Die-cast Diaries Review of 2017
Although we find ourselves in the first week of a new year, we can’t turn our back on the festive season without enjoying one final holiday tradition – the annual review edition of our Corgi Die-cast Diaries blog. Before we begin, could we take this opportunity to wish all our readers a very happy and prosperous New Year and to sincerely thank you for continuing to support our blog endeavours over the past twelve months. We hope you had an enjoyable Christmas and are already looking forward with some optimism to 2018 and such delights as the Centenary commemorations of the establishment of the Royal Air Force and the 70th Anniversary of the Morris Minor.
The traditional live date for our annual review blog is the last Friday in the year to be reviewed, however due to some website scheduling issues which had to take precedence over the holiday period, we have been forced to delay posting the blog until this early New Year slot. Not to worry though, this is a fine way to start an important year for Die-cast Diaries and we look forward to bringing you plenty of Corgi model news, collector features and updates over the coming twelve months. In this review edition, we are obviously going to feature some of the blog highlights from 2017, look forward to a significant year for the popular Aviation Archive range and challenge Corgi Bus and Truck collectors to educate our readers as to why these are such fantastic and highly collectable models. We know you will probably be in the middle of either cataloguing, or rearranging your collections, so not wanting to keep you away from your work for too long, let’s make a start on our 2017 review.
Corgi Die-cast Diaries – A team effort
The entire Corgi team help to bring you the latest Die-cast Diaries updates
The Christmas holiday period is a time for quiet reflection, making some positive changes and certainly avoiding looking at your latest credit card statement. From a Die-cast Diaries perspective, it allows us an opportunity to look back at another successful year for our blog, which has once again seen a steady increase in readership numbers. We would like to thank our loyal readers for their continued support, especially those who have helped to spread the word to like-minded die-cast collectors and enthusiasts across the world. We also have to acknowledge the fact that Die-cast Diaries is a huge collaborative team effort, with the entire Corgi research and development team, as well as our hard working photographers and retouchers all contributing to the success of the blog, allowing us to bring you interesting features and the latest updates much earlier than was previously the case – thank you for your help, one and all.
We are always keen to ensure our Corgi blog continues to be something our readers look forward to receiving and your views are extremely important to us. If you would like to make any suggestions on how we could improve the blog moving forwards, or particular subjects you would like to see covered during 2018, please do drop us a line using our diecastdiaries@corgi.co.uk e-mail address, where we will certainly consider every submission we receive. You may even see your suggestion featured in a future edition of Die-cast Diaries.
2017 opens with a Lightning Strike
The English Electric Lightning is one of the most enigmatic jet fighters ever to take to the skies
Although we always strive to fill each edition of our Corgi blog with interesting and informative die-cast related features for our readers enjoyment, we are under no illusions as to what you all like to hear about most – new model tooling announcements. The success of our blog has allowed us to bring you information regarding new model toolings much earlier than was previously the case, which was usually always linked to the bi-annual release of a new Corgi catalogue. Currently, as soon as the development team have been cleared to do so, we are given all the latest details of any new models to immediately share with you, which means Die-cast Diaries readers are usually the first to hear about such developments.
It would not be inaccurate to say that most Corgi die-cast collectors probably feel that there have not been enough new tooling announcements in the range over the past few years, but are pragmatic enough to also appreciate the significant costs associated with such developments. With that being said, if you are going to make a new tooling announcement, you may as well make it an impressive one – 2017 began with the spectacular news that the Aviation Archive range would soon be benefitting from the addition of an English Electric Lightning F.6 in 1/48th scale. This unexpected announcement certainly caused quite a stir and occurred so early in the development process that the model didn’t even make it into the January – June 2017 catalogue and was simply a single loose sheet addition to the publication. The Corgi team had been working on this exciting project for some time and only received sign-off in the days before announcement of the latest range – rather than hold on to news of this significant development until the next range launch in the summer, it was decided to unleash this beast straight away.
Little and large – 1/48th scale prototype Lightning with the latest 1/72nd scale release
The English Electric Lightning occupies a unique position in the history of British aviation as the only all-British built Mach 2 plus/1500mph capable interceptor fighter and icon of the Cold War era. If the Supermarine Spitfire is considered to be Britain’s most famous piston engined fighter of all time, then its direct jet powered equivalent was certainly the superlative Lightning, one of the most distinctive aircraft to ever take to the skies. Representing a huge leap in aviation technology, the Lightning introduced the concept of an integrated weapons system to RAF fighters, which allowed its Ferranti radar to acquire hostile targets and feed this information to the pilot, enabling him to launch his air to air missiles with the optimum profile. It possessed incredible performance, becoming the most capable interceptor fighter in the world when first introduced in 1960 and Britain’s primary interceptor for the following two decades.
