Mr. Lee – from S.J. Models – our main partner in the construction of our railway models, visited us from 6 to 9 December.
The result was a combination of work and shared passions, like good food and good wine. The main activity was the confirmation of the imminent delivery of the Ae 8/14 11801 on a scale of 1:32. The model should leave Korea for Italy on 20 December.
This means that, for the end of the year, the model should be available for packaging in the elegant solid mahogany case designed to house a colossus of locomotive, to be admired even before being removed from the packaging.
The final go-ahead was given for the Ae 4/7 on a scale of 1:32 which continues the theme of the electric locomotives of the Swiss Railways. A pre-sample will soon be available, with the pre-production sample scheduled for completion by late February/mid-March.
Several versions of these models will be available and we’ll be able to supply further details soon. The 4/7 will definitely be the evolution of all the construction techniques that have already been used for the Ae 8/14.
One of the features of this model is covered by patent, the first Proto Models patent.
Planning for future models also implicates the scales of 1:43.5, 1:45 and 1:87, as well as different European administrations.
A visit was also paid to the Deitos workshops, where work was underway to complete the cases and boxes for the Ae 8/14. An outer case with 10 cm of padding on each side will guarantee the shipping of the precious Ae 8/14.
It is likely that Proto Models will take care of the design for the packaging/display case of the Big Boy on a scale of 1:16 by S. J. Models, which will become part of the collection of the Union Pacific railway company museum.
Numerous issues were discussed and numerous agreements made between Proto Models and S. J. Models.
The discussions were also attended by friend and advisor of Proto Models S.r.l., Riccardo Reggio.
Mr. Lee also offered our Anamaria the opportunity to go on a crash course in “modelling techniques and skills”. This offer has been enthusiastically accepted, in view of the honour implicated in receiving an offer like this, and of the opportunity to learn from a great master like Mr Lee.
If the four days spent together were so fruitful, it is also thanks to the delightful Myung Soon Kim, who provided excellent interpreting skills both when discussing trains and when our thoughts turned to food and wine.
These three memorable days will definitely remain in the history of Proto Models, which could consolidate its success on the basis of the decisions made.
Now we have to work for you …
Carlo Filippo Follis
