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29/06/2020 2:10 pm
With the detail that low production limited edition white metal models offer these days,
I would rather buy a white metal version at $300 versus a resin version at $100, if it is a model I really want, and I am far from wealthy (I just have low overhead costs :D)
White metal models require high tooling costs and a lot of manual labor time, so when only a handful are produced, the cost of them need to be very high to recoup expenses and make a profit.
If a resin manufacturer builds a model that I desire, I will buy it if it is not offered in white metal first.
There is just something about the hefty weight and low production numbers that really make you feel like you have a collectible in white metal models.
You see how fast Buz at Rt. 66 sells out of a certain new Conquest model?
That is because he only has 8, 9 or 10 of each made!
His models are VERY limited and truly collectible!
And although I don't personally care for the new Brooklin scale, they will sell and most likely become coveted collectors items and double, triple the original cost, or even more on the 2nd market.
I know some of you will say that it isn't about what the model is worth, but lets be honest...collecting these gems is like collecting fine paintings or antique coins.
You are not collecting as an investment, but it is a nice feeling to know they are worth something, so maybe you don't feel like a sucker spending all your money and having nothing to show for it.
Look at Motor City models.....they were very pricey for the time, and people did complain about the cost, but look at the pricing they demand now!
I believe these new white metal models like Conquest/Madison, the newer Brooklins, Minimarque, Highway Travelers, SMTS and WMCE (Western models) will follow Motor City popularity and be very expensive as time slips by.
(this is a response to Marius Woolley comment #28332.4 below)
30/06/2020 3:05 am
BenD I basically agree with your buying habits and I too favor white metal over resin when possible. Like all things there are exceptions. I have a fairly large collection of Victory models in resin that I place right up there with my white metal models. With me it is the subject matter that is my number one consideration as I believe is also yours.
30/06/2020 3:31 am
Bob, the Victory models are second to none in my opinion! I have only one and it sits center in my display cabinet. I payed a pretty penny for it second hand, but I have no regrets.
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30/06/2020 4:38 am
Is diecast zamak the unwanted stepchild here?
In resin vs. white metal arguments, don't forget there is a third alternative. Many of these are quite well detailed at a fraction of resin/white metal cost.
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30/06/2020 5:04 am
Not an unwanted stepchild for me!
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30/06/2020 6:24 am
No aversion to diecast models for me, bring 'em on.
John F. Quilter
Eugene, Oregon USA
30/06/2020 7:45 am
For me, The various resin models have completely superseded white-metal.
I couldn't care less about the weight of my models.... Detail, proportion, and fidelity are my only concern. I still see most white metal models, although much improved over the ones a few years ago, are usually lacking in proportion as well as crisp finish. Resin just changed the game entirely.
I realize that there'll always be the stalwarts who prefer the 'heft' of white metal and, that's fine also.
30/06/2020 8:45 am
Autominologist residing in the Robin Hood County
Nottinghamshire England UK
30/06/2020 9:11 am
This Studebaker is really special, BenD. Thanks for posting it.
30/06/2020 12:11 pm
Harvey...is that Premium X Challenger resin or diecast? ....I thought they were resin.
30/06/2020 12:43 pm
Always my pleasure David...I had better pics but I must have mistakenly deleted them, so that just gives me an excuse to take more pics!
01/07/2020 1:21 am
I'm pretty sure it's diecast. The number is PRD408J and...
...the "D" in the number should indicate diecast. Resin models with a "PR0" prefix should all be resin. I don't know if PCT's models strictly adhere to this convention nor have I removed the baseplate to see for sure. PCT has also "loaned" the molds for some GreenLight diecasts, such as the "Vanishing Point" Challenger.
01/07/2020 1:23 am
BTW, the AutoArt Miata in the first pic came from the Dick Browne collection.
I seem to recall the Brownes had a Miata of this vintage at one time, though I don't know if it was this color.