As I’ve mentioned many times before, I discovered the charm of Brooklin Models in 2014. As I explored what was available, my interest was concentrated on mainly the American cars that they offered.
As it happens, my appreciation for cars in general often expands with the discovery of something I wasn’t previously aware of. That happened for me with British made Ford cars in early 2017. Now I’d seen photos of a few of them in the past, but they weren’t really anything I paid much attention to. I don’t recall what led me down this path, but as I traveled it, I of course, looked to what Brooklin offered in the Lansdowne Range. I was intrigued by several of them, but my 1st choice was to add a few from Vanguards/Corgi just so I could see what the British Ford style was all about. These models led me right to a few in the Lansdowne Range, and since I was most intrigued by the style of the 1956 & 1957 Zephyr Mark II sedans & wagons, they were the 1st models I ordered. They were very cool and expanded my interest in others. So, from there I came across the ’54 Ford Zephyr Zodiac. I wasn’t quite sure what to make of this oddly square little Ford. I decided an up close and personal look was required, so I ordered my 1st one.
To be honest, when it arrived, I remember thinking, this thing is as ugly as it could be. The car was bigger than I expected, while nowhere near the size of a “full-size” American sedan, it was bigger than I thought the usual British car was. And sorry, still ugly. I recall reading somewhere that the styling of the car took its look from the ’49 Ford in the U.S. Well, I just didn’t see that then. The one I bought was a new release at the time in 2017, the Dorchester Gray and Canterbury Green. I wasn’t impressed with the model overall, so away it went, back in the box. I’d have to re-evaluate it later.
Included with this narrative will be some photos of some of the models I'm talking about.
1954 Ford Zephyr Zodiac MK I Saloon
Over the next few years, I explored many more Lansdowne models and a few other Ford brand ones as well. The ’48 Ford Pilot is awesome, and a favorite. Anyway, in late 2022 and early 2023 I had been purchasing a few Lansdowne models from Jack Dodds, and he told me about a ’54 Ford Consul MK I he owned. The model had been reworked by John Roberts, so I looked up the car and even though it was that same style, I went for it. When the model arrived, I was blown away by the complete overall look and style of the model and the car itself. I guess, my taste or appreciation of the style had changed in five years. Not sure if I can see the look of a ’49 Ford yet, but I’m more open to the possibility.
1954 Ford Consul MK I Saloon
Now, since I am a creature of habit and when I find something of interest, I look to see what else is out there. I want to experience the model, the look, the style in all ways possible, which is probably why I love multiple colors of the same model, their different attitudes in color enhance the collecting experience for me. As it always happens, I go to the secondary market, mainly eBay and search. It was a short time after the Ford Consul arrived that I found a couple of incredible models that had been reworked by Crossway using a Lansdowne model as a base. Now these were a ’53 & ’54 Ford Zephyr Six MK I and they looked very impressive in the photos. The price of acquisition was a bit steep, but sometimes it’s worth it to make a model a part of my collection and I haven’t regretted a single purchase, I always follow my gut, it’s never steered me wrong.
These two models, as it turned out, are incredibly special. I posted some photos on Facebook after I received them, and I was later contacted by Roger Tennyson. It seems that he and his wife, Joan, worked on these two when they were at Crossway. They are both prototypes for future projects that never came to fruition. That makes them each a “very special 1 of 1 prototype” and even more special is that Roger told me the black model was originally equipped with a sun visor. It seems that it had since disappeared and was not supplied with the model when I bought it. He thought he might have a spare one lying around, and sure enough a few weeks or so later, it arrived in the mail. His kindness is just incredible and leaves me almost speechless. When these photos were taken, I hadn’t received it yet, I should have the visor applied for the next photoshoot.
1953 Ford Zephyr Six MK I Saloon
1954 Ford Zephyr Six MK I Saloon
OK, I am long winded for sure, and unfortunately, I’m not quite done with my story. If my rambling is at all interesting, please continue… I am almost done, LOL!
These additional models led me to look for the others I was missing. The ’54 Consul in Dorchester Gray was next, and I had to find the other colors of the ’54 Zephyr Zodiac. Also, the ’53 Monte Car Rally Edition was needed. I even found the two ’56 convertible versions that were made in blue and green. I also see in the Brooklin Collector’s Guide that a couple of police versions were made. I’ve not seen these available anywhere at a reasonable price and the all-black wheel covers are kind of a turnoff, so I’m not sure about those.
1954 Ford Consul MK I Saloon
1954 Ford Zephyr Zodiac MK I Saloon
The rest of the models I picked up haven't had a photoshoot yet. So, more on them later.
As I close, I can say that an open mind is really required for this “true collector” There are many models in my collection that wouldn’t be, if I hadn’t kept that mindset. With that, I would sure be missing out on some special models and experiences.
John you expressed my thoughts on these cars perfectly. Over the years I have considered these models but couldn't push myself into actually laying down the money for them. About three years ago i bought a couple and while I can't say I'm in love with them, I have begun to appreciate them for another look at automotive history through others eyes. Wonderful pictures and writeup.
Considering what else was on UK roads in the early 1950's this was a futurist design. Examples were still being driven in the mid-1970's which provides evidence of build quality as British weather conditions and salted roads in winter pay havoc to a vehicles durability. A friend of mine's dad drove one from the early 1970's and replaced it with a MKIII Zodiac. I remember the inside being roomy enough for all his family: mum/dad and four kids. The front bench seat helped in this regard.
Autominologist residing in the Robin Hood County
Nottinghamshire England UK
...here's my meager input, a Ford Zodiac. Note: Windows are not scratched. I've never opened this model; factory shrink-wrap still surrounds the acrylic case.
...here's my meager input, a Ford Zodiac. Note: Windows are not scratched. I've never opened this model; factory shrink-wrap still surrounds the acrylic case.
