I have been in the model car business for almost 33 years and started Abingdon Classics in 1976 specialising in 1/43rd scale handbuilt MG models in built form only.  Alvis models were added to the range.  In 1984 I started Top Marques in partnership with Julie the first model being a Bentley 4 1/2 litre by Vanden Plas (ref. B1).  This was followed by a Rolls-Royce 20hp Landaulette which set the standard for all our models. The Top Marques team consisted of myself, my wife Julie and Philip Peall. In late 1997 we expanded the business with an extra partner to accommodate anticipated orders from Rolls-Royce at Crewe.  This was based on a verbal agreement to produce models for the factory.  Unfortunately, the Rolls-Royce car division was taken over by BMW shortly afterwards. Therefore, no contract was forthcoming and our premises too large for our production levels and decided to cease the partnership of TMMLtd at the end of 2000 & to work independently again.  We moved to France in 2001, starting Autotorque & later running Top Marques/Autotorque together.  This range includes 1930's British Sports Cars (starting with the Lagonda LG45 Rapide) and Rolls-Royce (the first being a PHII ref.FL1 Town car by Darrin Countess di Frasso).  The Rolls-Royce Club series limited to 65 each (4 in the series) will be completed this year with the release of Club III Phantom II Continental. In 2009, the whole range has been streamlined, all models being packed in a new Autotorque / Top Marques box & signed Limited Edition cards. The Rolls-Royce series (FL), 1930's British Sport Car series (AT) and MG Midget range (MR) will continue.  New models will be listed as they become available.  All our models are 1/43rd scale white metal (no resin) with the more recent ones being in a pewter material.  

 Max Kernick