[marcos]

Hi guys,

A bit off-topic, but I was just wondering. Why is it that most miniature models are scaled 1:43 / 1:24 / 1:18 / etc.?

I often build architecture models and I always build in 1:20 / 1:50 / 1:100 and sometimes 1:200 / 1:250. Round numbers that is. The model ships I build private also have round numbers… (Usually)

I ask you guys this questions, because I’m sick and tired with my job as a building expert. I would like to switch in making model fulltime. But not for a Boss, because I like to have control myself…
So, at this moment I’m doing some researches for starting my own (professional) model company. I wish to use it to build architecture and industrial models, but also to design, build and manufacture scale models like cars, ships, planes, etc.

For example, would a limited scale model of an F40 scaled 1:20 or 1:10 sale? (Would you buy it?) Is it worth the investment to start building models like Ferrari (high detailed models I’m thinking…)?

Thanks guys,
Marcos.

 

[Dj Dirk]

Exoto has a 1/10 line already, altough as usual they are running behind with releasing, and they just increased their price to US$1500, wich is a 50% increase


if you feel like starting your own handbuild car business, your best bet is going into 1/43, most serious (money) collectors tend to buy that scale, also because there is more available in that scale
some of the better builders are Rosso & Kane, Factory43, One Man Factory, Feeling43,...

attached are 3 pics of some stuff from Feeling43
i don't remember the excact prices, but i believe that the asking price for the Bugatti T35 was €2500, and he only made 25 pieces

 

[Dr. Bob]

yes, 1/43 is the scale in which direction most money goes, although I do have the idea that if you build some non-existing 1/18 models that they will sell as well, because a lot of people collect 1/18, but there aren't a lot of models. 1/24 is only for kits.

Before building existing cars, do you think of copyrights?

 

[marcos]

Before building existing cars, do you think of copyrights?

Offcourse, that's the big problem with Ferrari models I think. I'll need a lot of money...

If I do start building models (next to building architectural models) I'm thinking about limited productions (hand made).
F40 is on of my favorite, so I'm thinking about a F40 base for about 1500 high detail models. Let's say 500 normal F40's, 500 LM's and 500 GTE's. Maybe even in 3 or 4 different colors.

I was thinking about 1:50 or 1:20 but maybe it's indeed better to go to 1:43 or 1:18.
For the 1:18 I thought it would be fun to make a standard model in different colors and make tuning parts or so...?

For a 1500 (highdetail) limited production in 1:43 is 250 - 300 euro to mutch?

Yesterday I had a meeting with my banker. He was very enthusiast and he's looking at my financial plans right now. He promised to give me some advise so I can survive this year while preparing my company...
...next week we'll meet again.

 

[kensei]

Very intresting, keep us updated!