Ironically the triangular head screwdrivers were actually made by IXO and sold by them until they swapped back to regular screws a year or so ago. UH used the triangle inset heads for Bond Collection but not sure they have used them elsewhere. So in summary it would be quite easy for IXO to provide a base and screwdriver if Fabbri chose to go that way.
I remember in years gone by the dioramas were much more interesting with proper features and bumpy roads with landscaping and gradients, rocks etc. even the occasional road sign or chain fencing, for example look at the VW Beetle (issue 74), Alfa Romeo GTV6 (issue 73), Chevrolet Bel Air (issue 33), Aston Martin DB5 (issue 25), Sunbeam Alpine (issue 17), Citroen 2CV (issue 5) and the Toyota 2000GT (issue 7). And they had drivers and passengers!! And sometimes figures in the background, too ...
Now they always seem to be driverless, standing on (or even hovering above) a flat, boring base ... aaahh well, the good old days, I suppose!
Cheers,
Rhinoman B-)
I'm not a collector of the Bond series, but we've all been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Country Squire from various UK vendors. The model's merits and otherwise have been debated, and it seems most everyone agrees that it's a keeper! On another board (USA), it seems to have ramped up the interest of the entire collection, though many of the models have been discussed since the series began. And what a cool, funky bunch of vehicles it is.
I came on board today after seeing maz's image of the Econoline (thanks!), a rare piece of collectibility over here. Can't wait for more imges of its breadbox beauty, and I'll have to get it. So far, the AMC Matador is the only other I have (it just came with the Squire), bought because I was in high school in the town when and where they were made, Kenosha, WI, home of AMC. Had to pass on the Hornet, as the rear quarter line and window just don't do it for me.
One member of the US group commented on how Country Squire was an "icon of the era," and he couldn't be more correct. It's agreed that the oversprayed wheel covers and not-too-shiny paint are lamentable, but overlook them compared to the model's cost, even over here. Some are swapping out different wheel/tire combos to remedy the dogdish hubcaps and too-wide-whitewalls, and will touch up the woodgraining.
I love it just the way it is, but plan on getting another to enhance; with its really great IXO casting and overall appealing "look," it's an absolute winner! I couldn't wait to take pictures of it...
Could there be a connection between the fact that the EBayer with this Econoline model is based in Darlington in the NE not far away from Cramlington where all my JB back orders have been sent from? Maybe having got up to speed IXO have just made the lot and shipped them to get payment asap. I Speculate that these are either samples or pulled from a damaged shipping box where Fabbri are not paying for the boxes contents and the models have been "scrapped".
Pure guesswork on my part though!
There's probably something in this. A while back I bought a couple of models off eBay, brand new, still sealed in all of their packaging, including the bag, and assumed all would be fine. When they arrived, one had a mishapen roof and the other had a very bent windscreen post. Both faults were clear to see without opening the packaging so I can only assume the seller was getting his hands on factory seconds that had gone right through the packaging process before being rejected. I think he did live in the north but I don't remember exactly where.
The last decent diorama in my view was the DAD hovercraft,complete with figures.Anybody agree with me?If not, lets hear your suggestions.
Yea!!! I'm also disappointed by the lack of figures & the boring bases..Still not long till it ends..still prefer the 50s/60s/70s models..not too keen on the AM -{ :007)
Another great vehicle spotted in A View to a kill. The surveillance van used by Q in the closing scenes. More of these type of models would have been superb .
To continue an earlier point , The Aston Martin is my ultimate car and I adore everyone of them , in fact I almost own one but in this collection they are the least interesting as they have been covered so often and so well by other manufacturers mainly corgi. The aston martin without a door is such a waste of an issue and I will say it again it looks unfinished not damaged.
The bases are being repeated and I agree not a patch on the earlier issues. The lack of figures just adds to the annoyance of the closing stages of this collection. One or two figures or just a driver would add so much to the mediocre editions.
A wish list to GEF.
1. Please conclude the collection on time with out further delays
2. Please can we have a final model , a special, bringing the collection to a close with a bang , read earlier posts there are plenty of suggestions.
3. Please can you make figures available to add to our driverless cars.
4. Please can we have some binders , big enough to keep all 110 magazines
5. Lastly drop the AM and replace with a decent model
Is there a Facebook page people can petition to get a lavish closing model? 8-) People power could work, and I wouldn't mind paying for one last beauty!
"Of course IXO do actually have an Anglia amongst their previous production so could easily provide that as a replacement if Fabbri are up to paying for them rather than simply get a new plinth which frankly is what I would do...... "
Same here. I'm hoping (albeit against hope) than the replacement Anglia is Ixo. Unfortunately, due to it being subscribers only, I'm probably going to have to spring quite a bit for it on eBay.
