Model Tanks

In 1961, Airfix introduced the first Armoured Fighting Vehicles, sparking the hobby's golden age. The Airfix Generation, enthusiastic schoolboys and young men, built these kits. However, the hobby declined in the 1990s with the rise of video games. Recently, the Airfix Generation has revived, with some returning to the hobby and others discovering it for the first time. Tom Cole's new book, "From Tanks to Planes: The Story of Model Military Vehicles," captures the early days of the hobby, focusing on Britains Airfix, Matchbox, Fujimi, Nitto, and European Esci kits.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2021
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

In the early 1960s, a remarkable transformation occurred within the realm of model building, as Airfix introduced its inaugural line of Armoured Fighting Vehicles. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of an era that would be celebrated by enthusiasts as the golden age of kit building. The sheer excitement and enthusiasm of schoolboys and young men who embarked on the construction of these intricate kits led to their collective designation as the Airfix Generation. However, as the 1990s unfolded, the hobby faced a decline, as the allure of plastic kits gave way to the captivating world of video games. Nevertheless, the spirit of the Airfix Generation has recently experienced a revitalization, as the original members, now reaching the culmination of their careers and familial responsibilities, take a nostalgic journey back to their formative years.

While some individuals, like the author, find themselves deeply immersed in the hobby once again, others opt for a more relaxed approach, content to purchase a few vintage kits or explore the hobby from a fresh perspective. What unites them all is the sheer delight of discovering a new book that offers a captivating narrative of the early days of the hobby, focusing specifically on the kits produced by Britains Airfix, Matchbox, and the European Esci.

Within the pages of this remarkable publication, Tom Cole delves into the rich history of these model manufacturers, exploring their contributions to the world of miniature warfare. He sheds light on the early imports from Japan, including the renowned Fujimi and Nitto, as well as the European Esci. Through meticulous research and detailed illustrations, Cole provides a captivating account of the evolution of the hobby, offering a glimpse into the passion, innovation, and camaraderie that defined the Airfix Generation.

Whether you are a seasoned model builder or a newcomer seeking to unravel the mysteries of this captivating pastime, "The Airfix Generation" is a must-read for anyone with a deep appreciation for the world of miniature warfare. It serves as a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Airfix kits and the indomitable spirit of the enthusiasts who built, collected, and cherished them throughout the years. So, grab your tools, assemble your kits, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the Airfix Generation, as we celebrate the enduring power of nostalgia and the enduring joy of model building.

Weight: 280g
Dimension: 167 x 233 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781445679716