[Sticky] Lost Reviews - Franklin Mint & Danbury Mint

@geoff-jowett Geoff, it would appear that we think alike.

Posted by: @bob-jackman

@geoff-jowett Geoff, it would appear that we think alike.

great minds hey Bob!

Found: A few 1/24 reviews of West Coast Precision Diecast.

1959 Chevrolet Impala Convertible

WCPD 1959 Chevrolet Impala Convertible- Nbr Ltd Ed of 1500 – WC2

Hey gang, there’s a new kid on the block and he has some tasty new toys! Wanna check ‘em out?

West Coast Precision Diecast (WCPD) is the brainchild of Brian Dunning, owner of Vicki’s Gifts in California. With help from Paul Kravchak, a renown modeling and diecast artist/builder, four 1959 Chevrolet Impalas are the first fruits of their labor to permeate our precision diecast ranks. Can they take up the slack left by TFM’s scale-back in production? Only time will tell. How does the first effort rank as a precision diecast? In my estimation, the models are worth entry into the inner sanctum of 1:24^th builders such as FM, DM and CMC. At this time, 1961 and 1962 Chevy’s are being readied as the next releases to flow from the tap.

Externally, the models are museum-like in quality. The paint is smooth and evenly applied. The faithfulness of the shape and stance is true to the 1:1. Body fit is excellent and I’m examining early production samples which do not always have the precise fit of a later production model. The WCPD product is very innovative in its presentation of two coupes and two convertibles. It also gives the buyer the option of color choice, with certain engine offerings and the option of choosing which style hubcap to display. Each model is supplied with two sets. Fender skirts are removable and further broaden the buyer’s alternatives. Other differences are noted as well, as they were in the real cars. The convertibles came with rubberized floor coverings while the coupes were outfitted with carpeted floors. Through the years most drop-tops were upgraded to carpeting since original flooring is so hard to come by today, thus making a correct example to replicate even harder to find. Convertibles are outfitted with the 348 cubic inch engine fitted with trips; three two-barrel carburetors. The coupe models will have a four barrel carb 348 mill. Additionally, all convertibles come with power windows and the coupe models are equipped with miniature window cranks.

The model uses a minimum of non-metal parts giving the car a hefty feel while examining it. Underneath, we find working suspension components. Up front, there are coil springs between upper and lower control arms. The steering rods pivot as the tires move up and down. A front-mounted steering shock dampener actually works. In back the suspension uses working shocks, suspension arms on coil springs and a rear torsion bar link. The driveshaft turns and the tire pattern is deep and exceptionally accurate. You will see brake lines and transmission lines fabricated beautifully. The trunk has a realistic removable floor mat showing off the well detailed internal floor, spare and, on the convertibles, the wired power top mechanicals behind the rear seat. Steering on these models is poseable at this time, although the ’61 and ‘62’s may be different. One final difference is that the convertibles come with a grille guard and black bullet bumper points.

The license plat flips down to reveal the fuel filler neck and gas cap. But don’t try to lower the antenna, it’s fixed, and sharp. The top and boot fit is highly precise and the interior is marvelous. The patterning of the seat inserts are deeply etched and beautifully trimmed out. The foot pedals are likewise fashioned. The dash and gauges are scaled very well and the visors flip up on the rag top model. The glove box and ash tray open yet stay shut when you want them to. The seat backs fold forward and the doors open on internal hinges and snap shut with a spring-loaded pin and jamb assembly. Realistic hinges are used up front as well and add some great detail to the engine bay. The scissors hinges use genuine springs and come off looking absolutely authentic. The engine carries every sort of wire, cable and hose you would see under a real Impala’s hood and the model replicates hose harnesses, radiator warning labels, fuel lines and throttle springs.

As a first shot tooling exercise I have to give extremely high marks to this effort. One of the models had a slightly larger gap at the rear of the closed hood-line but that may vary from model to model. And while the nose of the car is a combination of a tampo’ed, “Chevrolet” script and photo-etched emblem, the side moldings and, “Impala” insignias are flawless. All of the chrome, and it’s considerable, lines up and is reproduced in remarkable fashion.

Overall, a grand effort worthy of inclusion into the best 1:24^th precision collections anywhere! Congratulations to WCPD!

