Richard Briggs

Designer

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Like so many small boys, Richard Briggs always loved cars and drove his father’s Rover 12 well before his teens. After leaving school he had various jobs selling cars and had a long spell in South Africa in the motor trade and the restaurant business. He visited the USA many times, becoming a recognised authority on American cars and in 1980 formed his own company to produce models of the cars he so loved.

His first two models, a Riley RMB and a Packard Caribbean received rave reviews and were the forerunners of the many fine quality white metal models that established his reputation.

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Like so many small boys, Richard Briggs always loved cars and drove his father’s Rover 12 well before his teens. After leaving school he had various jobs selling cars and had a long spell in South Africa in the motor trade and the restaurant business. He visited the USA many times, becoming a recognised authority on American cars and in 1980 formed his own company to produce models of the cars he so loved.

His first two models, a Riley RMB and a Packard Caribbean received rave reviews and were the forerunners of the many fine quality white metal models that established his reputation.

A lifelong batchelor, the last twenty years of his life were centred on his enthusiasm for all the models Minimarque43 produced and, indeed, the collection of classic cars he established at his home in Halsham, East Yorkshire. Packard was his favourite marque and many models of these cars were made.

He travelled to America again at this time mostly to deliver personally the orders from dealers and collectors, customs officials notwithstanding! On several occasions he purchased a car to make his deliveries and then despatched it to England to add to his collection. A lovely story tells of one occasion when, instead of buying a car, he hired one for the purpose with an unlimited mileage agreement and returned it three weeks later with nearly four thousand miles added! The hire company was not amused.

Over the years, new ranges were introduced, including Cars of the Stars, Commercial and Military vehicles, to name just a few. Richard’s keen eye for detail, discerning choice of models and prolific range ensured his continued success right up to his passing on 27th July 2002.

He commissioned various pattern makers and companies to make his models and, indeed, independent specialist builders on some occasions. A true classic amongst the models that were produced for him and much sought after is the 1931 Bugatti Royale, Berline de Voyage, Type 41, finished in black and yellow, some with Harrah’s 1986 Vehicle Auction logos on both front doors.

Subject ID: 82838

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Subject ID: 82838