At the end of 2017 we will look back on the 1/64 releases that created the most buzz. There are already many models that I can predict will be there, some that have already been released, and I am sure many to come.
We will see Gassers, some JDM (for sure), maybe a Porsche or two, something muscle, and of course the Nissan Atlas F24 Safety Loader.
Wait what!?! I didn’t see the word Skyline, or Gasser, or Porsche, or Mercedes, or anything like that. A car transporter? One of the hottest models of the year?
Yep. By a mile. Last month Tomica Limited Vintage released its 1/64 replica of the Nissan Atlas, and based on how quickly it sold out in Japan, and the prices it is commanding on the secondary market, it is easily one of the most sought after models in 2017.
And it should be. The model is fantastic. For one, it has TLV’s standard of excellence when it comes to attention to detail. Top to bottom, side to side, front to back, every detail that can be added on a 1/64 scale truck is there.
Second, its moving parts. The bed slides back and forth, and tips to the ground to allow for its payload to drive up.
Simple, but as realistic as 1/64 can get. And considering that bed can carry any 1/64 scale model, replicating a common sight at car shows, races, and other events, you can start to see why this model is in such high demand.
So I had to play. But considering my office has been in shambles the last few weeks, I grabbed a few of my favorite TLV models (that I could get to) did a little 1/64 transporting. I started with a personal fave, this blue 1974 Nissan Cedric, and then went from there. Up and down, down and up.
Yes, the Loader is on my fave list, in all its mundane, functional glory.
(If you are interested, this is one on Japan Booster right now.)
That's one baaad tow-truck driver who keeps loading the cars forward of the bump stop, and one baaad article author who doesn't know the difference between site and sight. It's a common sight at Lamley shows.
Well at least you read the article. Thanks for pointing out the typo, and I apologize that I used the bump stop to prop up the cars.
A very educated response to a very hateful commenter. Respect. Great pictures as always!
Nice model. Just looked on a popular online auction site – they are going for serious money.
For those with smaller wallets both Siku and Cararama made/made Mercedes sliding bed trucks.
Tomica make one in their normal range – but it won't hold 1/64 scale cars. Looks ok with some of the Oxford diecast range onboard.
Chris
We will see Gassers, (..) Porsche (…)
Wait what!?! I didn't see the word (…) Gasser, or Porsche
I´m a fan hahaha.
Keep up the good work! I blame you because of how my hw collection is growing after following your blog…
If i had to guess, the next big hype tomica is going to produce for this series is the EK9 Honda Civic Type R.
The last civic they made (EF Hatch) is very popular and going for high prices. So there's no doubt in my mind that the new one is going to be just as popular, especially since it's the Type R trim.
For now, they've only shown a Pre-production prototype at some toy fairs, pictures of it have been circulating. But there's no specific release date yet.
P.S. You mentioned a while ago in your 2017 Nismo GT-R article that you'd be talking about a 3rd colour variant for it. This metallic-gray variant was an exclusive pre-order in the Takara Tomy mall, but the pre-order period ended last week. I got mine though. I'll be awaiting it's arrival in my display case 🙂
How did you figure out the shipping on the Silver GT-R? Takara Tomy Mall says they only ship within Japan. I would really like to order the set of three from them. Thanks.
Which GT-R?
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That's one bad commenter that doesn't know there's only one “a” in the word “bad”.
John, I've never met you but your response to LlikeCars32L was very tasteful and respectful despite his lack of the same, good on you! LlikeCars32L, shame on you for pointing out the innocent foibles of a fellow enthusiast in the way that you did, it was absolutely unnecessary and unappreciative of the time that Lamley spends showcasing his love for our mutual hobby with the rest of the world. If you don't have anything good to say, stay quiet. Or leave the website. Or better yet, just say 'thank you' to someone who has provided many with delightful weekly content that adds to our hobby. Stop 'raging against the machine' and find more constructive ways to add to our hobby, not shaming those who have a sincere approach to sharing the joy of collecting. Lamley, thank you for the wonderful pics and articles, please keep it up!
Yes, I just got a Siku 2712 Mercedes ADAC Rollback truck, it is really nice and much cheaper than this!
Haha, sure mate. I'll bet the guy who regularly peppers his articles with cuss words was cut deep by having a typo pointed out and a note made of his lacklustre photo staging.
Considering Tomica is such a niche brand, you sure give it plenty of coverage on your blog. Do bloggers even care about their readers or are they just happy to publish to thin air?