This elegant 1960 Citroën ID 19 Break RTF in black with a white roof perfectly embodies the French art of living of the 1960s. This exceptional diecast model car at 1:43 scale captures every detail of this legendary estate car that revolutionized European automotive design. For collectors seeking authentic French automotive heritage, this miniature replica represents one of the most iconic vehicles from the golden age of innovation.
A true collector's item, this faithful diecast model car reproduction appeals to both classic car enthusiasts and collectors of French miniature vehicles. The precision craftsmanship testifies to the creative audacity that characterized Citroën during this transformative era of the French automobile industry. Each diecast model car in this series is meticulously crafted to preserve the authentic character of these revolutionary vehicles.
Understanding the Diecast Model Car Collecting Phenomenon
The world of diecast model cars has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, with the global market reaching nearly $5 billion in 2024. These scale model vehicles represent more than simple toys—they are sophisticated collectibles that bridge automotive history with artisanal craftsmanship. For enthusiasts, each diecast model car serves as a tangible connection to automotive milestones, allowing collectors to own precise replicas of vehicles that shaped motoring culture.
The appeal of die-cast collectibles extends across generations, attracting both seasoned collectors who remember these cars on the roads and younger enthusiasts discovering automotive heritage through these detailed miniatures. The 1:43 scale has become particularly popular among collectors, offering an ideal balance between display-friendly size and remarkable detail. This scale allows manufacturers to reproduce intricate features while maintaining manageable dimensions for collection displays.
Characteristics of This Premium Diecast Model Car
- Model: Citroën ID 19 Break RTF
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1960
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Black with white roof
- Protective case included: Yes
The Revolutionary Citroën ID 19: History of the Original Vehicle
Launched in 1957, the Citroën ID 19 represented a more accessible version of the revolutionary DS, sharing its futuristic bodywork but featuring simplified equipment. The estate version, marketed from 1958, met the growing needs of French families for space and practicality while retaining the range's avant-garde style. This station wagon variant became known as the "Break" in French automotive terminology, a designation that highlighted its versatility and family-oriented purpose.
This 1960 ID 19 Break RTF sports the "Route Tourisme Familial" finish, a name that underlined its family and tourist vocation. Equipped with the 1.9-liter 4-cylinder engine developing 66 horsepower, it offered respectable performance for the time, combined with the unrivaled comfort of Citroën's hydropneumatic suspension. This innovative suspension system, one of the most advanced technologies of its era, allowed the vehicle to maintain constant ride height regardless of load, providing extraordinary comfort even on rough terrain.
Commercial success was immediate, with the estate version representing a significant share of sales in the ID/DS range. This family configuration contributed significantly to democratizing the revolutionary aesthetics imagined by Flaminio Bertoni and the technical innovations of André Lefèbvre. The ID 19 Break became a symbol of French ingenuity, combining practical functionality with cutting-edge engineering in a package accessible to middle-class families of the era.
Why This Diecast Model Car Matters to Collectors
For collectors of diecast model cars, French vehicles from the 1960s represent a particularly fascinating category. The Citroën ID 19 Break occupies a special place in automotive history as a vehicle that made revolutionary technology accessible to everyday families. This diecast model car captures that historical significance, reproducing the distinctive two-tone paint scheme that became iconic during this period.
The attention to detail in quality die-cast vehicles extends to reproducing authentic color combinations, trim pieces, and proportions that define the original vehicle's character. Collectors appreciate how these scale models preserve automotive design heritage, serving as three-dimensional historical records of significant vehicles. The protective case included with this miniature ensures long-term preservation, protecting the finish and details from dust and environmental factors.
The Golden Era of Citroën Innovation
In 1960, Citroën was experiencing a period of intense creativity under the leadership of Pierre Bercot, who had led the brand since 1958. This era marked the height of the Citroën philosophy of offering technically advanced and aesthetically daring vehicles, a direct legacy of André Citroën himself. The company's commitment to innovation over convention made it a beacon of automotive progressivism in post-war Europe.
