What is Diecast Detective?

Diecast Detective is Australia’s leading platform for diecast and scale model values. With over 10,000 models and 60,000+ sales recorded it provides collectors with accurate, data-driven valuations and tools to manage their collections.

 

What does ‘diecast’ mean in this context?

While traditionally referring to metal models, Diecast Detective includes models made from various materials like resin, plastic, and composites.

 

What scales and brands does Diecast Detective focus on?

The platform specializes in enthusiast-focused brands like AUTOart, Biante, and Drake in 1:18 and 1:12 scales for cars, and 1:50 scale for trucks. It also tracks select scales like 1:8, 1:24, and 1:43 for specific brands like Dinkum Classics.

 

Are the values region-specific?

Yes, all sales data and valuations are specific to the Australian market, with prices listed in $AUD.

 

Using Diecast Detective

Can I use Diecast Detective without becoming a member?

Yes, non-members can explore individual model values, access detailed product information, and read published articles. However, membership unlocks exclusive features: personalize your watchlists and wishlists, track and manage your entire collection in real-time, and receive live, data-driven valuations.

 

What benefits do members receive?

Members can:

• Create and manage personalized Watchlists and Wishlists.

• Track current and historical values of thousands of models.

• Save and monitor their entire collection’s value via Virtual Collection.

• Access live valuations for resale and insurance purposes.

• Request the addition of new models to the database.

 

How do I become a member?

Simply click the ‘Sign Up’ button located in the top-right corner of the homepage to get started.

 

Can I trial a membership before I commit?

Yes! Diecast Detective offers a FREE 14-day trial, and no card details are required to begin.

 

What are the membership options?

Choose between a monthly subscription or save with an annual plan.

 

Diecast Detective Methodology

What sales data is included?

• eBay (adjusted for industry averages on “Best Offer Accepted” prices, not adjusted for fees).

• Private sales and auctions.

• Auction house sales (including GST and buyer’s premiums).

 

How are ‘New’ and ‘Used’ models defined?

New: Models that have never been displayed.

Used: Models that have been displayed, regardless of condition.

 

How are prices determined?

The Diecast Detective Price is calculated through advanced statistical analysis of sales data from eBay, private sales, auctions, and more, ensuring real-time accuracy.

 

Does Diecast Detective predict future values?

The Diecast Detective Price functions as a forecast, estimating what a model’s next sale price is likely to be based on detailed analysis of historical sales trends and market behavior.

 

What does the asterisk (*) mean on the Diecast Detective price for some models?

The asterisk (*) appears when there is no recent sale data available for one of the two conditions: New or Used. In such cases, Diecast Detective uses an algorithm to estimate the value for the condition without a sale.

Once a sale occurs for that condition, the asterisk will be removed, and the calculated value will be replaced by an actual market-based price.

 

Are damaged or incomplete models included in valuations?

Sales of damaged models (e.g., missing COA, parts of the model or the box itself) are tracked but not visible to maintain pricing integrity.

 

What about models with tobacco decals or signed models?

Tobacco-decaled models are included but not distinguished separately as they minimally impact value. Signed models are tracked but not yet visible, with plans to make this data available in the future.

 

Collector-Specific Queries

Why are some models not included in the database?

Diecast Detective focuses on collectible brands and scales favored by enthusiasts. Mass-market brands like Bburago or Maisto are not included. Diecast Detective holds data for hundreds of additional models that may not be as widely sought after by the general collector base. While these models aren’t featured in the standard database, members can request their inclusion.

 

Can I add models to my Virtual Collection that aren’t in the database? 

Yes! As a member, you can manually add any item to your Virtual Collection, whether it’s a 1:43 Classic Carlectables Bathurst Winner or something entirely different—it doesn’t even have to be a model. You can assign custom values to these items, but since they’re not linked to live sales data, you’ll need to update their values manually to keep them accurate.

 

Can I value my collection for insurance purposes?

Yes, members can use the live valuation tools to get accurate estimates for insurance or resale purposes. There is even an automated 'Insurance Value' field which can be overwritten should you wish to nominate a different value.

 

How often is pricing data updated?

Sales records and valuations are updated daily, providing real-time insights.

 

Why does the Diecast Detective Price for 'Used' models sometimes exceed that of 'New' models?

This is most common with older releases that have significantly appreciated in value over time. The discrepancy arises because recent sales of 'Used' models reflect current market demand, while 'New' sales often date back to the model's original release (and RRP), or a period in time where the value was significantly less than it is today.

For example, in cases like the Lap of the Gods model (80365), demand has surged in recent years. With far more 'Used' sales recorded than 'New', the Diecast Detective Price for 'Used' models is higher, reflecting their recent, higher sales figures.

 

Support

What should I do if I encounter a technical issue?

contact@diecastdetective.com.au