An instance where more models will be made than the real thing, but that's not surprising as only 16 full size Invicta Black Princes were produced and 12 are still in existence. The Esval model is available in two versions. The 1946 versions is sans bumpers, has separate headlights and plain black wheels. The 1948 version is complete with bumpers and has faired in headlights a la Pierce Arrow, and plated wheels. This another c racking model from Esval, and is reasonably priced.
Interesting looking car, especially the second version. I like having two versions like these. Great post! Thank you, Mike.
My pleasure David. Its a superb looking model in the flesh.
It always amazes me that some companies went to the effort and expense to create models of somewhat obscure vehicles. Who makes those decisions? Do heads roll if that decision leads to financial losses?
Most of the companies are smaller operations where the major decisions are made by one or two people who commission a model to be made by a supplier, many of whom are in China. If a model doesn't sell, it ends up in inventory and they move on. The inventory problem makes selling models an iffy proposition. It's hard to make money when the product isn't moving and makes issuing new models somewhat dependent on selling enough old ones to warrant new expenses.
BTW, I love that Esval goes to the trouble of making variants of some of their models.
John Kuvakas
Warrenton, VA
Great looking Rolls ! I'm glad there are companies willing to do uncommon models. Just like it is necessary for many companies to do multiple releases really popular cars (which I think is fine) in order to make more guaranteed sales so perhaps they can take more of a chance on lesser-known models.
Nice pictures Mike and thanks for background information. My choice is the 48 . The bumpers, headlights and whitewall tires give the car real presence IMO.
Beautiful model... and put a "Monte Carlo" placard on it and it's a 'must have' for me.
It always amazes me that some companies went to the effort and expense to create models of somewhat obscure vehicles. Who makes those decisions? Do heads roll if that decision leads to financial losses?
That's one of the big wins with resin models in that the more rare or arcane images are more economically feasible because the tooling costs are so much lower. They can cater to niche markets. For me, it's been a godsend.
