Maker record
Amalgam
Amalgam is a British model-making business based in Bristol, known for finely detailed scale models of cars, including Formula One and other road and racing cars. It began with architectural models and product prototypes before expanding into car models in the 1990s. Its automotive work uses manufacturer data and car scans, combining CAD, 3D printing and CNC machining with casting and hand finishing. Amalgam Collection also lists aircraft models, miniature components and display objects in its current range.
- Founded
- 1985
- Countries
- United Kingdom
- Locations
- Bristol, United Kingdom
- Founders
- Leo Saunders · Trevor Parsons · Sandy Copeman · Tony Pallanca
The story of Amalgam
Amalgam began in Bristol as a model-making business with architectural design, electronics and visual effects among its founders’ skills. Its own history dates its formation to 1984 and names Leo Saunders, Trevor Parsons, Sandy Copeman and Tony Pallanca as the founding model makers. It first became known for architectural models, supplying firms including Foster & Partners, and broadened into prototyping, exhibitions and point-of-sale work. In 1991 Mike Harvey joined and developed the prototyping side of the business.
The firm moved to larger premises in 1994 and began making models for Formula One teams. Amalgam Collection dates its fine car-model work to 1995, when Sandy Copeman approached the Jordan and Williams teams; it says Ferrari became a partner in 1998. In 2004, Copeman left the parent company to develop the car-model operation as a separate business, Amalgam Fine Model Cars. The original Amalgam business continued with architectural, marine, engineering, exhibition and display models. James Smith and Chris Conlon became directors in 2008. Parsons retired in 2010; Saunders and Harvey retired in 2020, when Joe Preston and Phill Harris joined the leadership.
