Notifications
Clear all
Topic starter
19/05/2022 2:04 pm
GM introduced the 4 dr htp flattops in 1959 and offered them for only 2 years 1959 & 1960. All 5 divisions offered them. My first 1/43 model was one below, the Neo 1960 Buick 4 dr htp. I purchased this in December 2014. Prior to that, I collected 1/18 scale models for 15 years. Of the 10 possible models, I am aware of 8 that have been made in 1/43 scale :4 in resin and 4 in white metal.I prefer this body style in the resin models vs the white metal as I believe that the delicate details are better portrayed in resin. There has been comments on this form that the Kess model is not up to a high standard and some say it has a banana shape to it. After examining this model in hand, I can say that it is every bit as nice as the Neo, possibly better. I find no complaints, no banana shape. Paint is bright and flawless, chroming is very delicately done and applied straight. If you are looking for a 1959 Buick 4 dr htp, look no further. You will be pleased with this one.
19/05/2022 3:34 pm
Here's the '59 in the other available color:
I got mine from overseas but it's available now from Replicarz.
This post was modified 1 year ago by Moe Parr
Barry Levittan
Long Island, NY
19/05/2022 7:32 pm
Thank you for the topic here. I had been aware of these forthcoming models, but did not realize that they are currently available. As a '59 Buick flat top 1:1 owner, this is a must-have for me!
John Merritt and John Merritt reacted
20/05/2022 7:37 am
@brian-laurance nice to see you here Brian, welcome back.
When you get a chance, check out my post in the lounge...
https://diecast.org/community/lounge/buicks-spotted-in-the-wild-pics/
Brian Laurance and Brian Laurance reacted
20/05/2022 8:10 am
If you are looking for a 1959 Buick 4 dr htp, look no further. You will be pleased with this one.
Great comparison post and pics...thank you.
I have the black Neo Buick flat top....what a beauty that one is!
20/05/2022 8:49 am
Ken; I recall that the example someone posted a short while ago seemed to have a warp to it, but the one you post does not. I wonder if perhaps the issue may be that, like NEO products (only not as bad), the KESS quality control may be somewhat hit and miss; resulting in the buyer not feeling confident in what he may receive. I know this is why I stopped collecting NEO models after many such "warp" disappointments. I have a fair number of KESS models and have had pretty good QC results, but also a few problems. I must agree though that the Buick you post today looks quite good. My only criticism of it and other Kess models is that there is no break in the chrome side trim to mark where the door seams are. I have a problem paying STAMP/GLM prices for models that don't address such details.
20/05/2022 12:00 pm
Thanks for the information and review of these '59 Buick models-I have been holding off on ordering them until I could see some good photos of the actual model. The prototypes did not look promising. I have ordered both of them so I will see for myself. The chrome trim on the side is disappointing, but might be remedied by cutting the trim, I have to check that out when they arrive.
At one point I stopped collecting resin models because of quality concerns. I started up again a few years ago. The best available are by far from Goldvarg & GLM/Stamp, Matrix/GIM are next, NEO and Kess are the most inconsistent with their quality level. I hesitate with each one I consider from them, although NEO has been non-existent of late, nothing new in a while.
I've said this often, no model is 100% perfect, and I don't expect that. If it represents the 1:1 in a true fashion, of good quality without major flaws (or at least ones I can't look past) I will consider it. I love the joy of collecting, and new models are a real treat.
John Merritt
South Lyon, Michigan - USA
20/05/2022 12:09 pm
I completely agree with your last paragraph. Whether you are collecting model cars, planes, trains, etc., things are rarely perfect. However, if it is a nice representation and looks nice, then just enjoy it.
Ed Davis
Inverness, Illinois, USA