Erik Smith

Here is one I came across: The metal part are really soft - maybe lead? - I think it would take a very skilled builder to replicate the box art. I like the Jeepster kit better - although it too looks like a tough build! Cool.

Wild and cool ride. Great job. I remeber the Stardust - I can't say I gambled much there but I likes it because it was kind of "old school" Vegas in the midst of Mirage and Treasure Island garbage. I love the retro theme.

That's meant for the rider

That's very cool. Nice clean build too.

Cool. Where's Gene's tongue?

I don't buy a lot of aftermarket stuff (and it seems I use even less than I buy!?!)...but, I have ordered from Norman Veber - his products are actually unbelievable. I have the SCOT blower and I can't figure out how someone made that and how he casts it so clean. I also have a couple wheel and brake drum sets from Scenes Unlimited and Modelhaus - both have excellent resin products. The few resin bodies I have are a mixed bag - a couple R & R ones are interesting subjects but also have a TON of work to do to make a decent looking car. I have three Jimmy Flintstone bodies and they are pretty nice - and the price makes them an excellent value. I use photoetch from MCG (nuts and bolts, windshield wipers) and ProTech (nuts and bolts) and a couple misc Detail Master parts. Of course, BMF. I haven't really ever had a problem with any of the companies listed.

Actually, It's an Autobianchi A112: Tamiya does have an N360, though. It's an odd 1/18 scale and motorized but has an opening hood and doors and an engine. This kit could probably be reissued by Tamiya as they just reissued the Subaru R2SS from the same series. Here's the N360:

A few more shots of the Skyline Trailer kit. The other "SSS" (Sea Side Sport) kits: The Skyline itself is typical 70s Japanese kit meant for motorization - this kit includes a motor for the car: The box contents: The Boat, which also has instructions for motorizing: Instruction sheet - note, the Skyline is kit number 1 of 4

I do own that kit. I will get some more pics posted.

I have this version: First issue - the one with "issues" it has this: and these - sidewall detail, relatively flat tread surface, but a fairly "textured" sidewall finish: I paid more for this kit than the Revell - I purchased it about 2 years ago. One of the LHS in Spokane still has the AM in stock for $31 and the Revell for $19.99.

Union 1/20 scale Renault 16 - very ugly car to be converted to model form... Not a real obscure or rare kit, but rare in the fact that it is one of the few four door models that all four doors open (and the hood and rear hatch):

Revell kit PE - in addition to the PE hood parts: I just purchased the Revell kit today, and I have to say this may be one of the best deals in models. Two PE frets, lots of parts, good looking decal set (including gold tire stripes), very cool engine, and so on. $20 for this kit is a steal. The tires are not that good - blank sidewalks and concave tread surface:

Very nice, clean replica.

That color turned out really cool. Nice clean build too.

That's what Model Factory Hiro does - you just have to charge $200 or $300 for each kit.

Original wording of the topic seems to trigger more critique as well. If you state something like "most detailed kit ever" or "100% scratchbuilt", then you are boasting, and if the facts don't back up the claims, you will be called out. It's best to walk quietly and gain the respect your build deserves. I post builds and HOPE somebody can point me in a direction to improve. I also just recalled a recent post - I commented on the aspects of the build I liked and have some ideas on how to improve the areas that looked like they could have been done better. The OP took it in great stride and thanked me for the feedback.

How about more metal transfers for emblems? Tamiya does it, how come nobody else does? What Art said is true about small fortune resulting from years of hard work and a dwindling large fortune. We need to get that Buffett in Omaha interested in models.

Wheeeeee!!! Let's go to the lake in our Skyline!!!

This: Versus this:

I kind of agree. It depends on exactly what is meant by "tooled kit". For instance, there are a lot of Nissan Skyline kits - and I mean A LOT! But, I wouldn't consider them as the most tooled because they, like the Lamborghini Countach, are just a model that changed over time. Can we then say the Impala was the most tooled? I think if it was narrowed down to a single year and model, the '32 or '57 would still be my vote - but, that is as unscientific a guess as which star is the farthest, so??

Box art. You can't judge a model by its box, but you can sell one. I love old artistic boxes. I despise the current Revellogram "Classic Cruiser" designs and the early 2000s AMT WalMart boxes. Also I would make all kits 2 in 1 or 3 in 1 - so many options and reasons to buy multiple kits. More and better decals - tire decals! Under hood decals! Retro graphics! The Dirty Donnie van is great in this regard.

Nice photos. Thanks for posting. Thought about coordinating spring break trip to Vancouver this year and attending the show - ended up on the Oregon coast instead. Maybe next year.

Hasegawa does a fine stock version - curbside though.

I don't have a single 57 Chevy or Countach.

I don't think anything is going to top the 32 Ford and 57 Chevy. They have the advantage of going through the Golden Age of modeling when the makers were putting out a lot of kits.