Not long ago I decided to take a dust comb through the collection of miniatures. Over the years I bought a countless number of miniatures. A number of them led a preserved existence, but were out of sight. I make the choice to offer a number of models to the Treinenpassage in Leeuwarden, a specialist store in scale models and miniature railways. This has been my favorite spot in the city for years. And now I'm making a great deal. In addition, also take a very cool model back home.
Among my offerings were a few models that I'm sure will soon fly out of the store. A beautiful 1:18 Abarth model from Revell (including original box), a 2CV from Maisto and a special Traction Avant are enough reason for Treinenpassage owner René to replenish the varied stock.
We'll figure it out soon, René and I have known each other for years. Of course I know that I never leave the Train Passage empty-handed. Also today I want something special take. And that works. Initially looked at a 1:43 model of the Volvo PV544, namely the edition with which the duo Singh won the East African Safari Rally in 1965. I'm actually already convinced, but I decide to take a look at the large space with "traders". And there it immediately becomes clear that not the rally Volvo, but another model is going home. Or rather: a wonderful combination.
For years I have had a soft spot for the L319 types from Mercedes-Benz, the series that was roughly built between 1955 and 1968. And the Schuco scale models are never something to sneeze at me. This applies especially to the 1:43 models, which often came on the market in a special series. And Schuco also made beautiful copies of the Mercedes-Benz L319, which they still do. One of those historic collector's items is the combination between the Benz and a cardboard Heinkel Tourist box, with scooter. The duo is beautifully made, the detailing is extended into the box. The text is correct, the printing on the doors of the small truck is correct, the proportions of the Mercedes-Benz go up to the hole, the box is good, the recesses under the box for the forklift are correct. So there is a lot right about this historic Schuco set, which breathes the Wirtschaftswunderzeit in everything.
And I find exactly this configuration in the Train Passage. I immediately decide to ask what this set costs. I will not mention any amounts, but take it from me that you will no longer find this combination for the extremely reasonable amount that I pay for it. This combination - certainly with the original packaging - will be sold for €75,- if not more. Also in collector's land it is: what the enthusiast is willing to pay for it. Certainly with this combination of the Mercedes-Benz L319 single cab and the packaged Heinkel Tourist. The set is of an unequivocal beauty, or so I think.
I see that the box with the Heinkel Tourist has been opened in the past. The right mirror is also missing. But the seller offers solace. He still has many mirrors in stock, including the right mirror of the model I coveted. Who keeps what…..right. And then I am absolutely sure that I will take this combination with me, insofar as I have not already crossed the line.
The Mercedes-Benz L319/Heinkel Tourist set from Schuco is my scale model purchase of the year, that is already certain. And one more thing is certain: this asset will not return to the trade-in showcase of the Train Passage. Because rarely have I been so happy with a purchased scale model.
What a beautiful model and combination. I also think products from this time are beautiful. And even though I am more into motorcycles, I would like to try such a Heinkel 👍😄
Good story. Cherish your find because on a German site I saw that this combination was produced in 2007 in a limited edition of only 1.000 pieces.
My father always told me that I was born 20 years too late, because I loved and still find everything from the era of the “Wirtschaftswunder” from post-war Germany beautiful. Bockhorn was really a revival in that regard.
Perfect model and perfect story, and I know I have about 15 models of the 319 Schuco with all kinds of advertising companies on them. They don't go away with me
True fifties nostalgia. The Heinkel was an impressive sight. The Mercedes L series was also used by driving schools to obtain a truck driver's license.
Had three lessons and passed! Simple stuff, simple times and even then we lived in modern times.
Great, stories like this always appeal!
No fuss, like with all that modern stuff.
You are getting older daddy I realize when reading this article was then the Heinkel and drove the messenger service with the 319 was later with a 76 Scania on the road that was different but thinking back to that sweet 319tje well sweet direction indicator with the horn ring where time remains