Dear Bernie, For Christmas I Would Like…

For all those who have been good boys and girls this year, I’m sure you are writing letters to Father Christmas with a long line of groovy gadgets and top toys you would like. But perhaps you’re stuck for ideas on what to get other people, particularly the Formula One fan in the family. Well, BlogF1 is here to help, with a selection of some of the best motorsport-related items available for sale. And don’t worry, I’ll be staying away from the over-priced official F1 stuff – I appreciate we aren’t all multi-billionaires like Ecclestone!

1. Kimi Raikkonen 2007 Champion Presentation – Kimi Raikkonen finally succeeded in becoming a world champion this year, a well-deserved title after coming so close for so many years with McLaren. His Ferrari F2007 has been carefully replicated by Mattel to 1:18 scale, measuring approximately 25cm in length. The presentation model comes mounted on a special wooden plinth with plaques detailing his journey to the title during 2007. I personally own a couple of these superb models and can recommend them as great presents. The detailing is incredible and they look great on a book shelf. And for those concerned about tobacco advertising, the Mattel models do not feature any cigarette branding. Click here for more details…
2. Kimi Raikkonen 2007 Nosecone – Staying with Ferrari and Raikkonen’s superb title victory, Amalgam have produced some excellent nosecone replicas, this particularly model featuring the Ferrari F2007 and the number six as displayed on Kimi’s car. Again, the detailing on these is just awesome, and Raikkonen’s nose comes mounted on a wooden plinth with a plaque describing the model. Also available is Lewis Hamilton’s MP4-22 nosecone, complete with the shiny silver look and the number two. Click here for more details…
3. McLaren Replica Steering Wheel – And finally on the replica model front, Amalgam have extended their range to include steering wheels. This particular piece is from the McLaren MP4-22 and shows all the buttons and dials that modern Grand Prix drivers have to deal with while traveling at 180mph. At only £49.99, this model is slightly cheaper than the nosecones, but in my opinion a much better gift. Seeing a steering wheel on a mantelpiece will surely be the start to many a great conversations when friends pop over for a cup of tea or Christmas cheer. Click here for more details…
4. Lego Ferrari Truck – If you’re looking for a way to keep the children entertained over the festive period, or to just keep your partner out of your way while you cook lunch, then Lego simply has to be the answer. This set is of the Ferrari transporter and includes one of the cars as well as all the tool kits and staff. Measuring 40cm in length, it should keep the peace for a while. Click here for more details…
5. Formula 1 DVD Review 2007 – If you’re bored of all the repeats on television over Christmas, then why not snuggle up on the sofa and relive the 2007 season, from start to finish, with the superb official 2007 review. These DVDs capture the moments that make the season, from the first round in Australia to its dramatic finale in Brazil. It includes interviews with the drivers before and during the season, and has become a must for many fans all over the world. Click here for more details…
6. Autocourse: 2007-2008 F1 Season Review – Formula One reviews are a must for any fan, and thankfully, motorsporting journalists are among the best in the world. That alone makes for detailed, informative and well-produced annuals that look good on any book shelf. The staple one is Alan Henry’s Autocourse book. Filled with lavish photography, statistics and anecdotes, it is simply superb. Also available however is the great Formula One Yearbook: 2007-2008 and the official review with a foreward by Bernie Ecclestone, The Official Formula 1 Season Review: 2007.
7. Lewis Hamilton: My Story – There are many books out at the moment, but one man managed to capture the hearts of many Formula One fans the world over, Lewis Hamilton. Many a journalist have written about the young chap this year, but this offering has received praise for its honesty and engaging nature. Detailing Hamilton’s rise through karting to lower formulae and eventually into Formula One with McLaren, the book also includes rare photographs of Lewis and how he has adapted to life in front of the cameras and reporters. Also on offer are new books from other British drivers, past and present: Jenson Button: My World, David Coulthard: It is What It Is, Jackie Stewart: Winning Is Not Enough and finally a great read from Richard Hammond. I know, not strictly F1, but I have read his account of the terrible accident and injuries he suffered while filming for Top Gear, and it makes for an enthralling read. Richard Hammond: On The Edge.
8. 1:8 Lego Ferrari F1 Car – I brought myself one of these last year and I cannot recommend it highly enough. This is a 1:8 replica of a Ferrari Formula One car, it measures over 60cm long and took me two days to build. Although I should point out I was working over Christmas. However, it does take a while to build and will keep even a grown man quiet and busy. Also available from the officially endorsed Ferrari collection is the 1:10 Lego Ferrari 599 GTB and the 1:10 Lego Ferrari Enzo.

So there you have it, the ultimate F1 fan’s Christmas list. From DVDs and books to models and Lego, everything you could possible want. And don’t forget the various calendars from the official one to McLaren’s and Michael Schumacher’s. Oh, and don’t forget to leave the mince pie and sherry out on the 24th. 😉

Links are affiliate, but this does not affect the price you pay or the service you receive. I only endorse companies and products that I have used and enjoyed myself, but I cannot be held accountable for their actions. For Christmas delivery times, please check the individual sites for details.