"When I meant samples I meant samples send by IXO ahead of production for QC/ Marketing purposes rather than Fabbri give out samples. I have often wondered if there is a test production of a few models ahead of main production and whether than is the source of many of the far eastern models. BTW on another board a collector with an Impala ebayed from Hong Kong has got misaligned rear lights. QC reject or something we all need to watch for?"
Oh, I understand. As for the other board, trust me, that's a QC reject. There's ALMOST ALWAYS something wrong with the cars you buy off eBay Hong Kong that are not NIB (NIB cars are generally production overrun that would otherwise be destroyed...you can get some great deals on Japanese Ebbro, Kyosho, and Aoshima DISM models as well as Neo Models in perfect and flawless condition if you know where to shop and what to look for). The only exceptions are production overrun that would be thrown away in any case. And seeing as these lack bases and whatnot, I would say with certainty that they're all QC rejects. I've done plenty of business with these guys for East Bloc cars and if you have a ton of feedback and it's 100%, they will be honest with you. If you're not 100% and/or you don't have a ton of feedback, they tend to be a bit less honest. Hint: maintain good email communications with them. Put your absolute best attitude out there, thank 'em in addition to giving them positive feedback with straight five stars...and they open up and tell you *exactly* what's wrong with the model you'll be getting. Never complain about bent axles (and they're usually not even all that bent and be fixed very quickly) or stripped screws. You can almost without exception fix those, anyway. Save it for when you get a truly defective model (and take it up with 'em via email...NOT VIA FEEDBACK...be really polite about it, and be sure to ask for a replacement of the same model), be really nice, and you'll always get something better than what was sent.
"UH used the triangle inset heads for Bond Collection but not sure they have used them elsewhere."
I have a lot of Renault 4's they made where I've converted them to Yugoslav and Romanian exports and, without exception, these have triangular screws. La Route Bleue, which employed Ixo, Norev, and U.H. all had triangular screws, as well. Ixo also still uses triangular screws in certain markets; Cars & Co. Exclusive Ist models and Atlas DDR Trucks are two HUGE examples of that. Oddly, Atlas DDR Auto-Kollektion employs Torx screws! Very common screws in the US, but quite odd for Germany.
"Greetings from the other side of the Pond,
I'm not a collector of the Bond series, but we've all been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Country Squire from various UK vendors. The model's merits and otherwise have been debated, and it seems most everyone agrees that it's a keeper! On another board (USA), it seems to have ramped up the interest of the entire collection, though many of the models have been discussed since the series began. And what a cool, funky bunch of vehicles it is.
I came on board today after seeing maz's image of the Econoline (thanks!), a rare piece of collectibility over here. Can't wait for more imges of its breadbox beauty, and I'll have to get it. So far, the AMC Matador is the only other I have (it just came with the Squire), bought because I was in high school in the town when and where they were made, Kenosha, WI, home of AMC. Had to pass on the Hornet, as the rear quarter line and window just don't do it for me.
One member of the US group commented on how Country Squire was an "icon of the era," and he couldn't be more correct. It's agreed that the oversprayed wheel covers and not-too-shiny paint are lamentable, but overlook them compared to the model's cost, even over here. Some are swapping out different wheel/tire combos to remedy the dogdish hubcaps and too-wide-whitewalls, and will touch up the woodgraining.
I love it just the way it is, but plan on getting another to enhance; with its really great IXO casting and overall appealing "look," it's an absolute winner! I couldn't wait to take pictures of it..."
A KINDRED SOUL!!!! Tom, welcome to these boards by a guy whose grandfather really did have a '64 Country Squire in what he termed "Thunderbird Red" (his color camera wasn't exactly the greatest, so I'm not sure if it was a custom-ordered color, or indeed Rangoon Red). I too believe the '64 Country Squire was an icon of the era (which, in my mind, ended in '65 when they facelifted the Galaxie, and, by virtue, the Country Squire...the '59-'64 Galaxie-based Country Squires are easily my favorites) He also modified his car by removing the rear seat...the kids had moved out with one exception (my uncle) and he just wanted to go hunting and fishing with the car. He also had the optional wheel covers, side mirror, and AM radio. Like you, I want to get another one of these to enhance to at least get something close to what my grandfather had.
I agree about the hubcaps and whitewalls and have a recommendation regarding the latter: use USSR AvtoLegende's ZIS-110 tires. They're too small for the model, anyway and have a much thinner band. With regards to the hubcaps, I know Ixo has a prototype '63 Country Squire in the works with the more common wheel covers. I would imagine that once that is released, you'll be able to just swap out the wheels. Incidentally, there's also the issue of it missing the "FORD" lettering on the tailgate and the lenses for the headlights being JUST a bit too large, but as I said in my initial reaction to the model, you can make a transfer decal for this pretty easily and the headlights aren't really a big deal.
