Re Re's Killing The Collecting Bug

[nigeninja]

Just wondered if anyone else feels the same about Re Re's,although I like some of the re's I do think its deaden my enthusiasm for buying old cars and doing them up,cos now we are not sure if in a couple of months time tamiya will re re the model i've just spent time and money doing up.I don't buy cars up for an investment cos I don't belive any car is an investment, might as well stick the money in high intrest account,I do it cos I like the idea of having an old car as near as damm it NIB and knowing I souced all the parts and made it look as good as it did the day it was release.

But now foget it, waste of time I buy just to run now.

[94eg!]

Well you are right that it may have slowed down for certain models that actually have a chance of being re-re'd (plastic & frp chassis). My friend had a fox that chewed up it's counter gear and has fine cracks in every a-arm. Since the re-re of the Hotshot, he is now certain that the Fox will soon follow. Therefore he refuses to fix the car that he only purchased a few months ago, and insists on waiting for a completely new kit to buy. Even after I find him all sorts of great deals on gear sets AND a-arms together...

The up side to re-releases is that people can actually run their old models without fear of breakage (I was not so fortunate with my JrX-T recently). I've taken my Hotshot to the track several times now, and had a blast. Plus all the old guys really enjoy seeing it tear around. The funny thing is that the original Hotshot has turned out to be one our most reliable cars (knock-on-wood) second only to the Grasshopper re-re we run...

Also, re-re's are a great way for people to get back into Tamiya.

Sean (currently hoping for a Fox & Avante 2001 re-releases)...

[007al]

You can still have an original and run a re re! Most(if not all) of the re re`s have been changed in some way,so having an original still means something.It`s great for people that like to run their cars.I was out with my son last night..he ran the original Hotshot and i had my re re Hotshot.He broke the gearbox where the bumper fixes and the left steering upright.I can repair it no problem now instead of waiting for a part or paying over the odds on an ebay store.I still run 2 original Frog`s and a new built Brat...the Brat runs miles better than the Frogs with universal joints and other upgraded or newer parts.I love the re re`s as they allow nostalgia for blokes my age and younger people to have a go with the cars we used to run.Although not all the changes made to the re re`s have been for the better...what have they done to the new Frog etc uprights?! they just fall to bits!But most,especially in regards to the Hotshot drive train,have been worth it

[TenzoR]

I wouldn't mind having a re-re Avante to complement my old-old Avante. I buy all my R/C cheap and take my time restoring them. Now that I've got a decent job I can afford some of the neat R/C that I missed out when I was a youth. If Tamiya re-re a Bruiser I'd buy one in a heart beat but I still rather have the original Bruiser given the choice.

[Hibernaculum]

IMHO. I think it depends on how much you care about the differences between the originals and the re-releases.

I'm a bit of a completist, and I care a lot. The re-release Hotshot just isn't the same at the original. The changes to the decals, drivetrain, speed control, and shocks make me feel that the re-re-Hotshot is a great "homage" to the Hotshot. But it isn't the original Hotshot.

Exact same story with the Frog, Hornet and Grasshopper re-releases. The re-releases haven't stopped me spending whatever is necessary to obtain original parts, if they differ from the re-re parts.

Where certain re-release parts are 100% identical and indistinguishable from the originals, I'm comfortable with using them on vintage restorations Which is why the re-res are helpful for vintage die-hards.

If there are any differences however, then I get fussy and only want the original parts for original builds.

If you really love the vintage gear and all it's details (both good and bad), then you will still consider them separate releases, and may want to own both.

Some people are only too keen to dismiss the original stuff, and complain about the old mechanical speed controls, and instantly start upgrading everything in their car.

For me it's all about nostalgia and having things "the way they were", so I love mechanical speed controls. I love vintage radio gear. Heck, I love plastic bearings, zip ties, and old drivetrains. If it's vintage I want, then I don't do upgrades. But as well as that, I don't thrash my cars, and never have. So I think that if you're careful, then parts wear is never a problem. People who complain about Hornets and Frogs and Super Champs being "fragile", are (I can only assume) thrashing their cars pretty hard. My ancient Hornet has done countless miles, and bumped plenty of trees, and has never had a breakage and still runs with plastic bearings. But hey, I'm into it so bad, that I enjoy pulling it apart, re-greasing, cleaning, etc etc. after every few runs.

