Tell us what this hobby means to you? 14 questions answered by you, Scott Gilbert from Bristol, USA.

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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?

I have been a car lover since I was old enough to talk, and I’ve been collecting almost as long. Started with Matchbox and Hot Wheels as a pre-schooler, budget 1:18 models (Bburago, Maisto, Ertl) through my teens, and high-end diecasts starting in my twenties. Now I am 39 and my collection is 109 strong and counting!

2) What was your first diecast or memory?

The earliest one I can remember is the 1992 Ferrari 456GT from Bburago, acquired in 1992 at age seven. Still in my possession!

3) What is your favourite scale, and why?

1:18,  for accessibility and fine details!

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

My favourite two models, to date, are the 1961 Jaguar E-Type 3.8 Series I Coupe in British Racing Green from AUTOart and the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO in Rosso Corsa from CMC. I’m afraid they are not pictured above; I showed all of my most recent acquisitions and subjects of recent photo shoots.

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

My all-time favourite Ferrari: the 1961 250 GT California Spider from CMC (Based on the car immortalized in ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’, one of my favourite movies). Unfortunately, the going prices mean that it will continue to elude me.

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

I could be called an AUTOart fanboy; I have more than 30. I love their attention to detail and their extensive selection. They make a lot of cars, I love to see them in scale, and they’re of great quality.

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

I don’t have a theme; I just collect cars that I like. My biggest goal is variety, to have one of everything out there. All different makes, models, years, colours. I don’t intend to stop collecting until I run out of either physical room or money, whichever comes first. Or, unless I grow bored with it, but I hope that never happens.

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

Yes, I display mine in mirror-backed acrylic cases.

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

I am a drummer and a baseball fan. My primary passion is music. Cars are second.

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

I love the variety of models coming out and the extreme detail! There are a lot of really good options to choose from. That said, the prices are steep and they have short shelf-lives. It would be nice to be able to invest in a model when I can afford to and am ready to, rather than needing to hurry and grab it before it goes out of stock and then triples in price after-market.

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

I think I said it… Bring prices down, please.

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

No, I do not.

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

Not applicable – I am single.

14) What is your daily driver?

2011 Subaru Forester Hybrid. Not exciting, but a good car, and it’s what I can afford at the moment.