| Author | Subject: Masterpiece Model Movie |
| Bruce Holroyd | Posted At 12:10:24 04/12/2003
Ok...we waited to see it in action! There is now a small animated movie of the upgraded Masterpiece Model Time Machine in operation on their website!!!! To see the video or save it to your hard drive, go to this website.... www.masterpiecemodels.com/forsale.htm. I must admit, it looks pretty impressive!!!!! |
| Eric Taylor |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 19:27:03 04/12/2003 Hello Bruce. Thanks for the link. I just looked at it a few times and I must say I can't quite agree with your assessment for the following reasons: A) The first thing that's awkward is that, before the hand even reaches for the lever, the green lamp on the front cylinder is already flashing for no reason. The lamp at the back is also lit. B) Then, he presses the lever, but it is set up BACKWARDS ! You have to press the lever DOWN to get the dish turning ! C) When the lever is pressed, the light in those conical things at the back do light up, but in front, it appears that only one of the three lamps flashes - the same that was flashing before he pressed the lever. D) Finally, when the lever is lifted UP, the dish stops spinning, but the front lamp keeps flashing ! It seems to me that Masterpiece have got some work to do still before getting it right. I am sure you can do better, Bruce, since you know the movie so well, you would take care to set up all these things properly ! |
| Bruce Holroyd |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 20:53:30 04/14/2003 Yes...I noticed that the lever was moved in the wrong direction as well, Eric... but, as many of us have waited for the answer to Granite City's outrageously priced version of the Time Machine, I don't really believe that there will be that many out there who will find fault with the Masterpiece Model. It is so much more affordable...and it is larger than the Scottish import, not to mention its attention in honoring the original design of the machine, as opposed to recreating the machine as it looks now. From studying the instructions that come with the upgraded version of the kit (motor and lights), one can easily see that the lights are wired to flash in the same sequence as shown in the film, even though the Masterpiece film doesn't exactly show it that way. For myself, it is the answer to a forty year dream that I have had.... to finally own an operational model of the famous machine! It may not be the perfect version as animation goes... but it is the best affordable model available for its size! I will opt for the slight discrepancies rather than do without a working model at all. I am sure that the many fans who have ordered their build ups from Masterpiece will be pleased beyond their wildest expectations. |
| Eric Taylor |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 15:46:38 04/15/2003 It seems to me that if Masterpiece seriously wanted to get it right, they could have at least installed the lever the right way around !!! Well, as far as I am concerned, I'll wait to see your own version, Bruce, the one that's built RIGHT !!! |
| Bruce Holroyd |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 22:14:51 04/18/2003 I believe that if you watch the video on the Masterpiece Models website, and look at it carefully...you will notice a flashing of all three console lights! I had to enlarge my downloaded Quicktime movie file to see it, but the model definitely shows the other console lights flashing...not just one! My hat's off to Masterpiece and the talented crew who made this model possible! And, to John Geiger and Chris Perrotta.... a big, hearty THANK YOU!!!!!! |
| Eric Taylor |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 00:16:54 04/19/2003 Thanks for the tip, Bruce ! I did as you suggested and enlarged the QuickTime image and, yes, I could see the red (year) lamp flashing at a slower pace, as it should. But I could never see any flashing on the yellow lamp. I'll give it the benefit of the doubt on that one since we have to keep in mind it is a low-resolution video. But one thing I could clearly tell: Both the red and the green lamps were flashing BEFORE the lever was even touched !!! How do you explain that ? And Bruce, when do you expect your own SUPREME version of the Masterpiece model will be ready for us all to behold ??? I can't wait !!!! (I am sure THAT one will have the lever set up the right way !) |
| ady |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 11:22:39 04/21/2003 Well, i think you get what you pay for. Even with all it's faults The Granite City Time Machine is in a completely different CLASS compared with the Masterpice model! And i mean no disrespect by that! I have watched the Quick Time video of the Scottish model many times on Don's site! The console lights are synchronized to blink in exactly the right order, and at the speed the lever dictates. And when Robert lesser momentarily stops the Machine, the rear light comes on, then starts flickering just before, going out as he puts the Machine into reverse. Just like the original Machine in the movie! The Scottish team not only worked from Bob Burns restoration of the Machine, but they also took many slides from the film. That is clearly evident as they decided to curve the upper side rail to the console, instead of leaving them at nearer a ninety degree angle! I'm sure they would have made every correct detail as precise, as those they incorrectly made, if only they had the correct relative information, and if a set of Chris Perrotta's Blue Prints were available at the time! Yes, the price is outrageous, but that's only because i can't afford it!!!;-))) |
