Tell us what this hobby means to you? 13 questions answered by you, Ruslan Abrazhevich from Minsk.

We’re always looking for more collectors to feature on DiecastSociety.com Diecast Collector Of The Month (DCOTM). Click HERE for all the details! ** Remember, for your efforts all winning candidates will be mailed a pair of www.DiecastSociety.com decals! **

 

1) What first got you collecting diecast? How long have you been collecting? What is your total model count as of today?

When I was kid I liked collect small car models with opening parts, they was mostly toys, not serious models. When I bought new apartments I had many glass shelves in hall and I got idea how to fill these shelves…   I started collection with budget models like Bburago, Maisto and Motormax. I had about 100 models when decided reorder and improve collection. I sold all models completely, improved showcases (added lighting, glass door and more shelves) and start collecting premium and high-end models: AUTOart, BBR, CMC, Exoto, HWE, etc.  At now I am collecting 4 years (both stages – budget and current). I have 154 models.

2) What was your first diecast or memory?

Were 2 models: Alfa Romeo 2300 Spider and Dodge Viper GTS both from Bburago.

3) What is your favourite scale, and why?

I am collecting only 1/18. There is good selection for this scale and price is reasonable. Also functionality of models and detal is very good.

4) What are some of your favourite models to date? Did you share any photos with us?

Ferrari Enzo by BBR, Bugatti 57 SC Atlantic by CMC, Mazda 787B by AUTOart, Alfa Romeo 33 TT by AUTOart, Formula 1 Tyrrell P34 by TSM, Ferrari 312 PB by GMP.  Yes, I have already thread on forum with my collection: https://diecastsociety.com//forums/viewtopic.php?f=28&t=4174

5) Is there a model that has eluded you, a holy grail of sorts?

Yes, Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren by CMC.

6) What is your favourite brand/manufacturer, and why?

AUTOart because of good selection, quality, and detail.  CMC too because of incredible detail. 

7) Describe your current theme and what your overall goal is?

I am collecting performance cars: Supercars, Sport Cars, American Muscle, and Racing Cars.

8) Do you display your collection? If yes, how?

Yes, I have showcases in hall of my flat. This is the best place for models because no sunlight always cool.

9) Do you have any other hobbies, passions or addictions?

Watching motorsports on TV and in person… and Rock & Roll music.

10) What do you think about the diecast hobby as it stands today?

This is too expensive hobby and every time companies increase prices for new model, it is sad.  And also something strange happening in diecast…  Hot Wheels and CMC lost Ferrari license,  AUTOart try to move from metal to composite models, more and more brands producing sealed resin models and no new diecast brands.  I am worry about future…

11) If you could change one thing about the diecast hobby what would that be?

Re-release of old models that now very rare and have too big prices :)

12) Do you modify cars? If yes, what are some examples?

No, tried one time but not successful :)  My hands aren’t for this.

13) What is your 1:1 daily driver?

Bicycle…  Custom Cannondale.