1:43 BBR Ferrari F310 Spain GP (Ryuji Kinoshita) JAPANESE MODELER PART 1

It is widely accepted that the Japanese modelers are the best in the world which includes Hayakawa, Momose, Suzuki, Shimoma, Kamimura  just to name a few. They build models characterized by extreme cleanliness, unbelievable details and unparalleled paintwork. These are achieved through advanced building techniques coupled with their culture of trying to achieve perfection. 

Two years ago, I sold my BBR Ferrari F310 Spain GP which was one of the rarest handbuilt model around. I never thought that I'll own another model but this time built by Japanese modeler Ryuji Kinoshita. Unlike the well known Japanese modelers, he's not a professional builder but rather a hobbyist who sometimes commission his work at a famous store Raccoon in Japan. When this was offered to me, I was a bit hesitant because I didn't know the builder. However, after some research and correspondence from the owner of Raccoon, I decided to get it.

The paintwork and details are top notch. A lot of additional parts were added into the model. The previous owner even told me that this model's quality is at par with the other well known Japanese Master modelers.

The base and presentation are typical of Japanese modelers with acrylic, white base. Model comes with a generic blue box.

Michael Schumacher's helmet is a welcome addition and makes the model even more special.

1:43 Barnett Ferrari 290 MM Fangio

In 2018, I commissioned Steve Barnett to build a Ferrari 290 MM and Maserati 450 S. For me these two cars belong to the "Golden Age" of racing. Imagine a Ferrari being driven by the world's best driver Juan Manual Fangio against top competition. If I could go back in time, I'll definitely choose the 1950s and 1960s to witness the epic battle between Ferrari and Maserati. Unfortunately I can't do that. Unless I have tens of millions of dollars to own the real car, I would have to settle with these beautiful 1:43 models. Due to  budgetary constraints, I asked Steve to build a "curb or simple version" of the model. 

Built from an AMG kit with engine details. Steve told me that the kit was badly cast. He remade some parts of the suspension and soldered these for strength. Door hinges were remade so that the doors could open and close.

This car has the iconic Blue and yellow color of the nose.

Although this model didn't receive the full treatment to show Steve's abilities, I was satisfied with the end result.