1961 Chevrolet Impala Coupe

West Coast Precision Diecast 1961 Chevrolet Impala- Nbr Ltd Ed (WC5-WC8)

Following up to their initial ground-breaking simultaneous release of four 1959 Impalas, instantly establishing WCPD as a legitimate player in the 1:24^th field, they have once again come to play with the big boys. This time we see an upgraded diecast Impala in 1961 form. As before, there are four iterations; two convertibles and two coupes. The ’61 drop tops are found in two tasty flavors; Coronna Cream and Twilight Turquoise. The coupe versions are SS/409 street machines in bad boy Tuxedo Black and its sibling dressed in alter boy-clean Ermine White. And once again each car model comes with removable wheel covers, held in place with small center magnets. The 409 has spinners. But that is where some similarities end and even better detail than before starts to kick in.

The body alignment, panel fit, shape and the stance integrity of the piece is outstanding. The doors, on internal hinges, fit precise and line up remarkably well. They snap shut securely. The hood, on operational scissors hinges, fits flush when closed and opens suitably well for engine viewing. WCPD paid a considerable amount of attention to the various differences between coupe and convertible and the build shows these exacting accomplishments well. The convertible is powered by the venerable 348 V-8 while the Super Sport coupe gets the potent 409. Both engine compartments are chock full of every detail trick in the precision diecast art playbook. Scaled plug wiring, battery cables, brake cylinder lines, genuine throttle return springs and radiator overflow tubing is all readily visible. The labeling is crisp and precise and the insulation under the hood is simulated extremely well. Even the Rock Crusher four speed tranny has been duplicated along with the proper blue stripe on the driveshaft. Turn the rear wheels and the shaft revolves. Both cars show exceptional detail on the chassis build. Metal wire brake lines are fabricated to scale and the suspension, operational, is fabulous. The front suspension arms articulate up and down and not merely a spring assembly within them. The steering dampening system works and the this time around the steering is not just posable. But to be on the safe side turn the front wheels with your fingers and not with just the steering wheel. The rear suspension components are cool. Genuine coil springs are in place with working shocks, twin suspension arm links and anti-roll bar link.

Externally, the cars are similar with crisp graphics in the form of miniature letters spelling out, “Chevrolet” on the front of the cars and the crossed flags and Impala emblems on the rear fender inserts. Additionally, the SS designation is seen on the 409 Coupe. The trunks are somewhat different. The 409 has a center mounted spare while the drop top spare mounts to the side. Both have opening gas filler doors. The very top of the coupe’s rear windows, when rolled all the way down, are seen ever so slightly. WCPD duplicated that. Nice touch. There is also a dual grillwork affect to the coupe rearward of the window and just prior to the trunk opening. That was not missed either. Inside the interior work is very gratifying for the detail-hungry among us collectors. It isn’t real easy on the coupe but both cars feature opening ash trays and glove boxes. Sharpen those toothpicks! You’ll notice a photo-etched set of keys dangling from the ignition and the shift pattern painted on the shift ball. The coupe has a grab bar on the passenger’s dash. The seats are deeply embossed and the fit of both the up top and boot on the convertible was very nicely done. The up top is not done in a fabric but the texture is realistic and the rear welt line simulated well. The visors work on the convertible but not on the hard top version.

WCPD has come a long way in a short time between the ’59 and the ’61. Keep up the good work team, it shows and we look forward to what is yet to come. Thrillometer readings generate 9.75 and 9.8 for the convertible and coupe respectively.

1962 Chevrolet Impala Convertible

West Coast Precision Diecast 1:24 1962 Chevrolet Impala Convertible- Nbr Ltd Ed  -  WC9

Before you say, “Not another Impala”, bite your tongue. I acquiesce that, to date, West Coast Precision Die Cast has offered this Chevrolet icon to exclusivity but I need to make my case for why this is simply the very best precision diecast 1962 Impala on the face of the planet. It is easy to also make the case that, with each release, WCPD is upping their own technology bar. Just examine their beautifully-done first release, the 1959 Impala. Although it was exceptionally well presented, their next issue, the 1961 Impala model, turned out to be even better than the fifty-niner. Their detailing and quality levels are raising the roof from where they were in the past to where they now seem destined to continue the trend into the foreseeable future. And this little ’62 beauty has gone that extra step farther.

