Glad to hear you're continuing with the series. I'm sure from past experience that for those who don't jump ship the collection will seem much more of an asset to be proud of once the whole thing finishes (and I suspect with all the recent negativity it probably won't go beyond Bond 23, or maybe even past issue 130). I know we're all different but I can't understand why people would stick with such an important 'once in a lifetime' Bond movie/car series like this for so long then suddenly give up and get rid of it? If it was me I'd want to live with the models at least for a year or two before making a decision like that.
Still waiting for my damaged Aston.......
I'm one who's decided to finish this collection, stopped at 110. I think what's being over looked here is the way this collection has progressed and continued. When it was first advertised I found out the collection would be 52 cars. Fair enough, worthy collection of the best Bond cars so start collecting.
Get to nearly 52 then I discover the collection has been extended to 80 car. Well I really like the collection, I would like a complete set, so yes I will continue. Then what happens again as it approaches the 80th car, surprise, surprise, it's extended to 110 cars!
So like a lamb to the slaughter, again I believe this was the final stretch, I still want my complete collection. They can't find anymore cars in this series after 110, can they? Even during this last stretch, pieces of paper saying this collection will end at 110, twice that happened confirming 110th car would be the last.
So you can see why some like myself have stopped collecting. I've said all along the model price, the model and diorama are of good quality (although I do think cars in action dioramas should have figures), I don't have a problem with that. what the problem is with this collection is the way in which it has continued.
I personally think it's been the marketing ploy from the start. If you told someone at the beginning that a collection was going to go on for years and cost the best part of a £1000 from the start, you wouldn't get hardly any sign up for it, only real die-hard fans maybe. But if you get people on board, then extend the collection, they are more than likely going to extend the collection, I've started, I want the whole collection, so I might as well continue.
I'll be surprised if this collection will stop after the next '20' last cars. lots of you have said Bond 23 will be out, how many car from that film will get added? This collection will go on for years, as long as someone is still buying. I'm sure the numbers are less now and you are entitled to collect as long as you want, that's not a problem.
I just wanted to point out that some of us collected to 110 thinking this was it, the final straw and the collection would be finished and complete. I like Bond but I'm finished with it, if I knew now back then I would have never collected the series to be honest, just gone and bought some nice models of my favourite Bond cars. Yes there has been some gems, but gems I could have lived without.
I've also said this before, because of this experience I will never ever collect a weekly again, ever. So in away I have GE Fabbri to thank for opening my eyes to how a weekly collection works and to never trust what ever is they tell you. But I also feel sorry for them, a company that because of it's short sightedness destroys it's own customer base by not being honest with the customer and stopping when they say something is going to stop. The newsagent I got my cars from, reckons this happens all the time with every weekly collection they sell, they even discourage people from buying them because they know they will never end.
And as for extending because of 'customer demand', well if it's that great, stop the first series, then start a part two. At least it would have given people a chance to have a complete series and then the choice to carry on if they wished. All they've done is generated a load of in complete collections. Personally I think weekly series should be made by law to tell you up front how many a series will run for. If it's a good collection, I don't think it would affect sales greatly. 110 cars I wouldn't have started, but 50 I would have as I like the models and fit's my budget.
The other stupid thing with such a big collection is, most sit in a box in the attic as I just don't have the room to display them all, as it's not my only car collection. OCC 1:18 chopper bikes, 1:18 James Bond cars, massive 1:43 cararama collection, Senna F1 collection, 1;43 F1 car collection the list goes on!
A small remark: the JBCC is a fortnightly collection, not a weekly one. The 1/8th scale DB5 is a weekly one. But I do get your point. However, I myself will keep on collecting them.
I totally agree with you on every point you raised, Hummerth2.I have decided to carry on collecting for the time being,just to see how the next few models turn out.This is my first partwork collection and most definately my last.This experience has put me off for good,I hope your reading this Fabbri.
Am I the only one who absolutely LOVES this collection?......i read this forum every day, but it seems to have been taken over by disgruntled collectors with un favourable things to say to Fabbri...........I have something to say to Fabbri myself........WELL DONE....it is a fantastic collection and i hope it goes on to 200 cars.......i have liked just about every issue that has been released....
Who can forget the sheer beauty of the yellow Triumph Stag from DAF
the carfull of Bond activity that was the Taunus from TSWLM
The sleek red peril that came to us in the form of the Renault Fuego from AVTAK,
not to mention the sublime ford crown victoria police car from Casino Royale
The Q-boat, the Acrostar, the beach buggy.....the list goes on
As a bond fan, every issue delights me..........i must admit, i dont investigate every model to probe for its accuracy , at 7.99 for a bond model, i allow a bit of licence...........but come on guys, they are brilliant.....just about every one!!!
so, here is a message to fabbri from a Bond fan who cannot believe his luck at getting models never before available.....KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK........there are many of us out here who want more....as many as you can.....KEEP THEM COMING!!!
