Choose the Right Case
An enclosed case is the single best investment for a valuable collection. It blocks dust, reduces accidental knocks and, if chosen carefully, filters ultraviolet light.
- Acrylic cases are light and shatter-resistant. Look for UV-filtering acrylic and clean with an acrylic-safe cleaner only — household glass cleaners can cloud it.
- Glass cabinets are scratch-resistant and suit larger collections. Standard glass offers limited UV protection, so position cabinets away from windows.
- Individual cases with mirrored backs let you see both sides of a 1:18 model without handling it.
Light: Bright but Gentle
UV exposure fades paint, yellows clear parts and dries out decals. Keep models out of direct sunlight. For illumination, LEDs are the preferred choice because they emit very little UV and heat compared with halogen bulbs. A warm-white colour temperature flatters red and gold liveries; avoid placing lights so close that they warm the case.
Humidity and Temperature
Stable conditions matter more than precise numbers. Many conservators recommend moderate relative humidity, roughly 40–55%, and avoiding rapid temperature swings. Lofts, garages and exterior walls are poor choices. Excess humidity can cause decal lifting and, over time, corrosion of metal parts; very dry air can make plastics brittle.
Dust and Cleaning
- Use a soft, clean make-up or artist's brush to lift dust from detailed areas.
- A gentle puff from a hand-held air blower clears crevices without contact.
- Avoid liquids on decals; never use solvents on resin or printed finishes.
- Matte liveries (such as the Mercedes W11) mark easily — minimise touching.
Handling Rules
Wear clean cotton or nitrile gloves to avoid skin oils. Lift models by the chassis or display base — never by the wings, halo or wheels. When removing a model from its base, support it fully and keep the screws in a labelled container.
Storing Boxes
Original packaging can represent a meaningful part of a model's resale value. Flatten nothing, store boxes upright in a dry, dark place, and keep foam inserts and certificates together with each box. Label them clearly so every model can be re-paired quickly.
Preservation checklist
- Enclosed, UV-filtering case away from windows.
- Cool LED lighting only.
- Stable, moderate humidity; no lofts or garages.
- Gloves on, wings off-limits.
- Boxes stored dry, dark and labelled.
- Photographed inventory for insurance purposes.
Insurance tip: standard home contents policies may have single-item limits. Keep receipts and photographs, and check your policy for collections cover.