SCALE MODEL NEWS

DIECAST SCALE MODELS are traditionally a collector's market, rather than one for builders. But there are plenty of times when ready-built models make perfectly good sense. SMN report: Using diecasts as part of the scenery for model rail layouts is one important use, though most are too shiny when fresh from the box, and require at least one coat of satin varnish on the paintwork. Collections of related vehicles can make interesting conversation pieces too. This group ( header, below ) forms a miniature history of the owner's motoring years. This old Dinky Toys Observation Coach was bought cheaply at a recent toy fair, to replace a brand-new one lost on a beach, when the owner was just six years old. Despite the worn paintwork, it still has an appeal, and the tyres seem nearly good as new. And ( below ) is an excellent vid that relates the history of Dinky Toys, a leading manufacturer in the 1950s and 1960s. Antique stores can reveal interesting finds ( below ) where an old tin...

THERE AREN'T MANY OF US WHO didn't have a few diecast vehicles as children. Dinky Toys were one of the premier brands, so it's fascinating to see how they were made, as the video clip shows. SMN report : When I was eight years old, the Observation Coach ( header pic ) briefly became my pride and joy. One summer vacation, I dug out a splendidly complex set of beach sand-roads for my brand-new 'Obbo' Coach', excavations that came to a sudden end when I realised I had buried that shiny Dinky Toy. I never found it, but ever since have had a soft spot for this particular model. Apart from the Dinky Toys in the video ( below ) it offers an interesting observation on hair styles of the 'Swinging Sixties.' Dinky Supertoys ( below ) came in sharply designed blue-striped boxes. For many collectors, the Mighty Antar tank transporter was high on the wanted list, and came with fold-down rear ramps. The matching Dinky Centurion tank could be driven up these, as it ...