And here's what's in the box.
A typically Matchbox multi-coloured kit with no painting required
Although there aren't that many parts for such a large aircraft, the box certainly doesn't have a lot of spare space in it. Some of the larger bits are separated from the sprues due to a taped fit together somewhere back in the mists of time. As I would have still been living with my parents then it would probably have been the reason that it didn't get built i.e. I realised how big it would be.
A closer look shows...
...firstly, that, in my youthful enthusiasm, I failed to remove the tape residue properly
and, secondly, that, despite modellers having a dig at Matchbox for their "trench line" detailing, this kit actually has raised panel detail. Most, if not all, of this will be rescribed during the build depending on the amount of fettling the fit needs. Otherwise the mouldings are in excellent shape which is, I suppose, something you'd expect from a kit that was out of almost new moulds.
Now the decals.
I'm quite pleased with the state of the decals. Ther's no yellowing or cracking present and I had to peel the protective paper layer off to take the picture. Of course only application will tell what state they are truly in but, fingers crossed, they look pretty good considering that they, themselves are approaching 30 years old.
And finally, the instructions.
The instruction sheet is typical Matchbox with separate detail pictures and a list of recommended paints. This is the best part though...
A full size painting guide, so making mask templates should be pretty easy with no awkward resizing required. I wonder if Revell do the same with their boxing of this kit?
