Brooklin Models was founded in 1974 by John Hall. Many of you may think their history traces back to England, and it does, but in 1974 the firm was actually started in the town of Brooklin, Ontario, Canada, where of course it's name comes from. In 1979, John and his wife moved back to England were the company has been based ever since.
Brooklin Models are produced in a white metal and made in much shorter runs than the average model company, assuring a high level of quality. The process starts with a brass master carefully crafted by a senior master modeler. All of their models are 1:43 scale.
Most of what the company produces is models of American cars that are highly in demand worldwide. Of particular popularity are models of the 50’s which is the subject of this review.
Today, I am presenting the Brooklin 1953 Buick Skylark that I recently acquired. Like all Brooklin models it comes with very nice packaging. This is the packaging that came with my model.
Some of you have seen the newer Brooklin packaging:
When the model is removed from the exterior packaging, it is wrapped in a clear plastic bag and then rests in a cradle of foam rubber. A cardboard shield surrounds the foam rubber for additional protection.
At first look this model tells you instantly just how nice a job Brooklin has done.
A closer look is even better. The front end, the rear end, and both sides are done to perfection. And the detail of the "top up" look is also very good. No doubt about it, Brooklin knows how to do it right.
I bet many of you are saying this model should be of top quality based upon the retail pricing. And of course, you are correct. But, for years I have scoured train shows and auction sites to get superb deals on Brooklins. I have paid as little as $ 10.00 for one. The model for this review sold for a fraction of the original pricing. So Brooklins can be had at great pricing, but you have to work at it.
I thought it would be nice to have a product review based on a model that the reviewer actually has. The photos are mine and not from a catalog. And the best part, the 1953 Buick Skylark is part of my layout that any visitor can come, see, feel and touch. Hope you enjoy the photos and learning a little bit more about this model and Brooklin as well. I tried to do this review in a couple of lines, but that would mean I would leave out too many important details. Hope you understand.