More information about the library
More information about the library
Why collate this data?
As a collector of individual models, rather than a 'full collection subscriber', and with an ever growing collection, I have found it useful, if not imperative, to have as much data available to me to ensure I do not 'double-up' on any specific model. So deep in the hard discs of my network I have spreadsheets and documents I used to verify model data, collection quirks and manufacturers, however this was becoming as much of a hindrance to refer to than it was a benefit, so the natural replacement, or upgrade was adding the data to the site.
So why have it at all? Simply because of human error, Ebay and storefront listings are only as good as the information available to the seller, and sometimes that is either sparce, or unintentionally wrong.
This section of the site had to be created first, before adding the collection, simply so I can tag and properly identify each model to the collection it belongs to, and also to correct any existing errors I had in my own data, (which has been a lot!) As the process has progressed, I have also found there are a LOT of models out there that I want... no NEED.. you know, you get it too 😍
Can I expect this section to be expanded?
However much that I would love to be in a position to update and maintain the biggest and greatest compilation of diecast collections, I have to be realistic,
1- I am a collector, not involved with the trade of the diecast model industry or magazine publishing industry, so insider knowledge is beyond my reach. To be honest I would prefer spending my time collecting rather than researching, and given some of the reference sites I rely on, the level of expertise out there I can only aspire to & their dedication. For example, if you, like me, have spent any time researching online in the UK you'll know of the legend that is Andrew Wood of https://little-wheels.net , (now retired), who has metaphorically written the book on the subject, his level of meticulous cataloguing with multiple photos is on another level! Check out the Little Wheels museum if you haven't visited before,
(the museum site now has an expired security certificate, but if you click 'advanced' on the security warning, then 'visit site', you'll be granted access: https://chezbois.com )
There is a couple of amazing notable blogs across the globe whos' content you will see throughout the library. I have added links to them, and more, in the 'Data & Reference sites' section at the foot of the main library page to enjoy at your own pace, but be warned... you'll lose hours on them!
2- I have other projects that take quite a bit of my time, and coupled with my 'care' duties, time becomes precious.
With that said it doesn't stop me adding as many of the most interesting, informative & important indexing sites as I can for you to browse all listed in the library, and I'd like to keep as much interesting information added here as I can, it keeps the mind active, and helps me keep my own collection correctly catalogued, so do stay tuned.
Why are they split between Altaya, Atlas etc?
Before I even started this process of cataloguing my own collection, I was confused at all the branding, but knew that the models weren't produced by the publishing house. This lead me down several internet rabbit holes, which I still can't give a root & branch for. All I can conclude is that, likely due to regional licencing, and branded popularity, some collections were released as Altaya in one region and Atlas in another. Poland and the former Eastern European countries confuse things further for geopolitical reasons, all of this combined with publishing houses ceasing trading, and/or phoenixing later, I actually gave up trying to understand.
So I'll answer before you ask, why did I continue with the branded sections.. the information at hand was easier to present in the format I researched it, that's it really.
However, I have discovered, again because of regional variances, there are an absolute ton of models I cannot add to collections, simply because I cannot find which region they were launched in. These generally are the models we are buying on Ebay UK, Amazon, or even distance buying across borders, and regardless of their origins, are welcome additions to our collections
If you can supply me with the full lists for any of the undocumented, I'd happily add them, however I suspect that is likely to become a full time job in it's own right!
Why have obsolete publish houses listed?
Anyone who has tried to find data written, or stored about a collection at the time of it's release, will know that branding chopped & changed as companies bought each other, or simply ceased trading, so I personally found that having the collections listed 'as they were at time of publication' helps to separate the reissues from the original launch, (let's gloss over the Simca collecton 😆 ).
For example: there was a Deagostini collection of American muscle cars, this collection has recently, (2025/26), reappeared and rebranded as the American Car Collection,. This helps me know which model I have, and to identify what the collection differences were, as often they were more than just sequence of releases.
Why have you only listed some collections, there are larger or more poular ones you've missed?
There is every chance there is obvious ommissions, however these were collated in my efforts to identify the origins of my own personal collection, and identify future potential additions.
The only collections I really wanted listing but cannot actually pin down is the 'Champion Rally Cars' collection and one of the earlier Altaya 'Rally Monte Carlo' collections, mainly because I have no direct access to my own models at present, (yes I have that much out on display right now), & the fact that I have not found a reliable source yet. As soon as I do I will add them
If you feel the collectors could do with the addition of a glaring ommissions, get in touch, and I get on to researching, better still if you have the data and photos, let me host your data and I'll get you credited!
Disclaimer
The content of this section of the site has been collated from multiple websites, blogs and storefronts, across multiple regions and continents, and where neccesary or to fill in blanks, the use of Google AI and/or Microsoft Co-Pilot. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the details and associated photographic material is as accurate as is possible, there absolutely will be errors or incorrect information.
One of the issues I have encountered in my research of the data, is that even within a single region or country, multiple editions may have been issues by the then publisher, making cataloging everything virtually impossible.
I'd be obliged if you you would like to share any additional information that may be useful to other collectors, and I will, of course cite and give credit
Acknowledegments
In this section of the site, quite simply because I do not have all the models to photograph, I have recycled the original owners pictures and databases, but have openly stated where this data has come from and links back to them, so any rights of ownership of the data/images belongs exclusively to them. I have no express interest of making monetary gain from their material, & in that acknowledgement, if any of these owners do have any issue with the hosting of these details and photographic material, please reach out and I will remove as necessary.
In that mindset, may I ask the browser of this site, please take a moment to visit these original websites, blogs & storefronts and support the original owners.
#sharethepassionofdiecast