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During the 1960s Tri-ang’s “Spot-On” models - so-called because its products were precisely to 1/42 scale – often seemed a cut above those of Corgi or Dinky. Sales commenced in April 1959 and from the outset their die-cast toys featured interior detailing, predating both of its major rivals. They also adopted a ‘constant scale’ policy, at a time when the products of other manufacturers would vary according to need.

Spot-On models were expensive to produce and required a considerable amount of pocket money to purchase. The “Royal Occasion” Rolls Royce Phantom V cost 25 shillings or more than double the price of Corgi’s 007 Aston Martin DB5. However, no true juvenile motoring enthusiast could put a price on quality, and another advantage of Spot-On was that they often modelled cars overlooked by their competitors.  

When Tri-ang’s owners Lines Brothers acquired Meccano Ltd. in 1964, this meant they now owned the long-established Dinky Toys. Three years later the Belfast factory ceased production of Spot-On cars, and today, each of their die-casts is highly collectable. Here are ten of my favourites, although the short-list could easily run into three figures:  

Armstrong-Siddeley 236 – One of Spot-On’s earliest models is also a prime example of how they often focused on off-beat subjects. The 236 was never a common sight as production ran for only two years; indeed you were more likely to encounter it in die-cast form.

Austin 1800 + Rowboat – Spot-On managed the challenge of recreating the distinctive appearance of the BMC “Landcrab” with considerable flair. The rather startled Michael Caine look-a-like is an additional bonus.

Austin-Healey 100/6 - Almost as dashing as the genuine article.

Bedford CA “Tonibell” Ice Cream Van – Complete with an attendant, who leans out of the opened side window on pressing the roof.

Ford Zodiac Mk. II – A very impressive replication of Dagenham’s success symbol of the age. You could even purchase a version equipped with working headlamps.

MG Midget Mk. II – Favourite details; the flying scarf of the Leslie Phillips-style caddish driver and the irate PC.

Morris Minor 1000 – A beautifully proportioned miniature of the saloon that offered “Quality First” Motoring.

Morris 1100 – An excellent interpretation of the best-selling car in the UK.

Vauxhall Cresta PB 3.3-Litre – Another case of Spot-On modelling cars that were surprisingly overlooked by Corgi and Dinky – especially as the PB is a rather handsome machine. And the BEA Crew Car version, with its David Niven look-a-like pilot, adds a note of Jet Set glamour.

Volvo 122S “Amazon” – A rare example of a Spot-On model of an overseas marque; the company usually focused on domestic vehicles. The detailing is excellent, and the opening sliding roof is a very thoughtful touch.

Z-Cars Ford Zephyr 6 Mk.III – Spot-On were rarely associated with TV/film spin-offs - that was the province of Corgi and, slightly later, Dinky - but this Zephyr does capture the ethos of the BBC series. BD to Z-Victor One...

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