Locking the variation codes.

[nickjones]

I know many have wanted this for some time.
I would like to propose that the variation codes be locked, any new variation be added to the end of the table with a suffix to show its place in the timeline.
so, we have 30 variations listed, the new variation would be given the code 31 and to show its correct position in the timeline, say for example 17, so its code would then be 31/17.
subsequent codes would follow.
31/17
32/5
33/14
34/22 and so on.

Your thoughts please.

[GHOSTHUNTER]

This is workable because it implies the bulk of the coded models are now fairly well established with smaller quantities of variations for each model now being found.

I only wish I could have got all my '1-75 Series' Rolls-Royce model variations integrated into your code listing, but it just proved an impossible task each time I had a go at it, because for just one of the coded versions, I seem to have more than One model that fitted-in with that code, so I was finding I was having to give the model an extended code number based on yours...

As an example:

#44a, Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud, 'Code 1' with you.
#44a, Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud, 'Code 1' with me, but extended to...'Code 1, a, b and c'.

Ghosthunter.

[Miller]

Would there be a legal problem to put the stannard codes in your list for those cars, that are listed there?

[Idris]

I know many have wanted this for some time.
I would like to propose that the variation codes be locked, any new variation be added to the end of the table with a suffix to show its place in the timeline.
so, we have 30 variations listed, the new variation would be given the code 31 and to show its correct position in the timeline, say for example 17, so its code would then be 31/17.
subsequent codes would follow.
31/17
32/5
33/14
34/22 and so on.

Your thoughts please.

Wouldn't it be easier simply to code these as 17a, 5a, 14a, and 22a or, if you prefer, 17a (31), 5a (32), 14a (33), and 22a (34)? That way, the important information - the correct place in the variation table - is presented first.

[Idris]

Would there be a legal problem to put the stannard codes in your list for those cars, that are listed there?

That's an awful lot of work. If we were to go down that path, then I think the task of matching Nick's variation code to Stannard codes would have to be shared out amongst Members.

[matchbox_n_molars]

Wouldn't it be easier simply to code these as 17a, 5a, 14a, and 22a or, if you prefer, 17a (31), 5a (32), 14a (33), and 22a (34)? That way, the important information - the correct place in the variation table - is presented first.

I tend to agree with Hugh. I still use an old copy of Stannard that I printed off as my resource that I carry to toy shows. I write in that copy and make suitable notations so that I don't buy things I've already got. When I've added variations that don't fit the Stannard codes I add them as Hugh has proposed with the letter "a" following the number. I still put it at the bottom of the column but I number it according to the closest listed variation within the text.

[Tinman]

I am pleased to hear this news. I've nothing to add regarding how to code future additions and will accept any system that's decided.

[MatchboxFreak]

Thank you Nick

Locking the sequence of the variation table is probably a good idea since so many use your database as a reference. If the list order is constantly changing, it's difficult to accurately key ones collection to your list.

Gathering all the variations into one list is a huge effort.
Sorting all the variations into age order is a gargantuan effort and will likely have many, many iterations.

Better to lockdown a complete variation list and have a 'live' sequence field for each variation.

[kwakers]

I am very happy to hear that your Codes could be locked at some point soon Nick. One problem we have now (that we did not have 4 years ago) is that we have lots of model's details that have been shown recently by Forum members that have never even been mentioned anywhere else in print. If we were to lock your codes today Nick, we would be ignoring Yellowfoden's very detailed updates to the 21D Mixer casting timeline, and also Bill's 17D Hoveringham Tipper variations that are now seen in detailed Posts on our Forum. Ghosty has also expressed the concern that our 24C Rolls codes could be updated by him very easily, but he may need some time to sort and compare his collection's major casting changes to VBD's present codes.
Poor kwaker's mind is now bedazzled today by your asking for our comments Nick on a long awaited dream of veteran collectors to lock your codes.........
I am torn as you can tell Nick, I thought it was time to lock your codes 5+ years ago, but I HAVE BEEN AMAZED these last 3 or 4 years at what additional crossover casting changes we have seen come "OUT", and others now continue to be shown here at our Forum most every month now......
I had mentioned and noted at the time the odd interior casting of a 62C Cougar that had been clearly pictured on our Forum two years ago, but got no real response from other 'detailist' members. (I now own that example)This very detailed and pictured bonnet interior is without posts on the outside of the door springs, while having the early non rounded (straight and not connected together) bonnet ridges under the front fenders. This body casting has never been coded anywhere, is not presently in your codes Nick. Do we lock without it right now at only 2 body castings, or do we update first?? Also needing to be noted as a body interior casting change is a type with two ridges under the front fenders of this Cougar that end connected and rounded together next to the door spring posts. These are not illustrated that way anywhere, neither at VBD, nor by Stannard in his 1985 Guide. Nick, your body codes would be doubled from 2 to 4 known types.
Your body type #1 is still correct, body #2 should be without studs but with ridges making VBD body #2 actually a new body #3 if revised. Body #4 if added, would be with ridges ending by joining together in a circle next to the door spring studs. I have examples of that last joined circle ridge body with both the 'High A" letter base, and also with the 'Low A' letter base.
I am also excited to lock your codes just like Tinman Nick, but could Hugh be allowed to finish his updates with known sources and Historical Yank Guides AIM and NAMC integrated in their proper VBD timelines first?? Could someone else help you with this last "Basic" update before locking all your codes? Either way, I am glad, and locking your online Guide will make coding for collectors a one time affair instead of a constant changing (but very accurate!) record of Lesney regular wheel production......Very Sorry I have argued both sides of your question Nick, but my opinion is split by this sudden exciting proposal at this time........ kwakers

[Tinman]

Someone please correct me if I am wrong, (and this is for Dick) but locking the codes (as has been previously discussed) would lock the coded models in their current place and not allow a variation to enter the codes midway and bump all the later models down the line. Models can and will be added but they will either have to come after the last cataloged code or have a suffix Such as Code 6 followed by Code 6a (should it join a model midway in the codes).