| Bruce Holroyd |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 16:56:40 04/23/2003 Yes, Ady...I will agree that the Granite City machine is, indeed, in a class by itself: the company, from what I have learned, has gone the way of the proverbial dinosaur. The replica that they released is beautiful to behold, costly to own (if you are one of the individuals with an unfulfilled order...some, I believe are still waiting)... making the Masterpiece Model the successor! Even the Lunar Models version of the machine is a very worthy alternative! I own two of the Lunar machines and absolutely love them! I have also built a third for a very good friend (who appears on the Enthusiasts' Page). As the Lunar version was my first model of the Time Machine I was able to own after forty years, it will always hold a special place in my collection! But, the Masterpiece Model, which supercedes the Granite City in size, while not being as intricately precise in operation as the Scottish import, is still a winner as far as memorializing the original design of the machine as conceived for the film that started it all! Even better is the fact that the option to build one's own personal model is a preference I can agree with! The detail of the model is stunning, and the upgrade kit will allow this model to do pretty much the same thing as the expensive import! It will be illuminated, operated from a choice of two power sources, and it will have a spinning dish! For those who waited for another alternative, Masterpiece has provided a much more affordable answer!!!! If it is true that you get what you pay for, then Masterpiece TM owners will have a worthy showpiece...without the wait! |
| Francois Beaulieu |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 12:24:40 04/24/2003 A few correction are in order: Robert Lesser's claim that the Granite City Mechanician company went "belly up" is incorrect. It is still very much in existence. The main problem has been that its founder, George Chaides, has another job that keeps him away from his Time Machine work the majority of the time. This has led to ridiculous delays in filling orders. In respect to the Masterpiece Models project: I think it's important to distinguish the kit version - intended primarily for skilled kit builders - and the Masterpiece build-up. I know two people who ordered the Masterpiece model build-up a year ago and have heard nothing from the company since. I have also heard about shipping problems with some of the first build-ups forwarded. So it may be a bit early to gauge the level of satisfaction in regards the Masterpiece build-up. I also think Mr. Taylor and Ady bring up some good points about the functioning of the electronics in the Masterpiece model as it appears in their video. It's difficult to tell because it is rather short. This is where Bruce's "hands-on" evaluation should be interesting. As to size, I guess it's a matter of taste. I personally would prefer something closer to the size of the miniature in the movie and that is literally half the size of the Masterpiece model ! To echo Mr. Taylor's last question: When do you expect your build-up to be completed, Bruce ? |
| Bruce Holroyd |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 00:38:58 04/25/2003 As soon as I can finish the present Morlock kit I am engaged upon, everyone can expect progress reports in regards to the Masterpiece model. I have recently chatted by phone with Mr.Robert Willard, of Masterpiece Models. After our discussion, I am even more inclined to favor the Masterpiece version of the Time Machine. Naturally, being the individual who created the 'master molds' for the model, Mr. Willard would praise his company and take a degree of pride in his work...deservedly so! He mentioned a few things to me which, unfortunately, lead me to believe the contrary of the Granite City machine's production being continued. And while on that subject, I found it interesting to learn that the dish on the machine produced by George Chaides has a few inaccuracies as well. I might mention that Mr. Willard cleared up some questions I had about the recessed rim of the Masterpiece model's dish design and why it was molded in such a manner to benefit modeller's who wish to mask off the different colored areas of the dish. The design will allow for easier painting! For those still waiting for their build ups, I can only advise you to call Masterpiece Models at their phone and talk 'one-on-one' with one of their representatives as to the status of your own personal Time Machine. I have two of these kits to build and from all appearances, each kit promises to be one incredible beauty of a challenge! Mr. Willard assures me of one fact: the blueprints, redesigned under the artistically gifted hands of Chris Perrotta, to a higher degree of accuracy, have resulted in the largest, closest replica to the ORIGINAL machine that has been produced anywhere! So...how accurate does one wish to be here? And, how much is one willing to pay for that accuracy? Mr. Beaulieu