Corgi Aston Martin
While restoring ( to as close to their original state as possible ) quite a number of Dinky and Corgi models bought in varying conditions of disrepair, it became apparent that most collectors devalued restored models preferring models still in original albeit average condition. Some of the diecast models I purchased and began restoring were in fact seemingly still seen as collectable and worth more till I took them apart and “upgraded” them. I certainly would not display the models as I received them so I had no problem in working on them.
There are a number of collectors who still value professionally restored Dinky and Corgi models as many mint condition originals are at prohibitive prices. If they wished to display rare models they could get professional restorers to provide them using models in poor condition as the base at a more affordable price. Naturally buying restored models without knowing their origin was a recipe for disappointment. This is not to say that hobby restorers are not capable of doing a “professional” job.
This, however, made me more selective about which models I would restore back to original. They would have to be models I liked and wanted to have in my collection. It was clear that many collectors did not display their models. It was more a “business” whereas for me it was a hobby.
The one thing that impressed me with these wonderful toys was that the castings were excellent and very representative of the real life vehicles. It struck me that as I was enjoying this pursuit that instead of concentrating on restoring models back to their original colours that I should use any colours that struck my fancy. After all when restoring real vehicles many people used custom colours with good results. The bulk of my diecast restorations began to be Dinkys’ and Corgis’ in “unique” colours.
It was clear that it was essential to retain the original wheels and axles on these toys if you were restoring them to original condition. If not, however, the addition of custom wheels while adding to the cost certainly enhanced some of the models even further.
One other brand that restored well was Sabra (made in Israel). Getting parts is the problem as I have not found replacement parts for these models. Consequently availability of models in poor condition that did not require parts was difficult. Nevertheless, they occasionally were available and I began storing some of these as well. Again they were only for customising. I kept my eye open for any brand that would present well when customised but was available at a reasonable price. A couple of other brands I have used are Lone Star and Trax ( an Australian collectible model, not a toy ).
I have included before and after photos of models I have restored in non original colours and or have enhanced with different wheels as well.
Corgi Buick Riviera
There are a number of collectors who still value professionally restored Dinky and Corgi models as many mint condition originals are at prohibitive prices. If they wished to display rare models they could get professional restorers to provide them using models in poor condition as the base at a more affordable price. Naturally buying restored models without knowing their origin was a recipe for disappointment. This is not to say that hobby restorers are not capable of doing a “professional” job.
This, however, made me more selective about which models I would restore back to original. They would have to be models I liked and wanted to have in my collection. It was clear that many collectors did not display their models. It was more a “business” whereas for me it was a hobby.
The one thing that impressed me with these wonderful toys was that the castings were excellent and very representative of the real life vehicles. It struck me that as I was enjoying this pursuit that instead of concentrating on restoring models back to their original colours that I should use any colours that struck my fancy. After all when restoring real vehicles many people used custom colours with good results. The bulk of my diecast restorations began to be Dinkys’ and Corgis’ in “unique” colours.
It was clear that it was essential to retain the original wheels and axles on these toys if you were restoring them to original condition. If not, however, the addition of custom wheels while adding to the cost certainly enhanced some of the models even further.
One other brand that restored well was Sabra (made in Israel). Getting parts is the problem as I have not found replacement parts for these models. Consequently availability of models in poor condition that did not require parts was difficult. Nevertheless, they occasionally were available and I began storing some of these as well. Again they were only for customising. I kept my eye open for any brand that would present well when customised but was available at a reasonable price. A couple of other brands I have used are Lone Star and Trax ( an Australian collectible model, not a toy ).
I have included before and after photos of models I have restored in non original colours and or have enhanced with different wheels as well.
Corgi Buick Riviera
Dinky Riley
Hi dd,
ReplyDeleteTry adding a grille from the Corgi Firebird to your Sabra when restoring, almost a perfect fit.
Regards.
zoltantheduck