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Author
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Topic: Gene Young's X-15, a 1/15th scale model
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Retro Rocket
Member Posts: 445
From: Santa Paula, Ca,. USA
Registered: Dec 2007
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posted 08-06-2012 04:00 PM
   
Gene Young ran a special effects shop in Burbank, Ca. and he gave me my first job building models and props for the SFX industry. He was a pilot and avid aviation guy and worked closely with PacMin. The last project I worked with him was a 1/4 scale F-15 model for PacMin. Gene was a quirky guy, always working restoring his old sports cars like the Aston Martin's and Lotus's. He was grumpy and a pain in the ass to work for, but he demanded a high level of quality and craftsmanship.In his office hanging on the wall was his fantastic large X-15 model. He built one for the National Air and Space Museum and then made one for himself. Sadly, Gene passed away a year ago and someone took his molds and models to the Pomona Swap Meet and sold them for a fraction of their true worth. I contacted the person who bought them and was able to get one X-15 that was not finished. So I've used the markings I created for my X-15 and used them on the model. The model is accurate in terms of the overall dimensions and shape. The difference between this model and mine is the degree of accuracy and detail. My model is built using molds I made off the original wind tunnel model at Edwards, AFB. Also I try to show every detail down to the last rivet. Many people who are collectors of aerospace models have been to Gene's shop and are familiar with his X-15. Since it was done for the National Air and Space Museum and he only built a few, this model would be worthy of any collection.  
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Gilbert
Member Posts: 1328
From: Carrollton, GA USA
Registered: Jan 2003
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posted 08-07-2012 01:23 PM
I would love to own that model. It's spectacular. |
Leslie Williams
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posted 03-29-2013 09:08 PM
I was fortunate to work for Gene Young myself. I didn't know he had passed and would like to set up a scholarship in his name. Am trying to find a contact and would appreciate any help.
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David DeFino
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posted 07-24-2013 05:16 AM
I was a close associate of Gene's and am involved with his estate. You can contact me at dd@daviddefino.com.*Also, for anyone interested in this model, I believe the mold for it was sold at auction. You may be seeing these available. |
Retro Rocket
Member Posts: 445
From: Santa Paula, Ca,. USA
Registered: Dec 2007
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posted 07-29-2013 03:46 PM
A friend of mine bought most of Gene's molds and models at the Pomona Swap Meet. Many are being put into production like the X-15. Everyone who visited Gene's office wanted his X-15 that hung on his wall. I sold him my NERVA model, I hope that didn't get sold.
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