Also, since the dashboard HAS an AM radio (trust me, it's right where it should be on my grandfather's car), will you be adding a wire antenna? I plan on doing so. Also, what side mirror would you recommend attaching? I know you have some good choices put out really cheaply by scrounging one off Yat Ming Road Signature and then painting it, but do you have a better solution? Look forward to hearing from ya!
"Please conclude the collection on time with out further delays"
Well, seeing as Ixo is actually ahead of schedule...I think you'll get your wish here.
"Please can we have a final model , a special, bringing the collection to a close with a bang , read earlier posts there are plenty of suggestions."
The contracts have already been signed by now. I imagine this is completely impossible.
"Please can you make figures available to add to our driverless cars."
This is at least possible. However, buying the older Hong Kong and Chinese QC rejects solely for the figures isn't too hard on the wallet.
"Lastly drop the AM and replace with a decent model"
Already been made and not happening, sorry. I think we should've gone out with an Oddjob-driven Mercedes-Benz 220S or UAZ-469B from GE* with Russian troops firing their AK-74's at Bond's tank while in reverse, but unfortunately, it's just not gonna happen.
*Yes, I am well aware they are called UAZ-3151's on IMCDB. This is wrong, as even if they were produced after 1984, they would be called UAZ-31512's. There is absolutely no difference other than the name and I believe what we saw were UAZ-469B's due to their actual vintage likely being pre-1984, when the naming conventions changed. Same with the nice model of a ZIL-4104 bearing ZIL-115 badges in USSR AvtoLegende. The issues with that model, I would say, are the turn signals being a tad oversized. Nobody complained about the badges, though. It's the same car.
Welcome to the forum, Tom (BuickBoy57), thanks for sharing some of your superb photography over here as well - I've been an admirer of your work on the US board for a few years and some of those Minichamps Mercedes & Opel scenes have done time as wallpapers on my desktop in the past
The Country Squire fitted with the wheels from the GF Thunderbird looked good. It will be interesting to see a complete repaint, though - I'm sure some of those guys are planning to do one as the movie car's colour was apparently not a popular choice in reality.
Maz: I have an IXO screwdriver but I've found that it's a bit too large for the triangular screws used by UH for these models. I've been managing with flathead screwdrivers so far but I intend to get a spare IXO screwdriver ground down to JBCC size at some point.
On the subject of the dioramas, I think my favourite to date is the one that came with the OP Alfa GTV6, as already mentioned by rhinoman above. It's just such a neat little scene that I bought an extra two from the newsagent for displaying some of my other non-JBCC models. I also bought additionals of the TB Mustang & the CR Jaguar for the same purpose, although those are much plainer bases.
"Please can you make figures available to add to our driverless cars."
This is at least possible. However, buying the older Hong Kong and Chinese QC rejects solely for the figures isn't too hard on the wallet.
True.
The cheapest donor is probably going to be the Toyota Crown (#56 - 4 figures). The Taunus (#75) also has 4 figures but I doubt that can now be had cheaply.
The Peugeot 504 (#83) has 3 figures, is definitely still available cheaply, so that's also a good donor.
"The Country Squire fitted with the wheels from the GF Thunderbird looked good. It will be interesting to see a complete repaint, though - I'm sure some of those guys are planning to do one as the movie car's colour was apparently not a popular choice in reality."
Fitted with wheels from the GF T-Bird? I wonder how that would turn out. But you've given me a good inspiration, which I think I might try. As for a complete repaint, the two colors that really sold were creme/off-white and dark brown. Dark blue was also a good seller. But you're correct about Rangoon Red...it was a poor seller because, for its target market, it was considered too "loud." As my uncle reminded me, my grandfather's car was a custom order that was somehow cancelled, but it wasn't necessarily custom-painted. But the paint was apparently the reason why it was sitting on the lot with the price marked down in early 1965. I'd love to see one of these painted in that creme/off-white color (I can't recall what Ford called it) you saw most of them in.
Then, if you wouldn't mind, I am geniunely interrested in thát swap, for I am also looking for a cheap 2nd one to repaint, rot really in a popular colour in the squiry, but in a popular colour of the 60's ( think of bright blue, very pale yellow etc.)
"Then, if you wouldn't mind, I am geniunely interrested in thát swap, for I am also looking for a cheap 2nd one to repaint, rot really in a popular colour in the squiry, but in a popular colour of the 60's ( think of bright blue, very pale yellow etc.)"
