Artful69

Hi, Rog,
 
I don't think the Asian customer is less-descriminating, but my Vietnamese modeler friends tell me they can't get most Tamiya kits, so they generally go with AFV Club. Vietnam is in conflict with China diplomatically over the Spratleys and Paracels, so Trumpeter is not popular and is dutied on entry. These are generalizations of course. AM is expensive and sometimes hard-to-get (Voyager is Chinese and also took a MASSIVE hit during the COVID crisis, so its stocks of product are WAAAAAY down; Eduard is from the Euro Zone and hard to get). There are some local 3D model companies starting up like B & L Models. Watch for them, they only do armor and civilian vehicles specific to VN, but it shows where the hobby is going.

I concur Bill ...
 
I wondered why Dragon didn't shoot down that path ... or Trumpeter for that matter ... With the amount of 35th armour Dragon were hoofing out ... and now companies like Takom, Meng, Border etc ... It seems like an inevitable common sense decision to me.
 
I take it that the Asian market has a lower priority on scale accuracy ... Desirable, but not top of the list? Not a Pi$$ take - but a legitimate question! ...
 
Trumpeters 32nd scale (any scale really) is well known to be hit and miss at best ... I think Borders 35th scale Ju-87 was roundly critiqued also? - while their Fw.190A-6 was praised as wonderful ...
 
Most of the 32nd scale crowd place scale accuracy as a high priority if not the top priority ... Heard any whisperings of commitment to AM ... or are most, like me, waiting to see how the tide flows?
 
Rog
 

It looks incredible !
 
The Modelling News: Border model's flying start to 2024 - He-111 H-6, Spitfire Mk.Vb & A6M2 Zero in 35th scale

Border Models FB page shows a 1/35th scale He 111 in preliminary development.
 
Mark Proulx

I don't have any knowledge about Border's plans or business model, but I have studied the Asian kitmakers for many years and have been schooled by a good friend who owns one of the larger HK model companies. They don't give a flying **** about Revell or any other company, nor for the most part the American or European markets. They are producing for the Asian modeler, and they for the most part like value for money: lots of parts, because AM is hard to get in places like Vietnam, where I have modeler friends.
 
That's just it: the game was decided years ago, but the 32-scale crowd doesn't realize the parade has passed us by.
 
I ONLY build 32-scale because of my eyes and arthritic fingers. It's also a nice "Occam's razor" to prevent my stash from eating my house-- if a plane isn't in 1/32nd scale, then I don't build it (or worse from my wife's POV, buy it). But the market for 1/35th scale vehicles is already HUGE, so it makes no sense to continue with 1/32nd in styrene. I think we are likely witnessing the gradual retreat of that scale into resin and 3D. That statement will get me crossed off the Christmas card list by some of you, but it's a business and the manufacturers are following the market. We're tiny; 1/35th is ENORMOUS.

Wow! ... It looks like Border are determined to standardise the scale! ... I must admit - I thought it would have been a very short run venture.
 
At one point - about 15 years or so ago - I expected Dragon to have a punt at 35th scale for aircraft ...
They were pumping out several very well detailed AND accurate armour kits on a MONTHLY schedule! ...
If anyone had the power to standardise a scale through volume (be it 32 or 35) it would have been that company.
Alas ... when they did venture into aircraft (with only a couple of aircraft types) - they committed to 32 scale ... 
 
Border is a different beast ... they, like Dragon, are a producer of high levels of detail ... The problem is - some of their details are not all that accurate (Their early Tiger being a prime example). A good early tiger CAN be made from the parts in the box ... just not by following the instructions verbatim or for the decals specified (for the most part) ... Some of their kits require a LOT of putty and or sanding to get the fit right ... road wheels on their Pz.III's require some chopping of the pins to fit together correctly.
 
Most Border problems are in no way insurmountable ... but you have to intimately KNOW the subject you are dealing with (so you get parts selection right), and know how the parts are supposed to go together (so you can make adjustments BEFORE glue is applied) - in order to get your model done right.
 
They ARE improving ... and their first ever releases (Pz.IV series) were well done in ALL aspects ... which is why Border have been a puzzle to most - why were some later subjects so poorly done? ... Not as bad as Trumpeter / Hobby Boss etc ... but not as good as Dragon, Takom, Meng etc
 
One thing CAN'T be questioned ... they are pumping out kits at a stunning rate - and selling them!
If 35 scale IS going to become a thing in aircraft, fast subject release volumes are needed ... and by all accounts Border seems up to the task here.
Also ... scale accuracy is a thing most manufacturers are mindful of ... along with good engineering choices ... fit and finish ... easy to follow instructions.
If these things are included alongside the detail ... they may be able to pull it off!
 
