The Little World

Every so often I see things in the hobby shops for which I can find no explanation.

These can be on alien shelves – the gundam and anime models – the motion picture and comic book models. I see things that bear no relation to my life whatsoever. They may be good kits, and they may mean something to the builders, but I can pass them without a qualm.

The same may be said for models in more recognisable subjects that have been treated in a strange fashion. Egg airplanes and cartoon warships. Tanks with pre-teen Japanese girls as commanders. Here I get the feeling of opportunities lost or minds at ninety degrees to my own.

The models that are perfectly produced but have no echo in the hearts and minds of local purchasers have been mentioned before. If they reach the remainder table with a despair discount they might be taken home as a stop-gap or curiosity kit, but not in great numbers. Hey, I bought translucent metalflake model cars for a dollar in 1961 when no-one else wanted them.

Occasionally you see a kit that is perfectly wonderful with a price that is throw-away low. If it is anything at all that you might be interested in, buy it instantly. It will reward you all through the build. I got one this last week for $ 15 and it will be a week of pure joy.