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Author
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Topic: Toys and Models' Code 3 capsule reissues
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slk6517 New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 10-19-2007 02:23 AM
I have a very silly question for everyone, since I am totally confused, I first read that Code 3 Collectibles would be re-releasing the Apollo, Mercury, etc. models, now I see the ones just released by a company called TMC?Are these the long waited Code 3 release of these models only by another company, if not when will Code 3 be coming out with theirs? Also, like to know where I could find out what the TMC Apollo release is constructed of, are these diecast models, and what were the original models from Code 3 made from? Thanks so much for the help... |
Robert Pearlman Editor Posts: 26088 From: Houston, TX Registered: Nov 1999
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posted 10-19-2007 02:38 AM
It is my understanding that TMC Pacific licensed Code 3 Collectibles' Mercury, Gemini and Apollo replica capsules. These re-releases are only available through TMC Pacific. Code 3 Collectibles will not be offering these models for sale.The TMC re-releases are identical in construction and design to the original Code 3 models. They are hand cast in resin using the same molds as the earlier release. |
dsenechal Member Posts: 402 From: Registered: Dec 2002
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posted 10-25-2007 11:42 AM
I was just advised by Randi (sp) that shipment of these models has been further delayed until the second or third week of November. I'm starting to get a little uneasy as well. Dave |
dsenechal Member Posts: 402 From: Registered: Dec 2002
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posted 11-01-2007 05:29 PM
Good news! The models have apparently been shipped - mine arrived yesterday. They're great, and identical to the Code 3 in every respect. Dave |
ScottJ New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 11-01-2007 10:58 PM
Do they come with the hatches as did the models from Code 3?Did you get the signed or unsigned versions? Can you tell more about the stands/bases, as compared to the Code 3 models? |
Frewi80 Member Posts: 106 From: Hawaii. Waipahu Registered: Jun 2006
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posted 11-03-2007 09:47 PM
Aloha, I received mine today and they really look great. All three of them are really great to have. I have the unsigned versions and they all come with the hatches!I will make a wooden base for them and a acrylic cover. |
Machodoc New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 11-08-2007 02:08 PM
Today I received my Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo models I ordered last week. One week to ship seemed pretty good! My only major complaints about the Apollo was that it would have been nicer to have an open lower equipment bay, and one of the Gemini hatches does not quite fit the opening (all the other hatches on all three are fine). |
Frewi80 Member Posts: 106 From: Hawaii. Waipahu Registered: Jun 2006
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posted 11-11-2007 07:32 PM
Aloha Steve, the hatches on the Gemini capsule do fit nice on my model, try to switch them... They do line up nice and fit exactly. |
Machodoc New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 11-14-2007 08:43 PM
I figured out that my problem is that I was sent two port side hatches, as both fit the port side but neither fit the starboard side opening. It's really no big deal because I like to display it with the hatches off, or with only one on.By the way, does anybody know where I can get acrylic display cases for these? |
GACspaceguy Member Posts: 1299 From: Guyton, GA Registered: Jan 2006
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posted 11-15-2007 05:53 AM
quote: Originally posted by Machodoc: BTW, does anybody know where I can get acrylic display cases for these?
