Some photos of the newly released Corgi die-cast Stingray toy.
The toy has certainly proved to be quite divisive, and a talking point with many Anderson model collectors.
The main bone of contention is the shape of the sting-missile launchers, which appear to be designed simply to facilitate the spring-loaded ‘sting-missiles’. This toy aspect is something else that divides collectors, with most not wanting the feature.
The rounded shape of the front also comes in for criticism, along with several other design imperfections.
However, in spite of the critics, the toy seems to be fairly popular with others, including the online Anderson Store who through Corgi produced a limited number of models using exclusive Anderson Entertainment packaging. A pity they didn’t have a hand in the model’s design!
Personally, I think the standard packaging looks reasonable enough, and follows Corgi’s packaging design for the recent Captain Scarlet re-releases.
At a tad under forty quid, the model is quite expensive compared to thirty quid for the Corgi Captain Scarlet SPV or the Angel Interceptor.
Here’s a couple of photos comparing the Corgi Stingray to the larger Product Enterprise die-cast, and the much smaller Matchbox example. It’s middle ground size fit’s in nicely, but those cut back torpedo tubes really do ruin the look!
Putting aside it’s obvious flaws, it’s a good looking toy, and for the Stingray fan, and probably most Anderson model collectors it’s bound to be a must have. A warning though; It does come with a small plastic display stand, which as the model is die-cast doesn’t strike me as hardly sturdy enough.
Overall, a missed opportunity. It appears to me that more research should have gone into the design and shape of this model, and at least some initial feedback from fans before the prototype had already been produced.
Nice photos. I know Stingray is a notoriously difficult shape yo capture but this one just doesn't do it for me. I've got the Product Enterprise one and the Matchbox one (which is good for its size!), and the Fairylite and Lincoln ones but I won't be adding this one to the fleet.
ReplyDeleteThanks Kev. Sadly, there's a lot wrong with it.
DeleteSoooo close !
ReplyDeleteNone of the previous versions are perfect, but those incorrect torpedo tubes really stand out.
Otherwise it's really nice, despite the cost, but it's a no for me, I'm afraid.
The reaction to it is still mixed, Mish. However, the impression I get through social media is it's surprising popular with more people than not.
DeleteGreat pics as always Scoop. If possible could you show us a shot of the left or right side profile? The prototype pics that Corgi showed last year is badly misshaped particularly at the bow and looks at though it has swallowed a Terror fish! In my opinion the tiny Matchbox version has the best shape, looking really sleek like the super sub should. Wish they'd made it twice the size though. The Product Enterprise is great but also has rather bulbous bow. I have both, but am still undecided on the Corgi. I do wonder who the model was aimed at. Adult collectors tend to go for accuracy rather than toy features and I don't think kids will know much about Stingray these days as it hasn't been on TV for years.
ReplyDeleteThanks Yorkie. I've added a profile shot for you.
DeleteI must say this post had generated a lot of views, and plenty of opinions on social media, and based on what I'm reading more people do like it in-spite of it's flaws, and are pleased that Corgi have produced it.
Thanks Scoop.The hull is rather chubby but the paint scheme does help contour it a bit.
ReplyDeleteHello. Most Stingray Fans are just great full to find another Stingray model even if it is not blueprint correct.The matchbox Stingray had the aquasprite canopies on back wards and no one ever mentions that at all. I wish all you British Gerry Anderson experts would just ask Corgi to make a Titan Terror Fish model to go with it or more rightly against it.Use those toy sting missiles torpedos to real play value. Maybe Corgi would listen to you or plase ask so of the Great 3D printing people in Britain to make one in scale to it. I would buy one or 2. I do not understand why the British 3d Printing people are not making all of Gerry Andersons craft right now.
ReplyDeleteI'm fairly sure most Anderson fans are very pleased that Corgi have taken a plunge with a new Stingray model (no pun intended), but as most modern Corgi toys are generally fairly accurate I imagine this is why it's given rise to some criticism. Most collectors will happily buy it, in-spite of the inaccuracies. Don't get me wrong, I think it's a very attractive model, and have obviously added one to my collection.
DeleteGreat underwater shots Scoop!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Woodsy. Getting that die-cast to float was a bit of a chore! ; )
Delete