Horch 853 1937, & Mercedes 300D Adenauer 1958 CMC 1:24 Scale

Before the German model manufacturer CMC became a household name in the 1:18 scale model world, they produced a small number of exquisite 1:24 scale pieces that are becoming increasingly hard to find. The pair on offer here is the 1937 Horch (part of Auto Union) 835 cabriolet, and the 1958-62 Mercedes 300D convertible, nicknamed the 'Adenauer', in honor of the German chancellor who favored the car for state functions.

The Horch is a stunning piece, composed of over 350 hand-fitted parts, featuring clear-lensed headlights, driving lights and turn indicators, a lovely photo-etch grille emblazoned with the four rings of Auto Union and surmounted by an incredibly delicate winged hood ornament. The side mounted spares are topped with rear view mirrors, while the center-hinged hood opens to reveal the five litre straight eight power plant.

Moving aft, the interior is a real eye full, with lovely simulated black leather seats accented by amazingly fine simulated piping. There is also plenty of simulated wood as well, from the dash to the door trim to the seat grab handles. The folding front seats have chromed mounting hardware, while the light gray carpeting is a perfect compliment to the two-tone green paint scheme. The non-raising convertible top is constructed of real cloth, and the opening trunk is lined with gray carpeting as well. 

There is a remarkable amount of chrome trim, from the split bumpers to the bonnet louvers to the high belt line, continuing to the lovely sloped trunk, which is secured by miniscule handles. 

The second of our Teutonic twins is a real standout as well. The flawless silver-gray paint work is perfect for this Mercedes, and is set off very nicely by the fixed, real cloth convertible top, and lovely red leather interior. The multi-piece photo etch grille is an absolute jewel, and is complemented with a blue enamel replica Mercedes emblem, and three-pointed star hood ornament. Engine detail is very nice as well, and the hood is a tilt and slide affair, just like the original. Interior detail is beautifully executed with a simulated wood dash and gobs of chromed instrumentation and switch gear. The red carpeting is finished with individual black rubber floor mats, and the opening trunk is also lined with the same carpeting and holds the spare tire. Again, there are an abundance of of exterior chrome details that complement the paint scheme perfectly. The build quality is superb.

These models certainly set the high standards that CMC carried forward with their future builds, and represent fantastic value for the dollar. They are both in factory new condition, and are supplied with all original packaging, instructions, and serial numbered hang tags.