Just had a phone call from Bissett regarding my complaint about recent damages. I had been told to expect a call from a supervisor when I emailed them, and we had a rather nice conversation. She said that as there were only 5 issues left in the series they would not be changing anything and posting the remainder in cardboard boxes, but will continue to use plastic bags instead. Apparently with the amount of damages reported it is still cheaper for them to arrange replacements when requested rather than invest in cardboard boxes. Fair enough, if that’s what they want, fine with me... She promised to send me 5 spare case covers (only the original, small size) just in case – and in a cardboard box.
I also asked about the possible extension, and she knew nothing about it, however Bissett being only a distributor she said that the publisher had the right to extend the series, even though it was very unlikely and would have to be announced in the next couple of weeks.
The comment was generalised and not directed at anyone in particular, just an observation on the entire thread from page one. It does not mean I was criticising you or anybody in particular, merely that generally, not a huge amount has been said overall since day one about the cinematic/diorama side. No scolding, just an observation.
This is fair. You do have to admit, however, that the atmosphere on both sides of the debate was pretty charged, and even if you didn't mean it to come across that way, it did. Don't worry about it; I've done that before.
If you are correct in thinking that I'm in a minority, and I could be, and that most people here are only interested in the cars, not the Bond movie scenes or the dioramas, then that's totally fine, each to their own.
But I didn't say that and in fact do not even agree with that. My putting you into a minority is your view that a diorama can make up for a poorly-done model. This is why I'm saying you're in a minority...I mean, you admit to general (neutral and benign...mea culpa) astonishment as to how little attention the dioramas receive from day one...isn't that logically a sign that you're, at the very least, more concerned with the dioramas than a majority of people?
My astonishment is not with you or any other contributors here, it's with the prospect that such an almighty off-target marketing failure could be true.
Okay, and PLEASE don't take this as an insult, because it's not and I'm geuinely curious, but how many partwork car collections have you either collected or followed from start to finish? I've done a few and you really have to believe me when I say that partworks can change. Sometimes radically, as was the case maz stated regarding the disastrous second half of the DeAgostini tank collection (which I admittedly did NOT follow, but do know of simply because so many people got angry with it) and sometimes we've even had partworks that were doing well cut off for no real logical reason (Altaya's French Cars series that was doing really well and then abruptly ended...to be fair, they replaced it with La Route Bleue, and some people have theorized they may have had a time limit to decide on LRB, but it's all speculation...I think they just couldn't wait to release LRB, personally, as we see some of the planned French Cars releases included later in the series.).
But, having said that, I suspect from the subsequent posts in support of the cinematic / diorama aspect, this probably isn't the case.
If you mean "not giving two whits about the dioramas," then you're absolutely right and I'm on your side. If you mean people suddently felt all the dioramas became more important to talk about, I would think it's from the question being asked "okay, who had a favorite diorama?" and we listed them and went into some detail...but you have to admit, not the detail we've generally discussed the cars in. But I have to shift to another ongoing debate right now...
Okay, well I've said my piece a few times now and I'm bowing out of this one.
Just had a phone call from Bissett regarding my complaint about recent damages. I had been told to expect a call from a supervisor when I emailed them, and we had a rather nice conversation. She said that as there were only 5 issues left in the series they would not be changing anything and posting the remainder in cardboard boxes, but will continue to use plastic bags instead. Apparently with the amount of damages reported it is still cheaper for them to arrange replacements when requested rather than invest in cardboard boxes. Fair enough, if that’s what they want, fine with me... She promised to send me 5 spare case covers (only the original, small size) just in case – and in a cardboard box.
I also asked about the possible extension, and she knew nothing about it, however Bissett being only a distributor she said that the publisher had the right to extend the series, even though it was very unlikely and would have to be announced in the next couple of weeks.
Thought I would share the news!
I second the thanks offered by dickiebart for sharing the info, Jag! Sounds like the possibilities of an extension are pretty remote and if any definitive news comes about said possibility, we'll hear about it very soon and that includes a Fabbri-confirmed stoppage at 110. That's something we've somewhat surprisingly yet to hear. Regardless of whether one is in favor of extending or stopping the collection, I would imagine one would at least want a definitive answer on the issue.
Okay, well I've said my piece a few times now and I'm bowing out of this one.
To be honest, after reading it from the get-go, I don't think either of us fully understood what the other was trying to say. I mean absolutely no ill will toward you. I was simply trying to categorize you, actually, and being in a minority in a situation shouldn't be taken as an insult (I sure's heck don't take caring about the car to the extreme as an insult, for one...). If that offended, then I am truly sorry. If it didn't, then we'll just continue to agree to disagree on certain things, I guess (though I really don't think we disagree on THAT much, in hindsight).
Cheers for the info Jag. They offered to call me, but I didn't send them my number. I will if the next replacements are smashed.
My pleasure. If you speak to them, they will likely offer you some extra cases, which may come in handy if you have spare models already that you may decide to swap or sell later. Did your last lot arrive intact? I was really surprised to see perfect cases with damaged models inside for a change.
Also they were suggesting that perhaps my particular post office was rough, but I knew from your post that I was not the only one. Do you live anywhere near Port Adelaide by any chance?
Guys, I've had disagreements here with Dalkowski and others a few times, but then we would always realise that the more we talked, the better we understood where the other person was coming from. So please do not take this too seriously/personally. I'm sure that no-one really wanted to insult anyone, sometimes we just type faster than we think. If you were living in the same area I would invite you to a local pub and shout everyone a glass of Cooper's. You'd be able to understand each other better at the end and be good friends despite disagreements on some issues.