Examining my ‘sample’ prototype model, I’m struck, right off the bat, by the gorgeous paint finish and the precise fit of all the parts as a whole. You cannot get better than perfect and that is what the paint on this model is, perfection. The finish is smooth and glossy, even and scaled, from a metallic standpoint, to where it mirrors the full scale car. And yes, mirror is the correct word here. The Honduras Maroon color is rich and deep, not a red and not exactly a standard maroon. It is regal and stately. The black interior and finely textured white up-top makes a dramatic and elegant contrasting match. The boot is black and both appliances fit flawlessly. WCPD has added the welt line in the back portion of the white top. A nice touch. The shut lines of all opening doors, trunk, hood and gas filler door are impeccable. The doors, on their hidden, internal hinges operate like the real car. And they have the spring-loaded latch lock to keep them closed properly. Even the door jambs look real.

WCPD has continued the practice of giving us the removable wheel covers and other operating features like the opening glove box and floor console. Are those really three cup holders in the console lid? Cool. The interior is filled with details like that and the dash and gauges continue to impress. The shift pattern is readable on the shift knob. The seat patterning is deep and textured wonderfully. The door handles, passenger’s dashboard grab bar and working visors all add a touch of realism. The trunk and chassis continue to offer great detail. As do the tires with their terrific tread patterns. The driveshaft turns and the suspension system works. Transmission and brake lines are formed with bright metal pieces and look like the genuine articles. But it is the engine bay and hood that gets the glory, once again. This is the Impala SS model and it is powered by the venerable 409. I know because the SS and 409 scripts are displayed on the fender corners and trunk lid. Opening the hood reveals those gorgeous scissors springs, but more impressively, the hood aligns perfectly and true when you close it. Just trust me on this for a minute. Let’s explore under the hood before we test out my statement about closing it. WCPD built in grand detailing in the form of metal fluid, fuel and brake lines, wiring, battery cabling, heater hoses and even plug wire looms. Miniature labeling is in place and the hood bottom is textured. And yes, the hood closes without any need for finger pressure adjustment afterward.

Overall the car sits beautifully and looks like the dutifully perfect replica of the real car. WCPD is getting better and better with each outing. And when it comes to a ’62 Impala, you cannot find better than this little guy. Thrillometer readings yield a strong 9.9 rating.

1962 Chevrolet Impala Coupe

West Coast Precision Diecast 1:24 1962 Chevrolet Impala Coupe SS/409- Nbr Ltd Ed of 1500 - WC12

“She's real fine my 409

She's real fine my 409

  My 409

Well I saved my pennies and I saved my dimes

 (Giddy up giddy up 409)

 For I knew there would be a time

 (Giddy up giddy up 409)

 When I would buy a brand new 409

(409, 409)”

Thank goodness you do not need an exorbitant amount of pennies and dimes for this model. At issue price it is competitively marketed despite its modest production of only 1500 pieces. Ok, I’ll admit it up front; this is my favorite WCPD Impala to date. Why? Well, I’m not completely sure. Why don’t we examine it together and try to determine my mindset. For starters, each WCPD release has been improved upon. I won’t take up your time going into needless point by point detail analysis; just suffice to say that quality and detail enhancements have been added to each issue subsequent to their 1959 Impala. If you know Brain Dunning, you know he is a perfectionist when it comes to his, ‘babies’. The ’62 SS409 build shows this full well.

 “Giddy up giddy up giddy up 409

 (Giddy up giddy up 409)

Giddy up 409

 (Giddy up giddy up 409)

Giddy up 409

 (Giddy up giddy up 409)

Giddy up 40...”

I cannot say anything additionally that would affect my review of the WCPD ’62 convertible in Honduras Maroon. It is the same offering of detail and build excellence, except to say that in coupe form it completes a full circle on Chevrolet Impala’s sheet metal styling for this year. The coupe roof is somewhat of an anomaly in automotive styling. Made to partially resemble a soft top in appearance, it presents a dramatic sight cue to the overall image that is seldom seen in other cars. But then blend in the Satin Silver paint choice with its contrasting red interior and you have a striking nostalgic look back on what made the Beach Boys devote a song to this automotive legend.

