Brumm

Lore & Background

Brumm was started in 1972 by Reno Tattarletti, a veteran collector and U.S. importer David Sinclair reports that Tattarletti was of the family concern that started RIO Models, though other sources say it was a brother-in-law of the Tattarlettis. The new company was formed with the help of associates who had already been making miniature horse-drawn carriages. Brumm began producing miniature vehicles in Oltrona di San Mamette, about seven miles from where RIO was located in Cernobbio. Neither the RIO nor the Dugu connection is discussed in the company history on the official Brumm website.

The name Brumm was derived from the Italian for 'Brougham'. The company's first line was carriages with horses. In 1976, the 'Old Fire' series followed, focusing on steam fire engines and pre-gas engine vehicles such as Richard Trevithick's 1803 steam carriage. This line was expanded into a unique set of steam-powered vehicles, including Cugnot's 1769 steam tractor from France, and two fantastical steam cars attributed to Ferdinand Verbiest (1681) and Newton (1680), neither confirmed to have been constructed. The Carriage and Old Fire series were produced in detailed plastic, while the Revival series of more modern automobiles were produced in zamac.

Brumm models were advertised as 'not toys and unsuitable for children', with packaging recommending ages 14 and up. Most models were offered in top-up or top-down versions in distinct colors. Unlike RIO, Brumm models rarely had opening features, and Brumm paint applications could be rather thick. Brumm produced a larger range of different models from the 1970s forward, focusing on period racing vehicles from the 1930s to 1950s, accurately copying real cars with varied numbering, striping, and nationalistic color schemes. Later models expanded to racing Ferraris and Alfa Romeos from the 1970s and 1980s.

Reader's Guide

Brumm's significance lies in its role as a prolific European collector-oriented diecast firm that carved a niche with steam-powered vehicles and period racing cars. Starting in 1972, it offered a larger range of models than its relative RIO, though RIO models were considered more refined. Brumm's early focus on steam fire engines and fantastical steam cars was unique among toy manufacturers. The company's emphasis on accurate racing liveries, down to driver-specific details and nationalistic color schemes, appealed to collectors. Brumm also produced promotional models for brands like Jägermeister, AGIP, and Campari, as well as political candidate-themed FIAT 500s. Starting in 1986, an annual series of limited production models began. Brumm continues into the new millennium, producing about one new model annually, and sells models in lifelike dioramas. Its legacy is that of a dedicated manufacturer of detailed, non-toy miniatures that often filled gaps in automotive history not covered by other makers.

Did You Know?

• Brumm's name is derived from the Italian word for 'Brougham'.
• The company produced a model of Oliver Evans' 'Oruktor Amphibolos', a steam dredge demonstrated in Philadelphia in 1804.
• Brumm's model of the 1938 Mercedes W125 Grand Prix included a Nazi flag on the rear of the body.
• A legal dispute with RIO over Henry Ford's 1902 model 999 land speed record car was reportedly won by RIO.