On my most recent visit to a model shop, I spotted two of the new AIP (Adventures in Plastic)/Aoshima Thunderbirds kits. Thunderbird 1 and FAB 1.
I recall seeing the Lincoln International motorised kits in the shops way back in the 1960s, but Mum would not get them – they needed to be assembled she explained. Yes, I knew that, they were kits.
So I missed out, but now two of the AIP kits were before me. A bit expensive, but I could not resist.
Thunderbird 1 came home with me, and FAB 1 has been put aside. The shop only had one example of each, so it was a case of grab it now, or miss out.
The kit is moulded in silver-grey plastic, and fully assembled it will probably stand around nine inches tall. It can be assembled in flight mode, or on its landing gear. Wheels or skis are provided.
There is a decal sheet, for the markings. All the parts come packed in re-sealable plastic bags, which is a nice touch.
All the AIP kits come in great boxes, done like a 1960s TV set, with the subject in the centre of the TV screen. I am really looking forward to finally getting to work on a Thunderbirds model, once some other projects have been finished off.
Four photographs
Paul Adams from New Zealand
Thanks for the info Paul, I really like the tv set box graphics which gives the kit the Sixties feel.
ReplyDeleteI've bought, made and painted the TB 1 kit, but not decaled it, or 'dirtied it down', yet.
ReplyDeleteIt's a good, accurate kit, in, as you say, a nice period feel box (though I guesse I'd always rather see painted box art than a photo).
I've done the launch bay kits in this range. They're nice but I had to add a lot of bits.
ReplyDeleteNow I start to worry about that FAB1 kit! Is it put away on lay-by?
ReplyDeleteDo they even do that nowadays?
My childhood (and most of my adult life) was ruled by budgetary constraints. I can so sympathise with the battle for Mum's purse strings!
Happy modelling, chum!
Yes, FAB 1 is put aside for me on lay-by. A little off each pay-day. This is my regular model shop, and they are good about putting things aside for me, so I can pay them off.
ReplyDeleteLimited funds is my main problem, and these kits were on the expensive side. At least for me.
Congratulations on your first Thunderbird model! I am sure you will do it justice. I was lucky enough to get three of the Lincoln International Thunderbirds kits back in the day, as well as three of the Imai kits from Japan. Glory days! SFZ
ReplyDelete