Rog
 

Wow! ... It looks like Border are determined to standardise the scale! ... I must admit - I thought it would have been a very short run venture.
 
At one point - about 15 years or so ago - I expected Dragon to have a punt at 35th scale for aircraft ...
They were pumping out several very well detailed AND accurate armour kits on a MONTHLY schedule! ...
If anyone had the power to standardise a scale through volume (be it 32 or 35) it would have been that company.
Alas ... when they did venture into aircraft (with only a couple of aircraft types) - they committed to 32 scale ... 
 
Border is a different beast ... they, like Dragon, are a producer of high levels of detail ... The problem is - some of their details are not all that accurate (Their early Tiger being a prime example). A good early tiger CAN be made from the parts in the box ... just not by following the instructions verbatim or for the decals specified (for the most part) ... Some of their kits require a LOT of putty and or sanding to get the fit right ... road wheels on their Pz.III's require some chopping of the pins to fit together correctly.
 
Most Border problems are in no way insurmountable ... but you have to intimately KNOW the subject you are dealing with (so you get parts selection right), and know how the parts are supposed to go together (so you can make adjustments BEFORE glue is applied) - in order to get your model done right.
 
They ARE improving ... and their first ever releases (Pz.IV series) were well done in ALL aspects ... which is why Border have been a puzzle to most - why were some later subjects so poorly done? ... Not as bad as Trumpeter / Hobby Boss etc ... but not as good as Dragon, Takom, Meng etc
 
One thing CAN'T be questioned ... they are pumping out kits at a stunning rate - and selling them!
If 35 scale IS going to become a thing in aircraft, fast subject release volumes are needed ... and by all accounts Border seems up to the task here.
Also ... scale accuracy is a thing most manufacturers are mindful of ... along with good engineering choices ... fit and finish ... easy to follow instructions.
If these things are included alongside the detail ... they may be able to pull it off!
 
Rog
 

Wow! ... It looks like Border are determined to standardise the scale! ... I must admit - I thought it would have been a very short run venture.
 
At one point - about 15 years or so ago - I expected Dragon to have a punt at 35th scale for aircraft ...
They were pumping out several very well detailed AND accurate armour kits on a MONTHLY schedule! ...
If anyone had the power to standardise a scale through volume (be it 32 or 35) it would have been that company.
Alas ... when they did venture into aircraft (with only a couple of aircraft types) - they committed to 32 scale ... 
 
Border is a different beast ... they, like Dragon, are a producer of high levels of detail ... The problem is - some of their details are not all that accurate (Their early Tiger being a prime example). A good early tiger CAN be made from the parts in the box ... just not by following the instructions verbatim or for the decals specified (for the most part) ... Some of their kits require a LOT of putty and or sanding to get the fit right ... road wheels on their Pz.III's require some chopping of the pins to fit together correctly.
 
Most Border problems are in no way insurmountable ... but you have to intimately KNOW the subject you are dealing with (so you get parts selection right), and know how the parts are supposed to go together (so you can make adjustments BEFORE glue is applied) - in order to get your model done right.
 
They ARE improving ... and their first ever releases (Pz.IV series) were well done in ALL aspects ... which is why Border have been a puzzle to most - why were some later subjects so poorly done? ... Not as bad as Trumpeter / Hobby Boss etc ... but not as good as Dragon, Takom, Meng etc
 
One thing CAN'T be questioned ... they are pumping out kits at a stunning rate - and selling them!
If 35 scale IS going to become a thing in aircraft, fast subject release volumes are needed ... and by all accounts Border seems up to the task here.
Also ... scale accuracy is a thing most manufacturers are mindful of ... along with good engineering choices ... fit and finish ... easy to follow instructions.
If these things are included alongside the detail ... they may be able to pull it off!
 
Rog
 

Wow! ... It looks like Border are determined to standardise the scale! ... I must admit - I thought it would have been a very short run venture.
 
At one point - about 15 years or so ago - I expected Dragon to have a punt at 35th scale for aircraft ...
They were pumping out several very well detailed AND accurate armour kits on a MONTHLY schedule! ...
If anyone had the power to standardise a scale through volume (be it 32 or 35) it would have been that company.
Alas ... when they did venture into aircraft (with only a couple of aircraft types) - they committed to 32 scale ... 
 
Border is a different beast ... they, like Dragon, are a producer of high levels of detail ... The problem is - some of their details are not all that accurate (Their early Tiger being a prime example). A good early tiger CAN be made from the parts in the box ... just not by following the instructions verbatim or for the decals specified (for the most part) ... Some of their kits require a LOT of putty and or sanding to get the fit right ... road wheels on their Pz.III's require some chopping of the pins to fit together correctly.
 
