Diecast Masters 85560 CAT No. 12 and 12M3 set review: two eras on one base
The No. 12 and 12M3 Evolution pair suits a shared history exhibit; individual dimensions do not establish the complete base footprint.
At a Glance
Model essentials
- Two 1:50 grader subjects
- Shared presentation base
- 68-page booklet per feed
Collection highlights
- Clear historic-to-modern contrast
- Accompanying historical presentation
Before you choose
- Set footprint is not documented
- Modern movement has limits
Available from Diecast Models Wholesale
View model at retailer ↗Price and availability subject to change
The point of 85560 is the pair. A historic No. 12 beside a 12M3 lets a collector present a change in machine design without asking a visitor to identify it from a single grader. Plan it as a small exhibit before treating either piece as an independent worksite purchase.
Write the label around a visible difference
No. 12
Direct attention to the open operator position and exposed mechanical arrangement.
12M3
Use the enclosed modern cab and different body form as the other end of the comparison.
The supplied feed identifies two 1:50 models, a shared presentation base and a 68-page booklet. Its dimensions are individual: approximately 6 × 2.875 × 2.5 inches for No. 12 and 8 × 3.5 × 2.625 inches for 12M3. Neither is the complete set’s footprint.
Presentation does not remove movement limits
The 85560 inspection records restricted modern-grader steering and wheel lean that did not operate on its sample. It also describes useful moldboard positioning. Choose a static exhibit for what it reveals, rather than assuming a full demonstration of every grader motion.
Pros & Cons Analysis
See the source attributions and review limitations below.
Pros
- The old grader’s fixed period figure and the modern model’s optional operator make the generational contrast more than a change of paint. Keep the figures attributed to their own machines.
Cons
- The base’s screw stands are partly visible in the inspected presentation. Consider the normal viewing height if an uninterrupted ground scene is important.
Let the pair explain the purchase
Keep the set together when the collection needs a compact history exhibit. A short label can do more than extra scenery around the two graders.
- Reserve space for the whole base, not just the longer model.
- If one machine is all you want, value the unused half deliberately rather than assuming the set is automatically preferable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the 12M3 dimensions to order a case for the set?
No. Those are individual-model dimensions. The combined base footprint and required clearance must be confirmed.
Is a loose No. 12 a complete 85560 set?
No. This offer is the two-model Evolution package with its presentation items. Verify both graders and the listed contents.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Diecast Masters |
|---|---|
| Product code | 85560 |
| Subject | CAT No. 12 and 12M3 set |
| Edition / version | Evolution Series |
| Color / livery | Era-specific Caterpillar decoration |
| Scale | 1:50 |
| Model type | Two-model grader set |
| Materials | Diecast metal with plastic parts |
| Length | 12M3: 8 in; No. 12: 6 in |
| Width | 12M3: 3.5 in; No. 12: 2.875 in |
| Height | 12M3: 2.625 in; No. 12: 2.5 in |
| Measurement basis | Approximate merchant dimensions for each named model; pose unspecified; not the complete set or display base |
| Opening panels | Unknown |
| Moving parts | Grader blade positioning; steering with sample-specific limits |
| Lighting | Unknown |
| Power source | Unknown |
| Included figures | Period operator on No. 12; optional 12M3 operator in inspection |
| Included equipment | No. 12 and 12M3 models; 68-page booklet per feed |
| Display base | Shared presentation base |