“Nothing can catch her

Nothing can touch my 409

  409 ooooo

(Giddy up giddy up oooo)

(Giddy up giddy up oooo)

(Giddy up giddy up oooo)

  (Giddy up giddy up)

 When I take her to the track she really shines

 (Giddy up giddy up 409)

  She always turns in the fastest times

 (Giddy up giddy up 409)

  My four speed dual quad posi-traction 409

 (409, 409, 409, 409)”

Making the SS409 what it is and what apparently prompted the singing group’s Brian Wilson to write about it, is the motor. Derived from Chevy’s earlier 348 V8, the 409 was at the top of its class in 1962. All the rage back in the day, it dominated many a street and strip scene. Brian Dunning and Paul Kravchak got their build team to reach exacting heights in replicating the monster mill on this one and by recreating the go-fast parts to go with it. The engine bay has the perfect compliment of wiring, metal fuel lines, scaled hoses and caution labeling but the scissors hinges, which are all the talk of the precision diecast set in today’s modeling crowd, and a good and healthy dose of accuracy and miniaturization sell the scene under the hood. The trans linkage, as seen from the chassis view, as well as the fantastic interior detail complete with opening console and glove compartment, positive locking doors, folding seats and great trunk finishing, makes this a winner all around. Stance, suspension flex and overall accuracy to the 1:1 gives the collector a satisfied feeling of knowing few other diecast models will approach this level of precision for the price. So..

 “Giddy up giddy up giddy up 409

 (Giddy up giddy up 409)

Giddy up 409

 (Giddy up giddy up 409)

Giddy up 409

 (Giddy up giddy up 409)

Giddy up 40...

Nothing can catch her

Nothing can touch my 409

  (409 409 409 409)

Giddy up 409

  (409 409 409 409)

Giddy up 409

  (409 409 409 409)*”

*Irving Music, Inc. BMI

Brian Wilson/Gary Usher

WCPD is good, no; they’re great, for the diecast hobby and collector. They serve the diecast buyer with an ever growing detail package helping to keep themselves, FM and DM current on today’s ever changing modeling technology and the back and forth competition elevates the level of success that each of the precision manufacturers enjoy from build to build. In the short time that WCPD has been presenting new and improved product they have risen to lofty heights and set new goals for their company to achieve, no matter how challenging. Non-Impalas are on the slate of cars to model and the future looks bright for them and us collectors.

1964 Chevrolet Impala Convertible

West Coast 1964 Chevrolet Impala Convertible- Nbr Ltd Ed of 250 – WC39

It’s been a while since I’ve reviewed a West Coast Precision Diecast. The 1959’s were a pleasant surprise to review. From a young upstart diecast maker, I was impressed beyond belief. I even said that they were essentially now running with the ‘big dogs’; FM, DM and CMC. More Impalas were released and I found that the 1961 and 1962 renderings that I reviewed were better still! So I have been looking forward to getting my little fingerprints on a ’64 to see if Brian and the crew had remained faithful to the Impala crowd, precision diecast fans and onlookers such as me. Well, yeah buddy, I got my answer. The ‘64’s are awesome!

In Daytona Blue Poly with white convertible top, the model is elegant yet sinister enough to carry the SS 409 package. The models still use the amazing scissors-spring hinges but are refined to work flawlessly in both opening and closing tightly and maintain perfect alignment. Operational features are abundant too. Sun visors fold up and down and fuel filler doors open to show off the gas cap. The doors open accurately to the 1:1 on internal hinging and the scaled trunk hinges, seat belts and operational console door lends great authenticity.

Details are exceptional in the chassis replication. You’ll find operating suspension, brake lines, a turning driveshaft, and every sort of traction control arm and sway bar imaginable plus the addition of fabulous transmission and fuel lines. The engine compartment completes the picture with fantastic miniaturization of throttle return spring linkage, fuel lines and electric cables and realistic stickers. As always, the wheel covers are removable and grant a nice look of the car either way. The body and stance of the model gives a faithful appearance to the 1:1.

There’s a lot to like in these ‘64’s, whether you are a Chevy fan, an Impala aficionado, a muscle car guy or gal or just enjoy model miniaturization at its finest. WCPD has scored an impressive mark with the Impala and it keeps getting better!

