This beautifully detailed 1956 180D 'Bakkie miniature has proven to be a very popular release.

Mercedes-Benz in Miniature
Modeling report from South Africa

Those of you in the model toy collection business will know what emotions are involved when the possibility of acquiring a new piece for your collection presents itself. I do not think I speak only for myself when I say it’s a pure adrenalin rush in every instance.

A few years ago I got hold of a 1:43 scale, 1936 Mercedes 170V, W136, Pick-up made by Schuco  ( See the picture of  it in cream paint below) and at that time laser etching was still something new and every new model finished in this detail was still wooed upon. Needless to say I was very pleased with it and still treasure it.

Fabulous 1936 170V pick-up by Schuco features excellent detail.

Popular 1:43 scale “Bakkie”

Earlier this year Premium Models issued a 1:43 scale model of the 1956 180D, W120, Pick-up (See picture of it in off-white below) and it was so popular that getting hold of one without a back order from your supplier was nearly impossible and, although it’s available with a rather hefty price tag, all stock is scooped up as it became available.

Although I had one on back order, the chance of having one presented itself the past weekend and it was by pure chance that someone cancelled an order and I was at the right time, at the right place and that was our quarterly toyfair.

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What’s called a pick-up elsewhere in the world is called a “bakkie” here in South Africa and I’m sure that most owners of the real 1:1 vehicle would love to get hold of  one, especially since it actually bears a genuine registration plate number of a vehicle registered in one of our provinces. Actually I do not know why I bought it since I intend getting rid of all my commercial vehicles in my collection to concentrate on sedans, coupes, convertibles, station wagons and racing cars but I think it’s the detail on this little gem that turned doubt into action.

Cape Town, SA miniature enthusiaist, Riaan de Klerk's prized 180d Bakkie limited edition in 1:43 scale.

Those of you that might be interested can have a look at my collection on the following website, riaandk.wordpress.com and until next time, happy hunting to all you mini-autominologists.

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