I think the problem here is one of ‘completeism’ amongst subscribers and an issue I can well understand, when you feel like you ‘gotta have every item in the collection otherwise it ain’t a proper collection’.
I fell for this temptation when Corgi Classics first started, then again when Lledo Vanguards were introduced and almost a third time with Corgi Aviation. In all three cases a limited number were introduced into the initial range and it seemed reasonable to buy them all. Then the ranges expanded. Then they expanded again. And kept on expanding, year on year. It soon became clear that I had neither the space nor the money to try and keep up with these models, no matter how attractive they were. Eventually I gave up and became ‘discerning’ if you will: Corgi sportscars and family cars only - sell off the vans and buses. Corgi Aviation WW2 machines only - sell off the jets and helicopters. And it’s fundamentally easy to do – pick up each model in turn and ask yourself ‘would I buy this again if I was looking at it for the first time in a model shop?’ – if the answer is ‘no’ then sell it on eBay and use the money to buy what you DO want.
Now the JBCC has reached epic numbers compared to the initial promise of 40 models, I think the same principle can be applied. In my case (and I may be alone in this) the only person who cares whether or not I have every available model in a collection is me, so if I’m happy with having 90 out of the current 110 JBCC, that’s all that really matters, nobody else is checking. If I were a subscriber, and space and sheer cost were an issue, I would continue with the subscription but start and sell off the models I was least happy with, to regain space and funds. It’s the art of ‘cherry picking’, which keeps me far happier as a collector than my earlier days did as a ‘completeist’.
Ignoring the magazines, the series can be sub-divided or pared down, since the models themselves aren’t numbered. You could just keep the Connery vehicles, or the Moore set, Dalton lot etc. Or movies up to a certain date, or a fixed limited number from each movie perhaps, or stick to certain marques or just keep your favourite 50, 80, 100 whatever.
As Bond fans we are very lucky to have this collection made available to us, especially in such a large overall number. It’s only a combination of licencing, imagination and modern production technology that is allowing it to happen. As I said before, once it’s finished we’ll probably be back to only boring ‘Build a Model of Buckingham Palace’ type partworks being offered to us.
And on that note, we are also lucky that parts of this series CAN be sold off if desired, you can’t do that with issues that build a model. In that instance, you are locked into paying many hundreds of pounds for your complete model whether you like it or not.
The JBCC definitely IS NOT what Fabbri first promised, it’s actually something surprisingly far better in my opinion, something quite unique. If you truly like Bond and cars I’d stick with it, but maybe re-think the concept of having to own and hang on to every single model, come hell or high water.
I wasn't aware of this magazine and car collection. I've a limited collection of 1/18 scale dicast cars but never had an interest in the smaller stuff because the detail just isn't there. However, this James Bond Car Collection really looks interesting. Especially the diorama type display.
You could just keep the Connery vehicles, or the Moore set, Dalton lot etc. Or movies up to certain date, or a fixed limited number from each movie perhaps, or stick to certain marques or just keep your favourite 50, 80, 100 whatever. .
That was exactly my approach when I first became aware of the collection. I've just focused on certain movies with cars in that I particularly like, and not bothered with most of the others. Having said that, the projected line-up that I've seen for upcoming releases is pretty dull - every other one seems to be a Merc saloon. A bit of variety might make it more appealing for those not sure about continuing.
There is a problem with the "subscribe and sell what you don't like" approach. It is that you pay $20 for each model to buy, but if you try to sell them, you'd be lucky to get half the price - whether on eBay or elswhere. This is because Fabbri in its greed has literally flooded the market, and the models seem to be available not only to subscribers, but to dealers, bringing the price down. Therefore a much better approach is to cherry pick the models you like and buy them online - will cost you a lot less.
Fabbri should have made this available on its website - instead of trying to lock us into a contract to buy every model, good or bad, they should have offered us the models and let us decide which one we wanted to buy and which one we did not. But, sadly, they are too greedy... that's why so many here criticise their approach and have cancelled the subscription. It's clearly Fabbri's own fault - what they promised and what they delivered are two different things.
The comparison with "Build your replica of Buckingham Palace" does not work. In this type of partwork you know the total number of parts and cost upfront. There is no way the publisher can add an extension to Buckingham Palace later just to make more money! And they are usually guaranteed - if you are not satisfied you send them your parts back and get your subscription money. Good luck trying to return any JBCC models for a refund!
