Bob Johnson

Nigel.. these models were like "learning multiplication tables"... we had to learn how to design and make the patterns for modern autos..... they served that purpose and gained needed shelf space at retail simply because there were no other subjects like them..

I had forgotten that we textured the cavity surface of the roof to look like a vinyl roof!!

Maybe a Group 44 TR-8 would be a good challenge!! BJ

Nice work!! The Mazda RX-7 and the BMW 635 Csi were far more detailed than the original 2100 series kits...... the early models like the 924, TR-7, and "Z" sure opened the doors for later European and Japanese model kits by Monogram!! Bob Johnson

Giterdone!!

Never saw that.. Thanks!! BJ

This may be the only TR-7 ever depicted as a model kit,, to this day, BLAH_BLAH_BLAH_BLAH the purist Triumph fans: this is a REALLY NICE model!!

Casey, I think Revell AG kept several and Atlantis received the balance.. I will contact Ed...

My guess is Ed Sexton knows who has what on these molds...

I will make some inquiries and see who has these molds.. my guess is China... BJ

I agree with Casey..... be careful of the "tags" marketing people placed on kits... I always refer to the simplifed 1/24th scale sports cars as the "2100 series" because a new four digit block of numbers was set aside specifically for these items.... There is nop intended direct connection between the 2100 series items and any later introduction other than the following: - The 2100 series kits.... Datsun Z, Mercedes Benz 450SL, Capri II, Porsche 911 and 924, Ferrari 308, and TR-7 were PURPOSELY easy to build with less or limited detail. They were successful in the following ways... 1.) Used as "teaching series" for modern body shapes and how to interpret them in scale 2.) Secure major mass-merchant shelf space with "other than traditional" contemporary auto subjects at a lower retail price 3.) Create interest in new subjects that justified such items as the BMW 635 Csi and Mazda RX-7.. These items were a success for Monogram that paid marketing and sales dividends for the next two decades... Bob Johnson 1.13.22

Good input!! I was incorrect about thje Weyman-bodied Duesenberg.. The owner (according to Bob Reder's "MONOGRAM" book was a fellow named George Lamberson.. Original kit price was $2.98! Tom Graham's boo "MONOGRAM MODELS" states "Bob Reder discovered that George Lamberson, who lived in Hinsdale (IL) owned one of the three 1934 SJ Torpedo Phateon Duesenbergs ever made. ... Roger and Bob Reder completed the research at Lamberson's home.. "After the kit's release (PC81), Lamberson drove his Duesenberg to the Morton Grove plant to receive a built model of his car in a ceremony in the loading dock. The Magnificent Duesy stopped traffic on Waukegan Road as it majestically turned into the parking lot..." (Roger quote).. I'll bet it stopped traffic!!

I am building a Rollston-bodied Roadster now,,, that was a conversion based upon Terrence Adderley's Model J Rodster,,, He was a very committed Duesenberg enthusiast and enjoyed what we were doing... The metal-bodied kits were a real challenge... The first 3... Corvette, '56 T-Bird, and MG-TC were designed by me, Genny Griseta, and Mario Falconi (respctively).... we had NO IDEA where to have the die-casting parts created and it was LONG BEFORE China was a source... I was tasked with finding a source and after visiting 3 different die-cast foundries, I found small foundry owned by an Italian man... His company's main product was "church bells" cast in bronze.. he took on our project based upon the challenge and the "art".... the first samples were actually cast in bronze in sand molds using a 1X wax pour from the Die cast mold.. they were pretty rough... This firm created the body conversions as well.... Honestly, the 'dream" of creating a new category based upon the Hubley Classics never met sales expectations..... Looked "GOOD" from the start.. just did not turn out that way....

Those are GREAT memories and EXACTLY what gives a "box of plastic parts" LIFE!! The Duesnberg was the very first Classic from Monogram... Ken Merker designed it and even though it was created about 60 years ago, it holds up well these days... The car was owned by a fellow named Aronson and I believe he and Jack Besser may have attended the same Temple.. The first issue Duesy kits are seen occasionally.... Do it for your Dad!!

Thought I did.. sorry.. BJ