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14/05/2026 12:28 pm
I use to think that there was always a greater amount of difference between WMCE (Western Models Collector Edition) compared to original Western Models. After all, WMCE models for the most part started with Western Model molds and were simply detailed to a higher degree. As a result, WMCE models usually fetch a higher price than Western Models due to this extra detail as well as their limited editions. There are however a few exceptions. One is the Western Models 1959 Chrysler Saratoga. I recently purchased one for well under $100 and decided to compare it to pictures of the WMCE version. I was suprised to find that there was very little difference from the outside. The WMCE has chrome rocker panels, a little extra chrome trim around the tail lights,small scripting on the fenders behind the front wheels, and a small chrome piece representing the truck lock. The interior appears to be detailed slightly better, but this is something that you cannot clearly see to a great extent on the hardtop.
I decided very little effort would be required to bring this up to WMCE standards. A little chrome tape around the tail lights,rocker panels,and detail the interior. The only thing missing is the script by the front wheels and the trunk lock. I also added some chrome spoke wheels that I had in my parts bin. I have provided some photos of this model to show the detail.
14/05/2026 2:02 pm
Magnificent! For me all the niceties add the biggest differences. It's truly about the gorgeous colors, two-tone roof paint breaks and those wheels - ohhh those wheels!
15/05/2026 9:55 am
Ken, I agree that a little or a lot of enhancements make a huge difference. But I disagree, the chrome plating on a WMCE is much better than the standard Western version based on my experience.
David Green and John Kuvakas reacted
Topic starter
15/05/2026 10:40 am
Do you think the chrome is better on WMCE because most Western Models are very old and chrome has been subjected to pitting and tarnishing compared to the newer WMCEs which have fresh chrome?
15/05/2026 12:00 pm
Ken,!I think the quality of the chrome process appears better much like most Conquest or Motor city. Westerns chrome in general is like Models by Brooklin where finish is not as refined and looks more crude.
David Green and John Kuvakas reacted
15/05/2026 1:04 pm
Looks pretty good to me! 😎 😎
15/05/2026 5:56 pm
Beautiful work Ken.
21/05/2026 4:29 pm
I'm wondering if the plastic used for WMCE windows is a higher grade than the old Westerns. I see a number of the older issues with yellowing windows. And yes, I think the WMCE chrome (plating and scraped/polished) is better on the WMCEs. The Route 66 models will be missed.
This post was modified 2 weeks ago 2 times by Harv Goranson
21/05/2026 10:33 pm
@mg-harv yes, Harv, the Westerns for the most part had great bones. The WMCE took the same models to a different level including finishes, plating and window plastic. I have also noticed, some of the new revised premium models are using inferior plastic in their model windows. IMHO