Automodello

Automodello is a manufacturer of resin-cast hand-built models in a variety of scales. The company is headquartered in Buffalo Grove, Illinois.

Automodello was started by James Cowen who released the inaugural model, a 1964 Griffith Series 200 in 2010 at the prestigious Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance where it was designated the Official Model for the event (Model Collector 2012). Models were signed by Andrew "Jack" Griffith, founder of Griffith sports car that later became the TVR.

Automodello tends to focus on British and American vehicles that have been overlooked by the modeling community. Through 2014, Automodello has released or will release thirty-six separate models (Automodello Collections no date). Though the company started out with 1:43 scale reproductions to exacting standards, larger scales have increasingly been offered, including a very large 1:8 (a traditionally popular scale for clay models made by designers in the large auto companies. The following are the models currently offered or planned:

1:43 scale:

1:24 scale:

1:12 scale:

1:8 scale:

Automodello vehicles are finely detailed, especially their 1:8 scale reproductions which can cost thousands of dollars. Still, even their smaller offerings are intricate. The Cunningham C-3, for example, can be displayed with soft top or top boot. It's carpet is flocked and wire wheels have deeply laser cut spokes (McCourt 2014a, p. 16). Only 154 of the Cunninghams were made by Automodello. The Avanti R2 offered in 1:43 scale was likewise detailed with accurate windshield wipers, instrument panel and rubber bumper tips (McCourt 2014b, p. 15).

Automodello models are sold through Diecasm and Automodello Full Service Dealers around the world. Typical production is between 100 and 600 pieces per issue, though tooling may be extended to varied models and liveries. For example the Griffith and TVR have the same basic body, which means the tooling, with minor variations, is made to last as long as possible.

Models may include signed editions by persons such as Jack Griffith (father of the Griffith and TVR), Herb Grasse (designer of the Bricklin SV1), and John Fitch (Mercedes-Benz and Corvette racer, and road-safety inventor).

Automodello Collections. No date. Offerings on the Automodello website. [1]

McCourt, Mark J. 2014a. Cunningham C-3 Cabriolet. Hemmings Classic Car, vol. 10, no. 10, July.

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