Solido
94+ years and still operating (founded 1932)
About Solido
Solido was France's most important die-cast toy manufacturer, producing accurate scale models of French and European vehicles. Their Series 100 vintage car models and military vehicle series are respected by collectors worldwide. Solido is known for particularly high casting quality and historical accuracy.
History of Solido
Solido was France's principal die-cast maker and the French counterpart to Dinky and Corgi. Its early prewar output included a clever transformable system of interchangeable bodies and chassis, and its postwar reputation was built on solid, heavy, accurately proportioned 1:43 models with good suspension and opening parts.
The company's strengths were French subjects and military vehicles. Citroën DS and 2CV, Renault, Peugeot and Simca models are better represented by Solido than by any other maker, and its military range — tanks, half-tracks, armoured cars and artillery — was extensive and well regarded. The Series 100 vintage-car range covered veteran and Edwardian subjects for adult buyers.
Solido was acquired by Majorette in 1980 and the group has since passed through several owners, latterly Simba Dickie. Solido-branded die-cast continues, and the brand has produced a good deal of reissued and newly tooled 1:18 and 1:43 material for the collector market.
Timeline
- 1932Solido is established near Paris
- 1935A transformable system of interchangeable bodies and chassis is produced
- 1957Postwar 1:43 die-cast models of French cars establish the company's reputation
- 1960The military vehicle range becomes extensive and well regarded
- 1980Majorette acquires Solido
Notable & Best-Selling Toys
- Solido Series 100 vintage cars
- Solido Citroen DS19
- Solido military vehicle series
- Solido Ferrari models
- Solido Renault and Peugeot models
- Solido 1/43 scale French cars
Identifying & Dating Solido Toys
- Look for "SOLIDO" cast on the base with "MADE IN FRANCE" and a model number; later production may be marked elsewhere.
- Model numbers are catalogued and are the standard identification.
- Country of manufacture other than France indicates later post-acquisition production.
Collector's Notes
- French-prototype models sell best in France, and prices elsewhere are often lower — useful to know when buying and when selling.
- Boxed examples with their inner packing are the collected items, and 1960s military models are a strong and well-organised field.
- Check wheels, suspension and opening parts, and be aware that modern Solido production is plentiful and is not a vintage collectable.
Currently for Sale on eBay
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Frequently Asked Questions
When was Solido founded?
Solido was founded in 1932, based in Paris, France.
Is Solido still in business?
Yes. Solido is still operating today, 94+ years after it was founded.
What is Solido best known for?
Solido is best known for Solido Series 100 vintage cars, Solido Citroen DS19, Solido military vehicle series, among other toys.
Where was Solido located?
Solido was based in Paris, France.
What kinds of toys did Solido make?
Solido is categorized under die-cast, vehicles.
How can you identify genuine Solido toys?
Look for "SOLIDO" cast on the base with "MADE IN FRANCE" and a model number; later production may be marked elsewhere. Model numbers are catalogued and are the standard identification. Country of manufacture other than France indicates later post-acquisition production.
Are Solido toys valuable?
French-prototype models sell best in France, and prices elsewhere are often lower — useful to know when buying and when selling. Boxed examples with their inner packing are the collected items, and 1960s military models are a strong and well-organised field. Check wheels, suspension and opening parts, and be aware that modern Solido production is plentiful and is not a vintage collectable.