There is a problem with the "subscribe and sell what you don't like" approach. It is that you pay $20 for each model to buy, but if you try to sell them, you'd be lucky to get half the price - whether on eBay or elswhere. This is because Fabbri in its greed has literally flooded the market, and the models seem to be available not only to subscribers, but to dealers, bringing the price down. Therefore a much better approach is to cherry pick the models you like and buy them online - will cost you a lot less.
Fabbri should have made this available on its website - instead of trying to lock us into a contract to buy every model, good or bad, they should have offered us the models and let us decide which one we wanted to buy and which one we did not. But, sadly, they are too greedy... that's why so many here criticise their approach and have cancelled the subscription. It's clearly Fabbri's own fault - what they promised and what they delivered are two different things.
The comparison with "Build your replica of Buckingham Palace" does not work. In this type of partwork you know the total number of parts and cost upfront. There is no way the publisher can add an extension to Buckingham Palace later just to make more money! And they are usually guaranteed - if you are not satisfied you send them your parts back and get your subscription money. Good luck trying to return any JBCC models for a refund!
Hands up, I was talking largely from a UK perspective. I appreciate things will be different for other areas of the world. From what I understand of your situation, it does sound like your solution is the best way to go and perfectly understandable. If you live in the UK you generally get something back on unwanted models using the UK eBay site (not everyone here using eBay either knows how to sell internationally or indeed wants to, so you may not be seeing the same picture). Sometimes you get more than you paid, sometimes less, but generally it works out about even. I also believe UK customers could potentially get refunds on the 'Blunderbird' if they pushed hard enough.
I accept your comment on the 'Buck Palace' comparison in terms of an extension BUT my point was that with the JBCC, unless you are a die-hard completeist, you can draw a line in the sand at any point and still have a great, still saleable, ready made collection. It's a bit different having a part finished 'build your own' model. Even though you can predict the total cost of said DIY model, over a period of several years your financial situation may change or you might lose interest, or mess it up, in which case you could end up well out of pocket with little to show for it. Should you wish to sell it, you also cannot guarantee many people will want to buy into someone else's model-making, even if it's finished. It's second hand value would really only be in the form of its original unopened part packages.
Like almost any other business, I'm sure Fabbri do have their 'suits' who are only interested in screwing every penny they can out of their customers, but I also think there's a bunch of people at production level who are genuinely interested in Bond and cars, and doing a great job for us. As I said, I have about 90 of the current 110 JBCC models and am very pleased with them. Some of them have been rarely modelled if at all, almost all of them have never been seen presented in such a unique way with figures, dioramas and Bond packaging. I know that figure inclusion is on the wane but what we're seeing now are low-key models to 'fill gaps' in the collection, until hopefully, the more major Bond 23 cars are announced.
I spotted a small article 'The Sun' newspaper this week,apparently VW Beetles are required on the set of Bond 23 for a huge stunt.Apparently,your donated Beetle will be trashed as part of it.If these rumours are true,expect another VW in the collection at some point.
I spotted a small article 'The Sun' newspaper this week,apparently VW Beetles are required on the set of Bond 23 for a huge stunt.Apparently,your donated Beetle will be trashed as part of it.If these rumours are true,expect another VW in the collection at some point.
Can you nominate someone else's Beetle? - I hate the things!!
I have never really understood the attraction of Adolf's 'The People's Car'either.I drove my mates restored Beetle to the church when he was getting married and that was more than enough for me.
Look on the bright side - at least you now have an alternative diorama setting for the QOS Alfa as in this pic (another one of scurr01's photos I think) you'll need to click on it:
I reckon it looks really cool in the tunnel setting.
Just for clarification, I don't think this was my photo.
Look on the bright side - at least you now have an alternative diorama setting for the QOS Alfa as in this pic (another one of scurr01's photos I think) you'll need to click on it:
I reckon it looks really cool in the tunnel setting.
Just for clarification, I don't think this was my photo.
Sorry about that. The credit for that one's up for grabs then.......
Can anyone tell me if it is still possible to subscribe to the james bond car collection?
Is there a U.S. source for the James Bond Car Collection?
Does anyone know where I could find no. 78 magazine and car (Mercedes Benz 220S).
Thank you all
hi, i dont think its possible to subscribe direct from fabbri, but there are a few sellers on ebay fom uk who will send you each new issue evry month.......in my experience the best is a guy called chris at gr8models who will send you each new issue, or two consecutive issues at a pretty reasonable price if you buy direct from him.......some of the ebay prices are rediculous for the new models.........good luck...........yourmovemrbond
It appears to be one of Corgi Vanguards Capris 'distressed' as if from the UK TV show 'The Professionals' - is it from a new TV/movie range waiting in the wings?
