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

Little People...

GDH · 2026-03-14T16:50:51Z

As this topic encompasses all model scales, I thought it would be appropriate to post this topic in the Lounge. I have seen several very nice dioramas posted by several members and I have embarked on an 'expedition' to find detailed 1:18, 1:24, and 1:43 scale figures for my displays. Most of what I encountered do not meet my requirements, in that the facial features are not distinctive, which to me would distract from the diorama I wish to create. The only 1:43 figures I could find came only unpainted, and I ordered a couple, just to see what work would be entailed. However, my thumb is bigger than 1:43 figures and I don't see any means by which I would be successful when attempting to paint them. There is detail in the items, but much too small for me to enhance: The painted figures I found in this size are not as detailed: Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule, such as the Cartix Marilyn, but I wasn't planning on creating this type of ambience for my displays (I may add her at a later date, just for fun.): In the 1:24 range, I found some that were 'presentable,' such as those produced by American Diorama: American Diorama has an assortment of figures, but many of them are borderline, when it comes to facial detail (IMHO). I did purchase the driver and hitchhiker and was pleasantly surprised to find they would work for me, though I will have to do a bit of touching up around the face of the hitchhiker, where they neglected to finish the hair properly. But, at this size, I have the brushes and I can accomplish a touch-up. And, yes, there is a 1:24 Marilyn, too, though I don't know the maker, and the price is very reasonable (25,50€): In the 1:18 range, I have found several nice figures and they are pricey (100-200€+ each). I can understand why this is so for the quality is self-evident (173€ for either of these): I also found others, in the 50-100€ range in China, and I may purchase one I found, if we can agree on a price. I am loathe to do business with an entity so far away, but if that is where the water is, then that is where I have to drink. So, honorable senseis, is there a brand of figures you would recommend for me to pursue? Any guidance will be appreciated.