Having said that, I really think 1/43 scale sucks and this series should have been made in 1/24! ) :007) :v B-) X-( {:)
Guys, I've had disagreements here with Dalkowski and others a few times, but then we would always realise that the more we talked, the better we understood where the other person was coming from.
This coming from the guy who out-debated me regarding the DB5 partwork and whose general approach to "internet debate" (if not admirable calmness...I will completely admit I'm rather pointed and, when attacked in an immature manner, outright sarcastic...) I've since tried emulating as a way to get around in this discussion thread. I will say this, and I truly don't think anyone will disagree with me: it's much easier to engage in any kind of debate in real life vs. the 'net. No matter how many dozen smileys you put up, they won't make up for vocal intonations and facial expressions. Especially in regard to MovieCarFan, I was trying this approach (i.e., the more we talk, the better we understand one another), but I guess that one could be chalked up to both sides' misinterprations and frankly, had we been sitting across your theoretical table at a pub, I don't think this part of the debate even could have happened.
So please do not take this too seriously/personally.
Take it too personally? I don't think I'm doing that, or at least not in the sense of one particular ongoing debate. The unspoken comment I'm sure you're referring to is rather sticky, though you do address it immediately below. Take it too seriously? I probably am and inferred as much. But, as they say, it takes two to tango...although that goes to both points, not just one.
I'm sure that no-one really wanted to insult anyone, sometimes we just type faster than we think.
Boy, you sure nailed that one. I hope a certain person reads this. A genuine mea culpa is all said certain person needs...saying "I'm sorry" doesn't make you lose face/cred/manliness and no, I'm not going to do a victory dance when all is said and done if they do. I will breathe a sigh of relief, though, if for no other reason than this thread can resume normal discussion. I'm trying to understand their perspective, as I think I understood MovieCarFan's in the end (and possibly vice versa, though my guess is he'd had enough of the back and forth...I don't blame him), but it would help if they tried to understand mine when they're clearly not. I was not goading this individual when I said I believed they were capable of better. I meant it. So why make a mess of it?
I know the "post in question" wasn't a joke simply because I wasn't born yesterday and looked at the posts surrounding it. It was, as Jag points out, tapping the keyboard before this individual realized what they did. I'm not going to hold a Grudge of Doom (TM) against said individual just because they don't like my area of the hobby. What I am going to do is respond so long as they do, though I will continue to try and understand their motives, this time better, regardless of if they try and understand mine.
But c'mon, said individual, why keep it going? You don't absolutely need the last word and you certainly don't have to "win" because there are no winners in this debate. As long as you keep on trying to "win" and trying to goad me, I'll respond accordingly; as I've been doing. But you could also cut it off, too. All you need to say is "I'm sorry I made that post." Don't care how you feel in real life, but I believe I'm owed an apology.
If you were living in the same area I would invite you to a local pub and shout everyone a glass of Cooper's. You'd be able to understand each other better at the end and be good friends despite disagreements on some issues.
I agree wholeheartedly. Just be sure and make mine a Mild Ale! -{
Having said that, I really think 1/43 scale sucks and this series should have been made in 1/24! ) :007) :v B-) X-( {:)
A shame we haven't actually seen more Bond cars from the usual suspects in 1/24. And I'm especially surprised, given how big 1/18 is starting to get into movies (four words: Back to the Future), how few Bond vehicles we've seen from their usual suspects. Not something I'd collect, but alternately, something where I'd be shocked if it didn't sell, having seen the demand from people who barely follow Bond (especially in 1/18, although my guess is that's merely a function of 1/18 collectors being more prevalent in the US) for cars like the Sunbeam Alpine, Rolls-Royce Phantom III Sedanca de Ville, Lotus Esprit...basically stuff that's hardly unknown/played significant roles, but also not on the same level as the DB5, either.
Oh boy... The only chance I (or anyone for that matter) would have of outtalking you, Mr D, is in an area I really know an awful lot about and you do not. Judging from this thread so far, no aspect of die-cast model collecting qualifies! But be careful, I’m probably not the only one acquiring an awful lot of knowledge from you, so one day... who knows?
A couple of years ago Fabbri/Quattroruote released a wonderful partwork which consisted of 50 1/24 scale models of “Italian’s favourite cars” – each with an A4 hardcover book. The series has not been released outside Italy but is fabulous – I got all 50 on eBay and almost all of them are great, and a majority were never released in 1/24 before by any manufacturer (the likes of NSU Prinz, Fiat X 1/9 or Fiat Uno). They have a new series there at the moment, dedicated solely to the history of Alfa Romeo – again in 1/24. After Quattroruote and JBCC I’m not really in the mood to collect whole series ever again, but if something interesting came along in 24 I would be cherry-picking what I like. Another Bond series is unlikely, but if someone were to release a memorable movie car/vehicle collection (which has been suggested here) then I think 1/24 would have better prospect, as the 1/24 segment is a bit neglected at the moment and as a result not as oversaturated as most other standard scales.
I tried to provoke you by dissing 1/43 – great to see you didn’t take that joke seriously! My wife always says that when I joke I have such a serious face that no-one knows if I am joking or not...
Oh boy... The only chance I (or anyone for that matter) would have of outtalking you, Mr D, is in an area I really know an awful lot about and you do not. Judging from this thread so far, no aspect of die-cast model collecting qualifies! But be careful, I’m probably not the only one acquiring an awful lot of knowledge from you, so one day... who knows?
