No. 1 in a special series - focusing on key areas within the motorsport model industry (Published 07/2009) 

SPARK MODEL CLASSIC F1. MODELS

Spark Models has produced wonderful Sportscar, Touring and Road Car models for over 10 years. Recently, however, Spark Model decided to produce some replicas from Formula One. Industry insiders were not surprised and we began to contemplate which replicas would initially be produced. 

IN THE BEGINNING

Spark Model's decision was to initially produce replicas from the 1960s. The first model released was Graham Hill's BRM P57 from 1962. This appeared to be a bold move, considering this area has been substantially covered by model manufacturers such as Brumm and SMTS. The Brumm version, in particular, was available for a third of the price. Another unexpected surprise was the inclusion of a driver figure. 

THINGS GOT EVEN MORE INTERESTING

The next release was the Beltoise Matra MS120 from the 1970 French Grand Prix. Now we were in 'new territory' as this replica was very rare to find in diecast. The model itself was superb. The detail in the assembly and colour scheme was brilliant. It was no surprise that we sold out very quickly.

If Spark Model were to continue down this route, it would prove to be highly successful. As the key to a sought after replica is to always try to find a subject matter that is fresh and inspiring. The Matra was followed by the great Henri Pescarolo version from the 1970 Monaco GP and Richie Ginther's BRM P57 from the 1962 French GP. TRAX also received the beautiful pre-war Mercedes W165 from the 1939 Tripoli GP.

THIS COULD BE BIG! 

It seemed highly likely that Spark Model were on to a winner. The next release cemented this idea, with the much anticipated release of the Jacques Laffite Ligier Gitanes JS5 from the 1976 Long Beach GP (or the 'Tea Pot' as it was affectionately known).

The joy with this replica was that unlike earlier models, you could finish the model with its authentic race livery. With these initial model releases it was already apparent that Spark Model had come a long way in a very short period of time.

THE FUTURE

Spark Models has now announced almost 60 new Formula One Replicas and beyond this - the sky's the limit. They have chosen some fantastic subjects to produce over the next 2 years or so. Lotus, BRM, Ligier, Tyrrell and Renault come to mind. The stand out announcement at the moment is the Graham Hill Shadow DN1 from the 1973 Spanish GP. This has proved to be an extremely popular Reserve Order model with TRAX Customers and is due for release in the coming months.

 Another big seller for us, which will be released over the coming months, is the Tyrrell 007 from the 1974 Swedish GP. When Spark started to model this car, they wanted to see what extra detailing they could add to truly enhance the replica. So here, as Jody Scheckter took 1st at the Swedish GP is the Tyrrell 007 with scrubbed tyres, the flexible emergency air supply tube to Jody's helmet and a transparent visor behind which is modelled the driver's face. Also Spark has modelled the Cosworth V8 exhaust as it was on this particular car. Whilst the same engine was used on other cars, note how here, it actually wraps around the lower suspension arm.

The Renault RE60 driven by Warwick, Tambay and Hesnault from 1985 has also generated substantial Reserve Orders.

 Spark Model will also be producing the Alfa Romeo 184T 'Benetton'. Again, these models are 'missing links' in many collections.

Spark Model will undoubtedly have a fantastic future producing Classic F1 1/43 scale replicas. Will they produce 1/18 scale variants? Only time will tell.

To view the complete Spark Model Collection - please click the Spark Model Logo below.