In my experiences with
shopping for models of any kind, there are a 3 main things that drive prices.
The first thing is rarity. The more rare the model - regardless of how
popular it is - the greater the cost. A fantastic example is the Tamiya
BMW 850. The 850 was a lackluster attempt at making a new-age M1 and
only the 850CSi version was hot enough to be worth the treetop price tag.
While the car can be bought today for as little as the price of a Ford Fiesta,
the model car is ultra-rare and thus can carry a $100.00 price tag.
Honestly, nothing raises the price of a model faster then rarity.
The second thing that drives prices is shipping cost. I'd say that the vast majority of model sales has shifted to internet sales. More and more "mom and pop" stores can't keep up with the array of online buying and thus go out of business. Even Wal-Mart gave up trying to stock model cars. That being the case, everyone from Ebay to Joe Shmoe Model Store can effect the car pricing by how much shipping is slapped on the model. If you buy a car for $6.99, but the seller on Ebay charges $10.99 for shipping, you've lost the original "deal". Similarly, stores that still carry model cars tend to massively hike the pricing in lieu of shipping. Michael's, for example, charges $27.99 for a 1968 Dodge Charger and then allows 50% off one item for a total of $14.00. On top of that, you now have to add in the gas, time, and aggravation to go to the store and get the car - OR spend $6.50 for shipping.
The last thing to remember when figuring in pricing for any model is the amount of accessories necessary to complete the model. If you are buying a Polar Lights Dodge Coronet (pre-painted and finished), for example, there is no need to buy anything else - so the $20.00... is just $20.00. However, if you are buying an AMT 1957 Chevy Bel Air, you will need : spray paint (2 if you wanted 2-tone), small jars of paint, glue, decal adhesive, thinner and a tree cutter (not to mention primer, sand paper, and clear coat if you REALLY get into it). That $15.00 model now will cost over $25.00 - or over $45.00 if the above list is all new stuff.
SAVING TIPS ::
1. Use coupons from the stores - online or otherwise. (Michael's -50%, Hobby Lobby -40%)
2. Buy multiple items from buyers/stores to get combined or free shipping.
3. Buy packs of paint vs. individual jars - even if you have to mix - it'll be cheaper.
4. Buy open box items on Ebay, Craigs List, etc.. (just be careful not to buy a lemon)
5. Use 2 jars of thinner - one for dark colors and one for light colors. This will prolong the lifespan of each jar.
The second thing that drives prices is shipping cost. I'd say that the vast majority of model sales has shifted to internet sales. More and more "mom and pop" stores can't keep up with the array of online buying and thus go out of business. Even Wal-Mart gave up trying to stock model cars. That being the case, everyone from Ebay to Joe Shmoe Model Store can effect the car pricing by how much shipping is slapped on the model. If you buy a car for $6.99, but the seller on Ebay charges $10.99 for shipping, you've lost the original "deal". Similarly, stores that still carry model cars tend to massively hike the pricing in lieu of shipping. Michael's, for example, charges $27.99 for a 1968 Dodge Charger and then allows 50% off one item for a total of $14.00. On top of that, you now have to add in the gas, time, and aggravation to go to the store and get the car - OR spend $6.50 for shipping.
The last thing to remember when figuring in pricing for any model is the amount of accessories necessary to complete the model. If you are buying a Polar Lights Dodge Coronet (pre-painted and finished), for example, there is no need to buy anything else - so the $20.00... is just $20.00. However, if you are buying an AMT 1957 Chevy Bel Air, you will need : spray paint (2 if you wanted 2-tone), small jars of paint, glue, decal adhesive, thinner and a tree cutter (not to mention primer, sand paper, and clear coat if you REALLY get into it). That $15.00 model now will cost over $25.00 - or over $45.00 if the above list is all new stuff.
SAVING TIPS ::
1. Use coupons from the stores - online or otherwise. (Michael's -50%, Hobby Lobby -40%)
2. Buy multiple items from buyers/stores to get combined or free shipping.
3. Buy packs of paint vs. individual jars - even if you have to mix - it'll be cheaper.
4. Buy open box items on Ebay, Craigs List, etc.. (just be careful not to buy a lemon)
5. Use 2 jars of thinner - one for dark colors and one for light colors. This will prolong the lifespan of each jar.
Think you have a good tip??
- let me know!
OKIE
OKIE
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