Pre-production sample models from various stages of the new Lightning’s development
With such a rich aviation pedigree is it no wonder that the original 1/72nd scale Corgi Lightning has been one of the most popular models in the Aviation Archive range, first appearing in 2000, with the latest sell out model in the series only arriving in 2016. It therefore came as no surprise that news of this larger 1/48th scale version of the Lightning immediately resulted in an avalanche of pre-ordering activity, with die-cast collectors giving their seal of approval to this impressive addition to the range and stunning die-cast representation of Britain’s famous Lightning. The early announcement of the model also allowed us to bring you several updates from the project throughout 2017, covering such information as confirmation of the first scheme details on the decoration guide, exclusive pictures of the ‘First Shots’ metal samples from the new tooling, right up to the recent announcement of the special box artwork. This has been a fantastic project to be involved with and the wait for this model’s long anticipated arrival is almost over – despite an eleventh hour production delay, the new 1/48th scale Lightning is scheduled for a triumphant February release and pride of place in die-cast collections all over the world.
The new 1/48th scale Lightning will benefit from some specially commissioned box artwork that befits such a high profile release
AA28401 presents collectors with an example of English Electric/BAC Lightning F.6 XR728/JS, in the colours of the former RAF Binbrook Station Commander’s aircraft, from the Lightning Training Flight based at the airfield. This magnificent aircraft is now preserved by the Lightning Preservation Group at Bruntingthorpe Airfield in Leicestershire, who have been the custodians of her for over 29 years, maintaining this Cold War sentinel in ground running condition. Lightning XR728 is now the star attraction at many of Bruntingthorpe’s aviation event days, where she provides enthusiasts with a unique reminder of the power and majesty of Britain’s most famous jet fighter. She makes a magnificent first subject for this impressive new model.
20 Years of Aviation Archive
The model which started our aviation obsession – Douglas C-47A Skytrain ‘FASSBERG FLYER’
In 1998, aviation enthusiasts were intrigued by the launch of a new range of 1/144th scale die-cast metal aircraft models from Corgi, which presented the collector with a number of iconic aircraft types from the world of military and civilian aviation. Many thought that these would be more like toys than high quality collectable models, but were presently surprised when inspecting the range for the first time – they were extremely impressive. Produced to scale and featuring high quality tampo printed details, these little models allowed aviation enthusiasts to simply take the aircraft out of its box and enjoy it, whilst also possessing the reassuring weight and resilience of die-cast metal construction. The new models proved to be an instant success and quickly established themselves as a popular range within the Corgi portfolio, possessing plenty of scope for future development.
Chronologically, the first release in the Aviation Archive series was model number 47101, a Douglas C-47A Skytrain named the ‘Fassberg Flyer’, released to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift and marking one of the most famous aircraft to take part in ‘Operation Vittles’. In a significant year for the Aviation Archive range, 2018 not only marks 20 years of these fantastic die-cast aircraft models, but also the 70th Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift and the Centenary year of the establishment of the Royal Air Force. Aviation is certainly going to be receiving plenty of attention over the coming months.
Viva Vanguards – 21 Years of Modelling Excellence
One of the most enjoyable features to appear within Die-cast Diaries during 2017 has been our series of articles commemorating the 21st birthday of the Vanguards classic motor vehicles range. Since the range was first introduced in 1996, Vanguards has been providing collectors with high quality scale models of classic motor vehicles spanning over 50 years of popular motoring in Britain. In recognition of this significant anniversary for the range, Die-cast Diaries published a series of Vanguards related features throughout the year, focusing on the fascinating production history of these popular models and some of the significant personalities responsible for bringing them to market. From its original inception at the old Lledo factory in Enfield, to the latest models to appear in the current Corgi range, we have seen how the Enfield site was initially responsible for every aspect of the model’s design, development, manufacture and distribution, but how increasing competition from the Far East brought about some significant changes over the years.
Original artwork used to promote the new ‘Days Gone Vanguards’ models
The Vanguards name first began to appear in Lledo marketing literature back in 1993 and whilst the models were not exactly as we have come to expect from the range today, they were something distinctly different for the collector to consider. First referred to as ‘Days Gone Vanguards’, these new models were a break away from the traditional fit the box products that Lledo had become famous for producing and were intended to be a more accurate sub-collection of the Days Gone range. The models were produced with more detail than had previously been the norm and were aimed at the discerning die-cast model collector, who was looking for a more accurate scale representation of their favourite vehicles. Although not actually the birth of the current Vanguards range as we know it, this is still an important development in the history of the Vanguards model range.
