Building a mini metal model of the Golden Hind. No electronics involved .. yet.
A nice diversion .. a mini metal model of the Golden Hind (Model 9209) ended up in my shopping cart on an impulse.
I've been curious about the recent popularity of these "3D metal models". I am guessing the availability and affordability of precision laser cutting equipment might have something to do with it.
The "Metal Earth" brand is often seen in toy retailers (it even has its own sub reddit!), but the model designs all see to be common from a few Chinese manufacturers. The model I have here comes from Shantou Mini Qute Trading Co. Ltd..
The Golden Hind was an English galleon best known for her privateering circumnavigation of the globe between 1577 and 1580, captained by Sir Francis Drake.
There is only so much detail you can pack into a 20-piece model no more than 10cm long, but I'm pretty impressed at the closeness of the model designer's approximation and the level of detail that has ben included.
Following the kit instructions.. the construction quality of the kit is excellent - all pieces perfectly laser cut.
- Model 9209 - "Mini Qute Piece Fun 3D vehicle Ford cars train Titanic ship Black Pearl Metal Puzzle adult assemble DIY models educational toy" - aliexpress seller listing
- Shantou Mini Qute Trading Co. Ltd.
- Kit Instructions
- Golden Hind - wikipedia
- Metal Earth reddit
- No holes in modern laser cutting story - thefabricator.com
- ..as mentioned on my blog