This Jeep is listed as 'Lledo' and appears to be in partwork packaging, highly suitable for a GF offering with a diorama base methinks. Could it be that Hornby-Corgi might enter the JBCC scene?
I don't think this is actually a Lledo. Under current Hornby ownership the Lledo trademark isn't really used anymore (although it can still be found on the baseplates of pre-2005 Vanguards moulds). From 2005 it was used only for the promotional market models (Lledo Promotions) but now, although they still have the "LP" model numbers, the promotionals are referred to as "Corgi". The lledo.com web ownership was allowed to lapse some years back as well.
Just on another topic, it appears that the Eaglemoss takeover of GE Fabbri is now complete. The gefabbri.co.uk web address now routes to eaglemoss.com. The combined company has been named Eaglemoss Collections.
It appears to be one of Corgi Vanguards Capris 'distressed' as if from the UK TV show 'The Professionals' - is it from a new TV/movie range waiting in the wings?
This is certainly not a Vanguards Capri as the wipers face in the wrong direction, so although not clearly visible it appears to be a LHD Capri.
And the Strato Silver Vanguards Capri already has the UOO 303T (fake) number plates used for "The Professionals". This is one of three (?) Vanguards models that use registrations as seen on TV (although the boxes do not mention the TV tie-in!), so there already is a TV/movie range from Vanguards (the others being the copper "Life on Mars" Cortina Mk III and the silver "The Sweeney" Cortina Mk IV).
The Jeep looks like the same casting as those from the Route Bleu partwork (Ixo?) - but then I was the one who said the OP Jeep looks just the same ... ;%
Regarding the JBCC, I have done it - I've cancelled my subscription after issue 95. I will definately buy the Goldfinger Rolls and the Range Rover convertible but I found that the models without figures and proper dioramas just don't do it for me. I also don't think that the Ixos are so much better, something is lacking with their models. The Chevy C-10 I saw before cancelling looks so plasticky and cheap that I just didn't want to continue. I collect U.S. cars but even those which fit in my non-Bond collection do not excite me (like the Impala Custom Coupe which maybe will look better as a Premium X in a metallic colour).
And the Strato Silver Vanguards Capri already has the UOO 303T (fake) number plates used for "The Professionals". This is one of three (?) Vanguards models that use registrations as seen on TV (although the boxes do not mention the TV tie-in!), so there already is a TV/movie range from Vanguards (the others being the copper "Life on Mars" Cortina Mk III and the silver "The Sweeney" Cortina Mk IV).
Another one is the Ford Consul (Granada Mk.1) in Copper Brown, VA05510, which also has a "The Sweeney" registration plate.
Leaving the market to make the connection is Corgi's way of generating sales without giving up a share of the income to licensing royalties, I suppose!
You're right, the Capri is LHD which rules it out as a 'Professionals Capri in action' kind of thing. The dirt spray on it is odd though, that's what caught my attention. It looks like it's been driven hard rather than neglected and dilapidated, but it isn't in racing livery. Maybe it's one of a new 'Drive-Thru Car Wash' partwork series featuring famous cars that need a clean
Although Capris are off topic, I'm surprised one never apparently made it into a Bond movie, albeit in a minor role. Same as the Citroen DS mentioned some time ago.
Shame about the 'Lledo' Jeep, I'm a big fan of Corgi Vanguards and IMHO it would have been great to see them contributing to the JBCC models, especially with an OHMSS Ford Escort. Shows how easy it would be to include a GF WW2 Willys Jeep though, when so many are available from other partworks etc.
Rainier: Don't forget the GF Country Squire, it took me three goes to find one with properly aligned 'wood' transfers and unbroken roof rack, but it was worth it!
Another one is the Ford Consul (Granada Mk.1) in Copper Brown, VA05510, which also has a "The Sweeney" registration plate.
Leaving the market to make the connection is Corgi's way of generating sales without giving up a share of the income to licensing royalties, I suppose!
Is there more than one run of the copper Consul? The ones I saw (in the plastic box, not cardboard) do not have the NHK 295M plates (but different NHK plates which indicates another Ford press car of the time) and have a black vinyl roof. Still an interesting model, though.