I'm honored, but really, I actually hope someone does out-do me, especially regarding Code 3's. I mean, I'm happy to provide advice for that kind of thing, but frankly, I'm only above average as a Code 3'er. Sure I can tell someone how to do something in that area, but there's a difference between a concept working in theory and a concept working in real life. Some of the guys I know, though? My God, you'd think it was a totally different car AND it came from the factory that way. I guess there's one moment, though, where I take a little credit: I introduced a guy who was a relative newcomer to the hobby about Code 3'ing and he took to it like frankly no one I've ever seen. He has far surpassed me to the point where I'm beginning to learn techniques from him (such as the inverted dashboard with modified steering column to convert a car from left-hand drive to right-hand drive or vice versa; he does this extensively on 1/43 Jaguars to get various models of XKE that were sold in the US from the 1960's)! If I have any goal here, it's to spread what I know about this hobby and if someone surpasses my work, I would say that that is most certainly a success. Besides, doesn't it always feel nice after making "tweaks" to the model yourself, or even radical modifications? It always has for me.
A couple of years ago Fabbri/Quattroruote released a wonderful partwork which consisted of 50 1/24 scale models of “Italian’s favourite cars” – each with an A4 hardcover book. The series has not been released outside Italy but is fabulous – I got all 50 on eBay and almost all of them are great, and a majority were never released in 1/24 before by any manufacturer (the likes of NSU Prinz, Fiat X 1/9 or Fiat Uno). They have a new series there at the moment, dedicated solely to the history of Alfa Romeo – again in 1/24. After Quattroruote and JBCC I’m not really in the mood to collect whole series ever again, but if something interesting came along in 24 I would be cherry-picking what I like. Another Bond series is unlikely, but if someone were to release a memorable movie car/vehicle collection (which has been suggested here) then I think 1/24 would have better prospect, as the 1/24 segment is a bit neglected at the moment and as a result not as oversaturated as most other standard scales.
I've seen the 1/24 NSU Prinz (found it accidentally while searching eBay and practically did a double-take), but not the others (I'd remember a Fiat Uno in 1/24). Bond in 1/24? I think that would sell, provided it was cars only (dioramas and figures would simply be cost-prohibitive at that size). Hmm...it would be cheaper than 1/18, certainly, and there are some collectors I know out there who mainly collect 1/18 but, barring availability of a certain vehicle, they will spring for 1/24. I guess the question is who you'd get to manufacture it and to what degree of detail you were willing to go. It's not at all a bad idea and I hope Fabbri is listening to you once the 1/8 DB5 is done.
I tried to provoke you by dissing 1/43 – great to see you didn’t take that joke seriously! My wife always says that when I joke I have such a serious face that no-one knows if I am joking or not...
The reason you failed is twofold: 1) because, multiple pages back, you actually provided a very organized, rational, and thoughtful reason why 1/43 scale didn't suit you or your needs (scale is virtually always a matter of "your mileage may vary"...look at Brekina, Herpa, Busch, and now even Neo doing super-detail as best they can in itsy-bitsy 1/87!), which I remembered, and 2) because of the numerous smileys.
It seems to me in your world it is ok to voice your opinion but for others, i think you think yourself judge and jury. Others and believe it or not myself included respect your knowledge of diecast but sometimes less is more. You feel it necessary to dissect everyones post and at times it is tiresome. I tried to move this thread on by continuing MovieCarFan's wish list iced with some good old dry humour. Which should have been taken as such ! But still you have continued to go over old ground. I joined this forum to talk about the James Bond Car Collection not to have debates which have evidently broken down to a basic disagreement with somebody who thinks he is always right. I will apologise when it is correct to do so and the recipient is deserving of it, not when I am bull dozed into doing so by long winded and stern posts through a third party.
Colour me whatever you like....not bothered now, as you lost me many posts ago. (Not Joking) .
Moving on ...
It seems to me in your world it is ok to voice your opinion but for others, i think you think yourself judge and jury.
In that case, your attempts to read into my motivations did not work. I do not view myself that way and simply put forth informed opinions. If you don't like informed opinions, well, tough.
Others and believe it or not myself included respect your knowledge of diecast but sometimes less is more. You feel it necessary to dissect everyones post and at times it is tiresome.
Although I thank you for the praise, I do not buy the rest of this. Looking at past examples, such as the big debate over 1/8, you supported me at every turn...yet, I ultimately realized I was genuinely wrong in that debate. No, I think you're only bothered because it's YOUR post I dissected and YOUR parade I rained on.
some good old dry humour. Which should have been taken as such !
*Sigh*. Is it really impossible for you to admit you screwed up big time on that post? As I said, I was not born yesterday. And that's not dry humor, by the way...that's entry-level high school humor.
which have evidently broken down to a basic disagreement with somebody who thinks he is always right.
Umm, would ya mind terribly reading about how my greatest goal is to share my knowledge and to have someone surpass me with Code 3's? Or, better, there's also the second response to you in this post, where I conceded that an entire line of debate was wrong. Your views on this seem to me to be black and white, simplistic, and pre-decided.
Colour me whatever you like....not bothered now, as you lost me many posts ago. (Not Joking) .
Moving on ...
Translation: You want to get it overwith without an apology. Well, too bad, since I'm going to persist in asking for one, as I believe it justified. I certainly do not know everything, but if there is one thing I do know, it's that your fingers on the keyboard were ahead of your thought processes whilst making that post, and despite your denials, it's just not working.
I think or at the very least hope you've realized this debate is completely unwinnable, incidentally...by either one of us. I'm only responding until I get an apology for unjust remarks made toward me. So, see ya until the next post. And, judging by your dig-in-your-heels attitude, I'm guessing the post after that, and the post after that, and the post after that, and the post after that...
