I have been collecting model cars in one scale or another since I was 5yrs old. Until 1990, the majority of my models were 1/64 scale or similar, it was then I discovered the Franklin Mint and shortly later, the Danbury Mint. My main model focus became 1/24 scale from those Mints and other model makers. This relationship continued until early 2014, when the last of the major manufacturers had ceased operations. During this nearly 25yr period, I also added a few 1/43 & 1/18 scale models as well as a continued interest in 1/64.
It was the early summer of 2014 and I had not bought a new model for a few months, I was searching eBay for something interesting and I discovered a 1955 Lincoln Capri Sedan from Brooklin Models. I had heard of and even seen a few Brooklin models in photos, but I never paid them much attention-they were very different from what I had been collecting so far. My 1st concern was about pricing, they seemed to be priced kind of high for the size and what I thought I was getting. But to be honest, I was suffering from withdrawals, so I decided to order one of the Lincoln models as well as two others I found interesting.
Now when they arrived, to say I was mystified just doesn't do my experience justice. These were the most amazing models I'd ever purchased, and those three began a incredible interest in Brooklin models that has endured for seven years now and 516 more wonderful white metal gems in my collection. I look forward to them continuing with more fabulous models and of course the older ones I still need to find-lots of fun yet to come.
Now here's that model in a little diorama I put together.
1955 Lincoln Capri Sedan-BRK 197 ...the 1st Brooklin model to join my collection
John Merritt
South Lyon, Michigan - USA
John I remember Your enthusiasm when you were discovering Brooklin models and writing about them on the old website. Even though I had been collecting Brooklins from the beginning, seeing them through your eyes renewed a park in me anew. Love this diorama.
Hi John,
love your journey! I started building 1/24 models with bare metal foil and authentic colors. Built about 100 over 2 yr period. Then they began to literally come unglued. So packed them away and started with the mints until they ceased to be. About 100 combined. Sold most of them except a few limited editions, still considering to sell, but I don’t like selling but LOVE buying. Bought a few 1/64 but too small. Now to 1/43, I did purchase the Franklin Mint cars and kept them. For the last 15 years I have purchased over 200+ including kits and parts cars. I still have many projects needing my attention. I have quite a few enhanced and modifications.
My favorite are Conquest and WMCE a bit pricey but if you want a special car the…..
I have pretty much been a bystander here on the Forum but I plan on changing that.
With the addition of member locations, I think this we be a great opportunity to share models and experience with others with the same passion. I am a stickler for authenticity and if the model doesn’t have the right detail, I probably, if possible will tweak it.
Again, thanks John for inspiring me to write this.
That sure is a beautiful Lincoln, John, and it's available on sale at Diecast Direct. I was having a hard time on deciding between it and Brooklin's '54 DeSoto, also on sale, and went with the DeSoto. Now that I see yours, I'll probably break down and order it as well.
Barry Levittan
Long Island, NY
I agree with you on the Conquest & WMCE, they are usually very nice models-I would love to have more than I do, but they require more of my diecast budget-so I buy fewer of them. With that, I still enjoy all the models I do have.
John Merritt
South Lyon, Michigan - USA
I am not sure which '54 DeSoto you got, but they are all exceptional. I hope you enjoy it, and as far as the Lincoln, you can't go wrong with it either. I love it.
John Merritt
South Lyon, Michigan - USA
You're right David, it does make a good mate, and in my display these are all together...
John Merritt
South Lyon, Michigan - USA