Here’s a novel way to get your classic car kicks during this period of isolation and social distancing: diecast model cars.
While my personal collection is comprised of fairly common kids’ models by Dinky, Corgi, Lesney, Tootsietoy and Hubley, I’m learning there’s an extensive realm of high-end meticulously crafted models for adults that are definitely worthy of a concours display. One such model is the 1935 Audi owned by Koenraad Van Dorpe (above).
Andy Reid, an automotive journalist and classic car expert, spearheaded this series of online car shows staged exclusively on a Facebook page.
The following is an excerpt from a post by Bob Golfen in the ClassicCars.com Journal:
The inaugural Isolation Island Concours d’ Elegance starts today
In light of all the pandemic-related cancellations and closures of car events, ClassicCars.com Journal’s East Coast editor Andy Reid has gathered together top car collectors, enthusiasts and concours judges to create something brand new: The Isolation Island Concours d’Elegance.
No social distancing will be necessary on the show field and the whole world is eligible to participate in a concours of diecast model cars on Facebook!
“In this time of no events in the car hobby, we thought it would be fun to hold a classic car event virtually, where collectors from around the world can submit a car,” according to Reid. “These are not cars you trailer to a show but diecast models of cars….
The Isolation Island Concours will be held every two weeks continuously, with entry deadlines on Thursdays and awards presented the following week on Friday. New and updated class lists will be posted for each bi-weekly concours…
“We want to limit it to a single-car submission per person to make it fair to all. In addition, do not submit the same make, model and color car that someone else has already submitted – the first submission of a make, model and color will be the car judged.”…
There is also a set price limit of no more than $350 dollar cost for each diecast car taking part in this inaugural concours…
On a personal note, here’s a related excerpt from my recent newsletter:
“Upon learning of the diecast contest, I visited my own collection to see if there was anything concours-worthy. If there’s ever a competition car preservation class, perhaps my Monte Carlo Rally Mini Cooper and MG TF race car might be eligible. Here’s our cat on the floor giving the Mini a once-over.”