Steve, try this site. |
wmk Member Posts: 73 From: Carlsbad, CA Registered: Nov 2007
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posted 12-21-2007 08:51 PM
Has anyone ordered and received the Apollo 16 command module from TMC (at warplanes.com)? I haven't seen any postings on this for a while, but noticed their web site has them available at $199. I am also curious about the quality vs the Code 3 version (and also if TMC's version includes the hatch as was mentioned above). I guess I could call or email TMC about the hatch, but looking for an independent opinion about my other questions.Also curious about the quality of TMCs Apollo lunar module if anybody has an opinion on that (compared to Franklin and Danbury Mint versions). |
ScottJ New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 12-21-2007 11:59 PM
I received the Apollo Command Module today and am very impressed with it. It is actually much larger than I had expected.I ordered mine from TMC Pacific (warplanes.com) via eBay. They have been offering the Apollo, Mercury and Gemini capsules, separately, and as a group, at a discounted price for the last couple of months. They have also been using the "make an offer" option on eBay. I used this option and got my Apollo Module at an even greater discount. I do have a couple of questions to anyone else who may have received their Apollo Command Modules. It was my understanding that the TMC Pacific Apollo Command Modules were being advertised as Apollo 16 Command Modules. Mine came with the Apollo 11 "Smithsonian" stand identical to the previous Code 3 model, and not what appears to be a larger stand on the warplanes.com website. What stand has everyone else received? Also, it was my understanding that TMC Pacific had purchased the right to use the Code 3 molds to produce models under the TMC Pacific brand name. My Apollo Command Module actually came in an outer cardboard box with "Code 3" on it. The inner box has "Edward H. Biltmore Precision Modelworks" on it. Also, the bottom of the stand has "Code 3 2007" on it. Is this what everyone else has received? P.S. Mine came with a hatch. |
slk6517 New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 12-24-2007 01:37 AM
I am still confused about a couple of issues concerning the TMC release of the Apollo 16, and hope someone can clear up for me.First, on their site (TMC), they mention that their models are all handcrafted by hand from Mahoganey wood, and its been my understanding that the Code 3 version was made of casted resin, so is the TMC version made of wood or resin, since I cannot find any mention on their site of the material used other than wood? Second, TMC mentions that this is the Apollo 16, but I read here somewhere that someone received theirs saying it was the Apollo 13? I hope someone here can clear this up for me. Many thanks in advance... |
SpaceAholic Member Posts: 2931 From: Sierra Vista, Arizona Registered: Nov 1999
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posted 12-24-2007 03:40 AM
Resin... and the unit I received was annotated "COLUMBIA" on its base... |
slk6517 New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 12-24-2007 04:13 AM
Thanks for your reply to my questions. I really like to acquire this model, as I am sure many do, but until I stop hearing all the mistakes, and mislabeling with this model I am very hesitant to acquire it or order it. Hope I will be hearing more general feedback on my request for more info. Maybe one can only get good quality if you give them a chunk of wallet for their signature version? |
GACspaceguy Member Posts: 1299 From: Guyton, GA Registered: Jan 2006
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posted 12-24-2007 06:25 AM
I worked with TMC on the reissue of these models. They are made using the same molds, techniques and materials of the original Code 3 (molds and manufacturing techniques were bought from Code 3). All of the models are resin and have had no mold modifications to correct the issues with the Code 3 models. (In this way the price could be kept as close to the original, while factoring inflation and increased production costs.)There has been some confusion from the marketing folks on how the reissue has been deployed. The unsigned versions are in fact the Apollo 11, Gemini IV and Friendship 7, as they had appeared in the Smithsonian in Washington DC (as was the original Code 3 models). It is the signature series that will be repackaged in an attempt to have the spacecraft match the person that will be signing them. In the case of the Apollo CM the signature will be the LM pilot Charlie Duke (Apollo 11 capcom at lunar touchdown as well) and thus the reason they will call it Apollo 16. The Gemini spacecraft will be signed by Jim McDivitt so there should be on confusion on that and Friendship 7 signed by one of the original seven, Scott Carpenter. As I know it, the signature series will be on the large black base that some of you have mentioned with a signature plaque that will also contain mission data. TMC listened to the cS community (as well as a direct call to Robert, thanks Robert) and reduced the pricing after the feedback from the display at Spacefest. I hope this clears up some of the questions. |
