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Collectibles:
By Tim Sullivan
As noted by Unity Marketing Die-cast report, 83% of die-cast cars
bought in the US were purchased as either gifts or collectibles.
According to the report, die-cast toys and models were purchased by
close to 20% of American homes, mine included. This market is huge,
and growing each day. These next few companies are part of the
reason why:
FunLine Muscle Machines
Chevy Chevelle Muscle Machine |
In either 1:64 or 1:18
scale, the muscle machines are a throwback to the days of Grease…cruising
the strip, going to the drive-in, “peeling out,” and racing.
Not that I was alive during those days and have any idea what I am
talking about, but I can imagine. I’ve always wanted an old hot
rod. I live in LA, which is the perfect place for one. For the time
being however, the Muscle Machines will have to suffice. In a number
of different styles and paint jobs (all of which include chrome,)
these are cool little collectibles. Officially licensed by Ford, GM
and Daimler Chrysler, they are hot sellers too.
Dub City Car |
Dub City
We like the cars, the cars that go boom. Dub City by
Jada Toys is a die cast line for today’s auto enthusiasts. Dubbing
a car (dropping it, putting a booming sound system in, putting
ridiculous rims on the tires, etc.) is incredibly popular right now,
though people have been doing it for years (think War’s “Lowrider”).
Jada caught on to the trend, and is taking it to the bank as the
only die-cast maker this author has noticed tapping the scene. With
several cars in stores already, the Cadillac Escalade seen here is
the newest. Dub City is a real great line for those that like to
keep it real…whether on the streets, or at home in their die-cast
collection.
Star Cars
The Munster's Coach |
New for 2002 from
Racing Champions Ertl, Star Cars are die-cast replicas of cars from
your favorite movies and TV shows. Ranging from The Munsters (shown
here) to Gone in Sixty Seconds, these replicas are exquisitely
detailed, and extremely varied. The set includes cars from the Dukes
of Hazard, Dazed & Confused, Hardcastle & McCormick,
Junkman, A-Team, and the aforementioned Munsters and Gone in Sixty
Seconds to name a few. The die-hard fans of just about any film or
TV program that had a notable vehicle will not be disappointed. With
three more releases slated for August, and more to come, Star Cars
is a great concept for collectors.
 LOWRIDE2FREEDOM
Check out our “Cool
Company” section for this innovative company’s low-riding
collectibles that pose, pop and sparkle.
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