The two separate numbered runs of the RLC Convoy Custom: Which would you rather have?


Late last week another package arrived from Mattel.  The word was out that those who did had ordered the Neo Convoy Custom who knows how many months and did not receive theirs in the first batch were now getting them.  That included me.

Well, the package arrived, and yes, it was the Convoy Custom.  I had acquired another earlier, and of course I was going to look for any differences.  From a paint and deco standpoint, there were none.

But there was one significant difference.  The model I just received was numbered 16/400 and the one I already had was numbered 289/4500.


The explanation is probably pretty simple.  As has been well documented, one of the reasons the RLC models were delayed so long was because of the issues that arose with production.  The models didn't meet Mattel's standards so in many cases they were redone.  That also meant that partial batches were approved, and in what might be the case here, the models that were done were sent out.

That meant that others had to wait.  And that also meant that Mattel must have renumbered the new batch.  Why, I have no idea, but that seems to be what happened.

So, knowing that there is a batch of 4500 and a batch of 400, and the model appears to look exactly the same, which would you rather have?

For me, it doesn't matter.  Getting #16 was kind of cool so I kept that carded, and opened the other, but that was only because I had two.  If #16 was all I had, I would have opened that one without a second thought.

Others love the numbers, so we would be interested to know if one is more desirable than the other.  Let us know.

Maybe eBay will tell us, if in fact sellers specify the batch they have (A #2/400 is currently listed).

One way or the other, it is the model that really matters, so here it is, in all its DLM'd glory.  Enjoy...


Hot Wheels Convoy Custom (RLC Neo-Classics):









First Look: Hot Wheels RLC '68 COPO Camaro...


An RLC Camaro is not a surprise.  It is not uncommon either.  But it is always welcome.

We have touted the RLC a lot this year, especially with these previews we have been able to do the last few weeks.  And the main reason we wanted to do these previews was because of how the RLC has rebounded in a big way after the debacle that was the Redline Club the last year.  Models are no longer offered until they can all be shipped immediately, quality control is a lot better, and the variety of models has never been better.

If I am honest, the RLC did not really grab my attention until a couple of years ago, and I have been collecting for awhile now.  There were always a few models that interested me, but I figured I could go to eBay if I really wanted them.  But at some point a couple of years ago I thought it prudent to join, and I am so glad I did.  Soon afterwards the models being offered were tremendously appealing. It wasn't all about Hot Rods and American Muscle anymore.  JDM joined the mix, the Gulf Racing livery took on a big role, and the designs were off the charts.  And with the BRE 240Z that was sold, the Shelby Toyota 2000GT, Gulf Porsche 993 and '67 Camaro, Candy Striper Gasser, and 4x4 Silverado on their way, we are in the middle of spectacular run.


And here is the interesting thing about these new RLC models.  They are making me appreciate the older models I ignored when they were available.  That is why I am working on acquiring some older models to showcase here on Lamley.

With that newfound appreciation, I am really excited about tomorrow's RLC offering, the '68 COPO Camaro.  It is a Camaro, it sits on Real Riders with redlines, and it has a Hot Wheels Racing livery.  It is as traditional an RLC model as there is.  And it is a must have.

This is another model with great card art, but even with that must be opened to be totally appreciated.  The paint, especially the blue, silky smooth and beautiful.  I had to be careful when I was taking pics to not show up reflected in the paint.  And another reason to open the model?  The hood opens, like the membership models from a couple of years ago.

As I looked at the slate of RLC models earlier this year, the Camaro was a bit overlooked.  Not anymore...

The RLC '68 COPO Camaro will be to all RLC members tomorrow at 9AM Pacific Time, and is limited to 4000.

Good luck...


Hot Wheels '68 COPO Camaro (2015 RLC Exclusive):

















The excellent Hot Wheels RLC Haul of Flame...


Shit.  You've got a meeting.  Corporate needs to talk to you.  You've spent the day in amongst your hipster bearded designer friends, but now its time to mingle with the suits.  But the suits won't come to you.  You've got to go to them.

That means a trek from the Design Center to the Mattel corporate office.  You could walk, but hell, it's LA, and that is not what you do.  So you take the transporter.  You might be a little surprised that the flames and Hot Wheels logo on the side don't make this thing go any faster, but at least you don't have to walk, which will allow you to save your energy for the treadmill later tonight.

All hail the Transporter!


Now if only the darn thing would take you home.  I mean we bought Matchbox, and back in the Lesney days in England that is what they did, and in a Double Decker at that!


And that has already been replicated on the Matchbox side:


Oh well, it might not bring you home, but it will get you back to the safety of the Design Center after that meeting over bad coffee and a Power Bar.

All hail the Transporter!!


Too bad your meeting was on Tuesday morning and you weren't able to get online to order it.  At least there is eBay.

All hail the Transporter!!


Hot Wheels Haul of Flame (2015 RLC):