Country Squires weren't really popular with hippies, despite the fact that you could fit a 427 cubic inch, 450+ HP engine under the hood. They were seen as cars of the older generation, apparently. Hippies generally rode around in VW buses, had VW beetles, hot rods, chopped-up pony cars, and the rich ones had chopped-up muscle cars.
I'm not talking about hippies, but a gereral 60's family car. You allways see the old advertisements using cars in colours like dark blue, bright red(so that one's covered) , "milk white", dark green, steel blue etc. Thát's the kind of colours i'd be using.
Oh, I get you! I'd recommend that creme/off-white color, then, because I do believe that throughout the Country Squire's connection with the Galaxie, that was the best selling color and probably most representative of the design.
"Nothing is impossible. The demand is there !"
The demand may be there, but the supply isn't, unless you want to tweak an already existing mould (which you individually really don't sound like you want to do...I guess I could see Ixo doing this with the UAZ-469B since they've made NINE variants of it, thus far, but very little beyond that...but of course, it wouldn't come with any figures, and I doubt it would be altered much if at all from the nine other ones out there).
One model that has been missed from the JBCC is the polar blue Ford Mondeo "hire car" that Daniel Craig drove in the Bahamas in Casino Royale. How could nobody have picked this up . This could make issue 111, they were quick to manufacture the Ford Ka model in QOS. Does anyone have any info why the Casino Royale Mondeo wasn't produced.
If they were going to make 111 issues in the first place...which they, for better or worse, will not.
"Does anyone have any info why the Casino Royale Mondeo wasn't produced."
Nope. Just like we have no info on why the Mercedes-Benz 220S (GF), UAZ-469B (GE), Lada Niva (TWINE), VAZ-2106 (GE), Mercedes-Benz 450SEL (FYEO), 1986 Dodge Ram (LTK), 1987 Lincoln Mk. VII LSC (LTK), Wales & Edwards Rangemaster Milk Float (TLD), etc., etc. were not made...
One model that has been missed from the JBCC is the polar blue Ford Mondeo "hire car" that Daniel Craig drove in the Bahamas in Casino Royale. How could nobody have picked this up . This could make issue 111, they were quick to manufacture the Ford Ka model in QOS. Does anyone have any info why the Casino Royale Mondeo wasn't produced.
Exactly, what is interesting is this car featured in the movie some six months before the car was released worldwide. Ford saw this as a great opportunity of brand placement. A missed opportunity for GEF as I am not aware of a current Mondeo 1.43 ?
Issue 111 needs people power . I am sure around the world subscribers would like a final model , a special. Just on this forum there is demand and I am sure this reflects the general mood of subscribers.
Even if the collection was to cease as planned at 110. GEF have a ready made customer base to launch a complimentary series of models. The james bond car collection II. On this forum there have been a number of great suggestions. I would certainly buy into it and would be willing to pay more than £7.99 for some of the larger models. I think this would have been better than the part build aston.
It's been a few months since we had a serious "I wish the collection had included ...." discussion here, but I think most collectors are now resigned to the fact that the JBCC is all but done & dusted apart from the last 4 issues being released.
Of course, there's still a lot to say in terms of modifications & Code 3, though!
I was also in the group wanting the Mondeo. It's been done in 1:43 by Minichamps, Diecast007 - the commercial releases have been a red and a dark blue, but they may have done other colours for dealership models (I don't keep track of those). The production version differs slightly from the pre-production version used in CR.
Although it's a discussion for another thread, I bought only the first issue of the "Build the GF DB5" alternative and then stopped (too big, too expensive for 1 model).
I will continue to cherry-pick from the "Fighter Collection" and the "Combat Tanks" partworks, buying only some of the WW2 items - perhaps the best way of dealing with partworks, buying only what you really want?
Although I have enjoyed this JBCC partwork a heck of a lot, it has (as others here have already said) put me off collecting an entire partwork again!
BTW, if Rainer Wolfcastle is reading this, I'm still looking forward to reading the next installment of your French Connection series, when you have the time - you were still going to share with us your BMW Z4's if I'm not mistaken?
BTW, if Rainer Wolfcastle is reading this, I'm still looking forward to reading the next installment of your French Connection series, when you have the time - you were still going to share with us your BMW Z4's if I'm not mistaken?
It's been a few months since we had a serious "I wish the collection had included ...." discussion here, but I think most collectors are now resigned to the fact that the JBCC is all but done & dusted apart from the last 4 issues being released.
Of course, there's still a lot to say in terms of modifications & Code 3, though!
I was also in the group wanting the Mondeo. It's been done in 1:43 by Minichamps, Diecast007 - the commercial releases have been a red and a dark blue, but they may have done other colours for dealership models (I don't keep track of those). The production version differs slightly from the pre-production version used in CR.
Although it's a discussion for another thread, I bought only the first issue of the "Build the GF DB5" alternative and then stopped (too big, too expensive for 1 model).
I will continue to cherry-pick from the "Fighter Collection" and the "Combat Tanks" partworks, buying only some of the WW2 items - perhaps the best way of dealing with partworks, buying only what you really want?
Although I have enjoyed this JBCC partwork a heck of a lot, it has (as others here have already said) put me off collecting an entire partwork again!
BTW, if Rainer Wolfcastle is reading this, I'm still looking forward to reading the next installment of your French Connection series, when you have the time - you were still going to share with us your BMW Z4's if I'm not mistaken?
I have subscribed to the DB5 model, so it's one of the reasons why I really look froward to the JBCC to finish. But I admit that if they were to extend this series to 110 models as well then I'd be in trouble! )
BTW, if Rainer Wolfcastle is reading this, I'm still looking forward to reading the next installment of your French Connection series, when you have the time - you were still going to share with us your BMW Z4's if I'm not mistaken?
Hello all, I have a small favour to ask - does anyone have the phone number for the James Bond Car Collection as it's no longer on their website. It seems the last 2 issues have arrived for everyone else, but mine have been lost in the post.
One model that has been missed from the JBCC is the polar blue Ford Mondeo "hire car" that Daniel Craig drove in the Bahamas in Casino Royale. How could nobody have picked this up . This could make issue 111, they were quick to manufacture the Ford Ka model in QOS. Does anyone have any info why the Casino Royale Mondeo wasn't produced.
Exactly, what is interesting is this car featured in the movie some six months before the car was released worldwide. Ford saw this as a great opportunity of brand placement. A missed opportunity for GEF as I am not aware of a current Mondeo 1.43 ?
Issue 111 needs people power . I am sure around the world subscribers would like a final model , a special. Just on this forum there is demand and I am sure this reflects the general mood of subscribers.
Even if the collection was to cease as planned at 110. GEF have a ready made customer base to launch a complimentary series of models. The james bond car collection II. On this forum there have been a number of great suggestions. I would certainly buy into it and would be willing to pay more than £7.99 for some of the larger models. I think this would have been better than the part build aston.
I agree lets start a facebook campaign !!:))
Minichamps make a similar Mondeo in 'Metallic Grey' but obviously costing a lot more than a JBCC version would.
I seem to recollect reading somewhere that the CR Mondeo was the most expensive James Bond vehicle ever created, because it was pre-production and Ford had to mock one up specially for the movie. If true, it probably should have been number one on the JBCC list!
I do wonder on the giant partwork DB5 whether anybody's wondering what they've gotten themselves into yet?
Well I've got the first 11 issues of the DB5 collection and so far I am more satisfied that I have been with JBCC - at least you know when it will end!
Comments
Now they always seem to be driverless, standing on (or even hovering above) a flat, boring base ... aaahh well, the good old days, I suppose!
Cheers,
Rhinoman B-)
I'm not a collector of the Bond series, but we've all been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Country Squire from various UK vendors. The model's merits and otherwise have been debated, and it seems most everyone agrees that it's a keeper! On another board (USA), it seems to have ramped up the interest of the entire collection, though many of the models have been discussed since the series began. And what a cool, funky bunch of vehicles it is.
I came on board today after seeing maz's image of the Econoline (thanks!), a rare piece of collectibility over here. Can't wait for more imges of its breadbox beauty, and I'll have to get it. So far, the AMC Matador is the only other I have (it just came with the Squire), bought because I was in high school in the town when and where they were made, Kenosha, WI, home of AMC. Had to pass on the Hornet, as the rear quarter line and window just don't do it for me.
One member of the US group commented on how Country Squire was an "icon of the era," and he couldn't be more correct. It's agreed that the oversprayed wheel covers and not-too-shiny paint are lamentable, but overlook them compared to the model's cost, even over here. Some are swapping out different wheel/tire combos to remedy the dogdish hubcaps and too-wide-whitewalls, and will touch up the woodgraining.
I love it just the way it is, but plan on getting another to enhance; with its really great IXO casting and overall appealing "look," it's an absolute winner! I couldn't wait to take pictures of it...
Larger, click once after opening to enlarge.
Larger
In the parlance of the Econoline's heyday,
Later,
Tom Gibson (TG)
There's probably something in this. A while back I bought a couple of models off eBay, brand new, still sealed in all of their packaging, including the bag, and assumed all would be fine. When they arrived, one had a mishapen roof and the other had a very bent windscreen post. Both faults were clear to see without opening the packaging so I can only assume the seller was getting his hands on factory seconds that had gone right through the packaging process before being rejected. I think he did live in the north but I don't remember exactly where.
