Mike Tarantino's Toy Soldier Collection (4 Viewers)

[ucla1967]

These are really nice looking uniforms, as well. The gray and red are sharp looking in combination. I really like all these Central and South American uniform color combinations. They show some impressive originality. -- Al

Thanks Al, it is surprising how well gray works out when combined with other colors. The neat uniforms from South America is what got me interested in collecting them.

Mike

 

[ucla1967]

This is a Hiriart non catalog set that three of us have on order this year, ACADEMIA MILITAR de GUATEMALA CABALLERIA. The uniforms are reminiscent of Japanese cavalry in the early 20th century which has inspired me to order them also, at a future date.

 

[ucla1967]

This is a Hiriart non catalog band based on set No 1329 ESCUELA POLITECNICA GUATEMALA. The third photo is a stock photo showing the band set up.

 

[ucla1967]

For 2015, I have ordered this non catalog version of set No. 1329 ESCUELA POLITECNICA GUATEMALA which is also named ACADEMIA MILITAR de GUATEMALA. I am not sure if that is one and the same school or not. In any case, the cadets are wearing dark blue tunics rather than gray ones. This will represent the fourth set that I have from Guatemala.

 

[lancer]

For 2015, I have ordered this non catalog version of set No. 1329 ESCUELA POLITECNICA GUATEMALA which is also named ACADEMIA MILITAR de GUATEMALA. I am not sure if that is one and the same school or not. In any case, the cadets are wearing dark blue tunics rather than gray ones. This will represent the fourth set that I have from Guatemala.

A nice looking set, as well. Don't know which looks better, blue or gray. Both are sharp looking with the red trousers and other trim. -- Al

 

[ucla1967]

A nice looking set, as well. Don't know which looks better, blue or gray. Both are sharp looking with the red trousers and other trim. -- Al

I agree, Al. It is hard to chose, so I am going to have both versions in my collection.

Mike

 

[ucla1967]

The only Mexican set I have in my collection is Hiriart's set No. 1335 HEROICO COLEGIO MILITAR, MEXICO. They got their name from their unsuccessful defense of the citadel in Mexico City during the Mexican-American War in 1845. I am not sure if they wore these uniforms during the war or whether they are wearing a later version, but the kepis seem to be from a later period. The second photo is a close up of their eagle mascot.

 

[ucla1967]

In 2016, I have a five figure non catalog mounted version of set No. 1335 HEROICO COLEGIO MILITAR, MEXICO on order. The attached stock photo shows a double set, but mine will have an officer, flag, and three men. Hiriart's regular catalog also has sets representing the Air Force and Naval Academies, neither of which I have. There are also non catalog sets of bands from the three Mexican academies.

 

[ucla1967]

This stock photo shows (less one man) the only set from Paraguay that Hiriart has in its catalog: set No. 1008 ACA CARAYA LANCEROS, PARAGUAY which I have on order this year. Their name is a local Indian dialect; interestingly (or maybe a yuk factor) they have monkey fur on their helmets. I am definitely in the yuk camp.

 

[ucla1967]

This is currently the only set I have from Peru: Hiriart set No. 1007 GUARDIA PRESIDENCIAL de CORACEROS, PERU.

 

[lancer]

This is currently the only set I have from Peru: Hiriart set No. 1007 GUARDIA PRESIDENCIAL de CORACEROS, PERU.

Nice colors. I can't imagine why I like this set.:rolleyes2: Looks awfully French to me.:wink2:^&grin -- Al

 

[ucla1967]

Nice colors. I can't imagine why I like this set.:rolleyes2: Looks awfully French to me.:wink2:^&grin -- Al

I am not surprised that you like this set. If it wasn't for the Peruvian flag, they could be French.

 

[ucla1967]

Next year, I have placed an order for Hiriart set No. 1307 HUSARES de JUNIN, PERU.

 

[ucla1967]

I currently have two Hiriart sets from Uruguay in my collection with three more on future orders. The first set is No. 1157 BLANDENGUES de ARTIGAS, URUGUAY. You can get a really good view of the national flag of Uruguay in this stock photo.

 

[ucla1967]

This is the other Hiriart set that I have representing a military unit from Uruguay: URUGUAYAN NAVY in HISTORIC DRESS.

 

[ucla1967]

This year, I have Hiriart set No. 1218 BATALLON FLORIDA, URUGUAY on order. It is one of the hand full of Hiriart catalog color party sets that has three flags.

 

[lancer]

The Uruguay sets are good looking sets. I like the swinging arms on the marchers. -- Al

 

[ucla1967]

The Uruguay sets are good looking sets. I like the swinging arms on the marchers. -- Al

They are handsome sets. Hiriart uses swinging arms frequently.

Mike

 

[4th Hussar]

They are handsome sets. Hiriart uses swinging arms frequently.

Mike

Likely due to the British influence in SAmerica

 

[ucla1967]

Likely due to the British influence in SAmerica

Agree.