Tell us what this hobby means to you? 14 questions answered by you, Francois Guirin from Aix, France.

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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 became a crazy Formula 1 fan in 1977, at the age of 10, and started collecting early F1 diecast two years later, replacing them with manufacturers’ technical progress, I have 1600 pieces today, 95% Spark, and a few other similar or from same factories: TSM, Looksmart, Redline, Ebbro, Kyosho.

2) What was your first diecast or memory?

My first ones were Polistil from the 1979 F1 season, I also made some kits.

3) What is your favourite scale, and why?

I love 1:43 because you can find much more diversity, especially the obscure rear grid teams for Formula 1. And it saves more space.

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

Basically, I love all of them. Maybe a special favourite is Shadow DN8 Tom Pryce Dutch GP 1976 by Spark.

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

Yes… Spark 1:43 S3524 Cooper T81 #4 Winner South African GP 1967 Pedro Rodriguez.

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

Spark models, because they have the soul of Formula 1 history and don’t release only bestsellers like Lotus 79, McLaren MP4/6, Tyrrell P34…

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

I collect all Formula 1 from 1950 to 2008, all drivers, all liveries, and all setups, for modern F1 only a few that I like and the special limited editions from Japan, and China.
I also collect F2, F3, Super Formula, Tasman Series, I love single-seaters.

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

As you can see in my pics, with IKEA Billy, I keep models in the original boxes to prevent any risk of dust.

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

I love music, especially Progressive Rock but also a lot of Indie Rock.

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

I have mixed feelings, press collections have improved a lot and can bring new collectors with a lot of choices. Premium brands felt the speculation of some “collectors” and crazy prices.

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

Discount models half price!

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

Yes, sometimes Spark have completely wrong liveries, I ask a friend to make decals and I update the model. My last one will be Hill GH1 Stommelen Italian GP 1975, the only race without the Embassy sponsoring Coronado, I tried it, but I was not happy with the results.  I have a friend who sometimes modifies them for me if there is something I need to change or fix.

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

I am somewhat lucky to dislike the couple’s life and to be free from it… my children love my hobby.

14) What is your daily driver?

I have none, only a car provided by my company, an electric one.