Founded in 1919 by André Citroën, the French brand quickly established itself as a pioneer of automotive innovation. From the outset, it revolutionized mass production in Europe with methods inspired by Ford, while developing a unique technical identity. The 1950s and 1960s represented the golden age of this philosophy, with models like the DS challenging the established codes of global automotive design.
This golden period allowed Citroën to assert itself as a creative alternative to German and Italian manufacturers, offering a very French vision of the modern automobile, combining comfort, technical innovation and avant-garde design. The company's willingness to take technical risks—from hydropneumatic suspension to single-spoke steering wheels—created vehicles that remained distinctive decades after their introduction.
The Art of Scale Model Car Manufacturing
Creating authentic diecast model cars requires sophisticated manufacturing techniques that have evolved significantly over recent decades. Modern die-casting technology allows for extraordinary precision, capturing fine details like trim pieces, badging, and even subtle body contours. The process begins with computer-aided design to ensure accuracy, followed by creation of precision molds that can reproduce features measured in fractions of a millimeter.
Quality miniature car models utilize zinc alloy or similar materials that provide both durability and the weight expected of premium collectibles. The painting process involves multiple stages, including primer, base coats, and often clear protective layers that preserve the finish. For two-tone vehicles like this ID 19 Break, manufacturers must ensure clean separation lines between colors, replicating the precision of the original vehicle's paint application.
The Anecdote of the Revolutionary Family Station Wagon
The 1960 Citroën ID 19 Estate remains associated with a delightful anecdote that perfectly illustrates the cultural impact of this vehicle. During the filming of "A Taxi for Tobruk" in 1961, director Denys de La Patellière was looking for a car capable of transporting the technical crew across the difficult terrain of the Tunisian desert.
An ID 19 Estate was chosen for this perilous mission, not for its off-road capabilities—it had none—but for its hydropneumatic suspension, which could absorb the shocks of bumpy roads. The technicians were amazed to discover that this French estate surpassed traditional off-road vehicles in terms of long-distance comfort.
This unexpected performance caused a sensation in the film world, and many European film shoots subsequently adopted the ID Break as their preferred vehicle. Federico Fellini himself used a white ID 19 Break for his travels between Rome and the Cinecittà studios, helping to forge the legend of this unique estate car.
Even more surprisingly, this reputation extended beyond the world of cinema to that of exploration. Several scientific expeditions in the 1960s chose the ID Break for its ability to overcome improbable obstacles thanks to its variable ground clearance, transforming this family vehicle into a reluctant adventurer.
Building Your French Diecast Model Car Collection
This Citroën ID 19 Break RTF naturally finds its place at the heart of a collection dedicated to French model cars from the 1960s. It works harmoniously with the other models in the Citroën range, particularly the DS 19 saloon or the commercial versions of the range.
Collectors with a passion for the 1960s will appreciate combining it with contemporary French cars such as the Peugeot 404 family car or the Renault 16. This model car also fits perfectly into a thematic collection devoted to iconic estate cars or classics from 1950 to 1979.
Essential Guide to Collecting 1:43 Scale Model Vehicles
For those new to collecting diecast model cars, understanding the nuances of scale models enhances appreciation for these miniature masterpieces. The 1:43 scale means that 43 units on the model equal one unit on the actual vehicle—making a model approximately 10 centimeters long for a standard car. This scale has dominated serious collecting since the 1930s, offering sufficient size to appreciate details while allowing substantial collections without overwhelming display space.
When evaluating die-cast collectibles, several factors determine quality and value. Authenticity of proportions ensures the model accurately represents the original vehicle's stance and character. Paint quality should show even application with appropriate sheen—whether gloss for body panels or appropriate matt finishes for trim. Opening features like doors or hoods add functionality but should operate smoothly without excessive play. Interior detail, visible through windows, separates basic models from premium offerings.