RocketmanRob Member Posts: 253 From: New York City USA Registered: Mar 2005
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posted 12-26-2007 07:33 AM
I received a TMC Gemini capsule as a gift this Christmas and overall am very happy with it. I wanted to see, however, if others have had a similar experience of a poor paint job around the thruster areas at the bottom of the capsule. These are painted in red just before the heat shield begins. The paint on mine was not very neatly applied with some bleeding (in one case - almost seems like the is a finger print in it). I wanted to see if perhaps this is a one off issue or if others have experienced it. Trying to determine if I should ask TMC to replace it. |
2003hdannv New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 02-02-2008 11:05 AM
I received my Apollo CM today and it came in the same Code 3 Box and the stand said Apollo 11 Columbia. This is the exact model that Code 3 was offering and I picked it up on their site for a Best Offer of $125.00. I would suggest if anyone is looking for a CM, then I would buy from their website. The asking price was $199.95 but I did a best offer of $125 and they accepted it. Best $125 I spent in a long time. It came with the hatch also. I am glad I did not do a bidding war on the Code 3 that were going for $500 and above. |
RocketmanRob Member Posts: 253 From: New York City USA Registered: Mar 2005
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posted 02-03-2008 03:49 PM
I've heard about the "Best Offer" program, however, I don't see that function when I visit their site directly. All I can do is add it to my shopping cart at the full price. Could someone point out where this is located? |
Rob Sumowski Member Posts: 462 From: Macon, Georgia Registered: Feb 2000
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posted 02-17-2008 02:20 PM
Hey fellas, every photo I have seen of these models clearly shows a large black square platform-like base. Did each of you get one of these bases when you ordered the unsigned versions? |
ScottJ New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 02-17-2008 03:08 PM
To my knowledge, the "best offer" option is only available on Ebay. TMC sells on Ebay. I bought my Apollo capsule a couple of months ago, directly from TMC, by using the Ebay "best offer" option.My "unsigned" Apollo capsule did not come with the large black stand. It came with the original Code 3 Apollo 11 "Columbia" Smithsonian stand. It is my understanding that only the signed versions come with the larger stand, despite TMC's marketing which seems to indicate otherwise. I would also like to point out that TMC markets their Apollo capsule on Ebay as the Apollo 16 capsule. However, if you buy an unsigned version from TMC on Ebay, you will receive the capsule with the Apollo 11 stand. I emailed TMC about this discrepancy after buying my "Apollo 16 capsule," but never received a response. |
Machodoc New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 02-17-2008 09:52 PM
All three of mine came with the smaller stands. I bought the unsigned Apollo and it came with the Apollo 11 stand. Given the price gap between what they were charging for the autographed versus unautographed versions, and knowing what Mr. Duke charges for an autograph, I didn't see the point in buying the signed version. |
collocation Member Posts: 364 From: McLean, VA, USA Registered: Feb 2004
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posted 02-18-2008 07:33 PM
Boeingstore.com is selling the Mecury and Apollo. If you sign up on line you get a 10% discount. Also, if you are near a Boeing Store (Arlington, VA et.al.) you save on shipping |
SpaceAholic Member Posts: 2931 From: Sierra Vista, Arizona Registered: Nov 1999
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posted 02-18-2008 07:41 PM
Even with the 10 percent, Boeing is selling the models at 30-50 dollars above what TMC (under user ID "model-airplane-guy") is regularly releasing them for on eBay under the "Best Offer" option (vigilant bidders can purchase them for as low as 115 dollars on eBay)... |
Madon_space Member Posts: 534 From: uk Registered: Sep 2002
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posted 02-20-2008 02:32 PM
Hi, I received all 3 models from the above mentioned eBay Seller. I used the Best Offer option and offered $125.00 for the Apollo, $115.00 for the Gemini and also $115.00 for the Mercury and I was very pleased when they accepted my offers.The models arrived and they are excellent and possibly the best money I have spent. Just to reconfirm the models do not come with the square black stands so is a bit misleading but do come with the original Code 3 Stands and also Code 3 2007 is printed on the underneath of each model stand.
