Tell us what this hobby means to you? 14 questions answered by you, Michael van Zyl from South Africa.
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?
A love for cars, been collecting for 20+ years. Total Cars (1:18, 1:24, 1:43) is about 50.
2) What was your first diecast or memory?
It has to be the 1:18 scale Maisto Hummer H1. It is pictured with the provided array of photos -yellow with a soft top.
3) What is your favourite scale, and why?
No doubt 1:18 scale! Based on excessive pricing here in South Africa, the model usually provides me with great detail!
4) What are some of your favourite models to date? Did you share any photos with us?
My BMW M Sport cars, Fords (Cobra, Daytona, GT40, GT) and Red Bull collection.
5) Is there a model that has eluded you, a holy grail of sorts?
Yes! The Maisto 1:18 Ford GT Heritage Edition (2017 red with white stripes). Does anyone have one to sell me?
6) What is your favourite brand/manufacturer, and why?
AUTOart and Minichamps are the first two that come to mind! In most cases a reasonable price with more than average details.
7) Describe your current theme and what your overall goal is?
Championship and race-winning cars!
8) Do you display your collection? If yes, how?
No. Still all in original boxes, only taken out for a rare photo shoot or just personal admiration.
9) Do you have any other hobbies, passions or addictions?
Cycling, swimming, watching motorsports on tv and were possible at live events!
10) What do you think about the diecast hobby as it stands today?
Collecting models here in South Africa is definitely a luxury and one where models can be scare and expensive at times.
11) If you could change one thing about the diecast hobby what would that be?
Maybe more Manufacturers. It will help with more avenues for specific themes and more competition in pricing I would assume.
12) Do you modify cars? If yes, what are some examples?
No, I do not modify my models.
13) What does your spouse, partner or significant other think of your hobby and your collection?
I am single at the moment so there is no interference from my significant other.
14) What is your daily driver?
2011 Ford Figo 1.4 Ambiente.
Congratulations on being our collector of the month, Michael! If buying locally is too expensive, consider buying from abroad. Plus, you will enjoy your collection more displaying it, not so much for others than yourself. And on your holy grail: I have a blue Ford GT with white stripes. But guess, you only want it in red to go with the other 2 GTs, right?
Hi Karsten, I don’t really have space at the moment for a display cabinet, and I don’t really want to buy from abroad, with our postal service, they don’t care about parcels that say “Fragile- Handle with Care” and they open parcels to see what is inside
Well done Mike. Nice collection
I’m also a collector in Pretoria !
Thanks Santosh
Where about in Pretoria?
@SANTOSH GUNPATH where in PTA are you?