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| Review of 2024 Editorial January 2025 |
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From the perspective of scale models the 2024 edition of the Nuremberg Toy Fair was perhaps the most disappointing ever. Once again Hall 7, the location of model-related exhibitors, had unsold areas fenced off, and there seemed to be even fewer exhibitors across the whole modelling sector. Among those present, NZG and Diecast Masters had very little new to show with Diecast Masters hampered by their samples not making it through customs in time. The one highlight was the prototype of the giant Liebherr LG 1750 mobile crane in Mammoet colours which was on display at Conrad's offices. The decline of the Toy Fair as a medium for announcing new models is such that it is hard to see a reason for attending in 2025. As 2024 is a year before the Bauma exhibition in 2025, not so many new models in the construction and related sectors could be expected, and that is how it turned out. It is understood that some models are made but the releases are being held for Bauma, others due for release in 2024 have slipped to a Bauma introduction. In the mining sector 2024 saw the MineExpo exhibition in Las Vegas in September. However, even this was a let down for new models with many slated to appear were delayed and will not be seen until 2025. Conrad's highlight of the year was the Liebherr LG 1750 crane and this is perhaps the largest model seen for many years. Other new releases were limited and included colour versions of existing models, although the Liebherr hydraulic luffing tower crane in 1:87 scale was a notable exception. NZG released very little in the construction sector with four new Hamm roller models released at the year's end. NZG has an increasing focus on large scale car and truck models for Mercedes-Benz. WSI continued to release a steady stream of trucks in various company colours, with a notable new release being the Nooteboom Manoovr trailers in various configurations and doubtless these will be seen in many colour variations in the coming years. Diecast Masters nearly had a great year for new releases with many Caterpillar mining models planned for release in time for MineExpo. However, nearly all have slipped to 2025. Drake Collectibles released a continuing stream of their high quality models in different colours. IMC released two classic heavy cranes, the Demag AC 650 and 700, and these excellent models are available in a variety of colurs. Another notable release was the huge Komatsu WE 1850 wheel loader from Weiss Brothers. Looking forward to 2025, the Bauma Exhibition will likely see many new releases and with the backlog of mining models from MineExpo it could be an expensive year for collectors. It is also likely that the upward pressure on scale model prices will likely continue and could be made much worse if there is a move to increased import tariffs across the world. On to the Cranes Etc Awards, and once again they are based only on the models reviewed by Cranes Etc during the year. There were no stand out candidates for the Innovation or Company of the Year awards for 2024. Innovation of the Year Winner: No award for 2024. Model Company of the Year Winner - No award for 2024. Model of the Year The highest rated new model in 2024 as reviewed by Cranes Etc was the Nooteboom 6-axle Ballast Trailer by YCC Models. It has been produced in two versions with the Type 2 UK specification including additional safety equipment. The trailers are very well made with an exceptional level of detailing showing what is possible in 1:50 scale. Winner - Nooteboom 6-axle Ballast Trailer by YCC Models Cranes Etc |
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