Tell us what this hobby means to you? 14 questions answered by you, Vanes Melandri, Ravenna, Italy.

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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?

Since I was a child I kept the models separate from other toys, so always, for 40 years, to date 930 pieces.

2) What was your first diecast or memory?

Ferrari Testarossa by Bburago in 1:18 scale.  Almost like I got it yesterday.  Great memory for me.

3) What is your favourite scale, and why?

There are two, 1:43 and 1:18.  The first for the extremely small details and the second for the many details!

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

Everyone is special to me!  Each model has its own reason… I took photos with my tablet, I hope you can see them well.

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

Yes! The Honda NSR 500 1:12 by Minichamps – World Championship 2000, Valentino Rossi.  It’s rare to find and extremely expensive!

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

Again no favorites, I appreciate them all!  Each manufacturer makes different models in resin, metal, sealed, openable, plastic, etc… each manufacturer has its own spin and flare!

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

For cars, the themes are road, rally, track (no Formula 1) and for motorbikes, the main theme is Valentino Rossi!  In addition, I collect helmets and stickers and the various cars he drove plus some other Moto GP and SBK riders.

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

Yes, however just a fraction of the collection within four showcases.

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

Not many in addition to models, though I like technology and motorbikes!

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

​Yes!  Everything is so expensive these days.

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

Certainly lower prices and a greater variety of different models and themes.

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

Sure, on occasion I do…  The latest ones from Bburago in 1:43 scale includes a Fiat, Ferrari and related  Lamborghini models. On a side note, I also enjoy building Tamiya plastic models.

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

He puts up with me and supports me…  Hahahahahahaha

14) What is your daily driver?

At the moment these are in the driveway: Volvo s60 and Kawasaki Z 750.