Motivation
We have been interested in model cars since we were children. As a child, we started with Matchbox, Siku and Wiking models and began to collect them. Over time, the collection grew bigger and bigger. In the eighties, 1:18 models were added, initially from Bburago and later from many other manufacturers. From a collector's point of view, the Bburago Ferrari F40 was the first choice at the time. New in the shops, the model cost just over DM 30. According to „Auto Motor und Sport“, it was traded for up to DM 800.
I remember a scene where I was lucky enough to find three of the now hard-to-find models at a dealer. I wanted to buy all three. However, there was someone in the checkout line with me whose salvation depended on owning the F40. So I let him have one of the models.
I generously gave another one to my brother and the third is still on my shelf.
The F40 is a good example of an increase in the value of model cars. Recently, we have observed this phenomenon particularly with models from CMC. These models are particularly detailed and impress with their prototypical materials. Chrome doesn't just look like chrome, it is chrome.
When analysing market data from online auctions, we determined from actual sales prices that these models have risen significantly in value, similar to chronographs. This prompted us to found modelcars24 and not only to record the value of these fantastic models, but also to trade in them. CMC model cars are a nice addition to chronographs. They delight the owner and also have significant potential to increase in value.
Valuation and model assessment
The valuation is free of charge for registered users. The basis for this are real sales prices of model cars on auction platforms such as Ebay or Catawiki. We also regularly monitor auction results. Around 1200 sales are analysed each quarter. We also analyse sales prices in our own system.
Of particular interest to us is the performance of the models. CMC was kind enough to provide us with various data on the models, which we use for our market review:
- Debut year
- Debut prize
- Limitation
We calculate on the basis of this data:
- Performance since debut in per cent and in absolute terms
- The performance over the last 12 months, also as a percentage and in absolute terms.
We compare this data in our model evaluation. A ++ rating is given to models whose value has risen more strongly in the last 12 months than in previous years. A + rating is given to models that have had a positive performance in the last 12 months. Models whose value has remained more or less the same over the last 12 months are labelled with an o.
The value does not always increase, but the enjoyment of the model remains. Nevertheless, models whose value has fallen are given a valuation - or, if the price has fallen very sharply, a higher valuation than in the previous period. Sometimes the tide turns again, or models that were not expected to do so rise sharply in value. Our value index, which is updated four times a year, provides more information on this.
Models that are still available new from the manufacturer are a special case. As a rule, these are offered more favourably in private sales than in dealerships. Therefore, models that are still available should be valued slightly differently to rarities. Here, a positive valuation already exists if the value of the model has fallen by less than 10 per cent or the model has already been on the market for a long time. An increase in value can then be expected, especially for limited edition models.
Tested models
The seller was obviously not careful enough when packing the model and had crushed both attachments when closing the packaging.
In both cases, I was very disappointed. Fortunately, I was able to return the models and get my money refunded. However, it would have been nicer if the models had been intact, especially if they were intended as a gift for someone else, for example.
Unfortunately, some models also show signs of ageing or fluctuating quality. One problem is defective spoke rims. The rim blooms and oxidises. This can be improved with a little metal polish, but it won't look really nice. Then there is the blooming of the bodywork on early models, the so-called „zinc plague“, which can lead to the bodywork disintegrating over time. Unfortunately, there are also cracked windscreens, e.g. on the Maserati 250 F1.
For the „Mint and Boxed“ model, you also need to know exactly which accessories are included with the model. For example, the Lancia D50 comes with a compressed air starter. Or the Bugatti t35 has small wooden trestles as accessories in the package. Then there are also tweezers, screwdrivers or tools for opening bonnets. A good knowledge of the model programme is required to keep track of all this.
Condition grades
We assess not only the car model itself, but also the packaging. We have defined the following condition grades for models:
Condition grades for models:
1-brand new
Condition rating 1 stands for brand new models. They have only been removed from the packaging for inspection and have no defects. They are brand new.
2-new
Condition grade 2 stands for models in mint condition. They have already been removed from their packaging and displayed in showcases, for example. The models are flawless and dust-free.
3-used
Condition grade 3 stands for used models. Used models have been openly exhibited, for example. They may have dirt - dust - or factory defects, e.g. paint defects.
4-used
The condition grade 4 stands for used models. Parts may be missing from used models, e.g. fasteners or mirrors.
5-defect
Condition grade 5 stands for defective models. These models have visible damage or functional impairments, such as broken axles or hinges.
We also assess packaging. The following grades apply here:
Condition grades for packaging:
1-brand new
Condition rating 1 stands for brand new boxes, unopened and therefore with all accessories
2-new
Condition rating 2 stands for boxes in mint condition. They have already been opened, are undamaged and include all accessories and documents.
3-used
The condition grade 3 stands for used boxes. These may show minor signs of storage, such as abrasions or cracks, but are still presentable. The accessories are complete.
4-used
Condition rating 4 stands for used boxes. These show signs of storage, such as abrasions or cracks. The accessories may have missing parts.
5-defect
Condition grade 5 is given to boxes that are incomplete. For example, the cardboard sleeve is missing or a polystyrene moulded part is not present. The accessories are also incomplete
The accessories for CMC models vary. The models are usually supplied with:
- Cleaning cloth
- Certificate
- Booklet
delivered. Other model-specific tools are
- Tweezers
- Tools for opening bonnets
- Screwdriver
- Tools for removing wheels
There are also other model-specific accessories, such as compressed air starters or wooden trestles.
Commission sales vs direct sales
In addition to selling your model directly to us, we also offer commission sales. With direct sales, you receive your money directly from us. With commission sales, we offer your model on our behalf. You receive the proceeds after the model has been sold. For this we charge a fee of 15 % of the selling price, min. 30 €.
Direct sales process
- Your enquiry
Please use our enquiry form to provide us with the key data for your model. - Our offer
Our experts determine the value and we send you our offer. - Completion of purchase
If you like our offer, sell your model to us. - Payment
Once we have received and checked your model, we will transfer the purchase price to your account
Commission sale procedure
- Your enquiry
Use our commission form to provide us with the key data for your model and the desired revenue. - Our expertise
Our experts will advise you on the sale and discuss the sales process with you. - Posting and listing
You send us your model. We create images and list the model in our system. - Payment
After your model has been sold, we will transfer the sales price minus 15% fees to your account.
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