Come on guys, this really is not a major problem, or the biggest issue of all time - perhaps we can discuss the cars a bit more and stop getting at each other's throats? Maybe we have too much in common in this quite narrow hobby of James Bond car enthusiasm!
Someone mentioned the 1:12 Kyosho BMW Z8 a while back. I have this, and if you can find one at a price you are happy with I'd go for it. It's made of very heavy metal panels, and is a generally very pleasant piece. I have the non-Bond 1:12 Kyosho Vanquish as well, and same comments apply. They are worth the money, and worth seeking out - and this from a committed collector of 1:43s.
How about a model of the lift in the Eiffel Tower with Bond and MayDay? I think it's a vehicle of some description! Or MayDay's parachute? Or the Bateau Mouche she lands on? There are a lot of ways the collection could have gone, and these three are all pretty bad ones.
I think the invisible Vanquish made in clear plastic would be a winner, with the diorama being the abandoned underground station.
How about a model of the lift in the Eiffel Tower with Bond and MayDay? I think it's a vehicle of some description! Or MayDay's parachute? Or the Bateau Mouche she lands on? There are a lot of ways the collection could have gone, and these three are all pretty bad ones.
I laughed out loud at this...it actually takes quite a bit to make me do so! Congrats! )
"I think the invisible Vanquish made in clear plastic would be a winner"
It can be done convincingly, but it would be extremely difficult to be done for 7.99 GBP. No, really. You can do clear rubber tires, but parts like the axles (unless you actually opt for no axles...totally possible!), the entire interior, and the undercarriage and wheel detail would have to be omitted. Then you'd have to re-do all of the custom parts in clear plastic...not as easy as it sounds when you're attaching the headlights, unless you literally sculpt the body from a solid block of plastic (not cheap). The best material to use here would be resin, actually (the same kind used for resin model car windows...Neo's for example), and as we know, resin isn't cheap; else you run all kinds of risks, especially seeing where certain details attach. This would have the potential to be a fun model, but only if it were executed properly. In other words, if one use a clear material (clear plastic or clear resin), it would either look terrible or look terrific, with a lot depending on very minor things the manufacturer would do.
On the flipside, I could see Minichamps or Corgi trying to make this car with a super-gloss finish/completely out of metal including the wheels and tires. Of course it wouldn't be as cool as the concept of a clear car, but it would be easier and you don't have the potential for "floating parts." Also, if this model were indeed made in some kind of extension, they could just take advantage of the diorama around it to get reflective techniques down. A shame none of the existing dioramas seem to come close to the railroad tracks we get our first look at the invisible car on. Some really interesting potentials for a Code 3 here, actually.
Johnny Lightning, anyone? Shame they never released this.
Fantastic now that would be a closer to the collection. No more posts from me as cannot be bothered with the flak from certain quarters. It was fun exchanging views with most, enjoy the final issues . So long.
The Kyosho 1:12 are really nice. If they had done the DB5, I would have got it and not bothered with the 1/8 Fabbri partwork now. But somehow they didn't...
As for the Aston Vanish, not sure clear plastic or resin would work - it simply would not be transparent enough, as the Johnny Lightning model proves. It is nice - but it doesn't even pretend to be invisible. The only way I see it done is thin, blown, clear glass - the way Xmas tree decorations were traditionally done. But this would certainly not be cheap, even with no diorama!
Johnny Lightning, anyone? Shame they never released this.
Fantastic now that would be a closer to the collection. No more posts from me as cannot be bothered with the flak from certain quarters. It was fun exchanging views with most, enjoy the final issues . So long.
I echo that, I knew the concept of an 'invisible' model car was entirely workable and here's the proof!
I've also decided to call it a day for largely the same reasons as Diecast007 so no more posts from me either. Although I haven't been in the firing line as much as Diecast007, the recent exchanges involving him have been unpleasant to witness, rather like a bar room brawl, with the risk of being verbally glassed should you dare to intervene. I joined this forum originally for friendly 'light hearted banter' which is what we had at that stage, but it's now turned into immediate contradictory critical analysis on every single sentence you make. I was even accused of thinking the forum was only about me and my interests, which has to be the ultimate in unashamed 'pot calling kettle black'. That and the nit-picking has made this thread tiresome rather than enjoyable for me, so I'm jumping ship to follow another forum. Best wishes Bond fans. Bye.
The Kyosho 1:12 are really nice. If they had done the DB5, I would have got it and not bothered with the 1/8 Fabbri partwork now. But somehow they didn't...
As for the Aston Vanish, not sure clear plastic or resin would work - it simply would not be transparent enough, as the Johnny Lightning model proves. It is nice - but it doesn't even pretend to be invisible. The only way I see it done is thin, blown, clear glass - the way Xmas tree decorations were traditionally done. But this would certainly not be cheap, even with no diorama!
Hmm...making a blown glass Aston and actually sculpting it would be truly awesome if someone knew someone with glass-working skills. Of course, that would cost tons of money. Although as I think of it, what about vacu-formed plastic, a la a model aircraft canopy from one of the nicer companies? Think that might work? Although I just realized it would be pretty difficult to have a diorama with even a theoretical clear car (though a reflective car would be possible, if disappointing to some). Why, you may ask? The screw holding it to the display stand.
Although I haven't been in the firing line as much as Diecast007, the recent exchanges involving him have been unpleasant to witness, rather like a bar room brawl, with the risk of being verbally glassed should you dare to intervene.