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Machodoc New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 02-20-2008 03:26 PM
Same stands as I have. Unfortunately, I got two left hatches for my Gemini, and despite several emails (I gave up) I couldn't get a return response to fix the problem. |
dsenechal Member Posts: 402 From: Registered: Dec 2002
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posted 02-21-2008 07:37 PM
Call the toll-free number at warplanes.com, explain the problem, and ask for Randi. I've found they're more than willing to take care of any problems that you might encounter. |
tegwilym Member Posts: 2278 From: Renton, WA USA Registered: Jan 2000
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posted 02-22-2008 11:16 AM
I got the Apollo for Christmas, and the Mercury for Valentine's Day from my girlfriend. She also got me the 1/48 Apollo/LM model and the shuttle/747 (1/200 scale I think?) for Christmas also. I'll have to post some photos of my new stuff.I do feel pretty lucky to have a girl that gives me stuff like this. Even better since she wanted these also!  |
ScottJ New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 03-18-2008 01:03 AM
For those who may want to see the "signed" version of the Apollo command module:
 |
Kevmac Member Posts: 185 From: College Station, TX Registered: Apr 2003
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posted 03-28-2008 10:09 AM
Did they fix the alignment of the seat inside on the "new" versions of the Mercury capsule? I believe the Friendship 7 edition above in the picture is from the original version, or do the new models still have the F-7 insignia on them as well? I've read through the thread above and am still confused about differences from the original Code 3 and the newly issued and currently available TMC. |
Robert Pearlman Editor Posts: 26088 From: Houston, TX Registered: Nov 1999
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posted 03-28-2008 10:25 AM
quote: Originally posted by Kevmac: I've read through the thread above and am still confused about differences from the original Code 3 and the newly issued and currently available TMC.
Based upon what TMC Pacific has stated, there are no differences except for the packaging. Their models are a reissue of the Code 3 molds. |
vortex New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 10-03-2008 09:32 AM
Just found some Apollo 11 capsule replicas for $165.95!!! Thought I share with my fellow collectSPACErs  Still in stock, but be quick or you will have to buy from eBay. I bought one and it arrived in the UK quickly. It took them a few days to process and then ship. I am very impressed with the detail and now have the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo non signed ones.  |
tegwilym Member Posts: 2278 From: Renton, WA USA Registered: Jan 2000
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posted 10-03-2008 12:13 PM
Are these re-issued models getting rare again? My girlfriend bought me the Apollo and Mercury capsules. I just need the Gemini and I'm done!The detail on these models are amazing, you'll be happy with them. |
astroborg Member Posts: 167 From: Woodbridge, VA, USA Registered: Nov 2000
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posted 10-15-2008 08:28 AM
The Gemini is all the Discovery store carries now (10/15/08) for $119.95, plus shipping. |
Apollo Redux Member Posts: 346 From: Montreal, Quebec, Canada Registered: Sep 2006
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posted 10-26-2008 07:19 PM
As of October 26, 2008 they can be found online at the Kennedy Space Center/Visitor Center Shop: Apollo 11: $175; Gemini: $125; and Mercury Friendship 7: $125. |
JLR1 Member Posts: 29 From: Cincinnati, OH, USA Registered: Oct 2008
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posted 10-27-2008 06:19 PM
Thanks for the tip on the KSC shop...just bought the Apollo 11. Saw where one just ended on ebay for $370! |
Philip Member Posts: 4713 From: Brussels, BELGIUM Registered: Jan 2001
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posted 10-28-2008 03:49 AM
Indeed, any idea of shipment costs to Europe? |
Henk Boshuijer Member Posts: 372 From: Netherlands Registered: May 2007
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posted 10-28-2008 07:20 AM
I ordered the Apollo 11 one month ago. The KSC shop did a nice job packing and shipping the model to Europe. The international shipping costs and the price for the model plus tax are around $215. You should keep in mind that when the package arrives you will probably have to pay a import duty and VAT (had to pay an additional 42 Euro (about $60).You can also consider this address in Germany where The Apollo costs 199 Euro. |
328KF Member Posts: 754 From: Registered: Apr 2008
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posted 06-13-2009 12:37 PM
Is the Apollo 11 CM still available anywhere? I've checked with KSC and all they have is Friendship 7 and Gemini 4.Thanks in advance. |
Henk Boshuijer Member Posts: 372 From: Netherlands Registered: May 2007
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posted 06-13-2009 02:30 PM
quote: Originally posted by Henk Boshuijer: You can also consider this address in Germany where The Apollo costs 199 Euro.
I guess the Apollo 11 CM is sold out almost anywhere because the price has increased from 199 Euro to 349 Euro since my post from October 2008. |