Most Border problems are in no way insurmountable ... but you have to intimately KNOW the subject you are dealing with (so you get parts selection right), and know how the parts are supposed to go together (so you can make adjustments BEFORE glue is applied) - in order to get your model done right.
 
They ARE improving ... and their first ever releases (Pz.IV series) were well done in ALL aspects ... which is why Border have been a puzzle to most - why were some later subjects so poorly done? ... Not as bad as Trumpeter / Hobby Boss etc ... but not as good as Dragon, Takom, Meng etc
 
One thing CAN'T be questioned ... they are pumping out kits at a stunning rate - and selling them!
If 35 scale IS going to become a thing in aircraft, fast subject release volumes are needed ... and by all accounts Border seems up to the task here.
Also ... scale accuracy is a thing most manufacturers are mindful of ... along with good engineering choices ... fit and finish ... easy to follow instructions.
If these things are included alongside the detail ... they may be able to pull it off!
 
Rog
 

Wow! ... It looks like Border are determined to standardise the scale! ... I must admit - I thought it would have been a very short run venture.
 
At one point - about 15 years or so ago - I expected Dragon to have a punt at 35th scale for aircraft ...
They were pumping out several very well detailed AND accurate armour kits on a MONTHLY schedule! ...
If anyone had the power to standardise a scale through volume (be it 32 or 35) it would have been that company.
Alas ... when they did venture into aircraft (with only a couple of aircraft types) - they committed to 32 scale ... 
 
Border is a different beast ... they, like Dragon, are a producer of high levels of detail ... The problem is - some of their details are not all that accurate (Their early Tiger being a prime example). A good early tiger CAN be made from the parts in the box ... just not by following the instructions verbatim or for the decals specified (for the most part) ... Some of their kits require a LOT of putty and or sanding to get the fit right ... road wheels on their Pz.III's require some chopping of the pins to fit together correctly.
 
Most Border problems are in no way insurmountable ... but you have to intimately KNOW the subject you are dealing with (so you get parts selection right), and know how the parts are supposed to go together (so you can make adjustments BEFORE glue is applied) - in order to get your model done right.
 
They ARE improving ... and their first ever releases (Pz.IV series) were well done in ALL aspects ... which is why Border have been a puzzle to most - why were some later subjects so poorly done? ... Not as bad as Trumpeter / Hobby Boss etc ... but not as good as Dragon, Takom, Meng etc
 
One thing CAN'T be questioned ... they are pumping out kits at a stunning rate - and selling them!
If 35 scale IS going to become a thing in aircraft, fast subject release volumes are needed ... and by all accounts Border seems up to the task here.
Also ... scale accuracy is a thing most manufacturers are mindful of ... along with good engineering choices ... fit and finish ... easy to follow instructions.
If these things are included alongside the detail ... they may be able to pull it off!
 
Rog
 

Perhaps the English version of the blog article will help? ...
 
"And now, the long-awaited model for Imperial Army aircraft fans, SWS1/32 "the Ki-100" is at the final stage of development.
The first sample kit is scheduled to arrive from the factory early next year. If there are no major incidents or disaster and everything goes smoothly ....... 
No, no, we never know what’s going to happen.
Anyway... 
please look forward to the last fighter of the Japanese Army, which all the pilots who were suffering on the front lines welcomed. “If only we had this!” This kit is going to be amazing!
Another thing!
The development of a fantastic fighter is currently progressing, and it will be a "double-seater" type!
“Is this for real?” Believe it or not. I am sorry but I can't reveal its name yet, but .... If you're a prescient, you might already know. 
And another!
Finally, that very famous aircraft, which was once under development by my wife's initiative, will be coming in a new, completely redesigned form. I can only show you a silhouette of it now, as it is still a long way off. It will fill a big missing piece in the collection of aircraft model! Luftwaffe is under threatl!
And another!
Of all the training planes that aspiring pilots must fly, the one that I want the most will finally come true. And there will be four types, from A to D in 1/32 scale. I am super excited that I can't even fall asleep. I really want it ~~~~~
There are more, 
but I should stop before getting into trouble. 
Please keep an eye on SWS and look forward to our updates because we will surely make your dreams come true.
Today is the 22nd of December. The New Year is around the corner. 
From Kyoto, Japan, I wish you all the best for the coming year 2024.
Take care of yourself, and I hope to see you soon on this blog." 
-----------------
Sooo ... The Ki-100 is an obvious release ... already announced and in the later stages of development, apparently.
The next one has me intrigued ... A double seater fighter?? ... I remember the Ar.234 being announced at about the same time as the P.51 and Bf.109G ... but that's a reconnaissance / bomber ... surely they aren't upscaling their F-4 Phantom II's? ... I don't recall any other 'hint's' floating around from aircraft measured or what-not ... Mosquito has been done in 1/32 - so probably not, I'd think? ... Beaufighter? ... Me.410?? ... WWII or later, prop or jet?? ... This one I'd like to see more about!
Next is the Mustang ... but still a long way off ... could be a couple of years plus given the other Fw.190's and Bf.109's due for release ... along with other stuff like the Hs.129B-1 etc
And finally the T-28 trainer ... Apparently everyone's dreams for a variant of this one will come true here ... A-thru-D variants all due to be released at some point.
Rog

Perhaps the English version of the blog article will help? ...
 
