Modelling is much more than just a simple hobby. It can be an escape from reality and a good investment. Don’t think you need to be a master modeller. The essential quality here is patience! Enter the world of high-end 1:8-scale model kits.

I recently completed Pocher’s lovely Gulf-liveried Porsche 917, inset, and it’s something special. The first thing to remember with these kits is they take up a lot of space as the end product is about 2ft long – but cased and properly displayed it’s like having a museum piece.

In the early years models at this scale were plastic; more recently they were marketed as a partwork – a monthly subscription service to receive pieces and build as you go along. This method never caught on here but is popular in Europe through Hachette or Panini. DeAgostini offered Lewis Hamilton’s McLaren MP4-23 in the UK, a subscription over two years. It was plastic and while fun to build wouldn’t be an investment piece. The latest wave of large-scale kits are better quality and assemble into something quite substantial.

A great example is the IXO range, or browse the selection from Agora Models or Fanhome. Building kits like this is rarely about re-sell value, but the enjoyment of building and owning a statement piece. However, I have seen certain kits double in value, even unbuilt!

Models of iconic cars have a rub-on association with the real thing, such as James Bond vehicles, classic Ferraris or Aston Martins. Many are also very limited editions so they’re scarce.

My tip is to buy a complete kit and build at your own pace rather than use subscription services, and follow the experts who have previously built them, highlighting any tricks or issues. Once complete, display them proudly in a case. Should you be tempted to move kits on, you may be pleasantly surprised.

Andrew Francis is director at The Signature Store. thesignaturestore.co.uk

Michael Turner signed prints

Commissioned by John Surtees and created by the legendary motor sport illustrator Michael Turner – who died in December – these six artworks, 21in x 17in, are limited to 50 numbered prints, each signed by Surtees and Turner.
£99.95 each, thesignaturestore.co.uk

N+ x Mercedes F1 electric bike

An electric bike with a Formula 1 twist. N+’s offering boasts AMG F1 branding with a sequential gearbox, Pirelli tyres and is capable of 25mph. Currently if you buy this, the range-topping Rallye Edition, you also get the lesser-powered City variant for free. £6990, nplusbikes.com

Popup garage display sets

The issue with a Hot Wheels addiction is where to actually put those 1:64 wonders. Problem solved thanks to Pop Up Garage, which offers display stands ranging from high-end dealerships to petrol stations and high street scenes (mini KFC anybody?). From £49, popupgarage.store

Retro circuit canvas

These circuit posters are guaranteed eyecatchers, especially if you chose the Nürburgring one with its heaps of helpful info. Take your pick from a host of famous world circuits, or even obscure ones – like GingerMan Raceway in Michigan. From £32, racingcanvasco.com

Boss x Aston Martin sweater

Leave nobody (or more likely everybody) in doubt about what you drive thanks to Aston Martin’s new tie-up with Hugo Boss. We like this wool-blend sweater bearing the famous winged logo. Subtle. Available in light brown, above, or dark blue. £229, hugoboss.com

Scalextric transit & escort

Something different and achingly cool for your 1:32-scale slot car set-up. Scalextric’s latest twin pack combines a Ford Motorsport Transit Mk1, flatbed trailer and Escort Mk1 for full 1970s rally vibes. And they all run on track too. £109.99, uk.scalextric.com