Introduction

As modelers of the 1960s to 1980s, who were really kids and teenagers back then, grow older and mature, the level of professionalism, expectations, and sophistication of modeling as a hobby has grown with them. These days, at practically all of the model contests, hobby shows, and exhibitions around the world, modelers showcase their built kits and figures on an elaborate (usually wood) base.

Hardwood bases come in many forms from the flat plaques to the cube and cylindrical plinths to the angled plinths with a rod sticking out to mount a resin bust. As of 2018, the figure modeler can choose from a variety of hardwood base manufacturers around the world, most of these located in Russia and Europe. These wooden base manufacturers use real solid hardwood, prized for its contrasting colored marbling of fine wood grain patterns.

Modelers who want their figures and vehicles to stand out often mount them on a wood base because a base contains the groundwork scenery around it, in addition to raising the build off the table for added “height importance.” The build is no longer “part of the table” and resting on it, but separate from the table, self-contained in its own miniature world.

Many manufacturers make cube or rectangular wooden plinths. However, not many make circular cylindrical wooden plinths of certain heights and diameters. Andrea Miniatures of Spain is one such manufacturer that excels in making cylindrical plinths.

PRA-05 "Noble Wood Pao Rosa" round base

Measuring 50mm high and 50mm at the top of the base with a felt bottom diameter of 68mm, Andrea’s “PRA-05 Noble Wood Pao Rosa” base has a fine vertical grain texture that resembles a dark Coco Bolo hardwood. The craftsmanship quality appears exceptional with smooth top and sides. The 68mm beveled black lower base adds character and refinement to the cylinder. The base itself has a nice weight to it, not too light and not too heavy.

One does need to be careful handing these bases as I detected some very subtle chipping on the top edge that marred the finish.

The bottom of the cylindrical plinth is covered with smooth green felt. I am a firm supporter that all wood plinths should have a felt bottom as it prevents any scratches to the glass display shelf if moved around, and also prevents mold and mildew from attacking the base at the bottom.

Mine came in a clear plastic bag with a cardboard cover stapled to the bag’s top.

PM-06 "Noble Wood Ovangkol (Oval)"

PM-06 looks exactly similar to PRA-05 except with a different wood color and grain. Measuring 50mm high and 50mm at the top of the base with a felt bottom diameter of 68mm, PM-06 "Noble Wood Ovangkol (Oval)" exhibits fine quality and craftsmanship with smooth top and sides. The vertical wood grain resembles rich brown Rosewood. The 68mm beveled black lower base adds character and refinement to the cylinder. The base itself has a nice weight to it, not too light and not too heavy.

The bottom of the cylindrical plinth is covered with smooth green felt. I am a firm supporter that all wood plinths should have a felt bottom as it prevents any scratches to the glass display shelf if moved around, and also prevents mold and mildew from attacking the base at the bottom.

Mine came in a clear plastic bag with a cardboard cover stapled to the bag’s top.

Conclusion

Both of Andrea Miniatures’s 50x50mm cylindrical plinth bases offer exceptional craftsmanship and quality for displaying figures around 54mm (1/32) to 90mm (1/20) scale, depending on the figure’s pose and size. Their different variations of hardwood grain and colors make them very appealing to the eye and the smooth sides allow for the mounting of nameplates.

Andrea Miniatures offers other wood grain choices such as red Rosewood Padouk, yellower Olivewood, and solid black and brown varnish for their cylindrical plinths.

I highly recommend Andrea Miniatures cylindrical plinths to add a degree of refinement and completion in displaying built and painted figures.

Special Thanks goes to Andrea Miniatures for the PRA-05 and PM-06 cylindrical plinth review samples.