"And now, the long-awaited model for Imperial Army aircraft fans, SWS1/32 "the Ki-100" is at the final stage of development.
The first sample kit is scheduled to arrive from the factory early next year. If there are no major incidents or disaster and everything goes smoothly ....... 
No, no, we never know what’s going to happen.
Anyway... 
please look forward to the last fighter of the Japanese Army, which all the pilots who were suffering on the front lines welcomed. “If only we had this!” This kit is going to be amazing!
Another thing!
The development of a fantastic fighter is currently progressing, and it will be a "double-seater" type!
“Is this for real?” Believe it or not. I am sorry but I can't reveal its name yet, but .... If you're a prescient, you might already know. 
And another!
Finally, that very famous aircraft, which was once under development by my wife's initiative, will be coming in a new, completely redesigned form. I can only show you a silhouette of it now, as it is still a long way off. It will fill a big missing piece in the collection of aircraft model! Luftwaffe is under threatl!
And another!
Of all the training planes that aspiring pilots must fly, the one that I want the most will finally come true. And there will be four types, from A to D in 1/32 scale. I am super excited that I can't even fall asleep. I really want it ~~~~~
There are more, 
but I should stop before getting into trouble. 
Please keep an eye on SWS and look forward to our updates because we will surely make your dreams come true.
Today is the 22nd of December. The New Year is around the corner. 
From Kyoto, Japan, I wish you all the best for the coming year 2024.
Take care of yourself, and I hope to see you soon on this blog." 
-----------------
Sooo ... The Ki-100 is an obvious release ... already announced and in the later stages of development, apparently.
The next one has me intrigued ... A double seater fighter?? ... I remember the Ar.234 being announced at about the same time as the P.51 and Bf.109G ... but that's a reconnaissance / bomber ... surely they aren't upscaling their F-4 Phantom II's? ... I don't recall any other 'hint's' floating around from aircraft measured or what-not ... Mosquito has been done in 1/32 - so probably not, I'd think? ... Beaufighter? ... Me.410?? ... WWII or later, prop or jet?? ... This one I'd like to see more about!
Next is the Mustang ... but still a long way off ... could be a couple of years plus given the other Fw.190's and Bf.109's due for release ... along with other stuff like the Hs.129B-1 etc
And finally the T-28 trainer ... Apparently everyone's dreams for a variant of this one will come true here ... A-thru-D variants all due to be released at some point.
Rog

Perhaps the English version of the blog article will help? ...
 
"And now, the long-awaited model for Imperial Army aircraft fans, SWS1/32 "the Ki-100" is at the final stage of development.
The first sample kit is scheduled to arrive from the factory early next year. If there are no major incidents or disaster and everything goes smoothly ....... 
No, no, we never know what’s going to happen.
Anyway... 
please look forward to the last fighter of the Japanese Army, which all the pilots who were suffering on the front lines welcomed. “If only we had this!” This kit is going to be amazing!
Another thing!
The development of a fantastic fighter is currently progressing, and it will be a "double-seater" type!
“Is this for real?” Believe it or not. I am sorry but I can't reveal its name yet, but .... If you're a prescient, you might already know. 
And another!
Finally, that very famous aircraft, which was once under development by my wife's initiative, will be coming in a new, completely redesigned form. I can only show you a silhouette of it now, as it is still a long way off. It will fill a big missing piece in the collection of aircraft model! Luftwaffe is under threatl!
And another!
Of all the training planes that aspiring pilots must fly, the one that I want the most will finally come true. And there will be four types, from A to D in 1/32 scale. I am super excited that I can't even fall asleep. I really want it ~~~~~
There are more, 
but I should stop before getting into trouble. 
Please keep an eye on SWS and look forward to our updates because we will surely make your dreams come true.
Today is the 22nd of December. The New Year is around the corner. 
From Kyoto, Japan, I wish you all the best for the coming year 2024.
Take care of yourself, and I hope to see you soon on this blog." 
-----------------
Sooo ... The Ki-100 is an obvious release ... already announced and in the later stages of development, apparently.
The next one has me intrigued ... A double seater fighter?? ... I remember the Ar.234 being announced at about the same time as the P.51 and Bf.109G ... but that's a reconnaissance / bomber ... surely they aren't upscaling their F-4 Phantom II's? ... I don't recall any other 'hint's' floating around from aircraft measured or what-not ... Mosquito has been done in 1/32 - so probably not, I'd think? ... Beaufighter? ... Me.410?? ... WWII or later, prop or jet?? ... This one I'd like to see more about!
Next is the Mustang ... but still a long way off ... could be a couple of years plus given the other Fw.190's and Bf.109's due for release ... along with other stuff like the Hs.129B-1 etc
And finally the T-28 trainer ... Apparently everyone's dreams for a variant of this one will come true here ... A-thru-D variants all due to be released at some point.
Rog

Perhaps the English version of the blog article will help? ...
 
