Plinths and How Models Are Displayed

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If only we could have the standard Spark plinth utilise the Minichamps stackable case…

I like the way Spark models have a rather straightforward display plinth – model neatly aligned with driver/car details printed alongside. I don’t like the card outer sleeve or that stickers are used to hold the clear display case on the plinth. I would prefer the cases were stackable, interlocking like the Minichamps ones do.

I like the way Minichamps cases can be stacked vertically (impressively high if need be!) without risk of them slipping off. I am not a fan of the inlay card as I feel in many cases it takes attention away from the model. I would prefer to see a more uncluttered base with the model not angled.

In the past, when displaying models in my collection, I have removed the model from it’s plinth and placed it directly on glass shelving in the cabinet with a small handwritten label to identify the car/driver/year. The empty packaging would then be packed into boxes and placed into storage.

Having moved house a year ago, and now finally looking to unpack and display the collection again, I’m toying with the idea of leaving models attached to their bases. That way, it’s easy to re-arrange the collection without handling the models themselves, and people can take a closer look (well, those privileged with permission to touch!) because they can handle the plinth, not the model.

I’d be interested to know the thoughts and opinions of other collectors.

Minichamps Benetton B187 of Thierry Boutson, displayed sans plinth. This allowed models to be placed very close to each other, even interlokcing wheels to fit more cars across the shelf. It did look rather crowded.
Minichamps Benetton B187 of Thierry Boutsen, displayed as I’ve done in the past – sans plinth. This allowed models to be placed very close to each other, even interlocking wheels to fit more cars across the shelf! It did get rather crowded (see photos of my personal collection HERE)
How Minichamps come from the factory, but with the clear cover remvoed
How Minichamps come from the factory, but with the clear cover removed. In this case, the inlay card isn’t too bad. But some of them are horrible.
Inlay card removed, Minichamps screw down to the black base quite well.
Inlay card removed, Minichamps screw down to the black base quite well. I feel it’s important the wheels “touch the ground” and the model is not elevated above the plinth.
To get an F1 Minichamps display in alginment with teh base requires the locating lug to be cut off the plinth. This Benetton,once straighten up, screwed down without issue and, in my opinion, display well. Car/driver information was printed on paper and glued to the base with PVA glue.
To get an F1 Minichamps display in alignment with the base requires the offset locating lug to be cut off the plinth. This Benetton, once straighten up, screwed down without issue and, in my opinion, displays well. It even looks more like a Tameo kit! Car/driver information was printed on paper and glued to the base with PVA glue. It’s not (yet) as professional as Spark’s printing.
With no inlay card, models can be displayed several deep and still be quite viewable
With no inlay card, Minichamps models can be displayed several deep and still be quite viewable.
Downside is these two models take up more space than if I'd taken them off their plinths
Downside is these two models take up more space than if I’d taken them off their plinths.

 

 

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