Type 57 Atlantic

The first for my Bugatti 1:24 collection! Is a collection consisting of one item actually a collection?

Whether or not, the Type 57 Atlantic, dating from the 1930s, has been declared by many to be one of the most beautiful, most exotic or most bizarre Bugatti designs. I tend more towards the beautiful and exotic than the bizarre, but eye-catching and unique it is for sure. Only four Atlantic Type 57s were ever produced, three of which survive to this day (the fate of one remains unknown). One of these three changed owner in recent years for the princely sum of $35 million, whereas if the fourth Atlantic is ever found, it is expected to be worth over $100 million ...

Fortunately, there are plenty of Type 57 Atlantic 1:24 models listed on eBay, and they're not nearly as expensive as the real thing. So I'm glad I got one, for under a tenner (including p&p), to kick off the Bugatti 1:24 collection.

Note the characteristic 'seam' running across the rear, roof and front window. By the way, the EXK-6 number plate is an actual number plate of genuine Type 57 Atlantic, the final of the four Atlantics produced.

The model is in very good shape; I couldn't see any damage anywhere. The doors open in this model (with hinges at the rear of the doors; somehow that seems to make much more sense than hinges at the front) as does the engine compartment.

Collection has kicked off now; which one is next? Watch this space ...