The upcoming 2017 Matchbox Tuk-Tuk may be the best generic model in years…

You say “Matchbox Generic”, or as the Matchbox Team likes to call it, “Matchbox Original”, and I think of two things.

One, I think that I will always like the licensed models better, but that goes without saying.  I collect for the replicas of the real cars.  But my second thought is always this: Give me an original based on a real vehicle, with realistic details, and I can totally get behind that.

With that, when I think of good Matchbox Originals, I always think of two of my favorites – the Hazard Squad and the Scraper.  I have shown both here recently, and they are both fantastic replicas of real vehicles.  Sure there is no manufacturer name on either, but I for one don’t look for that when I see an actual scraper or hazmat vehicle.  I don’t collect a lot of unlicensed models, but those are two I do.

Well, I need to make sure to create space for a new addition to the generic collection, because the upcoming Tuk-Tuk is a no-brainer.

Seriously, how cool is this model, and why has no one tried to do one before?  Matchbox is going with Tuk Tuk, the name used in Thailand for this kind of three-wheeler, but you see these transporters all over the world.

Sure, this type would be difficult to design, but kudos to Matchbox for doing it, especially considering their factory is in Thailand.  A very cool shout-out to the factory workers to say the least.

And while this 3D Print version could see more modifications, it is off to a fantastic start.  Details are built into the body, and knowing that the majority of the body will be diecast metal, it should look pretty accurate.  Sure, an average Tuk-Tuk is covered in all kinds of colors, and that won’t be able to be duplicated perfectly, but my guess is it will look great.  Maybe a Best of World issue is in order?  I would not complain.

So, with all due respect to the 6×6 and the 510, I might call the Tuk-Tuk my most anticipated new model.  It is definitely the most interesting in a 2017 lineup that is full of interesting entries…

12 Replies to “The upcoming 2017 Matchbox Tuk-Tuk may be the best generic model in years…”

  1. I'm actually looking forward to finding this one as well! I can safely say I don't have any tuk-tuks in my collection, probably because no one else has made one! It's actually pretty cool generic and is a great representation of a real-life vehicle used around the world, as oppose to just a lifted piece of crap truck or construction vehicle that has worn its welcome from the generic side of the brand!

  2. Hmmmm, very interesting, to say the least.

    Admittedly, I'm still on the fence about it, but it is more charming than the majority of the other MB generics- oh, I mean, “originals”.

    It's cute, I will give it that!

  3. Wow! I can't remember the last time I read such overwhelmingly positive comments about a generic Matchbox. As a Matchbox fan living in Thailand it goes without saying that I'm super excited about getting my hands on this particular model. Hopefully, we will get lots of recolors!

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