Okay, so you’re thinking about diving into the world of diecast model car collecting? Awesome! It’s a fun and rewarding hobby that can be as casual or as intense as you want it to be. I’m here to give you the lowdown, without all the confusing jargon. Think of this as your friendly neighborhood guide to tiny metal automobiles.
Why Collect Diecast Cars?
Before we get into the ‘how,’ let’s talk about the ‘why.’ Why would anyone want to collect miniature versions of cars? Well, there are tons of reasons!
- Nostalgia: Maybe you had a favorite car growing up, or your dad did. Collecting diecast models can be a great way to reconnect with those memories.
- Appreciation for Design: Cars are works of art! Diecast models allow you to admire the intricate details and craftsmanship of automotive design on a smaller scale.
- Investment Potential: Certain rare or limited-edition diecast cars can actually increase in value over time. But don’t go into this expecting to get rich quick – collect what you love first and foremost.
- Pure Fun: Let’s face it, they’re just cool! There’s something inherently satisfying about owning a miniature version of your dream car.
Finding Your Focus: What Kind of Cars Do You Love?
This is arguably the most important step. The world of diecast cars is vast. It’s easy to get overwhelmed if you try to collect everything. Narrowing your focus will make your collecting journey much more manageable and enjoyable. Think about what truly interests you.
- Specific Brands: Do you love Porsches? Maybe Mustangs are your thing? Focusing on a single brand can make your collection more cohesive.
- Specific Eras: Are you a fan of classic cars from the 1950s? Or maybe you prefer the muscle cars of the 1960s and 70s? Or perhaps the supercars from the 2000s till 2024.
- Specific Types of Cars: Race cars? Trucks? Emergency vehicles? There are diecast models for every type of vehicle imaginable.
- Specific Scales: Diecast cars come in different scales (1/18, 1/24, 1/43, 1/64, etc.). Choosing a scale will ensure that all your cars are proportionally sized.
- Specific Manufacturers: Brands like Hot Wheels, Matchbox, Autoart, Minichamps, and others each have their own style and quality. You might gravitate towards one particular manufacturer.
Personally, I’m a sucker for classic American muscle cars in 1/18 scale. That helps me narrow my search and prevents me from buying every shiny car I see (though, let’s be honest, that’s still a challenge!).
Where to Find Diecast Cars?
The hunt is part of the fun! There are plenty of places to find diecast cars, both online and in person.
- Online Retailers: Amazon, eBay, and specialized diecast websites are great resources. Be sure to read reviews and check the seller’s reputation before making a purchase.
- Hobby Shops: Local hobby shops often carry a selection of diecast cars. This is a great way to support local businesses and see the cars in person before you buy them.
- Toy Stores: Mainstream toy stores like Target and Walmart usually have a decent selection of Hot Wheels and Matchbox cars, which are a great starting point.
- Flea Markets and Garage Sales: You never know what treasures you might find at a flea market or garage sale! This is a good option for finding older or more obscure models.
- Diecast Shows: Keep an eye out for diecast shows in your area. These events are a great opportunity to meet other collectors, buy, sell, and trade cars.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to negotiate! Especially at flea markets and garage sales, you can often get a better price if you’re willing to haggle a bit.
Understanding Scale: 1/18, 1/24, 1/43, and More!
Scale refers to the size of the diecast model relative to the real car. For example, a 1/18 scale model is 1/18th the size of the actual car. Here’s a quick breakdown of some common scales:
- 1/12: Very large and detailed. Often quite expensive.
- 1/18: A popular scale for collectors, offering a good balance of size and detail.
- 1/24: Another common scale, slightly smaller than 1/18.
- 1/43: A popular scale for collecting a large number of cars due to their smaller size.
- 1/64: The scale used by Hot Wheels and Matchbox. Great for building a large collection on a budget.
Choosing a scale depends on your personal preference and the amount of space you have. Larger scales offer more detail, but they also take up more room.
To Open or Not to Open? That is the Question!
This is a classic debate among diecast collectors. Should you keep your cars in their original packaging (mint in box, or MIB), or should you take them out and display them? There’s no right or wrong answer – it’s a matter of personal preference.
Keeping your cars MIB can potentially increase their value, as collectors often prefer unopened items. However, you won’t be able to fully appreciate the details of the car if it’s stuck in a box. Opening your cars allows you to handle them, admire them from all angles, and display them in a more dynamic way.
Personally, I open most of my cars. I want to enjoy them! But I do keep the boxes in case I ever decide to sell them.
Displaying Your Collection: Show Off Those Beauties!
Once you’ve started building your collection, you’ll want to find a way to display it. Here are a few ideas:
- Shelves: Simple shelves are a great way to display your cars. You can use regular bookshelves, or get specialized display shelves designed for diecast cars.
- Display Cases: Display cases offer protection from dust and damage, and they can also enhance the presentation of your collection.
- Wall-Mounted Displays: Wall-mounted displays are a great way to save space and create a visually interesting display.
- Curio Cabinets: Curio cabinets offer a classic and elegant way to display your diecast cars.
No matter how you choose to display your collection, be sure to keep it out of direct sunlight, as this can fade the paint over time.
Protecting Your Investment: Care and Maintenance
To keep your diecast cars in good condition, it’s important to take care of them properly. Here are a few tips:
- Dust Regularly: Use a soft cloth or brush to dust your cars regularly. This will prevent dust from building up and damaging the paint.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: As mentioned earlier, direct sunlight can fade the paint on your cars. Keep them out of direct sunlight or use UV-protective display cases.
- Handle with Care: Be careful when handling your cars. Avoid dropping them or bumping them into things, as this can cause damage.
- Store Properly: If you’re not displaying your cars, store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in damp or humid conditions, as this can cause rust.
And that’s it! You’re now ready to embark on your diecast model car collecting adventure. Remember to have fun, collect what you love, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Happy collecting!
