The Diecast Zone · Model Car Club Since 1997
Diecast Collector Forums
Eight forums, every scale, and thirty years of shop talk — new arrivals, restorations, reviews, and the finds you won’t see posted anywhere else, with the full archive back to 2002 restored and searchable. Free to Register.
8Forums
195,000+Topics
1,276,000+Posts
10,000+Members
1997Research From
Notifications
Clear all
Forum 43
17
Posts
11
Users
44
Reactions
1,690
Views
Topic starter
16/03/2026 9:27 pm
Behind every collection is a story. In this series of profiles, we shine a light on the collectors who make this hobby so special. From how they first discovered their passion to the models that mean the most to them, each profile traces the personal journeys that shape a collection. Along the way, you’ll hear about favorite pieces, the pursuit of elusive “holy grails,” and the friendships and connections that turn collecting into something far more meaningful than simply acquiring models.
John Roberts (NEW)
If you enjoy these stories, here's your invitation to be part of it. Every collection starts somewhere—a first model, a first trip to a hobby shop, a car you rode in as a kid, a brand you can’t stop chasing, a moment that flipped the switch from “toy” to “collectible.” We're gathering more collector profiles throughout 2026, and we’d love to feature yours, whether you have ten models or ten thousand, whether you collect die-cast, kits, trucks, race cars, construction equipment, or anything in between. If you’re willing to share how you got into the hobby and what keeps you in it, reach out and let’s talk because everyone has a story, and these small vehicles have a way of carrying big memories. I can be reached at woodywagonfan at gmail.com.
This topic was modified 7 months ago 2 times by Randy Rusk
This topic was modified 6 months ago 6 times by Randy Rusk
This topic was modified 5 months ago 2 times by Randy Rusk
This topic was modified 4 months ago by Randy Rusk
This topic was modified 2 months ago 2 times by Randy Rusk
17/03/2026 10:36 pm
Wonderful to see and meet fellow collectors Randy. Thank you for the hard work of creating this project. Have always wondered about those who also have this model car "affliction". Thanks also for figuring out how to permanently list the collectors, alphabetically, for quick reference to their collections. You earned a BRAVO ZULU as we say in the Navy.
Models = Miracles in miniature = Holding History in ones hand
Cheers and Happy Collecting,
Steve
19/03/2026 6:52 pm
What a great bunch of collectors, if I don't say so myself! We should add Harv Goranson, who was profiled by John K a few years ago - on video plus MAR Online!
Topic starter
19/03/2026 9:54 pm
@karl I've got an article drafted... Just waiting for him to approve it and send me a few photos. Coming soon along with a few others!
Topic starter
07/06/2026 1:15 pm
I've updated this with profiles of Christian Braun and Harvey Goranson. Are you ready to share your story? Let's connect!
Karl Schnelle reacted
22/06/2026 2:55 pm
Greetings! Have been collecting1:43 scale since the late 1980s. I stopped accumulating pieces in 2015 then started up again about two years ago. Definitely addicting!
I had 1:18 scale but there was no room for them soI sold many off and concentrated on 1:43 scale. Many of the 1:18 were in storage, not displayed, not enjoyed. Now I'm changing my dinning room into a display room. Picked up a nice glass display case for free at the Habitat for Humanity store.
My concentration of 1:43 generally falls in the post-WW II to 1954 area covering cars and racers from the Mille Miglia, Le Mans, Targa Florio, Sebring, Carrera Panamericana, etc. Even though Bizarre is my favorite brand I feel they are way too expensive. What started me off in this scale were the Brumm models. At the time they were the only ones producing sports cars based on my theme. $9.95 a model! IXO is also a favorite brand of mine.
The following brands always fascinated me: Box Model, Art Model, Top Model, Rio, Progetto, Vitesse and Buby. None of these are produced anymore. Art, Rio and Best bit the dust earlier this year. RIP!
This is my latest acquisition. The very first Box Model produced in 1984. No display case; no display box. Model was screwed to a cardboard base. Exquisite model with wire wheels, exceptional paint job, great decals (these were the first models to have the manufacturer put the decals on).
22/06/2026 9:03 pm
Small correction: the first Box model was the 250 GTO 1962, No. 8401.
Tony Perrone reacted
24/06/2026 8:27 am
Welcome aboard. I commend you for the choice in converting the dining room into a display room. A better use of space IMO.
Steve Jacobs and Tony Perrone reacted
27/06/2026 1:34 pm
@mg-harv OOOOPS! My mistake. The model pictured IS NOT a 1962 Ferrari GTO. You're right.
Harv Goranson reacted
30/06/2026 2:23 am
Hi everyone! I really enjoy seeing the stories behind different collections. It's always interesting how every collector has a different focus and favourite pieces. Alongside diecast models, I also enjoy collecting licensed pop culture figures. If anyone else is into Funko collectibles, I've found a nice selection here that you might like to browse: Looking forward to seeing more collections and connecting with fellow collectors!
This post was modified 1 month ago by kmcgrath7
michaeldetorrice and Steve Jacobs reacted
23/09/2026 11:05 pm
Hello my story is much simpler then most here. Retired at 46 which left me a lot of free time. Went into the medical field as a way of funding my wants vs needs lol. Started off modding the crap out of cars & trucks, but that caused a lot of expensive sitters.
So turned my funds towards things I can easily move around and admire. I like all sizes but due to having big meaty claws, I prefer to physically handle 1:18 & 1:12 versions. Looking forward to sharing with you folks my diverse collection.
Thank you for having me...
Tony Perrone reacted
04/10/2026 12:35 pm
Thanks gents.
Page 1 / 2
Next