We have seen how the manual painting of thousands of Trotters Vans produced an iconic model release
Following the closure of the Lledo factory in 1999 after a period of significant financial difficulty, the Vanguards and Days Gone model tooling bank, along with associated intellectual property rights came under Corgi Ownership, heralding an exciting future for this now established range of models. Our Vanguards 21 series charted the rather confusing period immediately prior to and just after this transfer of ownership, where several models developed at the Enfield factory and appearing in original Lledo catalogues never actually saw production in the UK and were later produced by Corgi in the Far East. Our search to find the first completely Corgi developed Vanguards tooling proved equally confusing, but settling on a chronological method of research, that model proved to be Ford Cortina Mk.II GT (VA04100) in Ermine White & Black which was a new tooling for 2001 and announced in the Jan/June 2001 catalogue.
Chronologically, this Ford Cortina Mk.II GT was the first Corgi developed Vanguards release
Work on producing our Vanguards 21 series has unearthed some fascinating facts about these handsome little models and proved to be extremely popular with our readers. In fact, there is so much interesting Vanguards material still outstanding that we intend to continue with the series throughout 2018, pressing on with our journey through the history of the brand and looking at some of the significant model releases over the past 22 years.
A prized Vanguard up for grabs
Artwork files showing the unique representation of our very special one of one 1977 Ford Escort Mk.2 Mexico
The popularity of our Vanguards 21 series clearly highlighted the affection in which these models are held and in order to mark this significant anniversary for the range, we had to do something a little bit special regarding suitable a competition. Working closely with the Corgi team and Vanguards research guru Mark Pinnigar, we are offering one lucky collector the opportunity to own a unique piece of Vanguards memorabilia, a model which would instantly take pride of place in any model vehicle collection, whilst also possesses a rarity value which would make our winner the envy of every Vanguards collector in the world.
Mark Pinnigar, the driving force behind the Vanguards range, is going to hand produce a model that is both visually striking, unique in its presentation and unbelievably collectable – a limited edition one of one release. Coming with its own certificate and fully authenticated by Mark and the Corgi team, this model will be based on a 1977 Ford Escort Mk.2 RS Mexico, but modified in a way that has never been seen previously, or is likely to be again in the future. Taking a ‘Group 4’ wide arch body version of the vehicle, this beautiful looking car is going to be finished in the new Ford RS Nitrous Blue, as used on the stunning new Focus RS. The initial scheme profile images above give you an indication of how this magnificent model may look, but we already know this is going to be a project that will excite Vanguards collectors past and present.
The colour of our model is based on this striking new Focus RS ‘Nitrous Blue’ – Image courtesy of Ford UK
To be in with a chance of winning this unique prize, simply head over to the Corgi Competitions Page, where you will be presented with a Ford Escort Mk.2 RS Mexico related question to answer and all the competition details you may need. The competition will run until midnight on Wednesday 31st January to allow everyone ample time to enter and we will announce the extremely fortunate winner in February’s edition of Die-cast Diaries. We also intend to follow the progress of this model’s production over the next few editions of Die-cast Diaries, bringing you the latest information, pictures and details of this exciting project. We are determined to make this a prize every Vanguards collector would be overjoyed to win, so please keep checking future editions of our blog as we bring you more details on what our lucky winner will be receiving.
Marking the end of an extremely successful series of features produced in celebration of our Vanguards 21 anniversary, this unique model is arguably the most significant prize we have ever offered at Corgi and we would like to wish everyone who enters our competition good luck. Someone reading this blog will win this magnificent prize, so make sure you don’t miss out on your chance and enter over the holidays.
Scarlet Thunderbirds shaken, not stirred
The Corgi model range has been synonymous with the production of quality die-cast toys and collectables for over 60 years, enjoying a long and proud heritage in ‘making the great small’. As we continue to set new standards in die-cast model production, some of our more traditional offerings serve to inspire a new generation of collectors, whilst at the same time bringing back happy childhood memories for those of us who may be a little older.
During 2017, several of these classic models have enjoyed something of a renaissance and celebrated anniversaries and occasions that shook up the die-cast establishment and stirred some pleasant memories of days past. Friday 29th September saw Die-cast Diaries marking the 50th Anniversary of the first showing on British TV of Captain Scarlet and the Mysterons, a rather dark and sinister action series from the brilliant mind of Gerry Anderson. Many readers will remember Captain Scarlet’s Spectrum Patrol Car as one of the most iconic vehicles from their childhood and will certainly have been tempted by the sight of our latest release of this distinctive vehicle. Now available in good model stores everywhere, the Spectrum Patrol Car evokes memories of the excitement the latest edition of this programme instilled in Britain’s youth.