1964 Chevrolet Impala Hardtop

West Coast 1:24 1964 Chevrolet Impala Hardtop- Nbr Ltd Ed of 250 – WC29

It’s been a while since I’ve reviewed a West Coast Precision Diecast. The 1959’s were a pleasant surprise to review. From a young upstart diecast maker, I was impressed beyond belief. I even said that they were essentially now running with the ‘big dogs’; FM, DM and CMC. More Impalas were released and I found that the 1961 and 1962 renderings that I reviewed were better still! So I have been looking forward to getting my little fingerprints on a ’64 to see if Brian and the crew had remained faithful to the Impala crowd, precision diecast fans and onlookers such as me. Well, yeah buddy, I got my answer. The ‘64’s are awesome!

In Lagoon Aqua Poly with WCPD’s white vinyl roof option, the hardtop epitomizes Impala’s appeal for 1964 and far beyond. Not as light as the sporty Azure Aqua, the Lagoon Aqua is a deeper color more suited, to my mind, for the serious SS 409 package this car was opted out in. The white interior adds a generous measure of class and sophistication. The models still use the amazing scissors-spring hinges but are refined to work flawlessly in both opening and closing tightly and maintain perfect alignment. Operational features are abundant too. Sun visors fold up and down and fuel filler doors open to show off the gas cap. The doors open accurately to the 1:1 on internal hinging and the scaled trunk hinges, seat belts and operational console door lends great authenticity.

Details are exceptional in the chassis replication. You’ll find operating suspension, brake lines, a turning driveshaft, and every sort of traction control arm and sway bar imaginable plus the addition of fabulous transmission and fuel lines. The engine compartment completes the picture with fantastic miniaturization of throttle return spring linkage, fuel lines and electric cables and realistic stickers. As always, the wheel covers are removable and grant a nice look of the car either way. The body and stance of the model gives a faithful appearance to the 1:1.

There’s a lot to like in these ‘64’s, whether you are a Chevy fan, an Impala aficionado, a muscle car guy or gal or just enjoy model miniaturization at its finest. WCPD has scored an impressive mark with the Impala and it keeps getting better!

2003 Cadillac Sixteen Concept

West Coast Precision Diecast – 2003 Cadillac Sixteen Concept  -  WC60RM BK & DG

Spectacular! I told Brian Dunning, owner of West Coast Precision Diecast and the creator of this magnificent replica, that I was going to start this review with the very first word I uttered to myself as I set eyes on it for the first time. The diecast pays homage to a concept car that will not be built in 1:1 production form. But I, for one, am certainly thankful that Brian built the car in scale miniature. And “spectacular” only begins to tell the whole story. The model is being made in three colors: Burgundy, Blue/Gray and Black. I like that we’re given a choice of paint right from the start. Instead of the maker picking a color and the buyer hoping for a better repaint sometime in the future, this is a fresh idea that Brian has had from the beginning of WCPD and one in which I applaud.

Another fresh and non-boring idea with these models is that they are not all created equal. Edition wise, anyway. The Blue/Gray version comes in an edition of 2500. But both the Burgundy and Black variants are issued in unit sizes of 1500. You may easily note the paint finish before you see anything else in the model. That, and its actual heft, as you hold it. The finish on all three variations is exquisite. The car mirrors its surroundings. The metallic is scaled beautifully in person and in any light. The magnification of the camera lens, however, will not do justice to the brilliance of the paint work as it erroneously presents larger metallic flakes. To cover such a large automobile replica as this and get the paint so flawless is an achievement in itself. You will have a time picking a single color; they are all equally gorgeous!

Once you get into actually looking the model over you will be struck by the amount of precision craftsmanship. On each of the three examples I have inspected, the hood, doors and trunk shut lines are exceptionally tight. All body panels line up faultlessly and everything functions like a Swiss timepiece. There are instructions on how to open the hood halves. They are centrally hinged but once you follow the directions and open either side you may be blown away by the internal detailing mastery. Do not look past the hinging though; it is what enables the pieces to work like the real concept vehicle. The titanic V-16 is commanding. The Cadillac script on top of the 1000 horsepower beast is laser sharp. So are the marque’s badges fore and aft.