"And now, the long-awaited model for Imperial Army aircraft fans, SWS1/32 "the Ki-100" is at the final stage of development.
The first sample kit is scheduled to arrive from the factory early next year. If there are no major incidents or disaster and everything goes smoothly ....... 
No, no, we never know what’s going to happen.
Anyway... 
please look forward to the last fighter of the Japanese Army, which all the pilots who were suffering on the front lines welcomed. “If only we had this!” This kit is going to be amazing!
Another thing!
The development of a fantastic fighter is currently progressing, and it will be a "double-seater" type!
“Is this for real?” Believe it or not. I am sorry but I can't reveal its name yet, but .... If you're a prescient, you might already know. 
And another!
Finally, that very famous aircraft, which was once under development by my wife's initiative, will be coming in a new, completely redesigned form. I can only show you a silhouette of it now, as it is still a long way off. It will fill a big missing piece in the collection of aircraft model! Luftwaffe is under threatl!
And another!
Of all the training planes that aspiring pilots must fly, the one that I want the most will finally come true. And there will be four types, from A to D in 1/32 scale. I am super excited that I can't even fall asleep. I really want it ~~~~~
There are more, 
but I should stop before getting into trouble. 
Please keep an eye on SWS and look forward to our updates because we will surely make your dreams come true.
Today is the 22nd of December. The New Year is around the corner. 
From Kyoto, Japan, I wish you all the best for the coming year 2024.
Take care of yourself, and I hope to see you soon on this blog." 
-----------------
Sooo ... The Ki-100 is an obvious release ... already announced and in the later stages of development, apparently.
The next one has me intrigued ... A double seater fighter?? ... I remember the Ar.234 being announced at about the same time as the P.51 and Bf.109G ... but that's a reconnaissance / bomber ... surely they aren't upscaling their F-4 Phantom II's? ... I don't recall any other 'hint's' floating around from aircraft measured or what-not ... Mosquito has been done in 1/32 - so probably not, I'd think? ... Beaufighter? ... Me.410?? ... WWII or later, prop or jet?? ... This one I'd like to see more about!
Next is the Mustang ... but still a long way off ... could be a couple of years plus given the other Fw.190's and Bf.109's due for release ... along with other stuff like the Hs.129B-1 etc
And finally the T-28 trainer ... Apparently everyone's dreams for a variant of this one will come true here ... A-thru-D variants all due to be released at some point.
Rog

Perhaps the English version of the blog article will help? ...
 
"And now, the long-awaited model for Imperial Army aircraft fans, SWS1/32 "the Ki-100" is at the final stage of development.
The first sample kit is scheduled to arrive from the factory early next year. If there are no major incidents or disaster and everything goes smoothly ....... 
No, no, we never know what’s going to happen.
Anyway... 
please look forward to the last fighter of the Japanese Army, which all the pilots who were suffering on the front lines welcomed. “If only we had this!” This kit is going to be amazing!
Another thing!
The development of a fantastic fighter is currently progressing, and it will be a "double-seater" type!
“Is this for real?” Believe it or not. I am sorry but I can't reveal its name yet, but .... If you're a prescient, you might already know. 
And another!
Finally, that very famous aircraft, which was once under development by my wife's initiative, will be coming in a new, completely redesigned form. I can only show you a silhouette of it now, as it is still a long way off. It will fill a big missing piece in the collection of aircraft model! Luftwaffe is under threatl!
And another!
Of all the training planes that aspiring pilots must fly, the one that I want the most will finally come true. And there will be four types, from A to D in 1/32 scale. I am super excited that I can't even fall asleep. I really want it ~~~~~
There are more, 
but I should stop before getting into trouble. 
Please keep an eye on SWS and look forward to our updates because we will surely make your dreams come true.
Today is the 22nd of December. The New Year is around the corner. 
From Kyoto, Japan, I wish you all the best for the coming year 2024.
Take care of yourself, and I hope to see you soon on this blog." 
-----------------
Sooo ... The Ki-100 is an obvious release ... already announced and in the later stages of development, apparently.
The next one has me intrigued ... A double seater fighter?? ... I remember the Ar.234 being announced at about the same time as the P.51 and Bf.109G ... but that's a reconnaissance / bomber ... surely they aren't upscaling their F-4 Phantom II's? ... I don't recall any other 'hint's' floating around from aircraft measured or what-not ... Mosquito has been done in 1/32 - so probably not, I'd think? ... Beaufighter? ... Me.410?? ... WWII or later, prop or jet?? ... This one I'd like to see more about!
Next is the Mustang ... but still a long way off ... could be a couple of years plus given the other Fw.190's and Bf.109's due for release ... along with other stuff like the Hs.129B-1 etc
And finally the T-28 trainer ... Apparently everyone's dreams for a variant of this one will come true here ... A-thru-D variants all due to be released at some point.
Rog