Anyway, judging by the continuing collectibility of original parts and NIBs, versus re-res, I can only assume I'm not alone in my obsession.

So to answer: No, the re-re's haven't killed the collecting bug for me. If anything, they've stirred up my enthusiasm even more. It's fun to see the re-res in the stores, and it's fun to own the original and the re-re.

cheers,

H.

[kiwiscanfly]

To me, the re releases are realistically the only way I can collect the nostalgia kits to be able to use them as they are intended.

So it isn't killing the collecting bug for me, it is the only way I can feed the bug.

I immediately purchased a Brat on re-release, and if they re-released a Scorcher, or any of the hardbody CC01's I'd order one of those in a flash.

[akemag]

Even though i can understand that some people dont like the re-res, i think that many that otherwise wouldnt have been interested in Tamiya, now gets in on the "right track". I count my self fortunate that i came back in time for the re-re Lunchbox, XR311, Hot Shot, Brat and all, even though i havent bought all of them. And as Hibernaculum says, for me weak points isnt much of a problem since i drive somewhat gentle. I do push my cars in a resonable way, but not "flat out" all the time so to speak. Actually, i havent broken anything since i came back, as far as i can remember. But it has changed what i buy for sure. Since i think a re-re Blackfoot might be on the way, i havent bought that one yet for example. In anycase i think the re-res will benifit Tamiya, as it has for many of us collectors.

[theshopkeeper]

Hmm... probably are damaging the collector market.

What's more noticable though is that Tamiya are not really releasing anything new at all in recent months. A typical month seems to be another 2 TT01s plus a new body on a buggy every 3 months.

Except for the High Lift and DF03, I can't remember a totally new and exciting design for quite some time (not counting tweaks on TA05s or racing chassis).

So are Re-res killing the new car market too?

Or are Tamiya going for the easy-yen with the last few re-res before launching a new entry level road car chassis early next year at Nuremburg? The TT01 is getting donkey old isn't it.

[mobias]

My argument has always been that the success of the re-re's is more than just nostalgia, those 80's buggies just looked a whole lot meaner than anything Tamiya release these days. Put it this way if Tamiya had a modern buggy that had anything like the good looks of the Hotshot but with modern performance I'd choose it over a Hotshot anyday. As it stands you've got horrible things like the Keen Hawk or Avante II sitting on the shelves as competition. I think that has just as much to do with the re-re's success as the nostalgia factor.

Perhaps Tamiya's good designers have long since retired and they want to save money by not replacing them.

[WillyChang]

Perhaps Tamiya's good designers have long since retired and they want to save money by not replacing them.

no problem, just hire me! i'll gladly go work for FREE

[LS1Heli]

Perhaps Tamiya's good designers have long since retired and they want to save money by not replacing them.

Yeah, thats exactly what it is. Where do you guys come up with this nonsense?

[LS1Heli]

I am happy for the release of older items because the prices are out of control. For example, some bonehead had a NIB Hotshot from 1985 on eBay. Sealed for $850.00USD. Why would I pay $850.00USD for something from 1985 when 3 auctions down you can get a brand new improved version with an ESC for $160USD? What happened to the one from 1985...it didn't sell. What a surprise. The only item I can see paying full price for would be a Mountaineer.

[Wandy]

My argument has always been that the success of the re-re's is more than just nostalgia, those 80's buggies just looked a whole lot meaner than anything Tamiya release these days. Put it this way if Tamiya had a modern buggy that had anything like the good looks of the Hotshot but with modern performance I'd choose it over a Hotshot anyday. As it stands you've got horrible things like the Keen Hawk or Avante II sitting on the shelves as competition. I think that has just as much to do with the re-re's success as the nostalgia factor.

Could not agree more. Infact Tamiya should have a look at that modified Frog on the other thread and realise what they should be producing.

[nigeninja]

Always have said and still say the same as theshopkeeper its easy money for Tamiya.

I'm not against Re Re's as I do own 5 and have just brought the new Hotshot,its just that with them keep bring them out why try to find a nice Wild One and pay silly money for it and have Tamiya bring out a re re Wild One and pay half of what I paid for the original.

