X-K427 Firefly

This model, constructed over an intense few weeks leading up to our 2008 trip to Japan, represents the first finished fan-based replica of Kow Yokoyama's famous design from the early days of SF3D. It is not 100% perfect, but without repeated access to referencing the original, how could it be? We came very close, and it could not have been done without the gorgeous kit that Futch mastered. I deviated from the build in a few very minor areas, added unnecessary lights, and got close on the color! For the finished model, click here.

The original scratchbuilt model, being filmed for Hobby Japan in 1982.

Here is the original, featured on the cover!

The kit is wonderful, and saves you from having to buy over $1,500 in donor kits.

The Italeri airplane (included) is exactly what was used originally, so there were no modifications for the sake of molding!

Of course, I crammed this with lights... under duress as we were leaving for Japan in mere weeks!

At the time this was constructed, we did not know the original donor part for the top red strobe light, so I fashioned one from clear resin, around an LED.

I used surface mount LEDS for the navigation lights on the ends of the outrigger/AG ball housings.

The body was a perfect place to hide the breadboard and majority of wiring!

The front was painted by itself, as it was easier to construct as a sub-assembly.

Lit up like a dang Christmas tree!

And ready for paint!

Such a classic Ma.K. design.

My underside was slightly different from the original as well.

Basecoat and gloss coat laid down.

That clear canopy would have been near-impossible to replicate in clear resin.

Decals applied, and another coat of clear to protect them. Next, the rust colors were applied, and sealed with Dullcoat.

After the Dullcoat, weathering was applied, and sealed with that last layer of Dullocoat!

For the finished model, click here.