Die cast airplane models are widely collected by aviation history enthusiasts, and the most recent issue (Volume 45, Number 9) of Air Classics magazine has a teriffic article on the subject that even includes inside information on how those wonders of miniaturization are designed and manufactured. You'll want to get the full magazine at your nearest newsstand, but here's an excerpt that includes information from your favorite place to shop:

Collectors of modern die-cast models are quite familiar with the “made in China” declaration printed on nearly every product. I asked Rick Apple, CEO of Historic Aviation, why China is the primary source for these models. Historic Aviation is the exclusive distributor of Hobby Master and SkyMax Models and is considered to be the largest distributor of die-cast model airplanes in America. Interestingly, Rick’s authoritative explanation was that China has a rather unique combination of advanced technology and inexpensive labor.

I had surmised that the driving factor was the low cost of labor and did not consider that to produce an economical die-cast metal product, the preliminary engineering and design of the tooling can dominate costs. China has acquired the most up-to-date computer-aided design technology and tooling fabrication techniques available anywhere in the world. Rick also pointed out that with worldwide internet communications it is convenient and cost effective to manage the complete development, approval, and manufacturing process of new products without having to travel to China. In reality, much of the previous labor-intensive aspects of traditional die-casting, such as making dies by hand, have been replaced with modern computer-aided techniques that handle design, prototyping, tool making, and production.

Incidentally, if you are not familiar with Historic Aviation, you should avail yourself of their comprehensive catalog of aviation collectibles. Get one free by calling 800-225-5575 or going online at www.HistoricAviation.com.