With the 1,500 or 3,000 pieces these limited editions have, they will sell out sooner or later anyway with or without the TV connection. If Corgi had sold them in a licenced and branded box they could sell at least 10x more. Don't know why they didn't do this with the Capri (they had a Professionals licence for the 1:36 re-release) although The Sweeney is probably exclusive for Richmond Toys (which make a terrible Consul in ca. 1:35).
Rainier: Don't forget the GF Country Squire, it took me three goes to find one with properly aligned 'wood' transfers and unbroken roof rack, but it was worth it!
Yes, the Country Squire is on my list (but want to see it with my own eyes), as is the TB Lincoln Continental, regardless if Ixo will serve its standard '67 or change it to a '64. When Ixo took over I looked up their catalogue for the first time and found the Lincoln stretch limo very interesting. However, when I held the model in my hands, I didn't want to pay €30 for it. But if I get the same car in the JBCC for €14 I'd be delighted.
I am pretty happy with the collection. The room I am displaying them in it still being sorted out hence lots of boxes to the edge of the pictures at present - but this is my general strategy of displaying them:
Is there more than one run of the copper Consul? The ones I saw (in the plastic box, not cardboard) do not have the NHK 295M plates (but different NHK plates which indicates another Ford press car of the time) and have a black vinyl roof. Still an interesting model, though.
My bad, looks like I'm guilty of believing some ebay seller's puffing!
There was only one run of the copper Consul and the model's reg.# is NHK 820M, so not The Sweeney car after all.
Model Collector magazine is currently releasing a magazine special named "Classic TV and Film Collectables" - it should make for interesting reading.
And I'm back from my vacation in NY, which I had to cut short due to the snow and power outages. I ordered the Mercedes-Benz 220 and it appears to be right-hand drive for those interested in a Merc with RHD. Definitely an Ixo mould, too, plus has the typical Ixo box. It also has the seperate door handles, so if these are crooked, just take the car apart, poke them out, and put them back on. I plan on replacing the license plates with Australian ones for a Code 3...and incidentally...it's TERRIFIC that all this Code 3 talk AND doing has been going on, even while I was away! You've made me proud. ) Incidentally, did anyone else notice that there were no name actors in the background? I still believe they no longer have the right to use likenesses, or the price went up. By the way, while we still have the "sand" base, it is at least a different sand base. I very much look forward to this car and will review it as soon as it arrives. My guess is that externally, it's going to be very similar to THIS car...
...which is a really great model for the price. However, I also have a feeling you'll get more internal details, etc.
I can't WAIT until Issue 113, the VAZ-2106 "Lada Zhiguli" St. Petersburg Militsia GAI Patrol Car. Ixo has already done a mould of this and it turned out very well. I'd be interested in knowing if they give it one or two side mirrors (look closely and you'll see that both twin side mirrors and a single side mirror appear in GE...), as Ixo's initial mould was one side mirror. Ixo's mould also has hubcaps, so I'm not sure how that works out, though I'd be willing to overlook hubcaps vs. no hubcaps on the movie cars if they got everything else right. But yes, as soon as this one is released, I will go over every single detail of it. Also, we'll finally get a roadbed base instead of sand or gravel.
I tend to agree that with all the people dropping out, 130 may be the end.
Model Collector magazine is currently releasing a magazine special named "Classic TV and Film Collectables" - it should make for interesting reading.
Sounds good, I'll be looking out for it. I'm a bit surprised all the model bus enthusiasts allowed Model Collector to do such a thing though, they seem to rule the magazine :v
As far as I'm aware neither Model Collector or Die Cast Collector have ever run a feature on the JBCC for some strange reason, I haven't even seen a passing mention of it. Bet they'd have done a few pages on a bus partwork though.
Myhandle : Nice model cabinets, seems like a good solution to the display problem - can you buy extra shelves for those?
Comments
I'm one who's decided to finish this collection, stopped at 110. I think what's being over looked here is the way this collection has progressed and continued. When it was first advertised I found out the collection would be 52 cars. Fair enough, worthy collection of the best Bond cars so start collecting.
Get to nearly 52 then I discover the collection has been extended to 80 car. Well I really like the collection, I would like a complete set, so yes I will continue. Then what happens again as it approaches the 80th car, surprise, surprise, it's extended to 110 cars!
So like a lamb to the slaughter, again I believe this was the final stretch, I still want my complete collection. They can't find anymore cars in this series after 110, can they? Even during this last stretch, pieces of paper saying this collection will end at 110, twice that happened confirming 110th car would be the last.
So you can see why some like myself have stopped collecting. I've said all along the model price, the model and diorama are of good quality (although I do think cars in action dioramas should have figures), I don't have a problem with that. what the problem is with this collection is the way in which it has continued.