[SegaFalcon]

I can see the point, If you just paid 300 on getting an old R/C up and running only to find out a Re-Realese is coming out for half of what you spent. That could make you pretty mad. It also sucks that Tamiya dont seem to be bringing out much newer and innovative stuff. But what about the fact that there may be hundreds even thousands of people every day who sit and wish they could have that awsome looking car but cant afford the 700 price tag, a Re-realese makes that awsome car affordable to them and just carrys on the fun of R/C. Give it a year or so and maybe things will change if not then there will just be more affordable R/C's on the market and There wont be such a worry about parts. I have a friend who wouldnt have given R/C a second thought if it wasnt for a Lunch box Re-re on display in Time tunnel. Just forget about all this value stuff, just be happy in the knowledge its the original and enjoy the car.

[kontemax]

Re-release = no speculators.

Cheers

Max

[mobias]

Yeah, thats exactly what it is. Where do you guys come up with this nonsense?

Easy, by taking one look at most of their current line up and lack of new releases.

[Mouton]

If you loose interest in collecting because of the re-releases, maybe you are collecting for the wrong reasons? Money rather than nostalgia or being bitten by the collecting bug, that is.

If you want a basher - get a new car. If you want old school looks get a re-release. If you for any reason really want want the original thing - get the real thing (be it re-released or not)!

You sort of have to accept that there is a price premium to use an SRB as a runner when it comes to spare parts. As with all "investments" you must accept that its value can depreciate too.

I use my Toyota 4x4 as an occasional runner, knowing full well that if I break the gearbox it will be expensive to repair. I run it because I like it and think it is fun to drive. I am aware that breaking it would affect its value (I also have a complete box, manual and some 6 V batteries for it). I do have the F-350 as the work horse, since it's more modern and cheaper to repair.

What I am trying to say is that if you are a hard core collector the you should not be the least bit affected by the re-releases. The old stuff has kept its value so it is not a total loss if you have a NIB Frog from 1983.

I have no re-releases myself but consider them excellent introductions to the hobby and a perfect way to revive childhood memories. I fully understand those that are happy because they now could restore their old runner and run it once again. If you mount re-released spare parts on an old car you are more interested in running it that having a 100 % collector's item - and what is wrong with that?

I would say that those only into old school Tamiya for the money are doing more to kill off the genuine interest in these old model cars than any re-release! They are only interested in driving up the prices to "art level" rather than having a genuine interset. But what about those trying to kill two birds with one stone then, you might ask? Well, if their intereset is sincere, they will accept makin only some money off the hobby rather than makin tons of it buying and selling.

[Tamiya King]

If you loose interest in collecting because of the re-releases, maybe you are collecting for the wrong reasons? Money rather than nostalgia or being bitten by the collecting bug, that is.

If you want a basher - get a new car. If you want old school looks get a re-release. If you for any reason really want want the original thing - get the real thing (be it re-released or not)!

You sort of have to accept that there is a price premium to use an SRB as a runner when it comes to spare parts. As with all "investments" you must accept that its value can depreciate too.

I use my Toyota 4x4 as an occasional runner, knowing full well that if I break the gearbox it will be expensive to repair. I run it because I like it and think it is fun to drive. I am aware that breaking it would affect its value (I also have a complete box, manual and some 6 V batteries for it). I do have the F-350 as the work horse, since it's more modern and cheaper to repair.

What I am trying to say is that if you are a hard core collector the you should not be the least bit affected by the re-releases. The old stuff has kept its value so it is not a total loss if you have a NIB Frog from 1983.

I have no re-releases myself but consider them excellent introductions to the hobby and a perfect way to revive childhood memories. I fully understand those that are happy because they now could restore their old runner and run it once again. If you mount re-released spare parts on an old car you are more interested in running it that having a 100 % collector's item - and what is wrong with that?

I would say that those only into old school Tamiya for the money are doing more to kill off the genuine interest in these old model cars than any re-release! They are only interested in driving up the prices to "art level" rather than having a genuine interset. But what about those trying to kill two birds with one stone then, you might ask? Well, if their intereset is sincere, they will accept makin only some money off the hobby rather than makin tons of it buying and selling.

Best comment about Re-Re's thus far!

[nigeninja]

Le Parrain you dont get what i mean,I like to buy a car and take it apart and put it back together with as many new parts as poss or even buy all new parts and build it from scratch,say I did this with a Lunchbox it would have cost me may be 150.00 plus to scratch build then next week tamiya re re it and only cost 80.00.I would rather buy the re re at 80.00 than spend 150.00 on making one up.Therefore I wont be doing any more buy and do up or scratch builds cos of the re re's.