Guess you didn't understand me after all; in fact quite the contrary...shame since I think I understood you; you took one statement I made which I apologized for, are harping on that, and seem genuinely frightened. The whole pot calling the kettle black thing you mentioned? If I'm overreacting...well, let's just say we both might be guilty of this, to varying degrees. Whilst you are of course free to do whatever you wish...leaving because you're frightened of me or at least seem like it? C'mon.
They could also do the 'Vanish' like Hot Wheels did their SDCC Exclusive Wonder Woman Invisible Jet: this was really sold at the San Diego Comic Con, just an empty packaging!
Any non-subsribers in the UK know if the Ford Van is available yet?I called in the Newsagents yesterday,but they said It wasn't in.I've not had a chance to call in today.
.... No more posts from me as cannot be bothered with the flak from certain quarters. It was fun exchanging views with most, enjoy the final issues . So long.
Sorry to read this as I've enjoyed most of your contributions.
Personally I deal with unwelcome flak by ignoring it - the way I see it we are all just anonymous profiles here after all, none of us owe any other of us anything, not even a response to criticism.
@Winnie: I reckon it must be, judging by the number already available on ebay UK.
I used to enjoy reading this forum & occasionally sticking my ten pence in, but after the last couple of pages, not any more.
This was about the James Bond car collection as a whole, the fact they are models, (border line toys) not expensive reproductions, and at the price we pay, well worth it.
I have niggles with some, but I chose to collect the lot, even with flaws & mistakes. I pay my money, I made my choice.
I'm not going to continue on this forum now, its been ruined.
Cheers.
I also feel some sympathy for you, because I really do think you should be on an IXO or Code3 forum, not this one.
And yet, you never complained when I spoke of those things. Not once. And so I ask in all honestly, putting all smart-assery aside...why? That is a serious question, too. If you'd made it clear at the outset, maybe things would have turned out differently.
One extra post, because I knew there'd be a come-back.
So much for the "goodbye" post...
Frightened of you? Absolutely not. Irritated, exasperated, annoyed, and ultimately tired enough to sod off elsewhere, yes.
Emphasis mine. If you were getting tired of it, why not give an indication? Why not give ANY signs of it as opposed to stomping off three days into one heck of an argument that wasn't really between you and I? And yes, I'm quite seriously asking those questions, too.
the way I see it we are all just anonymous profiles here after all, none of us owe any other of us anything, not even a response to criticism.
As I said, to each his own. The way I see it, there's a person behind every profile, with their own unique and distinct personality. A personality means a person; someone you can agree with, disagree with, or agree to disagree with; someone who might put up photos of unrelated things because they were asked to and not be criticized (as I was with the model train layout), or alternately excoriated when it suits the other person or people; someone who might have preference for beer, since we know Jag drinks Cooper's, someone who might be as I was when I came aboard (a nit-picker accused in the non-legal, highly-unpsychiatric definition of being neurotic), and someone who might...just might...be owed an apology by someone else (not you). Just how I see things. Your mileage may vary, and I guess it does here. And before one of the "jumpers" accuses me of attacking FACT, since I'm sure you've still got connections to this forum, I'm not. Just contrasting his opinion with mine. That's all. Don't read anything into it, which I'm really starting to believe is one of the big reasons why two of our three so-far "jumpers" have, well, "jumped".
They could also do the 'Vanish' like Hot Wheels did their SDCC Exclusive Wonder Woman Invisible Jet: this was really sold at the San Diego Comic Con, just an empty packaging!
You know, I'm wondering...if they can vacu-form plastic that thick (since airplane canopies from, say, Classic Airframes are generally REALLY thin...even moreso than your average blister pack), can they make a "Vanish" completely out of vacu-formed plastic? I don't know how much it would cost, but I do know that vacu-forming works with plastic (or what will become plastic when heated to a high enough temperature) wrapped around a metal "master mould." I could see someone doing that themselves, actually, provided they were able to make a (possibly lathe-turned...you'd be surprised what machinists are willing to do for you!) all-metal copy of the Vanquish and then perhaps doing one side and then the other, then gluing the two halves together. A snow diorama would unfortunately have to stand in for the underground diorama, but DAD did regardless show us the car in various snow scenes. You could secure it to the snow with some glue; that way you avoid the weirdness of having a screw stick through the bottom. Thoughts on the merits and/or lack of merits of this?
I was thinking an invisible Aston Martin could be simulated by having a solid block of clear plastic the size of the model case with the car shape removed from it. The invisible car is actually a void in the plastic block, and allows the light to highlight the car's shape. This negates the need for interior details and structures such as axles etc. I wouldn't think this would be appropriate for this collection though. Might make an interesting paperweight.
Comments
I also asked about the possible extension, and she knew nothing about it, however Bissett being only a distributor she said that the publisher had the right to extend the series, even though it was very unlikely and would have to be announced in the next couple of weeks.
Thought I would share the news!
Okay, well I've said my piece a few times now and I'm bowing out of this one.
I second the thanks offered by dickiebart for sharing the info, Jag! Sounds like the possibilities of an extension are pretty remote and if any definitive news comes about said possibility, we'll hear about it very soon and that includes a Fabbri-confirmed stoppage at 110. That's something we've somewhat surprisingly yet to hear. Regardless of whether one is in favor of extending or stopping the collection, I would imagine one would at least want a definitive answer on the issue.