Yea!!! I'm also disappointed by the lack of figures & the boring bases..Still not long till it ends..still prefer the 50s/60s/70s models..not too keen on the AM -{ :007)
To continue an earlier point , The Aston Martin is my ultimate car and I adore everyone of them , in fact I almost own one but in this collection they are the least interesting as they have been covered so often and so well by other manufacturers mainly corgi. The aston martin without a door is such a waste of an issue and I will say it again it looks unfinished not damaged.
The bases are being repeated and I agree not a patch on the earlier issues. The lack of figures just adds to the annoyance of the closing stages of this collection. One or two figures or just a driver would add so much to the mediocre editions.
A wish list to GEF.
1. Please conclude the collection on time with out further delays
2. Please can we have a final model , a special, bringing the collection to a close with a bang , read earlier posts there are plenty of suggestions.
3. Please can you make figures available to add to our driverless cars.
4. Please can we have some binders , big enough to keep all 110 magazines
5. Lastly drop the AM and replace with a decent model
Many thanks
I was being a bit-light hearted.
"Of course IXO do actually have an Anglia amongst their previous production so could easily provide that as a replacement if Fabbri are up to paying for them rather than simply get a new plinth which frankly is what I would do...... "
Same here. I'm hoping (albeit against hope) than the replacement Anglia is Ixo. Unfortunately, due to it being subscribers only, I'm probably going to have to spring quite a bit for it on eBay.
"When I meant samples I meant samples send by IXO ahead of production for QC/ Marketing purposes rather than Fabbri give out samples. I have often wondered if there is a test production of a few models ahead of main production and whether than is the source of many of the far eastern models. BTW on another board a collector with an Impala ebayed from Hong Kong has got misaligned rear lights. QC reject or something we all need to watch for?"
Oh, I understand. As for the other board, trust me, that's a QC reject. There's ALMOST ALWAYS something wrong with the cars you buy off eBay Hong Kong that are not NIB (NIB cars are generally production overrun that would otherwise be destroyed...you can get some great deals on Japanese Ebbro, Kyosho, and Aoshima DISM models as well as Neo Models in perfect and flawless condition if you know where to shop and what to look for). The only exceptions are production overrun that would be thrown away in any case. And seeing as these lack bases and whatnot, I would say with certainty that they're all QC rejects. I've done plenty of business with these guys for East Bloc cars and if you have a ton of feedback and it's 100%, they will be honest with you. If you're not 100% and/or you don't have a ton of feedback, they tend to be a bit less honest. Hint: maintain good email communications with them. Put your absolute best attitude out there, thank 'em in addition to giving them positive feedback with straight five stars...and they open up and tell you *exactly* what's wrong with the model you'll be getting. Never complain about bent axles (and they're usually not even all that bent and be fixed very quickly) or stripped screws. You can almost without exception fix those, anyway. Save it for when you get a truly defective model (and take it up with 'em via email...NOT VIA FEEDBACK...be really polite about it, and be sure to ask for a replacement of the same model), be really nice, and you'll always get something better than what was sent.
"UH used the triangle inset heads for Bond Collection but not sure they have used them elsewhere."
I have a lot of Renault 4's they made where I've converted them to Yugoslav and Romanian exports and, without exception, these have triangular screws. La Route Bleue, which employed Ixo, Norev, and U.H. all had triangular screws, as well. Ixo also still uses triangular screws in certain markets; Cars & Co. Exclusive Ist models and Atlas DDR Trucks are two HUGE examples of that. Oddly, Atlas DDR Auto-Kollektion employs Torx screws! Very common screws in the US, but quite odd for Germany.
"Greetings from the other side of the Pond,
I'm not a collector of the Bond series, but we've all been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Country Squire from various UK vendors. The model's merits and otherwise have been debated, and it seems most everyone agrees that it's a keeper! On another board (USA), it seems to have ramped up the interest of the entire collection, though many of the models have been discussed since the series began. And what a cool, funky bunch of vehicles it is.
I came on board today after seeing maz's image of the Econoline (thanks!), a rare piece of collectibility over here. Can't wait for more imges of its breadbox beauty, and I'll have to get it. So far, the AMC Matador is the only other I have (it just came with the Squire), bought because I was in high school in the town when and where they were made, Kenosha, WI, home of AMC. Had to pass on the Hornet, as the rear quarter line and window just don't do it for me.