Caring for Your Diecast Model Car Collection
Proper maintenance preserves both the aesthetic appeal and investment value of diecast model cars. Display them away from direct sunlight, which can fade paint and degrade plastic components over time. Dust accumulation affects appearance—use soft brushes or compressed air for cleaning rather than cloths that might scratch finishes. The protective case included with this model provides excellent defense against environmental factors.
Temperature stability matters for long-term preservation. Extreme heat can warp plastic parts, while cold can make materials brittle. Room temperature storage in climate-controlled spaces offers ideal conditions. For valuable pieces, consider individual acrylic cases that allow 360-degree viewing while providing comprehensive protection.
The Investment Potential of Classic French Model Cars
The market for vintage diecast model cars has shown remarkable appreciation over recent decades, with rare French models particularly sought after. Limited production vehicles from respected manufacturers can appreciate significantly, especially when preserved in original packaging with documentation. The ID 19 Break represents a model with strong long-term collecting potential due to its historical significance and the enduring appeal of Citroën's innovative vehicles.
Serious collectors track market trends through auction results, collector forums, and specialized publications. French automotive miniatures benefit from both domestic and international interest, as the innovative character of brands like Citroën appeals to enthusiasts worldwide. Models representing significant technological achievements, like the hydropneumatic suspension of the ID series, often command premium prices as they capture pivotal moments in automotive evolution.
Why French Estate Cars Matter in Automotive History
The station wagon configuration played a crucial role in post-war European automotive culture, representing the practical needs of growing middle-class families. French manufacturers approached estate car design with characteristic innovation, refusing to simply extend sedan bodies. The ID 19 Break exemplifies this philosophy, maintaining the revolutionary suspension and styling of the sedan while offering genuine versatility.
European estate cars of this era differed significantly from American station wagons. Where American designs emphasized size and chrome, French estates prioritized efficiency, comfort, and thoughtful engineering. The Break versions often featured clever storage solutions, folding rear seats, and loading configurations that maximized usable space within compact overall dimensions. These practical innovations made vehicles like the ID 19 Break favorites among families, professionals, and even commercial users.
Technical Innovations That Define the ID 19 Legacy
The hydropneumatic suspension system that distinguished Citroën vehicles represented one of the most significant automotive innovations of the twentieth century. Unlike conventional springs, this system used nitrogen-charged spheres connected to hydraulic fluid, providing consistent ride height regardless of load. The driver could adjust ground clearance using a dashboard control, allowing the car to clear obstacles or maintain aerodynamic efficiency.
This suspension delivered unparalleled comfort, isolating passengers from road irregularities while maintaining stable handling. The system's self-leveling capability meant the vehicle maintained optimal stance whether empty or fully loaded—a revolutionary feature for estate cars that often carried varying cargo weights. Modern automotive technology still draws inspiration from these Citroën innovations, with air suspension systems in contemporary luxury vehicles following similar principles.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Diecast Model Car
What makes 1:43 scale ideal for collecting?
The 1:43 scale offers exceptional detail while maintaining practical display dimensions. Models at this scale typically measure 9-12 centimeters in length, allowing collectors to build substantial collections without requiring excessive space. Manufacturers can reproduce intricate details at this size, including accurate trim, badging, and interior features.
How does this model compare to larger scales?
While 1:18 scale diecast model cars offer more extensive detail and impressive size, they require significantly more display space and typically command higher prices. The 1:43 scale represents an optimal balance—detailed enough to appreciate craftsmanship while remaining affordable and space-efficient for dedicated collectors.
What distinguishes the ID 19 from the DS?
The ID 19 shared the DS's revolutionary body and suspension but featured simplified mechanical systems to reduce cost. Where the DS offered power steering and a semi-automatic transmission, the ID used manual steering and conventional clutch operation. This made the ID more accessible while retaining the distinctive styling and comfort that made the DS famous.
Why collect French automotive miniatures specifically?