I personally think it's been the marketing ploy from the start. If you told someone at the beginning that a collection was going to go on for years and cost the best part of a £1000 from the start, you wouldn't get hardly any sign up for it, only real die-hard fans maybe. But if you get people on board, then extend the collection, they are more than likely going to extend the collection, I've started, I want the whole collection, so I might as well continue.
I'll be surprised if this collection will stop after the next '20' last cars. lots of you have said Bond 23 will be out, how many car from that film will get added? This collection will go on for years, as long as someone is still buying. I'm sure the numbers are less now and you are entitled to collect as long as you want, that's not a problem.
I just wanted to point out that some of us collected to 110 thinking this was it, the final straw and the collection would be finished and complete. I like Bond but I'm finished with it, if I knew now back then I would have never collected the series to be honest, just gone and bought some nice models of my favourite Bond cars. Yes there has been some gems, but gems I could have lived without.
I've also said this before, because of this experience I will never ever collect a weekly again, ever. So in away I have GE Fabbri to thank for opening my eyes to how a weekly collection works and to never trust what ever is they tell you. But I also feel sorry for them, a company that because of it's short sightedness destroys it's own customer base by not being honest with the customer and stopping when they say something is going to stop. The newsagent I got my cars from, reckons this happens all the time with every weekly collection they sell, they even discourage people from buying them because they know they will never end.
And as for extending because of 'customer demand', well if it's that great, stop the first series, then start a part two. At least it would have given people a chance to have a complete series and then the choice to carry on if they wished. All they've done is generated a load of in complete collections. Personally I think weekly series should be made by law to tell you up front how many a series will run for. If it's a good collection, I don't think it would affect sales greatly. 110 cars I wouldn't have started, but 50 I would have as I like the models and fit's my budget.
The other stupid thing with such a big collection is, most sit in a box in the attic as I just don't have the room to display them all, as it's not my only car collection. OCC 1:18 chopper bikes, 1:18 James Bond cars, massive 1:43 cararama collection, Senna F1 collection, 1;43 F1 car collection the list goes on!
Who can forget the sheer beauty of the yellow Triumph Stag from DAF
the carfull of Bond activity that was the Taunus from TSWLM
The sleek red peril that came to us in the form of the Renault Fuego from AVTAK,
not to mention the sublime ford crown victoria police car from Casino Royale
The Q-boat, the Acrostar, the beach buggy.....the list goes on
As a bond fan, every issue delights me..........i must admit, i dont investigate every model to probe for its accuracy , at 7.99 for a bond model, i allow a bit of licence...........but come on guys, they are brilliant.....just about every one!!!
so, here is a message to fabbri from a Bond fan who cannot believe his luck at getting models never before available.....KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK........there are many of us out here who want more....as many as you can.....KEEP THEM COMING!!!
your move mr bond
I fell for this temptation when Corgi Classics first started, then again when Lledo Vanguards were introduced and almost a third time with Corgi Aviation. In all three cases a limited number were introduced into the initial range and it seemed reasonable to buy them all. Then the ranges expanded. Then they expanded again. And kept on expanding, year on year. It soon became clear that I had neither the space nor the money to try and keep up with these models, no matter how attractive they were. Eventually I gave up and became ‘discerning’ if you will: Corgi sportscars and family cars only - sell off the vans and buses. Corgi Aviation WW2 machines only - sell off the jets and helicopters. And it’s fundamentally easy to do – pick up each model in turn and ask yourself ‘would I buy this again if I was looking at it for the first time in a model shop?’ – if the answer is ‘no’ then sell it on eBay and use the money to buy what you DO want.
Now the JBCC has reached epic numbers compared to the initial promise of 40 models, I think the same principle can be applied. In my case (and I may be alone in this) the only person who cares whether or not I have every available model in a collection is me, so if I’m happy with having 90 out of the current 110 JBCC, that’s all that really matters, nobody else is checking. If I were a subscriber, and space and sheer cost were an issue, I would continue with the subscription but start and sell off the models I was least happy with, to regain space and funds. It’s the art of ‘cherry picking’, which keeps me far happier as a collector than my earlier days did as a ‘completeist’.
Ignoring the magazines, the series can be sub-divided or pared down, since the models themselves aren’t numbered. You could just keep the Connery vehicles, or the Moore set, Dalton lot etc. Or movies up to a certain date, or a fixed limited number from each movie perhaps, or stick to certain marques or just keep your favourite 50, 80, 100 whatever.
As Bond fans we are very lucky to have this collection made available to us, especially in such a large overall number. It’s only a combination of licencing, imagination and modern production technology that is allowing it to happen. As I said before, once it’s finished we’ll probably be back to only boring ‘Build a Model of Buckingham Palace’ type partworks being offered to us.