To be honest, after reading it from the get-go, I don't think either of us fully understood what the other was trying to say. I mean absolutely no ill will toward you. I was simply trying to categorize you, actually, and being in a minority in a situation shouldn't be taken as an insult (I sure's heck don't take caring about the car to the extreme as an insult, for one...). If that offended, then I am truly sorry. If it didn't, then we'll just continue to agree to disagree on certain things, I guess (though I really don't think we disagree on THAT much, in hindsight).
My pleasure. If you speak to them, they will likely offer you some extra cases, which may come in handy if you have spare models already that you may decide to swap or sell later. Did your last lot arrive intact? I was really surprised to see perfect cases with damaged models inside for a change.
Also they were suggesting that perhaps my particular post office was rough, but I knew from your post that I was not the only one. Do you live anywhere near Port Adelaide by any chance?
Having said that, I really think 1/43 scale sucks and this series should have been made in 1/24!
This coming from the guy who out-debated me regarding the DB5 partwork and whose general approach to "internet debate" (if not admirable calmness...I will completely admit I'm rather pointed and, when attacked in an immature manner, outright sarcastic...) I've since tried emulating as a way to get around in this discussion thread. I will say this, and I truly don't think anyone will disagree with me: it's much easier to engage in any kind of debate in real life vs. the 'net. No matter how many dozen smileys you put up, they won't make up for vocal intonations and facial expressions. Especially in regard to MovieCarFan, I was trying this approach (i.e., the more we talk, the better we understand one another), but I guess that one could be chalked up to both sides' misinterprations and frankly, had we been sitting across your theoretical table at a pub, I don't think this part of the debate even could have happened.
Take it too personally? I don't think I'm doing that, or at least not in the sense of one particular ongoing debate. The unspoken comment I'm sure you're referring to is rather sticky, though you do address it immediately below. Take it too seriously? I probably am and inferred as much. But, as they say, it takes two to tango...although that goes to both points, not just one.
Boy, you sure nailed that one. I hope a certain person reads this. A genuine mea culpa is all said certain person needs...saying "I'm sorry" doesn't make you lose face/cred/manliness and no, I'm not going to do a victory dance when all is said and done if they do. I will breathe a sigh of relief, though, if for no other reason than this thread can resume normal discussion. I'm trying to understand their perspective, as I think I understood MovieCarFan's in the end (and possibly vice versa, though my guess is he'd had enough of the back and forth...I don't blame him), but it would help if they tried to understand mine when they're clearly not. I was not goading this individual when I said I believed they were capable of better. I meant it. So why make a mess of it?
I know the "post in question" wasn't a joke simply because I wasn't born yesterday and looked at the posts surrounding it. It was, as Jag points out, tapping the keyboard before this individual realized what they did. I'm not going to hold a Grudge of Doom (TM) against said individual just because they don't like my area of the hobby. What I am going to do is respond so long as they do, though I will continue to try and understand their motives, this time better, regardless of if they try and understand mine.
But c'mon, said individual, why keep it going? You don't absolutely need the last word and you certainly don't have to "win" because there are no winners in this debate. As long as you keep on trying to "win" and trying to goad me, I'll respond accordingly; as I've been doing. But you could also cut it off, too. All you need to say is "I'm sorry I made that post." Don't care how you feel in real life, but I believe I'm owed an apology.
I agree wholeheartedly. Just be sure and make mine a Mild Ale!
A shame we haven't actually seen more Bond cars from the usual suspects in 1/24. And I'm especially surprised, given how big 1/18 is starting to get into movies (four words: Back to the Future), how few Bond vehicles we've seen from their usual suspects. Not something I'd collect, but alternately, something where I'd be shocked if it didn't sell, having seen the demand from people who barely follow Bond (especially in 1/18, although my guess is that's merely a function of 1/18 collectors being more prevalent in the US) for cars like the Sunbeam Alpine, Rolls-Royce Phantom III Sedanca de Ville, Lotus Esprit...basically stuff that's hardly unknown/played significant roles, but also not on the same level as the DB5, either.
A couple of years ago Fabbri/Quattroruote released a wonderful partwork which consisted of 50 1/24 scale models of “Italian’s favourite cars” – each with an A4 hardcover book. The series has not been released outside Italy but is fabulous – I got all 50 on eBay and almost all of them are great, and a majority were never released in 1/24 before by any manufacturer (the likes of NSU Prinz, Fiat X 1/9 or Fiat Uno). They have a new series there at the moment, dedicated solely to the history of Alfa Romeo – again in 1/24. After Quattroruote and JBCC I’m not really in the mood to collect whole series ever again, but if something interesting came along in 24 I would be cherry-picking what I like. Another Bond series is unlikely, but if someone were to release a memorable movie car/vehicle collection (which has been suggested here) then I think 1/24 would have better prospect, as the 1/24 segment is a bit neglected at the moment and as a result not as oversaturated as most other standard scales.
I tried to provoke you by dissing 1/43 – great to see you didn’t take that joke seriously! My wife always says that when I joke I have such a serious face that no-one knows if I am joking or not...
I'm honored, but really, I actually hope someone does out-do me, especially regarding Code 3's. I mean, I'm happy to provide advice for that kind of thing, but frankly, I'm only above average as a Code 3'er. Sure I can tell someone how to do something in that area, but there's a difference between a concept working in theory and a concept working in real life. Some of the guys I know, though? My God, you'd think it was a totally different car AND it came from the factory that way. I guess there's one moment, though, where I take a little credit: I introduced a guy who was a relative newcomer to the hobby about Code 3'ing and he took to it like frankly no one I've ever seen. He has far surpassed me to the point where I'm beginning to learn techniques from him (such as the inverted dashboard with modified steering column to convert a car from left-hand drive to right-hand drive or vice versa; he does this extensively on 1/43 Jaguars to get various models of XKE that were sold in the US from the 1960's)! If I have any goal here, it's to spread what I know about this hobby and if someone surpasses my work, I would say that that is most certainly a success. Besides, doesn't it always feel nice after making "tweaks" to the model yourself, or even radical modifications? It always has for me.
