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• Onyx / Quartzo

Part of the original Vitesse group, which was based in Portugal, Onyx were the first manufacturer in modern times to produce diecast models of most of the cars on the Formula One grid each season. The early releases were a bit crude compared to the later models but they were all that was available at the time other than comparatively expensive metal kits which required good modelmaking skills to produce a good finished model.

Once Minichamps appeared on the scene in the early 90's there was a battle between the two companies which led to a huge improvement in quality. Eventually Minichamps were able to secure sole rights to produce many of the leading cars and Onyx were left with the minor teams like Minardi and also secured the sole rights to produce the last Lotus Grand Prix cars before the team folded.

Under the Quartzo banner the company produced models of many classic Grand Prix cars and Sports Racing Cars like the Porsche 935 and BMW M! as well as modern and historic NASCAR models. Many of these models were sold off at low prices in a desperate bid to raise money when the original Vitesse company ran into financial problems and was forced to close. 

The clearance stock seems to have disappeared (most probably bought as childrens toys due to the low prices) and many of the models which were sold off at low prices have now become hard to find.