Product Description
ABR's latest kit is a new generation resin based 3D printed kit of the Mighty Thunderbird Three
I am using Anycubics Mono X machines to produce all the parts that would once have been hand mastered, rubber moulded and urethane cast this is a new digitally manufactured kit.
The digital model was created and developed using screenshot reference and expert guidance from fellow builders in Fusion 360, these files are not available for download. Ultimately it is an amalgam of features shapes based heavily on the 27.5" (700mm) most screen used model but as you can see from the images is easy to superdetail, adjust or otherwise modify to your favourite version.
Why did I do it this way?
Many reasons, here are some of the biggest benefits: it's hollow so lights can be incorporate, it's much lighter so cheaper carriage especially overseas and much more robust. Any part of this model can be ordered seperately if needed so if a part is lost destroyed and damaged I can replace it for you.
The kit contains 47 Acrylic, Aluminium and resin printed parts to assemble the 700 (27.5") tall Mighty Thunderbird Three. This kit has been made by fans for fans there are several prototype builders who have contributed in this kits development. These names will be known to many who build models from Film & TV shows and are the best of professional and enthusiast talents in these subjects. Paul Harrison is no stranger to Scratchbuilding Thunderbirds models, check his YouTube channel, his stuff is breathtaking. Bob Smith has been building models from the worlds of Gerry Anderson for over 30 years and was the inspiration behind this kit and Richard Ashton who just builds the most amazing replicas whose enthusiam, encouragement and skill is boundless. Illustration artwork for the box was generated by the wildly talented Jim Mortimore - Illustrator, Author and master of synths)
There should be very little to finish with this model, no real flash to speak of but like every garage kit a good rub down prior to painting will produce the best finish. Any Acrylic car primer and paint will be acceptable. The model is best finished in Seville Orange with black and white highlights. I have found superglue works really well but to allow more time to aling everything Standard UHU cement to be superb. Vinyl cut decals are supplied. There will be a few Facebook build walk throughs from the above talents as well as an assembly and painting guide. The resin material is rigid but easy to sand and shape if you want to add or alter this kit to your own tastes. Small details like the pipework and other surface features were added to more closely match the 6 Ft filming model but are not included in the kit, neither is glue or paint as the latter causes all kind of shipping issues.
This is a limited run kit of 50, yes just 50 copies. This is the kit that I have always wanted and I will be producing more of the same. If you would like to suggest a new subject then let me know. abovebeyondretail@gmail.com
If you are not confident in building or finishing your kit then one can be built for you, contact Richard Ashton