Perhaps the English version of the blog article will help? ...
 
"And now, the long-awaited model for Imperial Army aircraft fans, SWS1/32 "the Ki-100" is at the final stage of development.
The first sample kit is scheduled to arrive from the factory early next year. If there are no major incidents or disaster and everything goes smoothly ....... 
No, no, we never know what’s going to happen.
Anyway... 
please look forward to the last fighter of the Japanese Army, which all the pilots who were suffering on the front lines welcomed. “If only we had this!” This kit is going to be amazing!
Another thing!
The development of a fantastic fighter is currently progressing, and it will be a "double-seater" type!
“Is this for real?” Believe it or not. I am sorry but I can't reveal its name yet, but .... If you're a prescient, you might already know. 
And another!
Finally, that very famous aircraft, which was once under development by my wife's initiative, will be coming in a new, completely redesigned form. I can only show you a silhouette of it now, as it is still a long way off. It will fill a big missing piece in the collection of aircraft model! Luftwaffe is under threatl!
And another!
Of all the training planes that aspiring pilots must fly, the one that I want the most will finally come true. And there will be four types, from A to D in 1/32 scale. I am super excited that I can't even fall asleep. I really want it ~~~~~
There are more, 
but I should stop before getting into trouble. 
Please keep an eye on SWS and look forward to our updates because we will surely make your dreams come true.
Today is the 22nd of December. The New Year is around the corner. 
From Kyoto, Japan, I wish you all the best for the coming year 2024.
Take care of yourself, and I hope to see you soon on this blog." 
-----------------
Sooo ... The Ki-100 is an obvious release ... already announced and in the later stages of development, apparently.
The next one has me intrigued ... A double seater fighter?? ... I remember the Ar.234 being announced at about the same time as the P.51 and Bf.109G ... but that's a reconnaissance / bomber ... surely they aren't upscaling their F-4 Phantom II's? ... I don't recall any other 'hint's' floating around from aircraft measured or what-not ... Mosquito has been done in 1/32 - so probably not, I'd think? ... Beaufighter? ... Me.410?? ... WWII or later, prop or jet?? ... This one I'd like to see more about!
Next is the Mustang ... but still a long way off ... could be a couple of years plus given the other Fw.190's and Bf.109's due for release ... along with other stuff like the Hs.129B-1 etc
And finally the T-28 trainer ... Apparently everyone's dreams for a variant of this one will come true here ... A-thru-D variants all due to be released at some point.
Rog

Perhaps the English version of the blog article will help? ...
 
"And now, the long-awaited model for Imperial Army aircraft fans, SWS1/32 "the Ki-100" is at the final stage of development.
The first sample kit is scheduled to arrive from the factory early next year. If there are no major incidents or disaster and everything goes smoothly ....... 
No, no, we never know what’s going to happen.
Anyway... 
please look forward to the last fighter of the Japanese Army, which all the pilots who were suffering on the front lines welcomed. “If only we had this!” This kit is going to be amazing!
Another thing!
The development of a fantastic fighter is currently progressing, and it will be a "double-seater" type!
“Is this for real?” Believe it or not. I am sorry but I can't reveal its name yet, but .... If you're a prescient, you might already know. 
And another!
Finally, that very famous aircraft, which was once under development by my wife's initiative, will be coming in a new, completely redesigned form. I can only show you a silhouette of it now, as it is still a long way off. It will fill a big missing piece in the collection of aircraft model! Luftwaffe is under threatl!
And another!
Of all the training planes that aspiring pilots must fly, the one that I want the most will finally come true. And there will be four types, from A to D in 1/32 scale. I am super excited that I can't even fall asleep. I really want it ~~~~~
There are more, 
but I should stop before getting into trouble. 
Please keep an eye on SWS and look forward to our updates because we will surely make your dreams come true.
Today is the 22nd of December. The New Year is around the corner. 
From Kyoto, Japan, I wish you all the best for the coming year 2024.
Take care of yourself, and I hope to see you soon on this blog." 
-----------------
Sooo ... The Ki-100 is an obvious release ... already announced and in the later stages of development, apparently.
The next one has me intrigued ... A double seater fighter?? ... I remember the Ar.234 being announced at about the same time as the P.51 and Bf.109G ... but that's a reconnaissance / bomber ... surely they aren't upscaling their F-4 Phantom II's? ... I don't recall any other 'hint's' floating around from aircraft measured or what-not ... Mosquito has been done in 1/32 - so probably not, I'd think? ... Beaufighter? ... Me.410?? ... WWII or later, prop or jet?? ... This one I'd like to see more about!
Next is the Mustang ... but still a long way off ... could be a couple of years plus given the other Fw.190's and Bf.109's due for release ... along with other stuff like the Hs.129B-1 etc
And finally the T-28 trainer ... Apparently everyone's dreams for a variant of this one will come true here ... A-thru-D variants all due to be released at some point.
Rog

