Sundeep Gajjar's collection of miniature bikes and figurines is so epic that your jaws would drop and touch the floor. Meet the man himself...
When did you start building your collection?
Back in 2005, on a ride from Delhi to Mumbai, I bought 40 motorcycle scale models from Surat. Since then, I have been collecting action figures and motorcycle scale models from every country I traveled. Of the 52 countries I have traveled so far, my collections have been from 30 of them. From airports to petrol stations and everywhere in between, I have collected these models.
What was it that inspired to have these collections?
Since childhood, I have been a comic book fan. Further, my passion for motorcycling developed and juxtaposing the two, I was able to build the collection.
Could you throw some light on the collection that you have?
I have around 500 motorcycle scale models and seven supercar scale models. I only collect car models that I have driven. Further, I have a good collection of Batman figures and its vehicles – batpod and tumblers. I have also started collecting realistic figures of my favourite movie and other inspirational characters like Rambo, Arnold, Aseterix, Michael Jackson, Steve jobs etc. Keychains related to bikes and superheroes, memorabilia from my visits to bike rides and events etc are also a part of my collections at home. And, since I am a photographer, I collect photos too. At present, I have photos of various cities, villages, and subjects from the 52 countries that I have traveled so far.
Which is your favourite of the lot? Any special memories attached to it…
Amongst cars, it would be the BMW iconcept and the Mercedes SLS 63 AMG. These two supercars were the highlights for me as I have driven them for a few 1000kms each in exotic locations. One of my other favorites is the metal cast ultra-detailed replica of Valentino Rossi’s Honda MotoGP bike. I also love my Predator helmet.
Anything that you would like to tell those who wish to build a collection like yours?
For me, collections happened as a by product of my work and passion. This collection spree might become another passion in itself for me. If you have the passion for something, you can start rightaway. Be it small or big steps, doesn’t matter. A start is enough.
What do you plan to do with the collection that you have?
Right now, the collection is displayed in my office. My dream is to have a big villa with miniature cities modeled after Gotham and Smallville etc displaying all these figures. But all that may take couple of years’ time- may be 20.
Which are the ideal places to buy such collections from?
You have to keep searching everywhere. There are hundreds of website online but the best place would be to buy in USA as it is cheaper there.
Any tips to keep in mind while making the purchase...
1. Keep a lookout for ebay and deals on website in USA. Get them shipped to a relative and ask them to bring it when they come to India. There are some sites like hobbylinkjapan that ship at an economical rate to India.
2. Do have a plan to display your collection. Keep them safe in the boxes unless you have a display case.
3. Don’t force yourself to collect something if you don’t feel for it
Any tips on how to manage the collections...
Get a display area or a case. Download a photo cataloguing app on your phone and click a photo and add keywords. Search the database before buying in case you don’t remember which models you already have. I am facing the issue right now.