has brought up a very interesting topic in his reference to 'size'.... It seems that there is one other replica being produced, close to the very size he has mentioned. As price goes, I will ask again... how much is one willing to pay for a miniature? There are those who cannot afford the hefty overpriced Granite City model, despite its intricate beauty and craftsmanship! So, here again...Masterpiece Models has provided the alternative...and made it much more attainable! They have many photos of the machine available for viewing on the internet, serving as a testament to the company's attention to detail. Has Granite City done anything like this? Oh...and one little interesting piece of info here.... As I have been informed, the Masterpiece kit has some pretty substantial backing from some influential sources. Due to the fragile nature of the full-sized, refurbished prop, it should be assumed that public access will be limited, if it is allowed at all. Mr. Bob Burns has every right to protect his beloved machine from scrutiny. It is a delicate piece of beauty and deserves its place under the protective care of Burns' hallowed film memorabilia museum! But, as he owns the machine in its present condition, the fact remains that the Granite City model is patterned after the Burns Time Machine, not the 1960 George Pal version. Thus, it was felt by some that a more accurate, and to its credit, affordable replica be produced from the remastered drawings of Mr. Perrotta. One can dispute the little discrepancies all they want... Perrotta's Time Machine is the vision of George Pal reborn! And the Masterpiece kit is the ultimate culmination of that dream! For me to give a definite date as to the completion of my own Masterpiece machine... I am in no hurry to rush it! I wish to do a buildup that my friend will love to own... and as I have mentioned in my Morlock kit build up commentary seen here on Don's site, the results will be seen...'all in good TIME.' |
| Eric Taylor |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 11:05:56 04/25/2003 I am confused, Bruce. Your original post on the subject pointed out the obvious advantages of a personalized model made by a knowledgeable person such as you over the Masterpiece buildup. After looking over the pictures of the Masterpiece version of the buildup and your own work on the Lunar Models version, I found myself in agreement with you. Not only that, but it convinced me I should buy a buildup from you or a similar expert rather than from Masterpiece. And yes, I would pay you MORE for your personalized work. I am convinced it would be worth it ! Since then, we saw the video and it's even more clear that Masterpiece has some work to do before they get the model right. In my view, Bruce, only you - and perhaps, some of the other gifted model builders fans of the Time Machine who know the movie so well - can do a job that truly does justice to the original. As for the "Granite" model, I have seen this on a video on Don Brockway's site. It looks good to me and not like the original prop in its current state. So please tell us in more detail how you see this model as "patterned after the Bob Burns" model. I could not see that ! I also don't see how you are turning this into an argument about the "accuracy" of any given FINISHED model or about the cost. That was never the question to begin with !!! It is the quality of the BUILDUP we are talking about ! And in this respect there is ample VISUAL evidence to draw one's conclusions !!! |
| Eric Taylor |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 11:15:36 04/25/2003 Just one other note to make my last remarks clearer. I have no problem with the Masterpiece model KIT - as far as accuracy is concerned. But the BUILDUP is what is of concern and is what has been the object of controversy. In that respect, Bruce, you're the MAIN man !!!! |
| ady |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 14:03:17 04/25/2003 Bruce: I would just like to say. In no way! Was i trying too say that the accuracy of the Masterpiece Model was second rate! Nor your skill as a model builder! I, like Eric, was only referring to the quality of the Masterpiece build-up! You can still see parts of Masterpieces build-up,by going to previous updates. I can't argue with the quality finish of the chair! it's excellent! But other parts, such as the console are a bit shoddy, particularly the lamp cages! There not a patch on the ones made by Martin Bleasby!!! I too think your quality of finishing, along with Martin Bleasby, and Ed Turner, and others. Is better than what i've seen from Masterpieces, so called PROFESSIONAL Build-up services! |
