Gift ideas for a model car collector?
The end of year holidays are approaching and as is customary, there is often an exchange of gifts. When it comes to pleasing a model car enthusiast, you don't have to look long before moving into this particular area! However, there are thousands of miniature references released every year and it is sometimes difficult to make a choice. Let's review 5 gift ideas that are sure to please a collector of miniature vehicles, whether at scale 1/18, 1/43 or even 1/64 !
1. Display boxes
Giving empty boxes may seem strange but it is nevertheless a very useful gift, not to mention essential when collecting scale models. These display boxes allow you to superbly showcase miniature cars. They allow you to appreciate the details and make them beautiful exhibition objects. The rendering is different from a traditional display case and it also allows the miniatures to be taken out of their boxes in an elegant way. There are display boxes of all sizes and for all budgets. There are several types of bases and sometimes even some that are made of leather, for a very high-end look. It's a good way to present the most beautiful pieces of a collection! It's up to you to match the color of the base to that of the miniature, for a very chic look. Additionally, it protects the miniatures from dust.
2. The turntable
Exhibiting your miniature cars and being able to admire them at any time is one of the little pleasures of the collector. The turntable is THE good idea for showcasing the most beautiful pieces of a collection. There are different board formats, which correspond to the scales of the miniatures. The trays are generally battery operated and activated very simply, using a small button. This allows you to rotate a miniature and be able to admire it from all angles. It’s a gift idea that works every time so don’t hesitate to choose this option. The turntable can be installed very easily in a display box, for example. Some use this type of tray to display the latest models arriving in the collection. Suffice to say that some people closely follow the news of miniature cars , especially when a highly coveted model finally comes out!
3. 1/64 scale models
In our childhood, we all had miniatures in 3 inch format, which corresponds to the 1/64 scale. The most famous brand is of course Majorette! A French brand which has evolved over the years by offering ever more models, particularly contemporary cars. However, the 1/64 scale is not systematically associated with toys, in fact it is quite the opposite. Indeed, a large number of collectors are quite nostalgic for old models. However, the requirements in terms of realism are increasing and that is rather logical. 1/64 scale models are a good choice. In addition to being more economical, this scale is relatively easy to collect. Choose a model that appeals to the person you want to give a gift to. The high-end 1/64 models even have a presentation display box, for a chic look. In addition, it is quite easy to consider 1/64 as a complementary scale, in a collection of miniatures; the size differential being quite significant with the great classics, such as 1/18, 1/24 or even 1/43.
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4. Give a friend's car as a miniature gift
Does one of your friends love their car? Give him the model of his vehicle. It's a gift that makes a splash every time. If this person already collects miniatures, make sure that they do not already have this model because we generally start a collection by accumulating models of cars that we already had in our garage. Not all car models have already been reproduced in scale models but a good number have already been, whether at 1/43 or 1/18. Manufacturers have even specialized in particular themes. For example, there is Laudoracing which produces miniatures of Italian cars or MR Collection which specializes in sports and/or luxury models.
5. The diorama kit
Having toy cars is great. Putting them in a situation is even better. In modeling jargon, this is called a diorama. By this, mean a simulation of scale models, supplemented by decorative elements. There are different sets including scale models of chairs, shelves, tools and even cans. So many elements that can help create a complete miniature decor. Collectors generally favor this practice, sometimes adding buildings. For this, there are also building kits, which you can buy on the internet or build yourself. Creative art stores are an inexhaustible resource for inspiration because you can easily find what you need to create your own diorama. Our tip? Also think about DIY stores and more particularly the departments where you can find wooden boards. There are sometimes small wooden elements that can easily be used to create a superb diorama. For accessory kits , prices vary enormously... But it's a sure value to satisfy a miniature car collector!
How to choose well?
Above all, you must be able to clearly understand the tastes of the person to whom you wish to give a gift. Identify the theme of your collection, your preferred scale, etc. Then dissect possible needs, such as a display window that is too full. From there, you can put all the cards on your side to pleasantly surprise the person. The field of miniature cars is exciting and full of elements to always move forward and fully live this passion. And you, what are your favorites?
