Ziss Modell
German diecast models of veteran and contemporary vehicles.
Ziss-Modell, also known as R. W. Modell or Wittek Modell, were brand names used by the German Mini-Auto firm, which produced diecast metal classic and contemporary vehicles from the 1960s through the late 1970s. The company was based in Lintorf, West Germany, near Düsseldorf. It is notable for being one of the few German manufacturers dedicated to producing a range of veteran-era vehicles, alongside contemporary offerings.
Quick Facts
- Former Names
- Mini-Auto / R. W. Modell
- Predecessor
- <!-- or
- Founded
- 1960s
- Founder
- E. Witteck
- Defunct
- Sinclair1979_392
- Hq Location City
- Lintorf
- Hq Location Country
- Germany
- Products
- Die-cast scale model cars
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
The company began in the 1960s as the Mini-Auto Company, with models called R. W. Modell – possibly named for founder E. (probably Erich) Wittek or a relative. The Mini-Auto name appeared occasionally on packaging and model bases but more often in brochures. Around the mid-1970s, the Mini-Auto name was largely dropped in favor of R. W. Modell or Ziss, possibly due to confusion with other miniature manufacturers such as Italy's Dugu Miniautotoys, Kaden's Miniauto line in Czechoslovakia, or Dave Sinclair's Mini-Auto shop in Erie, Pennsylvania. For a time, R. W. Modell and Ziss were used simultaneously, with no specific model differentiation between the two lines. The U.S. importer David Sinclair described the company as a 'comparatively small family operation'.
The earliest models were a classic line of mostly German vehicles, including the Hanomag 'Kommisbrot', a 1905 Mercedes Kettenwagen, a BMW Dixi, and a FIAT 508S Balilla coupe. Under the Ziss name, new marques such as Adler, Mercedes-Simplex, Audi Alpensieger, Opel, and N.A.G. appeared, along with trucks from Henschel, M.A.N., and B.V. tankers. Contemporary offerings included a Ford Transit van, Hanomag stake and delivery trucks, a Volkswagen transporter flatbed, a tractor, a Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman limousine, and later an Opel Rekord II, Opel Commodore, and Opel Manta B. The company also produced promotional models for companies like Wicküler beer, Funny Frisch chips, and various oil and transport firms.
Reader's Guide
Ziss-Modell occupies a distinctive niche in diecast model history as a German manufacturer that produced both veteran and contemporary vehicles, a rarity among German firms of the period. While French companies like Minialuxe and RAMI by J.M.K. and Italian firms like Rio and Brumm led in veteran models, Ziss was one of the few German makers to offer a dedicated veteran line, alongside Cursor Models and some Gama veteran cars. The model selection of mainly German marques earned recognition, particularly for the R. W. Modell Hanomag 'Kommissbrot', which featured ultra-detailed elements such as an opening rear engine lid and tilting seats. However, execution and detail were sometimes inconsistent: early plastic 'wooden spoke' wheels were considered less convincing than metal equivalents, and some models had raised ribs for door joints. Color choices and the rendition of lamps and grilles were occasionally criticized. Despite these shortcomings, no other diecast company before or since has offered such a range of classic German selections. The models remain reasonably priced on auction sites and are valued for their unique subject matter.
Did You Know?
- Ziss-Modell was also known as R. W. Modell and Wittek Modell, all brands of the Mini-Auto firm.
- The company was based in Lintorf, West Germany, near Ratingen and north of Düsseldorf.
- Some Ziss models, like the 1911 Benz Landaulet, came with separate ornate diecast roof racks in illustrated packages.
- Ziss produced promotional models for companies including Wicküler beer, Funny Frisch chips, and Aral Oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ziss Modell?
Ziss-Modell was a German diecast model brand operated out of Lintorf, near Düsseldorf, that produced metal vehicle models from the 1960s through the late 1970s. The same firm also marketed its products under the names Mini-Auto, R. W. Modell, and Wittek Modell.
What made Ziss Modell stand out among other German diecast makers?
The company was one of the very few German manufacturers that committed part of its catalogue to veteran-era (pre-war) vehicles while simultaneously offering contemporary models. This dual focus gave collectors a rare single-source option for both old and new car reproductions.
What scales did Ziss Modell work in?
Their primary scale was 1:43, as demonstrated by releases like the Opel Rekord II. They also produced larger 1:24 scale items, such as a Clark forklift.
What materials were Ziss Modell vehicles made from?
The models combined diecast metal bodies with smaller plastic component parts, a common construction approach for German metal models of that era.
Where and when was Ziss Modell active?
The firm was based in Lintorf, West Germany, and ran its production from the 1960s until the late 1970s, after which the brand names disappeared from the market.
More in Model Manufacturers, Part 2 1-24
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced