Wiking split bus models VW dealer display

[RaMilHa]

After more than 10 years of searching, I was finally lucky enough to acquire this original display. These were used from about 1955 on the counters of VW car dealerships,
and showed on the basis of Wiking plastic models in 1:40 scale the available models of Transporter, minibus, Samba, ambulance and fire truck.
In addition, samples of the seat covers made of leatherette were attached.
After researching my records, I came to the conclusion that mine dates from 1955-57, and originally the following models were mounted on it:

- Transporter Kombi L31 blue
- Microbus L31 blue
- Pick-up L31 blue
- Deluxe Microbus Samba L53 red / L73 brown
- Microbus L311 sandgreen / L312 palmgreen
- ambulance
- fire truck

The 1:40 scale models were later also made as promotional giveaways for VW, but the examples on display were specially custom made with additional painting.
To find originals here should be almost impossible, so I will equip the display with the later promotional models, but they are also not that easy to find.
The model mounted on top is such a later model from the early 60s, the others are modern editions of Wiking, and will be replaced as soon as I have found suitable older models.
What I still miss the most, however, are the lost leatherette samples. Maybe someone has small pieces of original leatherette left?
I'm also looking for all kind of information on the Wiking models of VW of the 50s and 60s.
Or who also has such a display, possibly even with original equipment? Or even contemporary images? Maybe a sales brochure?

[Hacksaw-BoB]

Hi RalphMH

Congrats on acquiring the WIKING VW Bus Model Display

Check out this site for additional information on the
Vintage VW WIKING models . . . . .

https://www.vintagevolkswagenmodels.com/

_________________
Hacksaw BoB

http://www.VintageVolkswagenModels.com

Collector of Vintage VW Toys

BoB's Restor-Version Shop

[Blue Baron]

Congratulations on finding your dealership display, Ralph. It sounds like you have done the research, and have identified the models needed. While each model can be acquired, and Germany is the best place to find them, the cost will be expensive. (North of $2,000 by my estimate.)

Unfortunately vintage toy prices have exploded since the pandemic, making many of them cost-prohibitive to the average collector. German Wiking 1/40 dealership promotionals have led the charge in this area.

Good luck on your search!
_________________
We are striving for perfection, to make our cars run forever, if possible.

Heinz Nordhoff

[Hacksaw-BoB]

From my collection . . . .

_________________
Hacksaw BoB

http://www.VintageVolkswagenModels.com

Collector of Vintage VW Toys

BoB's Restor-Version Shop

[Hacksaw-BoB]

Just gotta love them early Vintage WIKING VW Busses

_________________
Hacksaw BoB

http://www.VintageVolkswagenModels.com

Collector of Vintage VW Toys

BoB's Restor-Version Shop

[grothdave]

Ralph,

Are you still seeking an original Ambulance for your display?

Dave

[RaMilHa]

Hi Dave!

Yes I do. I have sent you a PM.

Regards, Ralph

[cambrian]

I see from time to time Wiking Re-issues some of the 1/40s. Does anyone know if the reissues have the same lift off bodies with interior and engine detail?

My collection:

[iowegian]

[RaMilHa]

In addition to the logo, the reissues from the 1990s also differ from the originals from the 1950s and 1960s in terms of colors, stickers, etc. I think WIKING deliberately chose not to reissue models that were 100% identical to the originals.

[Blue Baron]