I've seen the 1/24 NSU Prinz (found it accidentally while searching eBay and practically did a double-take), but not the others (I'd remember a Fiat Uno in 1/24). Bond in 1/24? I think that would sell, provided it was cars only (dioramas and figures would simply be cost-prohibitive at that size). Hmm...it would be cheaper than 1/18, certainly, and there are some collectors I know out there who mainly collect 1/18 but, barring availability of a certain vehicle, they will spring for 1/24. I guess the question is who you'd get to manufacture it and to what degree of detail you were willing to go. It's not at all a bad idea and I hope Fabbri is listening to you once the 1/8 DB5 is done.
The reason you failed is twofold: 1) because, multiple pages back, you actually provided a very organized, rational, and thoughtful reason why 1/43 scale didn't suit you or your needs (scale is virtually always a matter of "your mileage may vary"...look at Brekina, Herpa, Busch, and now even Neo doing super-detail as best they can in itsy-bitsy 1/87!), which I remembered, and 2) because of the numerous smileys.
It seems to me in your world it is ok to voice your opinion but for others, i think you think yourself judge and jury. Others and believe it or not myself included respect your knowledge of diecast but sometimes less is more. You feel it necessary to dissect everyones post and at times it is tiresome. I tried to move this thread on by continuing MovieCarFan's wish list iced with some good old dry humour. Which should have been taken as such ! But still you have continued to go over old ground. I joined this forum to talk about the James Bond Car Collection not to have debates which have evidently broken down to a basic disagreement with somebody who thinks he is always right. I will apologise when it is correct to do so and the recipient is deserving of it, not when I am bull dozed into doing so by long winded and stern posts through a third party.
Colour me whatever you like....not bothered now, as you lost me many posts ago. (Not Joking) .
Moving on ...
In the end, you're going to be the one who determines that.
In that case, your attempts to read into my motivations did not work. I do not view myself that way and simply put forth informed opinions. If you don't like informed opinions, well, tough.
Although I thank you for the praise, I do not buy the rest of this. Looking at past examples, such as the big debate over 1/8, you supported me at every turn...yet, I ultimately realized I was genuinely wrong in that debate. No, I think you're only bothered because it's YOUR post I dissected and YOUR parade I rained on.
*Sigh*. Is it really impossible for you to admit you screwed up big time on that post? As I said, I was not born yesterday. And that's not dry humor, by the way...that's entry-level high school humor.
And justifiably so.
What a monumental coincidence. So did I. And yet here we are. What do you propose to do? And apology ends all of this. You do know that, right?
Umm, would ya mind terribly reading about how my greatest goal is to share my knowledge and to have someone surpass me with Code 3's? Or, better, there's also the second response to you in this post, where I conceded that an entire line of debate was wrong. Your views on this seem to me to be black and white, simplistic, and pre-decided.
So...what's keeping you?
So, you want to drag Jag into this to and make everyone pull a collective facepalm? Really? Didn't know you had it in you...
Translation: You want to get it overwith without an apology. Well, too bad, since I'm going to persist in asking for one, as I believe it justified. I certainly do not know everything, but if there is one thing I do know, it's that your fingers on the keyboard were ahead of your thought processes whilst making that post, and despite your denials, it's just not working.
I think or at the very least hope you've realized this debate is completely unwinnable, incidentally...by either one of us. I'm only responding until I get an apology for unjust remarks made toward me. So, see ya until the next post. And, judging by your dig-in-your-heels attitude, I'm guessing the post after that, and the post after that, and the post after that, and the post after that...
Someone mentioned the 1:12 Kyosho BMW Z8 a while back. I have this, and if you can find one at a price you are happy with I'd go for it. It's made of very heavy metal panels, and is a generally very pleasant piece. I have the non-Bond 1:12 Kyosho Vanquish as well, and same comments apply. They are worth the money, and worth seeking out - and this from a committed collector of 1:43s.
Best wishes to all, MH
I think the invisible Vanquish made in clear plastic would be a winner, with the diorama being the abandoned underground station.
I laughed out loud at this...it actually takes quite a bit to make me do so! Congrats!
"I think the invisible Vanquish made in clear plastic would be a winner"
It can be done convincingly, but it would be extremely difficult to be done for 7.99 GBP. No, really. You can do clear rubber tires, but parts like the axles (unless you actually opt for no axles...totally possible!), the entire interior, and the undercarriage and wheel detail would have to be omitted. Then you'd have to re-do all of the custom parts in clear plastic...not as easy as it sounds when you're attaching the headlights, unless you literally sculpt the body from a solid block of plastic (not cheap). The best material to use here would be resin, actually (the same kind used for resin model car windows...Neo's for example), and as we know, resin isn't cheap; else you run all kinds of risks, especially seeing where certain details attach. This would have the potential to be a fun model, but only if it were executed properly. In other words, if one use a clear material (clear plastic or clear resin), it would either look terrible or look terrific, with a lot depending on very minor things the manufacturer would do.