| Bruce Holroyd |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 00:33:45 04/26/2003 To address the entries by Eric and Ady: First, I fully agree that the Granite City import is a beautiful version of the Time Machine, and, given its brass rails and specially created metal cast dish, not to mention its intricate computer circuits for animating and illuminating the appropriate components..it truly is a wonder to behold! Once again, however: it is not entirely based upon the original machine. The control console rails (connected to the endcaps) on the original machine had a more graceful curve to them, whereas the model clearly lacks this detail, and thus, the curve is not as pronounced. This was pointed out to me by several people. I have likewise discussed this discrepancy with Martin Bleasby and Ed Turner (both very gifted model makers). One has only to compare the rails on the original movie version to the refurbished machine owned by Mr. Burns to see this! Even more evident is the pattern of the Berninghaus barber chair! Since the original chair was missing when Bob Burns finally assumed ownership of the prop's remains during the MGM auction of the '70's, Bob and a few very gifted close friends got together to rebuild the parts that were missing, stolen or had just plain disappeared over the span of many years! Tom Sherman, a talented artisan friend of Bob's, crafted the new chair to replace the original..and he came pretty close... but the fancy carving on the chair's sides was slightly different. The Granite City machine reflects a few derivations made to the cushions and the 'swan necks'...and the chair is even raised up on the leg supports as the original machine had(The full-sized Burns version does not duplicate this detail). I have been informed that the G.C. machine does not faithfully duplicate the chair carvings in the sides as designed on the original Berninghaus chair that sat within the 1960 Time Machine. Perhaps, to some, this may be nitpicking, but there are those of us who wish to see the original vision of George Pal preserved. I am not alone in this belief. And that is why it became the goal of Chris Perrotta to envision a more faithful incarnation of the classic vehicle from the film! I would have loved to own a Granite City machine, despite its relatively minor imperfections... but for the price, my friends..let's face it... one could purchase two used cars that would actually take them someplace! A fine set of furniture would fill the bill as well....but as the last known purchase price for a Granite City Time Machine was over $5000 (at least this was the info I was led to believe)... the only alternative for acquiring a working model was the Lunar kit (which has to be modified by the builder to have working lights and a drive wheel assembly to spin the dish) or the newly released Masterpiece kit(which, with its upgrade kit, eliminates the need to search for the needed components to give life to the model). Granted, the means of operation is not as complex, perhaps, as the Granite City machine... but, the price for being able to own a more affordable, larger, operational model is, to my mind, an obvious choice. I do not mean to make any sort of argument, as stated in Eric's post above....just my personal view. And, to clear up this issue, I do not consider myself an expert on any of these models... not even when it comes to building them. I have had to collect info from many other sources far more knowledgeable than I on the subject of the famous Time Machine. And, I must give credit to Martin Bleasby and Ed Turner. They have proven to be courteous and very helpful for their own sharing of skills and techniques! They, like me, share a deep love for the original machine and have shown their individual expertise when doing their own build ups! It is clearly known to anyone who has seen the Masterpiece kit that it, too, has a few minor mistakes. For the 'void' it fills in my life, I can easily overlook these quirks. Ady... the console lights are left up to the builder of each model. Martin Bleasby and I correspond on a continuing basis about the light cages from time to time. He has come up with an ingenious method of recreating these components as realistically as one can get them. His work is beautifully OUTSTANDING! As build ups go for any model... it is left up to the craftsman doing the work. I have seen the work that the guys at Masterpiece are capable of doing. Maybe they are not the sticklers for 'pinpoint' precision as the Granite City exemplifies with its brass and metal castings, and it does, admittedly call for a few corrections... but let us all admit it: they have nevertheless produced a competitive, and, albeit, gorgeous, first-class replica! I might add here, that I am particularly indebted to my treasured friend(and customer), Susan, for making my dream come true! And, to Mr. Don Brockway, who introduced me to her, I should like to add my heartfelt wish of gratitude. And to all of you who have shared in this discussion, my deepest "Thank You." It is a pleasure to chat about something so interesting to us all. I invite more opinions of the various models from any of the fans out there. Sure wish I had the patience, knowledge and talent to build a full-sized version of the machine as some others have done! That would be a dream realized beyond my wildest expectations!!!! One interesting question here and something for any graphic artist to think about: has anyone ever given thought to recreating the famous machine in... a paper model kit? |
