A huge database of large diecast is now available at hobbyDB. Scale18.com, a longtime forum for listing and discussing 1/18 scale models, is partnering with hobbyDB. How large? Over 26,000 1/18 scale models! As a result, we now have the by far most comprehensive database of large diecast vehicles you will ever see, and Scale18 has better organized, more easily searchable data.

“Since 1997 I’ve been building the Huge List as the ultimate collectors’ reference to 1/18th Scale diecast,” said Kevin Pickell, the site’s founder. “As the years flew by and I got out of collecting, I knew that I didn’t have the time to keep the database up to date.” At that point, Kevin considered shutting the site down. Luckily, not too much time passed before hobbyDB stepped in to work with Kevin to save the project.

“By combining their archive with our database, we not only added thousands of models we didn’t have listed, but also automatically cross referenced them with other topics such as real cars, other scale models, and related collectibles,” said Christian, one of the hobbyDB admins. “We also made it even easier to search for models and manage your own collection.”

Scale18’s smaller search images (left) are replaced by the bigger, clearer images on hobbyDB (right).

So now when you log into Scale18 and search for something, you’ll be redirected the updated database at hobbyDB, as seen above. You can see that the photos are bigger on hobbyDB than they were on the original listing. For many models, there will be more detailed information as well as new links about the real car, when available.

hobbyDB also offers the ability to keep a checklist of your own collection as well as a wish list of what you’re looking for. The best part about the wish list is that you’ll receive an email as soon as your desired item is listed for sale.

The other most important feature of Scale18 has been the Message Board, where collectors can log in to discuss new offerings, industry rumors, and debate the merits of specific models. Members will be thrilled to know that part of the site will remain active as well. “Your account will remain exactly the same,” said Kevin. “Every part of the site not connected to the database will remain as it is.”

“I’m pretty excited about all the awesome things that hobbyDB has been doing,” said Kevin. “I’m proud to partner with them to give you a new and improved experience. I also want to thank the entire Scale18 community for all of your support over the last 19 years; I couldn’t have done it without you!”

Here’s how you can find your favorite 1/18 scale models at hobbyDB –

Search

If you have a general idea of what you’re looking for, you can go ahead and enter your term into the hobbyDB search box. The search box will be your most powerful tool.

Browse

You can also browse the database and use search filters to help narrow down your search to exactly what you are looking for. For example, let’s say you’re looking for a 1/18 Scale Bburago racing car that raced in the 24 Hours of Le Mans –

First, search for your particular manufacturer either from the search box above, or the hobbyDB homepage.

Once the search results load, select the type of item that you are looking for. In this case, it’s Model Racing Cars.

You’ll then be redirected to a page where you can now filter your results –

First enter the scale that you would like – in this case, 1/18 scale.

And then any other details that will help you narrow your results, such as race car driver, or race series.

Once you’ve added all of your desired filters, click “Go” and you’ll be redirected to your final search results like so –

Once you find what you’re looking for, you can select “+ Wish List” to add the item to your wish list. Or “+Collection” so you can add the item into your collection.

And that’s it! Please always feel free to let the hobbyDB team know if you have any questions.