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Author
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Topic: LM: Code 3 vs. Franklin Mint vs. Grumman?
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spaceflori
Member Posts: 1499
From: Germany
Registered: May 2000
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posted 12-17-2003 09:43 AM
   
I'm looking to buy one of the LM models and was wondering if anyone out there could give me some advice - the models I'm looking at are from Code 3 Collectibles, the Franklin Mint or Grumman (the contractor model).Apart from the price (where Code 3 probably offers the best deal) what would you prefer if you need to choose? |
dsenechal
Member Posts: 539
From:
Registered: Dec 2002
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posted 12-17-2003 10:05 AM
In making a choice like this, it's always going to be based on the preferences of the individual. Having said that, here are my thoughts. My first preference would be the Grumman contractor model. It's a bit of an odd scale (around 1/40), but since it was produced in rather small numbers by Grumman, and the Apollo astronauts were frequently seen holding one, it's more of an "historical artifact" than the later commercially produced versions. The Franklin Mint 1/48 LM is probably the nicest and most accurate of the mass-produced models (although it's not perfect). It's fairly pricey, though - there's a new one on eBay right now that's upwards of $400 with 2 days to go. I don't have a lot of knowledge of the Code 3 LM, so I can't comment on that one. I think that Robert did a sort of comparison a few months ago when the Danbury Mint 1/48 LM & CSM was released, so you might want to refer back to that. One model that you didn't mention was the Danbury Mint version. It's still available, and for the money a very nice model (plus includes a nice Block II CSM that's the same scale). Finally, if you have patience and nimble fingers, you might track down the Monogram 1/48 LM kit. It's not perfect, but you can do a lot with it, and the price is right.Hope this helps, and good luck. Dave |
Robert Pearlman
Editor Posts: 42982
From: Houston, TX
Registered: Nov 1999
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posted 12-17-2003 10:11 AM
Each model appeals to me in different ways:Franklin Mint - because it is diecast, it is the most detailed; the legs fold and the ascent and descent stages separate. The kapton on the descent stage is a bit too tight but overall its a striking model. Code 3 - because it is resin and hand painted, its not as detailed as the Franklin Mint but it does include the astronauts and that provides for a sense of scale not available with the FM model. The kapton appears a bit more realistic than the FM as well. Grumman - I view this as more an artifact than a model; its not very realistic nor is it very detailed but it is the original model that was given to VIPs and therefore holds a special place in history. There is one more, too... Danbury Mint - this is their LM and CSM pairing and the LM is on the same level of detail (if not better kapton) than the FM. The downside of this model is that the LM doesn't display well sitting alone as its top has been altered to allow the two models to dock. As you may have read on the boards, it also has a problem staying docked due to the weight of the two models. So, in summary: Franklin Mint - most detailed
Code 3 - offers scale
Grumman - artifact
Danbury Mint - includes the CSM for roughly the same price as the Code 3 or FM. I think if I would pick today, it would be the Franklin Mint or the Code 3, depending on your preferences. I would pick the Grumman if you'd rather have the history than detail. |
1202 Alarm
Member Posts: 436
From: Switzerland & France
Registered: Nov 2003
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posted 12-17-2003 11:19 AM
I've got Code 3 and Danbury.Although the base and astros on Code 3 are adding a lot to the model (order the acrylic display, it's worth the money) the paint work on the Aluminium grey parts is quite awful, my only complaint. My general feeling of Danbury Mint is better than for the above model. True, there are some work to be done on the CSM/LM hatch if you want to display it separately. Like many other owners, my LM is not coupled to the CSM anymore (I saw the disaster coming!). |
LunarRover
Member Posts: 95
From: N. California
Registered: Nov 2003
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posted 12-17-2003 11:36 AM
I anticipate selling one of my Grumman LM contractor models in the near future, perhaps listing on Astro-Auction. Depending on your time frame you might want to wait to make your purchase. You may also contact me off board for scans. (madratred@juno.com)The models I have would appear to be very good examples compared to those usually offered on ebay or one of the bi-annual space auctions. When a contractor model is displayed with other artifacts (in my case,an original Grumman LM Familiarization Manual, an authentic blueprint, etc.), the impact of the presentation is to my eye far greater than any of the other models. Questions of model "accuracy" aside, the Grumman contractor is an historical artifact as opposed to some reproduction, as alluded to in this thread. It truly is a chance to hold history in your hands. Besides, they just look cool!
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Rizz
Member Posts: 1208
From: Upcountry, Maui, Hawaii
Registered: Mar 2002
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posted 12-17-2003 02:31 PM
quote:
Originally posted by spaceflori:
I'm looking to buy one of the LM models and was wondering...
I think that you will need at least two.  Grumman, just because, and one of the other ones mentioned. The Danbury one looks nice docked, but the descent stage weighs too much and drags the rest of the display downward and ultimately detracts in the 'docked' position. I've been doing the 'slow BBQ roll' to it on a weekly basis, and once in awhile just keep the ascent stage docked, for a change of view. Ho Ho Ho Rizz |
Mike Dixon
Member Posts: 1397
From: Kew, Victoria, Australia
Registered: May 2003
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posted 12-17-2003 09:58 PM
The Franklin Mint model is spectacular and faithful to a greater degree than any of the other competing models. | |
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