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What model(s) would you suggest to someone who's never collected these before?
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Please follow these steps and answer these questions in your response.- How were you introduced to diecast models?
- Did the collecting bug take right away?
- What elements of this hobby, or hobbies in general, make you want to be collector versus being the owner of say two examples.
I know this is a tough question, but that's why I pose it. - Submit up to three model suggestions.
- Explain your choices.
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1. I built model airplanes as a kid and after I got married but before I had kids. I saw a Matchbox P-38 on the shelves at Target, and saw it as a way to collect without having to invest the time on assembly. I still miss having the time to make models, but I love diecast for different reasons.
2. I am probably obsessive/compulsive. I have collected stuff since I was 5: Hot Wheels, Stamps, G.I. Joes, Comics, patches, Star Wars, Legos, etc etc. Other toy collectors think I'm odd because I liberate my toys from their packages, which decreases their resale value. I am in it for the joy of collecting, not to finance my retirement.
3. See the first part of 2. On the other hand, these planes represent more to me than just another thing I can collect. They are a miniature representation of history. History is such a broad subject that one or two aircraft can't possibly begin to cover the myriad important and pivotal conflict in which I am interested.
4 and 5. I am afraid I am not going to be much help here, as I believe a starter aircraft is a very personal choice. I will instead explain some possible rationales for starting a diecast collection:
A. Movie/TV/Book/Flight Sim-based interest: A prospective collector is someone who saw a movie or tv show about a particular aviation subject, and would like a representation of the aircraft to display. In this case, an aircraft similar to the type depicted in the movie in question would be appropriate; F-14s for Top Gun, B-17s for Memphis Belle/12 O'Clock High, etc. This is really effective, because the prospective collector has already made a connection with the aircraft.
B. "Don't know much about airplanes, but that sure is nice-looking!" interest: I know a few collectors who don't have any sort of bond with an aircraft, other than they think it looks neat. This can be narrowed down a little by determining which particular era they are drawn to, then suggesting a very colorful paint scheme. For example, F-14s from the '70s, colorful P-51s, and nearly any biplane are good choices for these visually stimulated people. The connection to the aircraft may or may not come later, but as long as they are enjoying themselves, that's what matters.
C. "I want to sell this for a bajillion dollars when I retire" interest. I have a hard time relating to these people, but if I were to suggest one, I would pick a low production number Corgi for them.
I know my approach is a little off the off the wall, but then, so am I.