Gonçalo Freitas - June 2021 • DiecastSociety.com

Gonçalo Freitas – June 2021

Tell us what this hobby means to you? 14 questions answered by you, Gonçalo Freitas from Fafe, Portugal.

We’re always looking for more collectors to feature on DiecastSociety.com Diecast Collector Of The Month (DCOTM). Click HERE for all the details! ** Remember, for your efforts all winning candidates will be mailed a pair of www.DiecastSociety.com decals! **

 

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

When I was a kid I only played with toy cars. I used to read lots of car magazines. But only after I bought my first model (in 2005), I started to research and I realized the quantity and quality of model cars for collectors. Fifteen-year later, I have 414 models.

2) What was your first diecast or memory?

A black Kyosho 365 GT4/BB that I proudly have in my display.

3) What is your favourite scale, and why?

I only collect in 1:18. Is the best scale to display in the space I have. There is a lot of variety of models and the details are, usually very good.

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

I have to say all the Exoto XS (Alfa 159, Ferrari 246 F1, Ferrari 156 F1, Jaguar D-type) and some Grand Prix models from the Exoto “regular” collection.  I also like a lot most of my CMCs (Mercedes 300 SLR – road and competition – all the Ferrari 250s – Testarossa, SWB, California, GTO – and the Fiat 642 RN2 Bartoletti). I believe I shared photos of all these models.

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

The Bugatti 57 SC Atlantic from CMC but I don’t collect models from that time period. If I bought this, I will probably want quite a few more cars and my budget is limited.

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

Almost every Exoto XS and CMC.  Nothing comes close in terms of engineering and precision to the Exoto XS models.  CMC models are also quite exquisite, they are very detailed.

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

Supercars, competition cars from the 50s to the 70s, and F1 models.

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

Yes, I have them in a living room, displayed in cabinets. Although a lot of them are still in their boxes.

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

Yes, I collect mechanical swiss watches, signed soccer jerseys and autographs from F1 drives (some of them are displayed in my F1 cabinet).

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

Currently, I buy a lot less than I used to because prices continue to rise very fast and, most of the time, the value isn’t there anymore!  Fewer models with 360 degrees access are released and these are the ones I want.

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

Reduce the time between the announcements and the production time (with some brands we have to wait for quite a few years).

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

I don’t modify my model cars.

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

She is okay with it, I started to collect before I was married.  Normally, she decides the colour of the car and how to display them.

14) What is your daily driver?

A Renault Megane grandcoupe.

9 Responses to "Gonçalo Freitas – June 2021"

  1. Terrence says:

    A beautifully curated collection and the display is impressive as well.

  2. Giorgio262 says:

    Beautiful display and assortment of models. I also like the ample use of figures as it brings a bit of life and allow to better understand the size of the cars that are represented in comparison with human figures.

  3. Steven Weiner says:

    A great collection. I also like the inclusion of the people figures, as they really help bring the cars “alive.” Congratulations, Goncalo!

  4. Gonçalo Freitas says:

    Many thanks for your comments!
    Diecastsociety thanks for choosing my collection!

  5. SPhilli911 says:

    Amazing collection…

  6. John says:

    Very nice and eclectic collection with an attractive backdrop. Great!

  7. RogerLodge says:

    Love the cars and the room. It’s like a wine cellar but with awesome diecast. Thanks for sharing :)

  8. Greg Noss says:

    What a wonderful collection I love the way you have it displayed I agree with GIORGIO262 comment regarding the figures

Leave a reply