CMC 1937 Horch

During the month of April our forum had been discussing unusual curves pertaining to these old works of art. I felt it was time to introduce our "New" subscribers to CMC die cast. If you love very detailed imported replica’s then it is time to explore the CMC website. I might add you may want to lock your credit card away before you click on their link, I am sure you will find many appealing models on the pages that follow.

One of my all time favorite automobiles with those special curves we discussed is the Horch. Here is a little history on the Horch that I hope you will find interesting?

Horch’s reputation for exclusive cars built in Zwickau stretched back several decades. The engines in particular served as a benchmark and were considered exemplary for both their performance characteristics and their refinement. Economy was not an issue in the deluxe class, and the "Horch 8" came to be regarded as the zenith of quality.

The problem soon arose as to how to raise more capital to compete worldwide. In Saxony Germany, the State Bank had more or less satisfied Horch­Werke's needs for capital loans but the rest of the European manufactures were struggling to survive.

Promoting sales to the necessary degree was a costly affair, a price war triggered off by stronger competition from abroad­devoured large amounts of money. The German car industry found itself frequently unable to finance advertising and new equipment. All this from its own profits: therefore, sources of credit was needed.

After much negotiating in 1932, the four automobile works of Saxony i.e. DKW, Horch and Wanderer were merged into the Auto­AG, to become the second largest automobile group in Germany. Its symbol was four interlocking rings. Horch represented the third ring ­ it was carried by hundreds of thousands of cars and motorcycles throughout the years.

Touching briefly on the history of this stunning automobile should give you some insight on its early beginning. The ’37 Horch Jubilee 853 is one of my favorite replicas in my personal collection. The craftsmanship of this replica is outstanding, as it is on all CMC models.

One word of caution here, I advise anyone who purchases a CMC replica be very careful when handling it. There are many photo­etched parts along with very delicate, minute parts throughout the replica, which will break very easily. Use extreme care when handling these replicas. Be sure to READ the instructions fully that accompany the replica before your exploration to familiarize yourself with such things as how the hood, trunk and doors open and close. I can’t emphasize enough how delicate these replicas are, so read carefully before handling it.

Moving on, talk about curves, the Jubilee 853 has them all. Let me first mention the fit and finish is the best you will ever view. The big chrome headlights, sitting proudly on gorgeous rolling fenders, along with the massive chrome grille, makes this model the outstanding replica that it is. The wide whitewalls and stunning rims are the most realistic I have ever viewed on a replica from this period. CMC captured the look of the ’37 Jubilee 853 with precise detail making it worthy to sit in any museum around the world. I kid you not about the quality of this replica.

There is a spare tire mounted on each front fender adding to the 85e’s striking appearance. Moving beyond the front fenders you can’t help but notice the running boards with its realistic rubber mat. The look and feel of that mat is spot on; and as realistic as could humanly be possible.

Then there are the doors, sporting real chromed hinges that work as planned. However, on my model they didn't hold the door closed properly. Viewing the top folded down, at first glance you would think it is operational, it isn't so don’t try to adjust it or you will damage your replica. Moving around to the rear of this replica you will find an operating trunk and a luggage rack. Again, both very delicate use caution when attempting to open the trunk.

I love the dash on this replica; it is very intricate with attention to detail being paramount. Viewing the gauges you can clearly see they are all readable adding to the quality of this replica.

Finally, viewing the engine compartment pictured above, you must be very careful when opening the hood, or you will break the delicate ornament. The hood opens from either side since there is a chromed piano hinge running down the center of the hood. I recommend using a special tool when opening this hood, which helps in eliminating damage. The tool I am referring to is called the Hobby Pal and is available from MicroMark. It is a suction cup device that allows you to maneuver the hood gently around the tire to open it properly without damaging the hood ornament.

In closing, if you love curves then the CMC ’37 Horch Jubilee 853 belongs in your collection.