DINKY DIECAST
HOW I RESTORE THE MODELS
Please note due to time limitations I regret that at present I am unable to take customers own models for restoration
TO RESTORE OR NOT RESTORE?
Firstly I know that some collectors believe Vintage Dinky Toys
and Corgi Toys
should never be restored. However I believe that when diecast models are in such a poor state as the Corgi Toy
pictured here they should be brought back to their former glory and I get great satisfaction with all the diecast models I 'save' with a very professional restoration. Values of original mint Dinky Toys
and Corgi Toys
are increasing in value to dizzy heights and are above the means of many of us to realistically collect. However properly restored models
are affordable by comparison but only if they are restored to a very high standard will they remain a good investment for the future.
THE WAY I DO IT
All Vintage Dinky Toys and Corgi Toys
that I restore are firstly taken apart and stripped down to the bare metal. Any serious imperfections are dealt with but not minor imperfections in the castings as they left the factory with these in the first place and are a part of the charm of these endearing toys.
The casting is then thoroughly cleaned and polished before applying the minimum of two coats of primer inside and outside and then sprayed with several top coats to give a high gloss quality finish. Baseplates are also stripped down to the bare metal, cleaned of rust, primed and finished in either matt or gloss black in the case of Dinky Toys
and depending on the type of baseplate in the case of Corgi Toys
either black gloss or grey gloss.
Axles and tyres and any other parts are replaced if required. The diecast models
are then reassembled with new rivets after detailing has been carried out.