I for one have not got money to throw away. As for buying to gain money, did I not put in my first post that I do not think any car is an instement so buying to gain money is NOT my intention

[Mad Ax]

I have a friend who wouldnt have given R/C a second thought if it wasnt for a Lunch box Re-re on display in Time tunnel

This is exactly where I stand. I saw the Lunchbox and Pumpkin re-res in the window as I was walking past my LHS, I was so intrigued I went in a few days later and came out with an NIB Dark Impact. Now I'm really loving RC and have a collection of new, old and re-re Tamiyas.

Le Parrain you dont get what i mean,I like to buy a car and take it apart and put it back together with as many new parts as poss or even buy all new parts and build it from scratch,say I did this with a Lunchbox it would have cost me may be 150.00 plus to scratch build then next week tamiya re re it and only cost 80.00.I would rather buy the re re at 80.00 than spend 150.00 on making one up.Therefore I wont be doing any more buy and do up or scratch builds cos of the re re's.

So what you're really saying then, instead of "Re-Re's Killing the Collecting Bug" is in fact "Re-re's make it cheaper for me to collect vintage Tamiyas" ???

In your example, you say it could cost 150 to scratch-build a Lunchbox prior to re-res, and with the re-re it costs 80, so you would rather buy the re-re - in what way is that killing the collecting bug? Surely, it's making the collecting bug easier???

[nigeninja]

forget it, just take away the word collecting from all my posts and you might get what i'm trying to get at.

P.S I think that's kill this post off

[HunterZero]

These are the negative things I can possibly see that come from re-issues of old kits...

1. Collector values of originals come down, especially boxed kits. Effects are that collectors who paid a small fortune for their originals are annoyed, and collectors with original NIB kits don't sell them anymore because they know they'll never recoup the amount they spent in the first place. It becomes near impossible then to get the original kits, and when they are offered, buyers wouldn't pay an inflated price anyway. The sellers know they wouldn't get what they could have got for them if they sold them before the re-release.

2. Makes owning the older kits less exclusive. Part of the fun of having one of these old cars is when 'they don't make them like that anymore', and that they are rare.

3. Makes it far too easy to get certain parts to restore older cars and runners, removing the 'thrill of the chase' for people who track down hard to find parts to restore old cars. May as well just by the whole reissue kit and not bother restoring the original.

In addition, it makes it harder to discern which parts are original vs re-issue for those restoring an original model, and who care about making the model 'all original parts'. However, most would regard this as a challenge, and thus a good thing, as people enjoy pointing out the differences between the old and new versions. Those who don't care would just buy the compatible re-re parts... But again, it makes it harder to get the original parts, because sellers are less likely to want to sell them for a reduced price.

- HZ

[nigeninja]

HZ your the man 1 2 and 3 spot on,thats what I said

[Bueno]

I know that I'm really into the nostalgia of the old Tamiya cars. I just can't afford to pay 850 bucks for a Willy's Wheeler... or 1800 for a Sand Scorcher.... or 2300 for a Holiday buggy...

Bottom line, the market blew up and Tamiya took notice. All of the 30-40 year olds who remember being in their teens and scraping money together to buy parts and keep things maintained are working for a living. I remember longing for these cars. No I can get them without getting gouged on eBay. I know that I'm still the same kid at heart today as I was when I got my first car(Fox) at 11. Difference is, I can afford it now. I'm not rich like Oprah or anything, but I work hard and make a comfortable living so I want my toys. Still, I was checking auctions a few months back and a guy had taken apart his entire Hilux and was selling each part individually. Makes sense as far as the money goes as some people are willing to pay through the nose to get these things, but I just can't justify it... Guy prolly made 3 times what he would if he had sold it put together.

At least now, I can still have the nostalgia, pay a decent price, easily find parts, and enjoy it alot more.

I'm not going to complain about re-release. It's what peaked my interest and got me back into it. I like the look of the older kits... I personally don't care for the kits that look like an all-terrain vehicle out of a sci-fi movie and a dune buggy got together and had a baby. I would also love to see Tamiya release some new kits that look a little more traditional and have more of the modern advancements too. I just hope that Tamiya stops discontinuing them so quickly. It would be nice if they kept them around a few years so that I can keep up.