| Francois Beaulieu |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 01:34:18 04/28/2003 Thanks for the extra details, Bruce. I mostly agree with your assessment, although not entirely. There are bound to be some differences of opinion. I will refrain from engaging in any further debate on the matter. As I said before, it is also a matter of personal taste. In respect to my preference for a model of a size similar to the one appearing in the movie: that is a natural inclination for many fans, I am sure you will agree. This format is in fact roughly 1:12 in scale or about six inches. The model closest in scale to this ideal is the Lunar Models version that is roughly 1:10 in scale. I have heard that Lunar is considering redesigning the chair on this model to make it more closely match the design of the original chair. (As many people know, the current Lunar Models chair is patterned after the one in the restored prop owned by Bob Burns.) This revised version from Lunar Models shall indeed be my own preferred choice until a true 1:12 scale (six inch) model comes along – ideally, patterned after the Wah Chang miniature in the movie rather than the full-size machine. On the other hand, those who like very large models shall surely be well served with the Masterpiece kit. |
| Bruce Holroyd |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 07:22:44 04/28/2003 I can fully agree, Francois. Lunar has done a remarkable job on their version, and, if not for their honest efforts, we would have had no reasonably priced model available at all. Having recently been in communication with Chris Perrotta and Robert Willard (of Masterpiece Models), I am told that the larger kit is considered the 'state-of-the-art' version. I do, however, look forward with anticipation as to how Lunar will improve their Time Machine kit! It is highly deserving of their creative touch to make it even more attractive to the model builder who prefers a smaller scale. As I own a Lunar kit still in its box, I wonder if they will make the chair and any other updates available separately for upgrades. At any rate, await the news of their work! It promises to be very commendable and will only serve to make a very fine kit more highly regarded in the ranks of Time Machine replicas! I wish them all success! |
| Francois Beaulieu |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 17:28:13 04/28/2003 From what I was able to make out, the initiative to make an updated version of the chair is a consequence of their project to do a model kit version of the 2002 Time Machine in the same scale. Since the chair in the 2002 Dreamworks prop is a rigorously faithful reproduction of the original Berninghaus chair, it stood to reason that the same chair would also match their kit of the Pal version. So I suspect that the update on the Pal kit will take place when the 2002 kit is ready. Of course, like you, I am hopeful that the chair will be available as a separate upgrade. My own Lunar kit is in the expert hands of Alain Gadbois, as detailed elsewhere on this site, and I have asked Alain to hold off completing the original chair in the kit until we know if the new more accurate chair will be available. From what I hear, Lunar will most likely offer the chair as a separate upgrade. Please keep in mind that nothing above has been confirmed recently. Whether any or all these projects come to past remains to be seen. I am hopeful that they will. |
| Bruce Holroyd |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 01:00:44 04/29/2003 It will certainly compliment their extraordinary work! |
| Eric Taylor |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 19:33:10 04/29/2003 Your starting to loose me, Bruce my friend, If you’re saying that we shouldn’t spend any significant amount of money excpt for things that are practical, then we shouldn’t be talking about buying time machine models at all ! Because, let’s face it, even the Masterpiece buildup is $1000. and going up - and yes, you could “buy a used car” for that price too ! So I don’t see the point in that argument. Buy one or two or three used cars ! Is it really better than a work of art made by a great artist ??? So, in this respect, everyone has his own limits and priorities…but I am sure Bruce, being an artist yourself, that you can recognize the high value of great expertise and great workmanship and if Granite people ask a great amount of money it is probably that the work and expertise goes along with it !!! One could not expect from such experts that they would charge the same fee as a student working in a fastfood restaurant ! I am sure you know that given your great appreciation of things well-done and knowing the enormous time it takes to prepare such projects. But the Time machine model is a fancy – at ANY price ! Surely you know somebody else would say “It’s ridiculous to pay $150. for a plstic kit since at Walmart you can get a plastic kit for $15. dollars” !!! Also, I don’t see why you keep bringing up that “Granite” model and pick at things such as the curve of the front rail, which to me is clearly patterned after the original machine in the film and NOT after the one of Bob Burns and then you come up with excuses for the errors on the one of Masterpiece such as the “recessed ring”. I did not know about that, but now that you mentioned it, I took a good look at the pictures and it leads me to think that the explanation given sounds more like they did it to make it easier for THEM to do the painting on their OWN buildups regardless that it was not authentic ! And if you want to pick at things, just take a look at the borders of the base on the Masterpiece buildups. They are completely wrong. So it seems all the models have SOME flaws in them… The problem here is we are talking about the Masterpiece BUILDUP and whether it measures up to a QUALITY