Ok, I admit it. I'm a nut for display cases. Years ago, I designed my own wall-mounted, walnut-and-glass case with a mounting bracket that allowed the case to rotate 360 degrees. It was very nice, and very expensive. And I never sold any!

So over the years, I 've watched the market for display cases develop with the hobby, from the infamous JoHan ClearCase, to a full range of cases of all shapes and sizes. Not much has caught my attention, until I saw the new DisplayTek case shown here. This one is really unique.

This trick here is a cleverly designed acrylic-mirrored back panel that has been formed into a tri-panel section. As you can see from the photos, when you put a standard 1/24-1/25 scael car in it, it gives you a full 360 degree view of the model. (In this "case", the Riviera model was built by Irv Arter, one of the MAMA's Boyz.) When you look into the case, you can see a direct-on front and rear view, as well as the full backside view. DisplayTek calls this a Triflection display case, and I must say, it works.

The display base is real Oregon hardwood, with cove routed edges, and a routed groove for the cover. It is well finished, with a walnut stain, and a full felt bottom. The cover is a two piece acrylic polymer, with the mirrored back tri-section glued to a clear front/top molding. It measures 5" deep, 18" wide, and 5 1/2 inches high. They can be stacked, but they are not interlocking. All of this is shipped in a well-designed, expanded foam protected cardboard box that prevents damage very well. What's more, it's very light, making it easy to take to shows, etc.

I have shown this case to other modelers, and they have all reacted very positively to the way it looks, and the way it presents a model car. It does look great.

With this kind of quality, finish, and packaging, the Triflection case is not trying to compete on price with all the injection molded cases that are a dime a dozen. Because the Triflection case retails at an introductory price of $56.95, this is a case is for the collector or modeler that appreciates the workmanship in their best model pieces, and who want to show them in the best light. Unlike the cheap styrene cases, when the Triflection case is placed on a shelf, mantle, or cabinet, the Triflection case will enhance the room decor in any setting, like the living room, den, family room, or office. Ken Luse, the owner of DisplayTek, says that it fit's like a glove in a corner location. For sure, it's one case that the wife won't mind!

Not everyone will budget for this type of pampering for their favorite models. But those who do should be pleased with the results with their Triflection display case from DisplayTek.

by Dirk Johnson

Click here to goto the DisplayTek website.

Please click here to recommend this page to your modeling friends!

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