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I have been to 13 of the 14 (missed the first one, darn it!) Matchbox Gatherings in Albuquerque. I have had a GREAT time at every one of them! I can't really compare it to other similar events, but as the aforementioned comments indicate-- there seems to always be something for everyone.
Kay and Hans (Kilarae) and the other previous attendees have highlighted the key things about The Gathering and we LOVE it when new folks are able to attend the event (such as Matchboxpat this year).
While I have always found some models/items every year to add to my collection, the real treasures for me have been meeting other collectors and cultivating friendships and acquaintances that will last a lifetime. I love getting together with everyone each year and visiting about Matchbox, family, friends, and life --- truly a highlight for me!
I hope that I have added some new generations to the event as my son and 2 grandsons were able to come to the event this year and they had a great time as well.
If any of you have a question or need some assistance in deciding/preparing for the Gathering, don't hesitate to send a message to me or any of the other "regulars" of the event.

Jim G. does a fantastic job of spearheading this event every year and as soon as the year's event is done, I'm already looking forward to the next one..............
Come join us -- you will not be disappointed!!
Bill

Wow, many really nice comments, we (myself and all who help with the event) all appreciate that. I hope all enjoy and it looks like the theme of the Gathering "Friends" is working well. 2017 will be the 15th event and I am trying to enhance the event even more. Just got back from Mattel and shared my thoughts. I have seen almost every rare model from most every series at this event through the years. The knowledge base which attends is equaled by none. Room trading is fun as is the dinner, auction and toy show. I try to get the most brilliant Matchbox minds together for the seminars, (next year Paul Carr has committed and I hope to have Matchbox Pat amongst others to present. Ali, Hardy and Jim Reid always have been there to share their vast knowledge. As always, everyone is invited and I hope everyone knows that they are welcome. It has never been any different. We have had guests from The UK, Germany, Austria, Belguim, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, Chilie, Canada and throughout the US. The Matchbox team from Mattel is always very eager to engage anyone and bring out the best in the product. They are wonderful and even their spouses attended this year. Michael Heralda, who retired last year is active in the plannng and attends the event. He is our logo designer and a pleasure to visit with. This event is a labor of love and not put on soley by myself. We have a team of collectors whom we see on these forums every week who volunteer time, materials and knowledge to make it successful. Without them, it would not happen.

The proceeds go 100% to a local charity and I think most feel good about making a difference in childrens lives therfore generousity is overflowing.

Come join us and see for yourself. This event belongs to all.

I have been to about 10 of the gatherings over the years. I really enjoy spending time with my fellow collectors for a weekend. It is not often that we get the hang out and have a meal or a couple drinks with collecting friends from around the world. I have had a few even come to my house in Seattle after meeting at the gathering. If you plan this to be a vacation with a great toy show instead of building it up to be THE SHOW of all time you will be satisfied.

You WILL find some very nice items to buy. The prime rare stuff is often available but at FULL RETAIL. If you are ready to pay for it you may find it. There is always a good selection of rare 1-75's. I bought the purple 67 VW regular wheel in mint condition last year. But it was not cheap.

This is one of m best items. I had the MATTEL team sign the car and my fellow collectors sign the box.



Tom













DurangoKid on the right


Always a Friday night meet and great.


Kay on the left