Tell us what this hobby means to you? 13 questions answered by you, Thomas Andre de Dios from the 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?

For me, collecting diecast models is having the replicas of my dream cars. I was always fascinated with fine details. I first bought a 1:18 AUTOart Murcielago back in 2003 just for the sake of having one Lamborghini model. But in 2007, I diverted my hobby from R/C racing (1:10 EP touring) to diecast collecting. That’s when I became serious about the hobby. I don’t have as much models like many other collectors because I am very selective. At the moment, I have 40 1:18 cars. 37 of them are Lamborghini and 3 Toyota. Then there’s the little ones. More than 30 pieces 1:43 Lamborghini cars and a handful of 1:43 Toyota cars. About 50+ 1:64 Lamborghini cars and 20+ Toyota cars in various brands. I usually buy that looks more realistic.

2) What was your first diecast or memory?

1:18 AUTOart Lamborghini Murcielago (green)

3) What is your favourite scale, and why?

My favorite scale is 1:18 because of it’s realistic details and opening/articulated features. I like 1:43 as well.

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

Some of my favorite models in my collection are: AUTOart: Reventon, Aventador, Aventador J, Murcielago LP640 & LP670-4 SV, Gallardo LP570-4 SL, Gallardo Super Trofeo, Diablo VT, Diablo VT Roadster, Diablo 6.0 and GTR, Espada. Kyosho: Countach 5000s (red), Countach 5000QV, Miura SV (green), and Miura Jota SVR. Yes models mentioned above are shared in the members collection section of Diecast Society.com

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

Yes. The 1:43 Lamborghini LM002 in red by Minichamps. Been on a hunt for years now.

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

AUTOart – Because in my opinion, they make the best models of modern (1990 and up) Lamborghini cars in 1:18 scale. They also make the best 1:43 Lamborghini models. Right accuracy, proper details & stance. AUTOart also makes the best wheels and tires of any model. Kyosho – They did a good job replicating the Countach and Miura variants in 1:18.

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

My main theme is Lamborghini while my second line is Toyota Corolla. My goal is to have at least 3 scales of each car in my collection. 1:18, 1:43 and 1:64 scales.

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

Yes, they are all encased in dust free acrylic cases.

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

DJ gear (been a pro DJ for 24 years now), photography, professional car detailing, R/C helicopter (size 100, 300 & 450 electric).

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

Well it’s gotten more expensive compared to the last decade but the details of newer models are fantastic. I remember in 2008 when I first saw a CMC model, I was in awe. The details and craftsmanship was unparalleled. But the prices were really high. AUTOart (especially Signature series) today gives us (almost) the same level of details and accuracy at still, lower prices than CMC and BBR.

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

Make people stop ranting and start being appreciative of the models coming out from time to time. Collector’s today have become more demanding instead of being patient. I would also make the prices go down though.

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

Yes, I have done a lot of customs and modifications. Majority of my models have been modified and detailed somehow. I always add missing details especially on the engine bay and interior. Hoses, wires, engine belts, parts repaints, photo etch seat belt buckles, carpeting, etc. I usually download pictures of 1:1 cars and look for things to add in the 1:18 that are missing. But I don’t over do them and exaggerate. I have also done many custom models for friends. From repaint, wheel swap, wheel modifications, body altering, and fabricating some parts that are not available in the market (yet). I have built a 1:18 garage diorama back in 2009. Unfortunately, I sold it because it was consuming too much space in the room. But I have a plan of building a new one, even much bigger. Hahaha!