And on that note, we are also lucky that parts of this series CAN be sold off if desired, you can’t do that with issues that build a model. In that instance, you are locked into paying many hundreds of pounds for your complete model whether you like it or not.
The JBCC definitely IS NOT what Fabbri first promised, it’s actually something surprisingly far better in my opinion, something quite unique. If you truly like Bond and cars I’d stick with it, but maybe re-think the concept of having to own and hang on to every single model, come hell or high water.
Thanks guys!!!
Reflections in a double bourbon...
That was exactly my approach when I first became aware of the collection. I've just focused on certain movies with cars in that I particularly like, and not bothered with most of the others. Having said that, the projected line-up that I've seen for upcoming releases is pretty dull - every other one seems to be a Merc saloon. A bit of variety might make it more appealing for those not sure about continuing.
Fabbri should have made this available on its website - instead of trying to lock us into a contract to buy every model, good or bad, they should have offered us the models and let us decide which one we wanted to buy and which one we did not. But, sadly, they are too greedy... that's why so many here criticise their approach and have cancelled the subscription. It's clearly Fabbri's own fault - what they promised and what they delivered are two different things.
The comparison with "Build your replica of Buckingham Palace" does not work. In this type of partwork you know the total number of parts and cost upfront. There is no way the publisher can add an extension to Buckingham Palace later just to make more money! And they are usually guaranteed - if you are not satisfied you send them your parts back and get your subscription money. Good luck trying to return any JBCC models for a refund!
Hands up, I was talking largely from a UK perspective. I appreciate things will be different for other areas of the world. From what I understand of your situation, it does sound like your solution is the best way to go and perfectly understandable. If you live in the UK you generally get something back on unwanted models using the UK eBay site (not everyone here using eBay either knows how to sell internationally or indeed wants to, so you may not be seeing the same picture). Sometimes you get more than you paid, sometimes less, but generally it works out about even. I also believe UK customers could potentially get refunds on the 'Blunderbird' if they pushed hard enough.
I accept your comment on the 'Buck Palace' comparison in terms of an extension BUT my point was that with the JBCC, unless you are a die-hard completeist, you can draw a line in the sand at any point and still have a great, still saleable, ready made collection. It's a bit different having a part finished 'build your own' model. Even though you can predict the total cost of said DIY model, over a period of several years your financial situation may change or you might lose interest, or mess it up, in which case you could end up well out of pocket with little to show for it. Should you wish to sell it, you also cannot guarantee many people will want to buy into someone else's model-making, even if it's finished. It's second hand value would really only be in the form of its original unopened part packages.
Like almost any other business, I'm sure Fabbri do have their 'suits' who are only interested in screwing every penny they can out of their customers, but I also think there's a bunch of people at production level who are genuinely interested in Bond and cars, and doing a great job for us. As I said, I have about 90 of the current 110 JBCC models and am very pleased with them. Some of them have been rarely modelled if at all, almost all of them have never been seen presented in such a unique way with figures, dioramas and Bond packaging. I know that figure inclusion is on the wane but what we're seeing now are low-key models to 'fill gaps' in the collection, until hopefully, the more major Bond 23 cars are announced.
Can you nominate someone else's Beetle? - I hate the things!!
Just for clarification, I don't think this was my photo.
Sorry about that. The credit for that one's up for grabs then.......
Is there a U.S. source for the James Bond Car Collection?
Does anyone know where I could find no. 78 magazine and car (Mercedes Benz 220S).
Thank you all
hi, i dont think its possible to subscribe direct from fabbri, but there are a few sellers on ebay fom uk who will send you each new issue evry month.......in my experience the best is a guy called chris at gr8models who will send you each new issue, or two consecutive issues at a pretty reasonable price if you buy direct from him.......some of the ebay prices are rediculous for the new models.........good luck...........yourmovemrbond
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/FORD-1-43-Ford-Capri-III-3-0S-/110763349245?pt=UK_ToysGames_DiecastVehicles_DiecastVehicles_JN&hash=item19ca0294fd
It appears to be one of Corgi Vanguards Capris 'distressed' as if from the UK TV show 'The Professionals' - is it from a new TV/movie range waiting in the wings?
Also this:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Jeep-1-43-Jeep-Willys-MB-1960-/120799098577?pt=UK_ToysGames_DiecastVehicles_DiecastVehicles_JN&hash=item1c202ff6d1
This Jeep is listed as 'Lledo' and appears to be in partwork packaging, highly suitable for a GF offering with a diorama base methinks. Could it be that Hornby-Corgi might enter the JBCC scene?
