Model Car GMC CCKW 353 Military Recovery Vehicle (Truck) - Atlas
Scale 1/43
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Discover this exceptional miniature of the GMC CCKW 353 Recovery Vehicle , an iconic military vehicle from World War II. This faithful 1/43 scale reproduction captures the essence of this recovery truck that marked American and European military history.
A true testament to military ingenuity, this miniature is aimed at military history enthusiasts and demanding collectors looking for authentic and detailed models of period vehicles.
Characteristics of the miniature
- Model: GMC CCKW 353 troubleshooting
- Brand: GMC
- Year: 1941-1945
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Olive Drab (military green)
- Protective case included: Yes
Description of the actual model
The GMC CCKW 353 was developed in 1941 to meet the U.S. Army's urgent heavy-duty transport and recovery needs. This 6x6 truck revolutionized military logistics thanks to its exceptional off-road capability and legendary ruggedness. The recovery version, equipped with a crane and winch, enabled the recovery of damaged vehicles in the field.
With its 104-horsepower GMC 270 engine and all-wheel drive, the CCKW 353 could carry up to 2.5 tons of equipment while maintaining excellent mobility. Its modular design allowed for multiple configurations depending on needs: troop transport, cargo, tanker, or, as shown here, a specialized recovery vehicle.
This vehicle enjoyed resounding commercial and military success, with over 562,000 units produced, making it one of the most produced military trucks in history. Its impact on Allied military operations was considerable, actively participating in the liberation of Europe.
History of the GMC brand
By the early 1940s, General Motors Corporation was already a giant in the American automotive industry, but the war would transform its GMC division into a major player in the military industry. The brand, founded in 1912, had developed a recognized expertise in building rugged utility vehicles.
The United States' entry into the war propelled GMC to the forefront of military suppliers. The company quickly converted its civilian production lines to meet the massive orders from the Department of Defense . This period marked a decisive turning point for GMC, which gained a worldwide reputation for the reliability and performance of its military vehicles, particularly in the heavy-duty and specialty vehicle sectors.
The "Jimmy" anecdote
American soldiers affectionately nicknamed the GMC CCKW 353 the "Jimmy," a corruption of "GMC." This nickname reflected the almost familiar relationship the military had with this reliable vehicle. A famous anecdote tells of a recovery Jimmy successfully towing a Sherman tank stuck in the Normandy mud, a feat that seemed impossible given the weight difference.
During the Normandy landings, these recovery trucks saved hundreds of valuable vehicles for the war effort. Military mechanics developed ingenious techniques for repairing damaged vehicles in the field, transforming each recovery Jimmy into a veritable mobile workshop.
An urban legend claims that a recovery vehicle Jimmy was the first Allied vehicle to cross the Rhine, not for tactical reasons, but because it was coming to the aid of a reconnaissance vehicle that had broken down on the opposite bank. This story, whether true or not, perfectly illustrates the spirit of service and the omnipresence of these vehicles in all military operations.
After the war, many Jimmys were sold to civilians and continued their careers in construction, agriculture, or even as collector vehicles. Their legendary robustness made them work tools appreciated well beyond their initial military use.
Complete your miniature collection
This miniature GMC CCKW 353 Recovery Vehicle occupies a special place in the world of miniature military vehicles . It fits perfectly into a collection dedicated to World War II vehicles or a larger collection dedicated to the 1940s .
Collectors will particularly appreciate its complementarity with other military vehicles of the period, thus creating coherent historical dioramas. It also finds its place alongside other military utility vehicles or civilian emergency vehicles, illustrating the evolution of recovery techniques.
This piece is aimed at military history enthusiasts , utility vehicle collectors, and detailed miniature enthusiasts alike. It is an excellent starting point for exploring the world of 1/43 scale model cars or for enriching an existing collection of historic American vehicles.
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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