Model making, Tamiya

Tamiya offers a very interesting range for those who want model construction at a higher level. Realistic model vehicles that come as a kit and have to be assembled with tools.

Model vehicles impressively close to the original vehicle

Klas Bömecke: Mr. Wilhelm, when I look at how the miniature is cut from the face of the original, then I have to say that we are no longer quite in the realm of toys that I just buy for my children. Christian Wilhelm: No, it's a completely different cost structure that ultimately affects the user or model builder. Here, around 98% are kits, which means that we don't have something out of the box to play with, but you still have to use tools and paints. Klas Bömecke: If I want to build this truck myself, can I do it at all if I've never done it before or should I start with something easier first in order to acquire a certain amount of know-how? Christian Wilhelm: I can definitely answer that question in the affirmative, the structure of the instruction manual is really designed for beginners. Klas Bömecke: Someone who has just managed to assemble an Ikea shelf can do the same? Christian Wilhelm: Yes, of course!

Kit with operating instructions also suitable for beginners

Klas Bömecke: Wow. That looks so complicated! Christian Wilhelm: No, not at all. These different screws are even printed in their original size in the operating instructions. In other words, if I'm not sure whether it's the right one, I just put it on and I can be sure that I'm right. Klas Bömecke: How much time do I need to plan if I want to build the truck? Christian Wilhelm: Of course it's difficult to answer that, so we can forget it in one day! We're talking about staying on in the evening - I think we'll have to plan around 150 hours, including painting and so on. Klas Bömecke: But then of course I would also like to see - if you can manage it - how it moves? Can we see it driving? Christian Wilhelm: Of course, I'd love to! We'll have a look at our colleague!

Model vehicles: Remote control with all functions possible

Klas Bömecke: That's great, of course! It can also tilt, it's all remote-controlled? Christian Wilhelm: Of course. The whole lighting system as we see it with the typical warning sound is built into it and is controlled by a multifunctional unit, which can be purchased separately. In other words, I don't have to install it, but I can install it and to give the whole thing the appropriate originality, you should of course do so. Klas Bömecke: So in the end, the little one can do everything the big one can? Christian Wilhelm: Yes, except for including the driver, of course! Klas Bömecke: Yes, logically good, but that's in the nature of things. If I want a truck with all the bells and whistles, what do I have to invest? Christian Wilhelm: Well, we start with the kit itself, where the multifunctional unit, i.e. all the electronics are not on board, which is priced at the RRP of €549 for the end consumer.

Klas Bömecke: But I have a naked basic model like that? Christian Wilhelm: Exactly right. I still don't have the option of controlling the whole thing, i.e. there's a remote control on top, which of course can do more than is necessary to be able to control the lighting unit. That costs around €150, which brings us up to €900 - just under €1000. Klas Bömecke: Plus the fact that I have to build it myself. Yes, you have to want to do that! Christian Wilhelm: Absolutely yes! Klas Bömecke: But it's a nice thing, I like it!

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