Just one day later (Saturday 30th September) we witnessed significant media coverage in support of the first ‘Thunderbirds Day’, intended to coincide with the UK screening debut of this much-loved series 52 years ago, which introduced Britain’s youth to some of the most famous and captivating science fiction machines ever devised. To this day, Thunderbird 2 and Lady Penelope’s FAB 1 have to be considered two of the most instantly recognisable vehicles from popular TV culture and with a new audience consuming the latest incarnation of Thunderbirds adventures, these classic toys and collectables are once more coming to the attention of a die-cast collecting audience.
The original Bond ‘Little Nellie’ used in the film was spotted at Old Warden earlier this year
Another range of classic Corgi models confirming an enduring link between die-cast collectables and TV and Film subject matter are the vehicles which appeared in various James Bond films over the years. Our search to find the ‘Ultimate Corgi model’ during our 60th Anniversary celebrations in 2016 enjoyed an unprecedented reader response and resulted in James Bond’s classic Aston Martin DB5 emerging victorious from the poll. Indeed, many of the cars used by Britain’s most famous secret agent over the years appeared high on the list of most popular Corgi models and there seems to be no waning in interest for anything that either drives or flies in the name of James Bond. The latest collection includes the famous Lotus Esprit submarine car to coincide with the 40th Anniversary of The Spy Who Loved Me and the magnificent ‘Little Nellie’ Gyrocopter, which appeared in You Only Live twice fifty years ago. It seems that whether a James Bond vehicle is old or new, it has a place on the shelves of film fanatics all over the world, whether they are committed die-cast collectors or not.
Onwards into 2018
This latest Sopwith Camel release marks one of the most successful aircraft in RAF history
The start of any new year is a time of great optimism and hope for the future, as we all open our new diaries and begin planning for the months ahead. The Die-cast Diaries team have great things planned for 2018, building on the successes of the previous few years and ensuring that we continue to bring you interesting and engaging model related content. Bringing you all the important details behind the latest range announcements and new tooling exclusives when we can, Die-cast Diaries will continue to be the place to be for Corgi collectors during 2018.
It is already clear that 2018 is going to be a significant year for the Aviation Archive range, as it celebrates its 20th birthday in the same year the Royal Air Force mark their Centenary, so the subject of aviation will certainly be extremely popular. Our Vanguards series has so much still to share that this will also be a significant feature during the coming year of blogs, but we would also like to throw the blog open to collectors who are passionate about other Corgi collectables, such as buses, trucks and military vehicles. You are extremely knowledgeable about these subjects and many fellow Die-cast Diaries readers would love to be educated about these models, particularly as there is nothing more interesting than listening to someone who is passionate about their hobby. If you would like to help us in this endeavour, or suggest a subject you would like us to cover during the coming year, please do drop us a line at our usual diecastdiaries@corgi.co.uk address, where we would be only too happy to hear from you.
Another view of the first release in the Aviation Archive series from 1998
We would like to end this special review edition of Die-cast Diaries by reminding all our readers that the new January – June 2018 model range will be live on the Corgi website from 10am on Monday 8th January. Make sure you set your reminder and be one of the first to see our new collection of models.
Unfortunately, that’s all we have for you in this special 2017 review edition of Die-cast Diaries which we hope included some of your own highlights – we also hope that we managed to get you a little excited about the Corgi year ahead. If you have any thoughts or suggestions about subject matter for the blog over the next twelve months, or general comments regarding the current format, we would be happy to hear from you. Please send your ideas and/or pictures to our usual diecastdiaries@corgi.co.uk e-mail address, where all suggestions will be gratefully received.
If you happen to be a user of social media, all the latest Corgi model discussions are taking place over on our Die-Cast Diaries forum forum along with the news, photographs and collecting banter on our ever popular Facebook and Twitter accounts – could we please ask that you use the #CorgiDiecastDiaries when posting. We look forward to enjoying all your latest Corgi collecting discussions.
Finally, could we please just send one last thank you to everyone who has helped in the production of Die-cast Diaries throughout 2017 and to our readers for making the blog such a resounding success – thank you all very much.
The next edition of our Corgi blog will be published on Friday 12th January.
The Corgi Die-cast Diaries Team
© Hornby Hobbies Ltd. All rights reserved.
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