Charles Mananes - January 2018 • DiecastSociety.com

Charles Mananes – January 2018

Tell us what this hobby means to you? 14 questions answered by you, Charles Mananes from Marikina City, Philippines.

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1) What first got you collecting diecast? How long have you been collecting? What is your total model count as of today?

My friend introduced me to diecast cars about three years ago and just bought a single item which I found reasonably detailed for a 1:64 scale. Little by little I purchased in increasing number as well as buying more expensive diecasts. As of the moment I have lost count of the exact number of 1:64 diecasts but I’m pretty sure it’s well over a thousand.

2) What was your first diecast or memory?

The very first diecast car I bought I have already lost due to burglary if you can believe it. It was a 1975 Vintage Matchbox Car Superfast No #68 Cosmobile. I’m pretty sure it was stolen by our household help during the 90’s, when I wasn’t what you would call a hardcore collector, just a teen who bought cool looking toys.

3) What is your favourite scale, and why?

I just concentrate on 1:64’s and the occasional 1:55’s manufactured by Bburago or Siku. Reason being I find it more fascinating if the manufacturer gets the details even at a small scale as well as it is a lot less expensive than the larger ones.

4) What are some of your favourite models to date? Did you share any photos with us?

I do love the Initial D Toyota Trueno made by Tomica which I’ve included in the photos and plan to buy their more expensive version which at the moment I cannot afford. I also love the details of the Motormax 1979 Lebaron which I’ve also included.

5) Is there a model that has eluded you, a holy grail of sorts?

There are lots of models which I have not bought due to financial constraints, specially those in the 1:18 scales, but I really don’t mind because I just buy what I can afford. There was one time I wanted to buy a “Back to the Future” DeLorean with working sounds and lights but it wasn’t diecast but resin at a large scale of roughly 1:12.

6) What is your favourite brand/manufacturer, and why?

So far I like Greenlight and Motormax for their details and affordability.

7) Describe your current theme and what your overall goal is?

I guess the major theme in my collection is just the 1:64 scale and my goal is to create a highly detailed diorama with pieces that are built from scratch. I’ve already started and has displayed it in two 8 gallon aquariums which I will add more details until I am satisfied.

8) Do you display your collection? If yes, how?

I only get to display my collection during the Christmas holidays because I make it a part of the holiday decorations as a diorama.

9) Do you have any other hobbies, passions or addictions?

I’m an artist and I mostly draw and paint, but I build robot model kits and sometimes detail them for fun. I am a cosplay enthusiast as well and manifest it by picturing cosplay artists at events they attend.

10) What do you think about the diecast hobby as it stands today?

Like Cosplay, I was surprised there was like a sub culture of diecast enthusiasts which I found bordering on what most would consider as nerdy. It’s a fun endeavor as long as you keep it in perspective, which basically should be kept in a light and entertaining environment. I must say I have met some people who have taken it to unhealthy levels which has discouraged me from bonding with groups I have joined.

11) If you could change one thing about the diecast hobby what would that be?

Here in the Philippines entrepreneurs have caught on the evident demand of diecast toys and have significantly increased the prices that at one point I considered stopping altogether. I found it funny that diecast toys that cost $1 in the US cost more than twice here when said brand is manufactured by Malaysia which is just a boat ride away. I hope one day distributors and sellers do not take advantage of the upsurge of demands for unfair profits, after all they are just toys.

12) Do you modify cars? If yes, what are some examples?

I do sometimes try to modify cars, one time I recreated the “Striped Tomato” car from Starsky and Hutch when I haven’t yet bought one from Hot Wheels. It was okay, but not that accurate.

13) What does your spouse, partner or significant other think of your hobby and your collection?

Since I only buy what I can afford she doesn’t really mind it. For me it’s just a hobby, not an addiction in the unhealthy sense. I know when to say no to myself.

14) What is your daily driver?

I can’t afford to buy a diecast that would cost more than $40 let alone a real car. I walk often which makes me healthier.

3 Responses to "Charles Mananes – January 2018"

  1. Wayne A. says:

    Wow, really? Well, if you think it’s such a poor collection, why don’t you donate part of your collection to make it better. Otherwise, how about keeping your rotten opinion to yourself.

  2. 7STORMDIECASTYT says:

    Hey, man. Your collection looks awesome! I think that 1:64s are really interesting, I personally collect 1:18s but have a couple of those as well. I love the pictures- and yeah I agree with you that the fact that they inflate the prices for Malaysia cars if you’re right there is dumb. Keep on collecting and I hope it grows in the future!

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