French manufacturers pursued innovative engineering and distinctive design throughout the twentieth century, creating vehicles unlike those from other nations. Collecting French diecast model cars allows enthusiasts to explore this unique automotive philosophy, from Citroën's technical audacity to Peugeot's reliability and Renault's practicality. These models represent a cohesive aesthetic and engineering approach that defined an era.
How should I display this diecast model car?
The included protective case offers excellent preservation while allowing visibility. Position displays away from direct sunlight and heating sources. Many collectors arrange their miniatures chronologically or by theme, creating narratives that illustrate automotive evolution. Consider dedicated display cabinets with adjustable shelving and internal lighting for optimal presentation of valuable collections.
The Cultural Significance of the Citroën ID/DS Series
Beyond mechanical innovation, the ID and DS models became cultural icons representing French creativity and technological optimism. French philosopher Roland Barthes dedicated an entire essay to the DS in his 1957 work "Mythologies," describing it as the automotive equivalent of Gothic cathedrals—a creation of passionate artists consumed by an entire people. This cultural resonance ensures enduring interest in both original vehicles and quality scale reproductions.
The DS appeared in numerous films, television programs, and photographs throughout the 1960s and 1970s, becoming synonymous with French sophistication. President Charles de Gaulle famously survived an assassination attempt in 1962 partly due to his DS's ability to continue driving despite multiple flat tires. Such dramatic moments cemented the vehicle's legendary status in French collective memory.
Connecting Generations Through Automotive Miniatures
One remarkable aspect of diecast model car collecting involves its capacity to connect generations. Older collectors who remember these vehicles on roads share memories with younger enthusiasts discovering them through miniatures. This ID 19 Break serves as a conversation piece, prompting discussions about family vacations, technological progress, and the evolution of automotive design over decades.
Parents and grandparents often introduce children to classic cars through quality scale models, fostering appreciation for automotive heritage. Unlike digital representations, physical miniatures offer tangible connection to history—they can be held, examined from all angles, and displayed as three-dimensional objects. This tactile quality makes die-cast collectibles particularly effective educational tools for teaching design evolution, engineering principles, and cultural history.
The Future of Classic Diecast Model Cars
As the automotive industry transitions toward electric powertrains and autonomous technologies, interest in classic internal combustion vehicles intensifies among collectors. Diecast model cars preserving iconic designs from the golden age of automotive innovation likely face growing demand as these vehicles become rarer on actual roads. The ID 19 Break represents a particularly significant piece of this heritage—a vehicle that advanced technology while serving practical family needs.
Modern manufacturing techniques continue improving model quality, with computer-aided design and precision casting delivering unprecedented accuracy. However, models representing historically significant vehicles like the Citroën ID series maintain strong collector interest regardless of production era. The combination of automotive significance, distinctive design, and technical innovation ensures this diecast model car remains relevant to future collectors.
A Precious Testament to French Automotive Excellence
Intended for discerning collectors and automotive history enthusiasts, this ID 19 Break is a precious testament to the golden age of French motoring. It offers an authentic window into an era when technical innovation and aesthetic audacity defined European automotive excellence. The black body with white roof combination captures the sophisticated two-tone styling that characterized period European vehicles, while the Break configuration represents the practical innovation that made these cars beloved by families across France.
This exceptional diecast model car transcends simple toy classification—it represents a carefully crafted tribute to automotive pioneering spirit. For collectors building comprehensive representations of automotive history, particularly those focused on French manufacturers or 1960s classics, this miniature provides essential documentation of a vehicle that advanced the entire industry. The included protective case ensures this piece of automotive heritage remains pristine for future generations to appreciate.
Whether displayed individually as a statement piece or integrated into a broader collection of miniature vehicles, this Citroën ID 19 Break RTF demonstrates how quality diecast model cars preserve automotive heritage while providing tangible connections to extraordinary vehicles that shaped motoring culture. For enthusiasts seeking authentic reproductions of revolutionary French automobiles, this scale model represents an outstanding addition that honors both the original vehicle's significance and the artistry of precision miniature manufacturing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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