How to Start and Grow Your Diecast Toy Collection

 

Introduction

Diecast toys are miniature models of cars, planes, trains, and other vehicles that are made of metal, usually zinc alloy, by using a moulding process called die-casting. Diecast toys are popular among collectors and enthusiasts of all ages, as they offer a realistic and detailed representation of various types of vehicles, from classic to modern, from civilian to military, from fictional to historical.

If you are interested in diecast toys and want to start or grow your own collection, you may wonder where to begin and how to proceed. In this article, we will give you some tips and advice on how to start and grow your diecast toy collection.

1. Choose Your Theme and Scale

One of the first things you need to do when starting or growing your diecast toy collection is to choose your theme and scale. A theme is the category or genre of vehicles that you want to collect, such as cars, planes, trains, or motorcycles. A scale is the ratio between the size of the model and the size of the real vehicle, such as 1:18, 1:43, or 1:64.

Choosing your theme and scale will help you narrow down your options and focus on the models that interest you the most. You can choose a theme and scale based on your personal preference, budget, space, or availability. You can also choose more than one theme or scale if you want to diversify your collection.

Some of the most popular themes and scales for diecast toy collectors are:

• Cars: Cars are one of the most common and diverse themes for diecast toy collectors. You can find models of cars from different eras, countries, brands, models, and types. You can also find models of cars from movies, TV shows, video games, or sports. Some of the most popular scales for diecast car models are 1:18, 1:24¹, 1:43², and 1:64³.
• Planes: Planes are another popular theme for diecast toy collectors. You can find models of planes from different periods, nations, branches, models, and roles. You can also find models of planes from historical events, such as World War II⁴ or the Cold War. Some of the most popular scales for diecast plane models are 1:72, 1:144, and 1:200.
• Trains: Trains are a classic theme for diecast toy collectors. You can find models of trains from different eras, countries, companies, models, and types. You can also find models of trains from famous railways, such as the Orient Express or the Trans-Siberian Railway. Some of the most popular scales for diecast train models are 1:87, 1:120, and 1:160.
• Motorcycles: Motorcycles are a fun and exciting theme for diecast toy collectors. You can find models of motorcycles from different eras, countries, brands, models, and types. You can also find models of motorcycles from racing, stunts, or celebrities. Some of the most popular scales for diecast motorcycle models are 1:12, 1:18, and 1:24.

2. Research Your Models and Brands

Another thing you need to do when starting or growing your diecast toy collection is to research your models and brands. Researching your models and brands will help you learn more about the history, features, and value of the vehicles that you want to collect. It will also help you find the best sources, prices, and deals for buying your models.

You can research your models and brands by using various resources, such as:

• Books: Books are a great source of information for diecast toy collectors. You can find books that cover specific themes, scales, or brands of diecast toys. You can also find books that provide general guides, tips, or advice for diecast toy collecting. Some examples of books for diecast toy collectors are:
  • The Collector’s Guide to Diecast Toys & Scale Models by Dana Johnson
  • The Encyclopedia of Matchbox Toys by Charlie Mack
  • The Ultimate Guide to Hot Wheels Variations by Michael Zarnock
• Magazines: Magazines are another great source of information for diecast toy collectors. You can find magazines that feature news, reviews, interviews, or articles about diecast toys. You can also find magazines that showcase collections, displays, or dioramas of diecast toys. Some examples of magazines for diecast toy collectors are:
  • Die Cast X Magazine
  • Model Collector Magazine
  • Diecast Collector Magazine
• Websites: Websites are a convenient and accessible source of information for diecast toy collectors. You can find websites that offer online catalogues, databases, or forums of diecast toys. You can also find websites that sell, trade, or auction diecast toys. Some examples of websites for diecast toy collectors are:
  • Diecast Model Centre¹
  • Quality Diecast Toys²
  • Model Toy Auctions⁴

3. Buy Your Models and Accessories

The next thing you need to do when starting or growing your diecast toy collection is to buy your models and accessories. Buying your models and accessories will help you build and expand your collection with the vehicles that you want and like. It will also help you enjoy and appreciate your collection with the tools and items that you need.

You can buy your models and accessories from various sources, such as:

• Online shops: Online shops are a convenient and easy way to buy diecast toys. You can browse through a wide range of models and brands, compare prices and features, and order and pay online. You can also benefit from discounts, offers, or free delivery. Some examples of online shops that sell diecast toys are:
  • Diecast Model Centre¹
  • Quality Diecast Toys²
  • Amazon
• Local shops: Local shops are a traditional and personal way to buy diecast toys. You can see and touch the models in person, ask questions and advice from the staff, and support local businesses. You can also find rare or vintage models that may not be available online. Some examples of local shops that sell diecast toys are:
  • The London Toy Soldier Shop
  • The Model Shop Northampton
  • The Toy Box Edinburgh
• Shows and fairs: Shows and fairs are a fun and social way to buy diecast toys. You can meet and interact with other collectors and enthusiasts, discover new models and brands, and enjoy the atmosphere and entertainment. You can also find bargains, deals, or swaps for your models. Some examples of shows and fairs that sell diecast toys are:
  • The London Toy Fair
  • The NEC Classic Motor Show
  • The Sandown Park Toy Fair

When buying your models and accessories, you should consider some factors, such as:

• Condition: The condition of a diecast toy refers to its physical state, such as its paint, decals, wheels, windows, or parts. The condition of a diecast toy can affect its value, appearance, and functionality. You should check the condition of a diecast toy before buying it, especially if it is used or second-hand. You should look for any signs of wear, damage, or repair, such as scratches, dents, cracks, or missing pieces.
• Packaging: The packaging of a diecast toy refers to its original box, case, or blister pack. The packaging of a diecast toy can affect its value, protection, and display. You should check the packaging of a diecast toy before buying it, especially if it is new or mint. You should look for any signs of wear, damage, or tampering, such as tears, stains, creases, or stickers.
• Price: The price of a diecast toy refers to the amount of money that you pay for it. The price of a diecast toy can vary depending on its rarity, demand, quality, or condition. You should compare the price of a diecast toy before buying it, especially if it is expensive or collectible. You should look for any factors that influence the price, such as supply, popularity, edition, or certificate.

4. Display and Care for Your Models

The last thing you need to do when starting or growing your diecast toy collection is to display and care for your models. Displaying and caring for your models will help you showcase and preserve your collection with pride and passion. It will also help you enjoy and appreciate your collection with beauty and quality.

You can display and care for your models by using various methods, such as:

• Shelves: Shelves are a simple and practical way to display your diecast toys. You can arrange your models on shelves according to your theme, scale, or preference. You can also add labels, signs, or lights to enhance your display. You should choose shelves that are sturdy, stable, and spacious enough to hold your models. You should also clean your shelves regularly to remove dust or dirt.
• Cabinets: Cabinets are a secure and elegant way to display your diecast toys. You can store your models in cabinets with glass doors or windows that allow you to see them clearly. You can also add locks, keys, or alarms to protect your models from theft or damage.

Conclusion:

Growing your Diecasts collection comes down to what you like, enjoy and your interests. Growing the collection of Diecasts can be easy once you have figured the above out. Then explore our choice of Diecasts at Diecasts.co.uk