soon to my collection, maybe already today!
Ciao,
Lars T. |
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The goal of your collection