The third brake light assembly in the upper portion of the trunk lid is as seamless as the rest of the car. The three-piece chrome side moldings are arrow straight and the side vent system must be seen up close to be fully appreciated; it is an awesome touch. The door hinges are yet another inspiring facet of the build. They are internally sprung and fit phenomenally, even with the window glass in place. The interior is one of the most singular pieces of build brilliance on the big model. The belts and buckles are grand, the dash is beyond beautiful and do not miss the wonderfully replicated and centrally-mounted Bvlgari clock. I completely love the crystal wine glasses located on the rear console. Functionality was not lost here either Caddy lovers. The seats recline and slide forward and back.

More operational features on the model include attention  to detail in chassis and trunk. Below the big concept car you will find working suspension and removable wheels. By the way they represent aluminum wheels in the 24 inch class! The center Cadillac crested cap is held in place by a tiny magnet. There is a central screw holding the wheel on. Without it you will enjoy the chromed componentry and brake calipers and rotors. There are a myriad of wires and lines and the exhaust coloration looks for all the world as if it were real. You are going to relish opening the trunk. The big Sixteen comes with a matching set of luggage. Of course it is an extension of the interior’s fine leather appointments. But to get at it, the trunk’s floor tray may be pulled out. Clever.

The overall presence of this diecast replica is simply extraordinary. Brian and his build team have far exceeded anything I could have dreamed of in miniaturizing a concept vehicle. The model is elegance personified and worth every penny the buyer spends on this diecast. I have not changed my mind since the entire process of examining it took place – spectacular!

Tony your coverage of the WCPD Impalas is terrific as always. Brian Dunning poured his soul into making these models the absolute best they could be and he succeeded. My conversations with Brian were testimony to his dedication to make his models the best in every way. Some here on the forum bought every model in every color, I couldn't do that but I represented as many as possible from each year.

Posted by: @bob-jackman

Tony your coverage of the WCPD Impalas is terrific as always. Brian Dunning poured his soul into making these models the absolute best they could be and he succeeded. My conversations with Brian were testimony to his dedication to make his models the best in every way. Some here on the forum bought every model in every color, I couldn't do that but I represented as many as possible from each year.

Well stated Bob! in agreement, I said in one of these, that the cars were his babies! As you no doubt know, he could talk for hours about these models; a labor of his love!

@perrone1 One had to be prepared for a long conversation when you called him. I once called him to order the used car diorama and he went off on some other subject...after about twenty minutes he suddenly stopped talking and asked me why I called, my reply was that I wanted to order the diorama.

Posted by: @bob-jackman

@perrone1 One had to be prepared for a long conversation when you called him. I once called him to order the used car diorama and he went off on some other subject...after about twenty minutes he suddenly stopped talking and asked me why I called, my reply was that I wanted to order the diorama.

Yep, that's always been my experience. The diorama is spectacular. Hard to find today and set at the BIG $ level!

Posted by: @bob-jackman

Tony your coverage of the WCPD Impalas is terrific as always. Brian Dunning poured his soul into making these models the absolute best they could be and he succeeded. My conversations with Brian were testimony to his dedication to make his models the best in every way. Some here on the forum bought every model in every color, I couldn't do that but I represented as many as possible from each year.

One night years ago I talked with Brian Dunning (from WCPD) for 2 hours on the phone.  No exaggeration, two hours!  And, I enjoyed every minute of it! 

Brian truly had a passion for what he was doing.  Our conversation was entirely about his plans to produce in 1:24 diecast scale, the 1957 Oldsmobile.  That as all who know me here, the '57 Oldsmobile is "the one" model I most wanted in 1:24 scale. 

Brian's plans were to produce the car in both hardtop and convertible in a variety of color combinations and only 150 in each color combo.  The catch was, he wanted commitment from perspective buyers with pre-orders.  I assured him that I was on board for one of each color combo without hesitation. 

As it turned out, he did not receive enough pre-order commitment to go ahead with the production process, and then too, this was back in 2014 when the bottom fell out of the 1:24 scale market.  Both the other two primary mints (Franklin and Danbury) had announced they were unable to continue due to the situation with the China government, so the '57 Oldsmobile's were not to be. 

I have been forever disappointed.