Perhaps the English version of the blog article will help? ...
 
"And now, the long-awaited model for Imperial Army aircraft fans, SWS1/32 "the Ki-100" is at the final stage of development.
The first sample kit is scheduled to arrive from the factory early next year. If there are no major incidents or disaster and everything goes smoothly ....... 
No, no, we never know what’s going to happen.
Anyway... 
please look forward to the last fighter of the Japanese Army, which all the pilots who were suffering on the front lines welcomed. “If only we had this!” This kit is going to be amazing!
Another thing!
The development of a fantastic fighter is currently progressing, and it will be a "double-seater" type!
“Is this for real?” Believe it or not. I am sorry but I can't reveal its name yet, but .... If you're a prescient, you might already know. 
And another!
Finally, that very famous aircraft, which was once under development by my wife's initiative, will be coming in a new, completely redesigned form. I can only show you a silhouette of it now, as it is still a long way off. It will fill a big missing piece in the collection of aircraft model! Luftwaffe is under threatl!
And another!
Of all the training planes that aspiring pilots must fly, the one that I want the most will finally come true. And there will be four types, from A to D in 1/32 scale. I am super excited that I can't even fall asleep. I really want it ~~~~~
There are more, 
but I should stop before getting into trouble. 
Please keep an eye on SWS and look forward to our updates because we will surely make your dreams come true.
Today is the 22nd of December. The New Year is around the corner. 
From Kyoto, Japan, I wish you all the best for the coming year 2024.
Take care of yourself, and I hope to see you soon on this blog." 
-----------------
Sooo ... The Ki-100 is an obvious release ... already announced and in the later stages of development, apparently.
The next one has me intrigued ... A double seater fighter?? ... I remember the Ar.234 being announced at about the same time as the P.51 and Bf.109G ... but that's a reconnaissance / bomber ... surely they aren't upscaling their F-4 Phantom II's? ... I don't recall any other 'hint's' floating around from aircraft measured or what-not ... Mosquito has been done in 1/32 - so probably not, I'd think? ... Beaufighter? ... Me.410?? ... WWII or later, prop or jet?? ... This one I'd like to see more about!
Next is the Mustang ... but still a long way off ... could be a couple of years plus given the other Fw.190's and Bf.109's due for release ... along with other stuff like the Hs.129B-1 etc
And finally the T-28 trainer ... Apparently everyone's dreams for a variant of this one will come true here ... A-thru-D variants all due to be released at some point.
Rog

Perhaps the English version of the blog article will help? ...
 
"And now, the long-awaited model for Imperial Army aircraft fans, SWS1/32 "the Ki-100" is at the final stage of development.
The first sample kit is scheduled to arrive from the factory early next year. If there are no major incidents or disaster and everything goes smoothly ....... 
No, no, we never know what’s going to happen.
Anyway... 
please look forward to the last fighter of the Japanese Army, which all the pilots who were suffering on the front lines welcomed. “If only we had this!” This kit is going to be amazing!
Another thing!
The development of a fantastic fighter is currently progressing, and it will be a "double-seater" type!
“Is this for real?” Believe it or not. I am sorry but I can't reveal its name yet, but .... If you're a prescient, you might already know. 
And another!
Finally, that very famous aircraft, which was once under development by my wife's initiative, will be coming in a new, completely redesigned form. I can only show you a silhouette of it now, as it is still a long way off. It will fill a big missing piece in the collection of aircraft model! Luftwaffe is under threatl!
And another!
Of all the training planes that aspiring pilots must fly, the one that I want the most will finally come true. And there will be four types, from A to D in 1/32 scale. I am super excited that I can't even fall asleep. I really want it ~~~~~
There are more, 
but I should stop before getting into trouble. 
Please keep an eye on SWS and look forward to our updates because we will surely make your dreams come true.
Today is the 22nd of December. The New Year is around the corner. 
From Kyoto, Japan, I wish you all the best for the coming year 2024.
Take care of yourself, and I hope to see you soon on this blog." 
-----------------
Sooo ... The Ki-100 is an obvious release ... already announced and in the later stages of development, apparently.
The next one has me intrigued ... A double seater fighter?? ... I remember the Ar.234 being announced at about the same time as the P.51 and Bf.109G ... but that's a reconnaissance / bomber ... surely they aren't upscaling their F-4 Phantom II's? ... I don't recall any other 'hint's' floating around from aircraft measured or what-not ... Mosquito has been done in 1/32 - so probably not, I'd think? ... Beaufighter? ... Me.410?? ... WWII or later, prop or jet?? ... This one I'd like to see more about!
Next is the Mustang ... but still a long way off ... could be a couple of years plus given the other Fw.190's and Bf.109's due for release ... along with other stuff like the Hs.129B-1 etc
And finally the T-28 trainer ... Apparently everyone's dreams for a variant of this one will come true here ... A-thru-D variants all due to be released at some point.
Rog