Just on another topic, it appears that the Eaglemoss takeover of GE Fabbri is now complete. The gefabbri.co.uk web address now routes to eaglemoss.com. The combined company has been named Eaglemoss Collections.
And the Strato Silver Vanguards Capri already has the UOO 303T (fake) number plates used for "The Professionals". This is one of three (?) Vanguards models that use registrations as seen on TV (although the boxes do not mention the TV tie-in!), so there already is a TV/movie range from Vanguards (the others being the copper "Life on Mars" Cortina Mk III and the silver "The Sweeney" Cortina Mk IV).
The Jeep looks like the same casting as those from the Route Bleu partwork (Ixo?) - but then I was the one who said the OP Jeep looks just the same ... ;%
Regarding the JBCC, I have done it - I've cancelled my subscription after issue 95. I will definately buy the Goldfinger Rolls and the Range Rover convertible but I found that the models without figures and proper dioramas just don't do it for me. I also don't think that the Ixos are so much better, something is lacking with their models. The Chevy C-10 I saw before cancelling looks so plasticky and cheap that I just didn't want to continue. I collect U.S. cars but even those which fit in my non-Bond collection do not excite me (like the Impala Custom Coupe which maybe will look better as a Premium X in a metallic colour).
Leaving the market to make the connection is Corgi's way of generating sales without giving up a share of the income to licensing royalties, I suppose!
Although Capris are off topic, I'm surprised one never apparently made it into a Bond movie, albeit in a minor role. Same as the Citroen DS mentioned some time ago.
Shame about the 'Lledo' Jeep, I'm a big fan of Corgi Vanguards and IMHO it would have been great to see them contributing to the JBCC models, especially with an OHMSS Ford Escort. Shows how easy it would be to include a GF WW2 Willys Jeep though, when so many are available from other partworks etc.
Rainier: Don't forget the GF Country Squire, it took me three goes to find one with properly aligned 'wood' transfers and unbroken roof rack, but it was worth it!
With the 1,500 or 3,000 pieces these limited editions have, they will sell out sooner or later anyway with or without the TV connection. If Corgi had sold them in a licenced and branded box they could sell at least 10x more. Don't know why they didn't do this with the Capri (they had a Professionals licence for the 1:36 re-release) although The Sweeney is probably exclusive for Richmond Toys (which make a terrible Consul in ca. 1:35).
Yes, the Country Squire is on my list (but want to see it with my own eyes), as is the TB Lincoln Continental, regardless if Ixo will serve its standard '67 or change it to a '64. When Ixo took over I looked up their catalogue for the first time and found the Lincoln stretch limo very interesting. However, when I held the model in my hands, I didn't want to pay €30 for it. But if I get the same car in the JBCC for €14 I'd be delighted.
The good news is that they got the movie name corrected on the front of the magazine for Issue 112.
The bad news is that it looks like just another figure-less, standard gravel-road-diorama release.
My bad, looks like I'm guilty of believing some ebay seller's puffing!
There was only one run of the copper Consul and the model's reg.# is NHK 820M, so not The Sweeney car after all.
Model Collector magazine is currently releasing a magazine special named "Classic TV and Film Collectables" - it should make for interesting reading.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/26188087@N02/2456630969/
...which is a really great model for the price. However, I also have a feeling you'll get more internal details, etc.
I can't WAIT until Issue 113, the VAZ-2106 "Lada Zhiguli" St. Petersburg Militsia GAI Patrol Car. Ixo has already done a mould of this and it turned out very well. I'd be interested in knowing if they give it one or two side mirrors (look closely and you'll see that both twin side mirrors and a single side mirror appear in GE...), as Ixo's initial mould was one side mirror. Ixo's mould also has hubcaps, so I'm not sure how that works out, though I'd be willing to overlook hubcaps vs. no hubcaps on the movie cars if they got everything else right. But yes, as soon as this one is released, I will go over every single detail of it. Also, we'll finally get a roadbed base instead of sand or gravel.
I tend to agree that with all the people dropping out, 130 may be the end.
Sounds good, I'll be looking out for it. I'm a bit surprised all the model bus enthusiasts allowed Model Collector to do such a thing though, they seem to rule the magazine :v
As far as I'm aware neither Model Collector or Die Cast Collector have ever run a feature on the JBCC for some strange reason, I haven't even seen a passing mention of it. Bet they'd have done a few pages on a bus partwork though.
Myhandle : Nice model cabinets, seems like a good solution to the display problem - can you buy extra shelves for those?