¹⁄76

Matchbox Nostalgia Campaign

The Campaign

More than anything this campaign was a nostalgic group build focussing on the 1/76 scale armour kits of the former Matchbox manufacturer. Many modellers remember these kits from their past with affection and this campaign was a chance to relive part of that history. The mission of the campaign members was to start and complete a build of either an original Matchbox kit or the Revell re-release of it.

The campaign rules required that the kits be build as close to “out of box” as possible, and the model had to appear on the original kit base. The modeller was permitted to make minor corrections or additions to enhance the model. These could include but were not limited to clear windshields/windows, antennas, resizing of small oversized pieces (I.E.-machinegun barrels, grab handles) and external stowage. Bases were also allowed to be similarly and minimally embellished.

Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of the campaign was what was assumed by many to be simple and quickly built kits turned out in many cases to be anything but. The premise that these old gems would fly together on their own was quickly dispelled. It is true that some kits such as the T-34 or the Chaffee were somewhat easier than others. The multi-pack kits and the more complex ones such as the Churchill AVRE required not inconsiderable patience and time to get right.

The nature and spirit of the campaign seemed to be almost infectious. A number of successful participants who completed their original builds used any extra time remaining to complete additional builds.