One member of the US group commented on how Country Squire was an "icon of the era," and he couldn't be more correct. It's agreed that the oversprayed wheel covers and not-too-shiny paint are lamentable, but overlook them compared to the model's cost, even over here. Some are swapping out different wheel/tire combos to remedy the dogdish hubcaps and too-wide-whitewalls, and will touch up the woodgraining.
I love it just the way it is, but plan on getting another to enhance; with its really great IXO casting and overall appealing "look," it's an absolute winner! I couldn't wait to take pictures of it..."
A KINDRED SOUL!!!! Tom, welcome to these boards by a guy whose grandfather really did have a '64 Country Squire in what he termed "Thunderbird Red" (his color camera wasn't exactly the greatest, so I'm not sure if it was a custom-ordered color, or indeed Rangoon Red). I too believe the '64 Country Squire was an icon of the era (which, in my mind, ended in '65 when they facelifted the Galaxie, and, by virtue, the Country Squire...the '59-'64 Galaxie-based Country Squires are easily my favorites) He also modified his car by removing the rear seat...the kids had moved out with one exception (my uncle) and he just wanted to go hunting and fishing with the car. He also had the optional wheel covers, side mirror, and AM radio. Like you, I want to get another one of these to enhance to at least get something close to what my grandfather had.
I agree about the hubcaps and whitewalls and have a recommendation regarding the latter: use USSR AvtoLegende's ZIS-110 tires. They're too small for the model, anyway and have a much thinner band. With regards to the hubcaps, I know Ixo has a prototype '63 Country Squire in the works with the more common wheel covers. I would imagine that once that is released, you'll be able to just swap out the wheels. Incidentally, there's also the issue of it missing the "FORD" lettering on the tailgate and the lenses for the headlights being JUST a bit too large, but as I said in my initial reaction to the model, you can make a transfer decal for this pretty easily and the headlights aren't really a big deal.
Also, since the dashboard HAS an AM radio (trust me, it's right where it should be on my grandfather's car), will you be adding a wire antenna? I plan on doing so. Also, what side mirror would you recommend attaching? I know you have some good choices put out really cheaply by scrounging one off Yat Ming Road Signature and then painting it, but do you have a better solution? Look forward to hearing from ya!
"Please conclude the collection on time with out further delays"
Well, seeing as Ixo is actually ahead of schedule...I think you'll get your wish here.
"Please can we have a final model , a special, bringing the collection to a close with a bang , read earlier posts there are plenty of suggestions."
The contracts have already been signed by now. I imagine this is completely impossible.
"Please can you make figures available to add to our driverless cars."
This is at least possible. However, buying the older Hong Kong and Chinese QC rejects solely for the figures isn't too hard on the wallet.
"Lastly drop the AM and replace with a decent model"
Already been made and not happening, sorry. I think we should've gone out with an Oddjob-driven Mercedes-Benz 220S or UAZ-469B from GE* with Russian troops firing their AK-74's at Bond's tank while in reverse, but unfortunately, it's just not gonna happen.
*Yes, I am well aware they are called UAZ-3151's on IMCDB. This is wrong, as even if they were produced after 1984, they would be called UAZ-31512's. There is absolutely no difference other than the name and I believe what we saw were UAZ-469B's due to their actual vintage likely being pre-1984, when the naming conventions changed. Same with the nice model of a ZIL-4104 bearing ZIL-115 badges in USSR AvtoLegende. The issues with that model, I would say, are the turn signals being a tad oversized. Nobody complained about the badges, though. It's the same car.
The Country Squire fitted with the wheels from the GF Thunderbird looked good. It will be interesting to see a complete repaint, though - I'm sure some of those guys are planning to do one as the movie car's colour was apparently not a popular choice in reality.
Maz: I have an IXO screwdriver but I've found that it's a bit too large for the triangular screws used by UH for these models. I've been managing with flathead screwdrivers so far but I intend to get a spare IXO screwdriver ground down to JBCC size at some point.
On the subject of the dioramas, I think my favourite to date is the one that came with the OP Alfa GTV6, as already mentioned by rhinoman above. It's just such a neat little scene that I bought an extra two from the newsagent for displaying some of my other non-JBCC models. I also bought additionals of the TB Mustang & the CR Jaguar for the same purpose, although those are much plainer bases.
True.
The cheapest donor is probably going to be the Toyota Crown (#56 - 4 figures). The Taunus (#75) also has 4 figures but I doubt that can now be had cheaply.
The Peugeot 504 (#83) has 3 figures, is definitely still available cheaply, so that's also a good donor.
