Guide to Die-cast Airplane Model Collecting

Die-cast models of historical and modern military aircraft make a wonderful and thoughtful gift for military and aviation officers as well as aviation enthusiasts. For airplane model collectors, these models add a vintage and professional touch to their collection. Aviation enthusiasts around the world like to collect commercial aircraft models from all eras and periods that highlight fascinating moments of history.

You probably have seen die-cast models as kids’ toys, but there’s a different perspective to it; the die cast airplane models serve as an innovative art piece showcasing the features of the original masterpieces. They not only hold historical importance, but it also shows how the aviation system has transformed over the years. 

Things to consider before buying die-cast airplane models

Suppose you love collecting aviation items but don’t know how to look for that one fantastic piece. Here is your cue! We will show you how to get started with die-cast models and what should be considered while building your collection. Mentioned below are some of the points that must be considered before buying a high quality die-cast airplane model:

Model Plane Materials

While shopping for a model plane, it is essential to look at the item’s material. Some aircraft models are made of high-quality or solid-grade wood, while others are made of lower-grade wood and simply given a glossy or shiny surface to make it look authentic. The mahogany hand-crafted wood material requires very low maintenance, as you can wipe it with a damp cloth. To enhance the shine, you can use a little bit of turtle wax (if the manufacturer has also suggested it).

Some models have only frames made of wood and finished with manually assembled joints and hinges; they primarily reflect 20th-century prototypes. These models also have hand-painted caricatures on different parts of the plane; you must only use a dry cloth to clean such vintage pieces.

Plastic aircraft models are the most common model planes and require little to no maintenance. They carry a lot of details depicting their original form. These models are usually stored in a dedicated display area to showcase their beauty, but plastic is plastic and feels industrial compared to wood models.

Consider Your Space to Display the Model Aircraft

You need to consider where to display the model aircraft before even purchasing it. It will allow you to buy a model plane of the correct size. In this regard, here are some ideas that you can use to display your high-quality die-cast airplane models: 

  • Shelf: Collectibles are always usually on open shelves where they are accessible and can be cleaned easily
  • Box: For record-keeping purposes, you can keep your die-cast aircraft models in big boxes for safekeeping and use them whenever they are needed.
  • Display in original box: Some collectors don’t like to throw the boxes of the limited-edition collection items. They prefer displaying these models in their original boxes, which becomes a rare piece as the time progress. 
  • Wall mounting: In case you are short of space, you can use a wall mounting to display your pieces in an organized form, which also saves some shelf space.

Price

Some replicas or limited-edition pieces are costly and require a fortune, so if you are on a tighter budget, then it is safe to go for mass-produced replicas. These are generally cheaper due to their availability, or you can swap with your fellow collectors who are willing to give away some pieces from their collection for some of your die-cast aircraft models. 

Sizing and Scaling 

Die-cast model aircrafts come in different scales. They’re generally grouped from 1:200 to 1:400. The number on the left-hand side represents the size of the original object, which is mostly 1, meaning full size. 

The number after the colon reflects the die-cast model’s size with respect to the original size. For example, if the model is 1:200 scale, the model would be a replica of the original model, but 200 times smaller. If the model scale is 1:24, the model would be 24 times smaller than the original object. The commonly used scales are 1:400, 1:200, 1:48 and 1:72.

Aircraft Model

Knowing about the brands making a model is important. If you are more of an authentic collector looking for the exact-scale replicas, then the below-mentioned brands offer some of the best options.

GeminiJets is a brand specializing in 1:400 and 1:200 scales. It is a well-established brand offering top-quality models. Their items go on sale for around $35 for narrower bodies and $50 for wider bodies.

Phoenix Models specialize in designing and manufacturing almost-Ready-To-Fly model aircrafts (remote controlled planes). They offer exact scale looks, focusing on 1:400 and 1:200 models.

JC Wings is the most famous metal die-cast brand, offering detailed, ready-made die-cast models of civilian and military aircraft. Their models sell at prices similar to GeminiJets, making them a very close competitor.

Inflight 200 is known for manufacturing 1:200 scale model aircrafts and come up with frequent releases.

Aeroclassics specializes in nostalgic prop liners and jetliners. They have a vast collection of 1:400 and 1:200 scale models. It is a more expensive brand than others, but quality does come at a premium.

Condition vs. Price

The model aircraft’s condition affects its price. If you buy it online or swap it with an airplane model collector, some points have to be considered including:

  1. Factory-condition: They are unused items distributed directly from the factory; hence sold at the retail price.
  2. Second-hand items: They are pre-loved models that are wholly or slightly used and sold at reduced rates.
  3. Mint on mint: These collectibles are still in manufacturing packaging and in like-new condition.
  4. Mint in Box: The die-cast airplane model is kept inside its original box. 
  5. Mint condition: The model might have been used or old, but is still in perfect condition.

Conclusion

Aside from collecting anime cards and action figures, collecting die-cast aircraft models is also a rewarding hobby. You can start by collecting the most commonly manufactured die-cast models instead of opting for the rare ones. If buying a new is not under your budget, swapping one with someone is always an option and there are plenty of online platforms that help you do that.