CORGI

#422 Bedford Van

CODE 3 (model maker: ishimar)

What is Code 3? (Explanation) : Code 3 models are any models that have been modified, restored, repainted, or in any way upgraded by very talented model makers. In the case of vintage Dinkys, Corgis, and similar toys, the manufacturer ownership has long passed, so the models are made without any authorization. The process usually begins with stripping the original paint down to bare metal. The model is then sprayed with primer and repainted, sometimes in an original manufacturer colour to provide a perfect recreation of the original, free of flaws. Other times the model is painted a different colour than original, a re-imagining by the artist. Different wheels may be added or, in extreme cases, entirely new models are created, borrowing components from various models to make an entirely unique toy, one that the model maker thinks the manufacturer "should" have made. Without exception, the beauty of each piece is its uniqueness, unlike any other, a one of one creation by extremely talented artisans. One has to only attempt the process of drilling out rivets, stripping paint, spraying new paint, avoiding dust and fingerprints, and reassembling, to appreciate the hours of labour involved in every piece. Handwork at its best, providing the new owner something truly special, truly unique. 

The quality of the restoration varies from model to model, modeler to modeler, toys varying from basic to exceptional. At the lower end of the scale, there may be a bent axle or warped baseplate, a split or flat tire, a hazed window insert or bent windscreen. At the high end, the paint finish is beautiful, far better than factory, every component in place. It is still important to understand that these are toys that are over 60 years old, none of them perfect, each with their own unique personality. I will try to point out the specific flaws in each toy.

(In each case, I will credit the model maker by referencing their eBay ID. Some have passed on, others have retired, a few continue to sell their beautiful recreations on eBay.)

IT IS ESSENTIAL TO UNDERSTAND THAT THESE ARE NOT ORIGINAL TOYS; THEY ARE MODIFIED VERSIONS OF VINTAGE TOYS

The Good (Description) : This Corgi Bedford has been redone in blue with black roof. The model includes a reproduction box that, as the original seller noted, is "there to keep the dust off". One of the great attractions of these models for me were the colorful and fun descriptions by the original modeler. Mike's description is as follows:

The Bad (Flaws) : This is not an original model. It has been disassembled, stripped of original paint, primered and re-sprayed. There are minor imperfections and pin prick paint loss, but the model displays nicely.

The Ugly (Managing Expectations) : These are TOYS, not models, made in the 50's and 60's. They weren't perfect then, and are less so now. They have been disassembled and re-painted to provide a "like new" reproduction of the original, but compared to modern Made in China products, they are crude; they reflect back to a simpler time and their very imperfections are essential to their character. These are toys collected over the last 10-12 years, all re-imagined by artisan model makers. While all have lost their original packaging, I will provide a bespoke box for safe travel and storage.

The Fine Print (What You Need to Know) :

1. This is not a business. This is me passing the fruits of a lifetime of collecting to the next generation. This is supposed to be fun. For you and for me. I want to be your favorite seller and will do everything to achieve that end. 

2. I take great pride in doing things as well as I can. In my descriptions, in my photographs, in my packing, in my response, and in my integrity. If you see a mistake or an omission or a flaw that I didn't see, please let me know! I shoot for perfection, but I'm far from perfect ;)

3. I think that my prices are fair and I'm not much of a wheeler-dealer. Bargaining is stressful for me and pretty much takes all the fun out of doing this, so please honor the prices. If I'm way out of line or you think I've misrepresented something, please let me know, otherwise let's not wrestle for $5.

4. One more thing: The photos are shot with DSLR 24-30MP cameras and are merciless in their detail. I guarantee you that the toy will look significantly better in your hand than in a 4X magnified image on screen, but I have always subscribed to promise less and deliver more. Just want to make the point that the magnified photos expose flaws often times not noticed with the naked eye.

From Me to You (Shipping) :

1. USA: All domestic packages are sent Priority Mail with a Flat Rate fee of $10.00. Dinkys and similar die cast ship at a pound or less and that fee covers it. If you purchase more than one, I'll gang them up and save you some money. Just let me know before you pay X times $10. I discount multiple purchases.

2. INTERNATIONAL: I ship to Canada, Europe, UK and Down Under, First Class International at a Flat Rate of $24. If you would like to buy more than one toy, give me a head's up before paying X times $24. I discount multiple purchases.

3. Don't ever fret about the care or attention paid to safely packaging your new found treasure. I am obsessive about my packing and spend more on materials and time than any sane person should. You will not be disappointed.