James Bond models take top spot at Hornby Archive auctions

Cast your mind back slightly and you may remember we previously reported that Hornby had launched a new official eBay shop to sell some of its numerous Archive items. Each time Hornby makes a new model, it keeps a small number of samples for archive at the HQ in Margate. However, with new releases coming out all the time, the company often needs to make space and, as such, decided to sell some on eBay.

Well, looking through some of the auctions that have recently ended, it appears that the decision has been popular with collectors, as several models have soared into the 100s. First up was a C3091A Goldfinger James Bond 007 Aston Martin DB5, Limited Edition No.0007 of 6,500. The model recreates the beauty of this iconic car and includes working gadgets, such as an ejector seat (activated when passing the special trackside bollard) and manually-triggered rear shield. The highly detailed car features working lights, Magnatraction and easy change pick-ups. After 44 bids the virtual hammer finally went down on an impressive £377!

Another popular Bond item also came from the Scalextric Archive - a C3162A Casino Royale James Bond 007 Aston Martin DB5 Limited Edition No.0007 of 5,000. The left-hand drive DB5 from Casino Royale is faithfully modelled by Scalextric with a full detail interior and was the second Scalextric release in a series of three highly collectable Limited Edition Aston Martin DB5s from the legendary James Bond movies. Bidders were shaken not stirred as it sold for £286.22.

Finally it was Corgi's turn to get in on the auction action with a 04202 James Bond 007Gold Plated Aston Martin DB5 'Goldfinger' Thirty Fifth Anniversary Limited Edition No.0006 of 6,900. Described as a "highly collectable item with a very low number certificate. With working Gadgets including pop up rear shield, ejector seat/pop open roof, front overriders pop out, revolving licence plates. Also includes two mini figures for ejecting and 007 driver. Released in 1995," it sold for £189.99.

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