08 March 2011
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Claire Packer chats to Terry Styles whose eclectic collection features both diecast and white metal. ...
Terry Styles readily admits that he has always been a collector of something. From Brooke Bond tea cards at age six to stamps a few years later, Terry has always been a connoisseur of collectables.
“Collecting diecast models only really started in 1996 when the Vanguards came out,” Terry recalls. Fast-forward 14 years and Terry has amassed a collection of 1,200 models, white metal as well as diecast.
“A lot of models I buy are from toyfairs, mail order as well,” Terry explains. “The main toyfairs I go to are at Maidstone, Brentwood, Sandown Park and Kempton Park. I set myself a budget but then usually go way over!”
As many collectors will agree, sometimes sticking to a budget can be quite difficult, especially when a beautiful model catches your eye. “There used to be a show called Modelex which was exclusively hand-built models,” Terry begins. “One year I spent over £1,400, although I did probably buy 20 models in one day. I wouldn’t normally spend that amount of money though – it was one of my mad days!”
After spotting a local auction listed in Diecast Collector, Terry went along and successfully bid on three lots. “I bought three Spot-On models: a bus and two lorries,” Terry explains. “I had a great time! It was great when you actually get something. The bus was £280 but I was quite happy to pay that as it was mint and boxed. It’s listed at £500 or more in price guides now.”
Even though he does spend a little too much sometimes, buying models is an exciting part of the hobby for Terry: “That’s part of the fun really, getting a model, whether you go to a fair and buy it or go to an auction and bid for it.”