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today I received Brooklin's BRK 224, the well discussed issue with the new box (PIC)
I purchased it from Robert Budig in Berlin, where I get a lot of my models.
I was anxious to see the model in the flesh, but after unpacking it, I must say I am not disappointed.
The model itself is nice, positioned a little bit clumsy so that the white-walls pop-out, but further on you can clearly see that Brooklin has taken a step into more and finer detailing.
It is a huge step from the old Brooklins, although many people think the oldies are better.
Then there's the box, well, I must say it is a real piece of art, all wrapped in a sort of leather-ish....to be closed with a magnetic lock.
I decided to place the dust-cloth the way you see in the picture and that took me a while to get nice.
And then it just struck me like it must have done all of you, where do I keep it ???
The model on the box really takes up a lot of space and it really sticks out very nice (seafoam green on a dark-brown display)so that you will have a hard time separating the two...
I always loved Brooklin-models a lot and have found their choice of models really good, but if this model paves the way for future Brooklin-models (apart from it hefty price)
I will have to think twice before buying another one...
photo no longer available
Thank you, Joop, for sharing your thoughts and conclusions.
Not sure I have ever heard anyone voice preference for older v. newer Brooklins.
They seem to have been on a fairly consistent path of improvement over the years. Even to the extent of older ones being of little value as new and improved models are released. Have I missed something?
My impression is that now there are fewer collectors who prefer the early BRKs, a much higher percentage who really like the ones produced in the last decade or so, and very many who really appreciate the upgrade quality developing lately but struggle somewhat with the price that of course comes with that level. The new box cost is a very sticky point for most it seems (it sure is for me). I suspect a change back to something cheaper will have to occur in order to retain the long term customer base and their buying patterns. But all this is just one man's opinion. Its a controversial time right now for sure.
Regarding the prices being realized for the older BRKs; on ebay it seems that for the most part a well looked after, boxed BRK will fetch at least its original sale price. When I started collecting BRK back in 1990 I recall paying 21 pounds sterling; a price which is usually at least the current ebay sale of an ordinary BRK from that era. A collector generally won't make a profit on regular run BRKs but will get his money back in time. Of course there are those people who will fire sale models just to be rid of them but on average I think the above applies.
I am a new collector to Brooklin Models having acquired my first in 2014.
Now admittedly, I bought the Pierce-Arrow because I was interested in a model of the car. I really knew nothing about Brooklin. I fell in love, the model was fantastic. I immediately sought out what else was available and I was amazed at what I found. Now just about 4 years later, I have added three hundred of these "white metal wonders" to my collection. I am very much interested in the older models as well, they have an unbelievable charm. Each one is a marvel to me. Brooklin Models has become my main focus as I move forward with my collection.
I appreciate all the added details on the newer models offered, but they don't take away from the charm of the older ones for me.
The new box that Brooklin now offers is just the next evolution in the rapidly changing world of model cars. The industry is changing quickly and many manufacturers seem to cease almost overnight. I think the box is Brooklin's way to stay relevant and "different" in this changing market.
I like the new box for what it is, I don't have a real purpose for it, but the presentation is impressive. The box reminded me immediately of the ones provided by Automodello. It certainly won't stop me from purchasing more in the future as long as the funds permit.
Well anyway, just some thoughts from a new Brooklin Collector, I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to add each one of these models to my collection.
Thank-you for reading.
John Merritt
South Lyon, Michigan - USA
I like what you wrote John.
Well said, John.
David Knight
Richmond, Virginia. USA
Thanks, John. I may have started a few years before you, but I also like my older BRKs as well as the newer ones.
David Knight
Richmond, Virginia. USA
John did a beautiful job.
Thank you all for sharing your views. Perspective is everything.
My favorite Brooklin? The earliest Pierce Arrow Silver Arrow with no interior or glass and white rubber tires. That is one that has really gained and retained value over the years, enough to prevent me from owning one (yet). But I am in the market just in case anyone has an extra.
I prefer packaging that includes a clear, scratch-free display case for collectors without enclosed shelves.
And not enormous, like some of Truescale's offerings. It should simply enclose the model, make it visible, and keep dust away.
That's about 1 model every 5 days for 4 years....that's impressive!!!