Diecast Code 3?
Discussion
True, it is a manufacturers name, but I don't think that is the explanation that the OP is after. It is also a way of describing types of diecast model. There are 3 main (sometimes people use more) codes to describe models (taken from an excellent eBay guide);
Code 1. This is any diecast produced by the manufacturer. It could be a mainstream toy or model, or a limited edition or ordered promotional. The important thing is that it has been produced totally by the manufacturer.
Code 2. This is any diecast that has been finished by a second party, with the knowledge and agreement of the manufacturer. Examples could be a batch of plain white or coloured models, that have had their decals added by another company, with the consent of the manufacturer. It could be castings ordered unpainted, that have been finished and presentation boxed under license. At the end of the day, two companies have been involved in the finishing process, where normally there would be one.
Code 3. This is the refinishing or alteration of a model, without the consent of the manufacturer. This description sounds almost dodgy, but Code 3 is now a recognized collectable in it's own right, and there is nothing illegal or unscrupulous in these singular alternative models. Code 3 covers a wide spectrum, and can mean simply swapping the trailers of two different articulated units, to completely changing the colour and look of a model. Basically, any model intentionally altered in appearance from it's original manufactured look, without the consent of the afore mentioned manufacturer.
The 'code 3' that you are seeing on eBay are, I suspect, covered by the description above, as in they are modified models.
Code 1. This is any diecast produced by the manufacturer. It could be a mainstream toy or model, or a limited edition or ordered promotional. The important thing is that it has been produced totally by the manufacturer.
Code 2. This is any diecast that has been finished by a second party, with the knowledge and agreement of the manufacturer. Examples could be a batch of plain white or coloured models, that have had their decals added by another company, with the consent of the manufacturer. It could be castings ordered unpainted, that have been finished and presentation boxed under license. At the end of the day, two companies have been involved in the finishing process, where normally there would be one.
Code 3. This is the refinishing or alteration of a model, without the consent of the manufacturer. This description sounds almost dodgy, but Code 3 is now a recognized collectable in it's own right, and there is nothing illegal or unscrupulous in these singular alternative models. Code 3 covers a wide spectrum, and can mean simply swapping the trailers of two different articulated units, to completely changing the colour and look of a model. Basically, any model intentionally altered in appearance from it's original manufactured look, without the consent of the afore mentioned manufacturer.
The 'code 3' that you are seeing on eBay are, I suspect, covered by the description above, as in they are modified models.
Edited by Red Firecracker on Saturday 5th June 18:02
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