The History of Plastic Models
Courtesy of ChapGPT
The history of plastic models is fascinating and reflects both advancements in materials science and the growing popularity of hobbies like model-building, particularly throughout the 20th century. Here's a brief overview:
Early Beginnings (Pre-20th Century)
Before the invention of plastic, model-building was typically done using materials like wood, metal, and clay. These models were often highly detailed but were also expensive and time-consuming to produce.
The Rise of Plastics (Early 20th Century)
The real breakthrough for plastic models came with the invention of synthetic plastics in the early 1900s. In particular, Bakelite, the first true synthetic plastic, invented by Leo Baekeland in 1907, was one of the first plastics used for model kits, but its applications were limited to more utilitarian items like radios and telephone housings.
The 1930s: First Plastic Models
The modern era of plastic model kits began in the 1930s. The first commercial plastic model kits, which would be assembled by hobbyists, appeared during this time. These early kits were typically made from a material known as celluloid or early forms of polystyrene. The first major plastic model kit manufacturer was Revell, founded in 1956, though the roots of plastic model kits began earlier with companies like IMC (Ideal Model Craft) and Hasegawa (founded in 1948 in Japan).
The 1940s: WWII and Model Popularity
World War II had a significant impact on the growth of plastic models. During the war, the demand for model aircraft, ships, and military vehicles soared. However, plastic model kits were still considered somewhat of a niche hobby. The war also brought about improvements in plastics technology, such as the development of styrene plastic—the same material that would become synonymous with model kits in the coming decades.
The 1950s and 1960s: The Golden Age of Model Kits
The 1950s and 1960s saw a massive boom in the plastic model industry. Companies like Monogram, Revell, Airfix, AMT and Aurora became household names among hobbyists. Models of military aircraft, ships, tanks, cars, and even dinosaurs gained widespread popularity. The development of new plastic molding techniques allowed for increased detail and complexity in models, and kits began to include additional parts like decals and painting guides.
The 1970s and 1980s: Diversification and Quality
The 1970s and 1980s saw the model industry diversify beyond traditional military themes. New genres like science fiction, fantasy, and vehicles from pop culture (e.g., Star Wars, Star Trek) began to emerge. Companies like Tamiya (Japan) and Revell Monogram continued to innovate and refine their products, adding new techniques such as photo-etched parts and better decals, and improving overall molding and quality control.
The 1990s and Beyond: The Digital Age and Continuing Popularity
By the 1990s and into the 2000s, digital technology played a larger role in model design. 3D CAD software enabled more precise and detailed designs, and manufacturers began to experiment with even more complex parts and materials, including resin and photo-etched metals for added realism. Despite the rise of digital entertainment, such as video games, model-building remained a beloved hobby for many, particularly in niche communities.
The Modern Era
Today, plastic model kits are produced for all sorts of themes—military, vehicles, ships, aircraft, trains, and even architectural models. The hobby still has a dedicated following, and there is a vibrant global community of model builders who continue to push the boundaries of detail and realism. Manufacturers have also embraced new technologies like 3D printing and digital decals, making the hobby more accessible to beginners while offering greater possibilities for advanced modelers.
Key Manufacturers
- Revell (USA/Germany) – One of the oldest and most iconic plastic model companies, offering a wide range of kits from cars to aircraft.
- Tamiya (Japan) – Known for high-quality kits, especially military and automotive models, with a reputation for precision and detail.
- Airfix (UK) – Famous for its plastic aircraft, military, and historical models.
- Hasegawa** (Japan) – Known for aircraft and military models with high levels of detail.
- Atlantis (USA) specializing in vintage tooling!
Conclusion
The history of plastic model kits is a story of innovation, from the early days of celluloid to the sophisticated models of today. These kits have inspired creativity, technical skill, and a deep appreciation for history, aviation, engineering, and pop culture. The hobby continues to thrive, adapting to new technologies while maintaining a deep connection to its roots.