Strange indeed… perhaps a clue is in the translated English text for the post … a personal favourite …
 
Now, I know the old man covers anything produced by ZM in superlatives … but a personal favourite?? … Given everything else produced by ZM - the only outliers to the main WWII subject matter are the Skyraiders and this one.
 
But, Hey! Variety is the spice of life!
 
Rog

If ZM are going to do the whole P.51 enchilada ... I'm all for it ... the Hobbycraft kits are getting very thin on the ground and showing their age regardless ... A Mustang Mk.I & II as well as the Mk.III would be nice to see ...
....
We're still missing the final Hs.129 kit ... The Fw.190A-4 standard boxing should be out relatively soon ... and the first of the 'Basic Series' - The A-3 with a few small parts changes shouldn't take much time to put together either ... Maybe we'll get more than 1 or 2 ZM kits out next year?
 
Rog
 

If ZM are going to do the whole P.51 enchilada ... I'm all for it ... the Hobbycraft kits are getting very thin on the ground and showing their age regardless ... A Mustang Mk.I & II as well as the Mk.III would be nice to see ...
....
We're still missing the final Hs.129 kit ... The Fw.190A-4 standard boxing should be out relatively soon ... and the first of the 'Basic Series' - The A-3 with a few small parts changes shouldn't take much time to put together either ... Maybe we'll get more than 1 or 2 ZM kits out next year?
 
Rog
 

In the current economic climate, I would be very surprised to see a sharp reduction in pricing for the 'Basic' series, compared to what kits were selling for 10 ... or even 5 years ago. I think a lot of people will be disappointed if this is their focus.
 
This SWS Fw.190A-4 is a 'Special Edition', which along with their 'Eric Hartmann' Bf.109G-14 is being released to celebrate an event (I think it was ZM's 10th year of releases?). The point being, that these two kits are released at a far cheaper purchase price than the standard release ... by pre-order only - one and done! ... We haven't yet seen the standard A-4 boxing which should be the next release and will retail for significantly more than the special edition (I'm guessing 30%+).
 
The first 'Basic' series kit due for release is the A-3 ... Bearing in mind that Kotare's Spitfire would be about the same sort of part count / level of engineering, I'd be thinking along this level of pricing also ... definitely not cheap.
 
Rog

Nice work so far, B
 
Not to pop your optimism ... But you're going to need a whole lot of Rosie (the riveter - that is) ... for that wing of yours.
HpH aren't going to re-master anything ... Heinz just reported back on the HpH news thread.
 
Rog

Posting your experiences and relating how you felt about them cannot be wrong ... it is, after all, your build thread ... your money spent ... on your model.
 
While some opinions may not reflect those of others ... this too is a matter of opinion (some like rubber tyres on kits some hate them!) ...
... If someone is going to get their nose out of joint because you express an opinion/experience/frustration with something ... it can't be helped ... just move on.
 
Also ... poor product quality is poor product quality and poor customer service is poor customer service ... adding a teaspoon full of sugar (or 15) doesn't make the experience any sweeter ...
... and it deserves to be called out for what it is ... 
 
As Ron said ... it isn't a cheap $10 vac kit ... it's supposed to be well molded, well engineered, super detailed and accurate otherwise why fork out $300+ ??
 
Potential buyers of any kit, of any medium, want to know the good, bad and ugly ... that's why I, for one, read reviews before I make the decision to purchase ANYTHING.
As a rule ... the larger the cost - the more critical the analysis.
If sales fall short as a result of poor press ... maybe the feedback will help change kit issues - or supplier attitudes/behaviors? ...
 
Personally ... I'm loving your work ... not that I could weave the magic you have ... but I appreciate the MacGyver in you!
 
Rog