Fitted with wheels from the GF T-Bird? I wonder how that would turn out. But you've given me a good inspiration, which I think I might try. As for a complete repaint, the two colors that really sold were creme/off-white and dark brown. Dark blue was also a good seller. But you're correct about Rangoon Red...it was a poor seller because, for its target market, it was considered too "loud." As my uncle reminded me, my grandfather's car was a custom order that was somehow cancelled, but it wasn't necessarily custom-painted. But the paint was apparently the reason why it was sitting on the lot with the price marked down in early 1965. I'd love to see one of these painted in that creme/off-white color (I can't recall what Ford called it) you saw most of them in.
Thanks very much!!! Looks like a real beauty!!!
Country Squires weren't really popular with hippies, despite the fact that you could fit a 427 cubic inch, 450+ HP engine under the hood. They were seen as cars of the older generation, apparently. Hippies generally rode around in VW buses, had VW beetles, hot rods, chopped-up pony cars, and the rich ones had chopped-up muscle cars.
The contracts have already been signed by now. I imagine this is completely impossible.
Nothing is impossible. The demand is there !
Oh, I get you! I'd recommend that creme/off-white color, then, because I do believe that throughout the Country Squire's connection with the Galaxie, that was the best selling color and probably most representative of the design.
"Nothing is impossible. The demand is there !"
The demand may be there, but the supply isn't, unless you want to tweak an already existing mould (which you individually really don't sound like you want to do...I guess I could see Ixo doing this with the UAZ-469B since they've made NINE variants of it, thus far, but very little beyond that...but of course, it wouldn't come with any figures, and I doubt it would be altered much if at all from the nine other ones out there).
It has been picked up. Go back a number of pages.
"This could make issue 111"
If they were going to make 111 issues in the first place...which they, for better or worse, will not.
"Does anyone have any info why the Casino Royale Mondeo wasn't produced."
Nope. Just like we have no info on why the Mercedes-Benz 220S (GF), UAZ-469B (GE), Lada Niva (TWINE), VAZ-2106 (GE), Mercedes-Benz 450SEL (FYEO), 1986 Dodge Ram (LTK), 1987 Lincoln Mk. VII LSC (LTK), Wales & Edwards Rangemaster Milk Float (TLD), etc., etc. were not made...
Exactly, what is interesting is this car featured in the movie some six months before the car was released worldwide. Ford saw this as a great opportunity of brand placement. A missed opportunity for GEF as I am not aware of a current Mondeo 1.43 ?
Issue 111 needs people power . I am sure around the world subscribers would like a final model , a special. Just on this forum there is demand and I am sure this reflects the general mood of subscribers.
Even if the collection was to cease as planned at 110. GEF have a ready made customer base to launch a complimentary series of models. The james bond car collection II. On this forum there have been a number of great suggestions. I would certainly buy into it and would be willing to pay more than £7.99 for some of the larger models. I think this would have been better than the part build aston.
I agree lets start a facebook campaign !!:))
Th
Of course, there's still a lot to say in terms of modifications & Code 3, though!
I was also in the group wanting the Mondeo. It's been done in 1:43 by Minichamps, Diecast007 - the commercial releases have been a red and a dark blue, but they may have done other colours for dealership models (I don't keep track of those). The production version differs slightly from the pre-production version used in CR.
Although it's a discussion for another thread, I bought only the first issue of the "Build the GF DB5" alternative and then stopped (too big, too expensive for 1 model).
I will continue to cherry-pick from the "Fighter Collection" and the "Combat Tanks" partworks, buying only some of the WW2 items - perhaps the best way of dealing with partworks, buying only what you really want?
Although I have enjoyed this JBCC partwork a heck of a lot, it has (as others here have already said) put me off collecting an entire partwork again!
BTW, if Rainer Wolfcastle is reading this, I'm still looking forward to reading the next installment of your French Connection series, when you have the time - you were still going to share with us your BMW Z4's if I'm not mistaken?
You ARE wrong. They're BMW Z8's...
I have subscribed to the DB5 model, so it's one of the reasons why I really look froward to the JBCC to finish. But I admit that if they were to extend this series to 110 models as well then I'd be in trouble!
Hello all, I have a small favour to ask - does anyone have the phone number for the James Bond Car Collection as it's no longer on their website. It seems the last 2 issues have arrived for everyone else, but mine have been lost in the post.
Many thanks in advance!
Minichamps make a similar Mondeo in 'Metallic Grey' but obviously costing a lot more than a JBCC version would.
I seem to recollect reading somewhere that the CR Mondeo was the most expensive James Bond vehicle ever created, because it was pre-production and Ford had to mock one up specially for the movie. If true, it probably should have been number one on the JBCC list!
I do wonder on the giant partwork DB5 whether anybody's wondering what they've gotten themselves into yet?