Diecast

Diecast models are models produced using a die to cast the model bodies using molten metal, hence the term 'diecast'.
Most diecast models are produced using a light composite metal alloy for the model body with plastic windscreens/windshields and wheels.
The concept of diecasting allowed manufacturers to mass produce models, opening up a whole new market for them which is still thriving today.

The manufacturers

Dinky Models started the diecast model phenomonen back in 1933 with models such as the 38 series sports cars.
Corgi joined the diecast market in 1956 with it's range of British saloon cars including the Ford Consul and Austin Cambridge among others and quickly stole Dinkies market share.
Dinky, Corgi and Mattel continued to produce some great models through the '60s and '70s but Dinky were unable to remain comptetitive with their stiff competition and in 1980 ceased production. Their name still lives today having been passed between different manufacturers but will never again have the presence of the early years.
Plenty of other manufacturers have come and gone or stayed along the way such as Lesney, Matchbox and Solido among others, leaving a trail of rare collectable classics that are becoming increasingly harder to find.

Sourcing diecast models in todays market

Arguable, one of the largest sources of diecast models for sale is ebay. Other specialised model auction houses have smaller quantities but tend to deal mainly with original models in original condition.
See our sponsors advert pages for other sources of diecast models for sale. Links to these pages can be found on each model description page in the left hand margin.

The Diecast Section

We added the diecast section in February 2006 with two subsections for the popular Corgi and Dinky diecast model manufacturers.
The first Corgi we added was the James Bond Toyota which is an excellent example of early Corgi workmanship. We went on to add the James Bond Aston Martin DB5, a model of what is often referred to as the most famous car in the world.

We started off the Dinky section with the lovely Lady Penelope's FAB1 Rolls Royce from Gerry Anderson's TV show Thunderbirds.

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