On the flipside, I could see Minichamps or Corgi trying to make this car with a super-gloss finish/completely out of metal including the wheels and tires. Of course it wouldn't be as cool as the concept of a clear car, but it would be easier and you don't have the potential for "floating parts." Also, if this model were indeed made in some kind of extension, they could just take advantage of the diorama around it to get reflective techniques down. A shame none of the existing dioramas seem to come close to the railroad tracks we get our first look at the invisible car on. Some really interesting potentials for a Code 3 here, actually.
Fantastic now that would be a closer to the collection. No more posts from me as cannot be bothered with the flak from certain quarters. It was fun exchanging views with most, enjoy the final issues . So long.
As for the Aston Vanish, not sure clear plastic or resin would work - it simply would not be transparent enough, as the Johnny Lightning model proves. It is nice - but it doesn't even pretend to be invisible. The only way I see it done is thin, blown, clear glass - the way Xmas tree decorations were traditionally done. But this would certainly not be cheap, even with no diorama!
I echo that, I knew the concept of an 'invisible' model car was entirely workable and here's the proof!
I've also decided to call it a day for largely the same reasons as Diecast007 so no more posts from me either. Although I haven't been in the firing line as much as Diecast007, the recent exchanges involving him have been unpleasant to witness, rather like a bar room brawl, with the risk of being verbally glassed should you dare to intervene. I joined this forum originally for friendly 'light hearted banter' which is what we had at that stage, but it's now turned into immediate contradictory critical analysis on every single sentence you make. I was even accused of thinking the forum was only about me and my interests, which has to be the ultimate in unashamed 'pot calling kettle black'. That and the nit-picking has made this thread tiresome rather than enjoyable for me, so I'm jumping ship to follow another forum. Best wishes Bond fans. Bye.
Hmm...making a blown glass Aston and actually sculpting it would be truly awesome if someone knew someone with glass-working skills. Of course, that would cost tons of money. Although as I think of it, what about vacu-formed plastic, a la a model aircraft canopy from one of the nicer companies? Think that might work? Although I just realized it would be pretty difficult to have a diorama with even a theoretical clear car (though a reflective car would be possible, if disappointing to some). Why, you may ask? The screw holding it to the display stand.
Guess you didn't understand me after all; in fact quite the contrary...shame since I think I understood you; you took one statement I made which I apologized for, are harping on that, and seem genuinely frightened. The whole pot calling the kettle black thing you mentioned? If I'm overreacting...well, let's just say we both might be guilty of this, to varying degrees. Whilst you are of course free to do whatever you wish...leaving because you're frightened of me or at least seem like it? C'mon.
Heh, well at least it's plural.
Sorry to read this as I've enjoyed most of your contributions.
Personally I deal with unwelcome flak by ignoring it - the way I see it we are all just anonymous profiles here after all, none of us owe any other of us anything, not even a response to criticism.
@Winnie: I reckon it must be, judging by the number already available on ebay UK.
This was about the James Bond car collection as a whole, the fact they are models, (border line toys) not expensive reproductions, and at the price we pay, well worth it.
I have niggles with some, but I chose to collect the lot, even with flaws & mistakes. I pay my money, I made my choice.
I'm not going to continue on this forum now, its been ruined.
Cheers.
And yet, you never complained when I spoke of those things. Not once. And so I ask in all honestly, putting all smart-assery aside...why? That is a serious question, too. If you'd made it clear at the outset, maybe things would have turned out differently.
So much for the "goodbye" post...
Emphasis mine. If you were getting tired of it, why not give an indication? Why not give ANY signs of it as opposed to stomping off three days into one heck of an argument that wasn't really between you and I? And yes, I'm quite seriously asking those questions, too.
See danjaq_off's post for my response. This is now no longer the pot calling the kettle black by anyone's interpretation. It's just plain ridiculous.
To each his own. Glad to have you staying aboard...
As I said, to each his own. The way I see it, there's a person behind every profile, with their own unique and distinct personality. A personality means a person; someone you can agree with, disagree with, or agree to disagree with; someone who might put up photos of unrelated things because they were asked to and not be criticized (as I was with the model train layout), or alternately excoriated when it suits the other person or people; someone who might have preference for beer, since we know Jag drinks Cooper's, someone who might be as I was when I came aboard (a nit-picker accused in the non-legal, highly-unpsychiatric definition of being neurotic), and someone who might...just might...be owed an apology by someone else (not you). Just how I see things. Your mileage may vary, and I guess it does here. And before one of the "jumpers" accuses me of attacking FACT, since I'm sure you've still got connections to this forum, I'm not. Just contrasting his opinion with mine. That's all. Don't read anything into it, which I'm really starting to believe is one of the big reasons why two of our three so-far "jumpers" have, well, "jumped".
EDITED TO ADD:
From what I can see on eBay, there are at least a few where I know the dealers get their stuff from the Newsagents.
You know, I'm wondering...if they can vacu-form plastic that thick (since airplane canopies from, say, Classic Airframes are generally REALLY thin...even moreso than your average blister pack), can they make a "Vanish" completely out of vacu-formed plastic? I don't know how much it would cost, but I do know that vacu-forming works with plastic (or what will become plastic when heated to a high enough temperature) wrapped around a metal "master mould." I could see someone doing that themselves, actually, provided they were able to make a (possibly lathe-turned...you'd be surprised what machinists are willing to do for you!) all-metal copy of the Vanquish and then perhaps doing one side and then the other, then gluing the two halves together. A snow diorama would unfortunately have to stand in for the underground diorama, but DAD did regardless show us the car in various snow scenes. You could secure it to the snow with some glue; that way you avoid the weirdness of having a screw stick through the bottom. Thoughts on the merits and/or lack of merits of this?