expected of a model costing one thousand dollars or more - that is, one that measures up to the workmanship of some of the fine artists showcased on this site, at least – such as yourself and Mr. Ed Turner. (In this, thanks for pointing out Mr. Ed Turner, his work seems genial and I would feel it worth $5000. and, you know, I would sell my car to buy his work if need be !!! That’s how much I feel about the value of great artists !) However, the Masterpiece buildup is as Ady pointed out: the chair looks well done, but the front console and cages as well as base look rather poor when compared with the works of Mr Ed Turner, Martin Bleasby, Alian Gadboys and yourself Bruce Put yourself in the place of the client paying a thousand dollars for a buildup. Would you not have an expectation – not just a hope – for a high quality product ??? and if Masterpiece does not deliver the quality expected, you would look elsewhere… Unfortunate for those who had already ordered and paid in advance without seeing a finished model that now they can only just… HOPE for the best. That’s why I say Masterpiece must improve their buildups or else they will have very unhappy customers. |
| Bruce Holroyd |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 00:03:15 04/30/2003 Ok...I will concede to your observations, Eric. Buy your Granite City model; whatever you feel it is worth. If I am so wrong in what I have posted here, then I shall withdrawl from further discussion, lest it turn into an all-out argument. I hope that you can afford the G.C. model...for many believe...not only myself, that it is no longer state-of-the-art! Still, it appears that you believe my point of view to be incomplete...despite your well intentioned compliments. I did not intend for this discussion to get so overblown. You are certainly free to draw your own conclusions... I shall keep mine. |
| Eric Taylor |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 00:16:24 05/02/2003 Bruce, I don't disagree that the Granite model has some flaws and I agree that the seat looks midway between the reconstructed seat in the Burns prop and the real Bernighaus chair. But what I do not get is why you keep bringing up the Granite model at all when, in the first place, the discussion was not about how accurate the Masterpiece KIT is in relation to others, but how well done are the Masterpiece BUILDUPS. Granted this is not so much of concern to you since you are lucky enough to have the talent to build one from the kit. But for us pitiful souls who can't glue anything without smudging it in the process, we have to rely on others to do the work. As for just how mcuh one is willing to pay for a model is an individual decision... but if you tell me it is better to pay $1000. for a poorly built model than $5000. for one that is a masterpiece of workmanship, then, no, I don't follow you. My point is: if I am going to pay $1000. for a model, I will expect a high quality product. And if a high quality product cannot be had for $1000. (as seems evident with the Masterpiece buildup) Then, I will NOT buy a model or... I will save to buy a model from someone who is truly a master craftsman even if it costs more - but I am NOT here referring to the Granite model. More likely, it would be from someone such as the gifted artists whose works are on this site. I merely point out and recognize that great workmanship sometimes comes at a cost. |
| Bruce Holroyd |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 00:50:30 05/03/2003 I wish to thank you all for your contributions to this post. It has, indeed, been enlightening.... and from the looks of it, newcomer modelmaker Chris Bromham has done remarkable justice to the Lunar kit at the height of our discussion! Now, we see a sterling buildup by a true master, and, if he is reading this post...i would like to ask... Chris..how much is your lunar kit in American exchange? Your work is OUTSTANDING!!! What do you say, Eric? Think that Chris's work gives the aforementioned kits some competition? For my own part, I still like the size of the Masterpiece, but I do have to admit...I have never seen the Lunar kit look so stunning as does Chris Bromham's entry! I may do buildups myself, but he has surpassed my own efforts! I say that without reservation! His work is simply beautiful! While I think of it... I have looked over the details of the instruction sheet in the upgraded Masterpiece kit...and, from what I can tell at this point...the control lever will control the speed of the dish as well as the blinking speed of the lights. Now, while the dish only revolves in one direction (which is ok by me...as it was that way in the movie), it too, is activated by a motor inside the time generator unit, which, in turn spins a shaft with a small rubber wheel that touches the bottom of the dish rim. This method is used by just about every resin or homemade kit I have seen as a means of bringing life to the model! On the subject of price... I must maintain my view... While the Scottish model is undisputedly a high quality piece of craftsmanship, I nevertheless feel that it is a bit small for such a price tag. One can approach the practicality in a manner similar to this: you could buy the model from Scotland...but you could build a full-sized machine for about the same price...with outstanding craftsmanship in it as well! Sound fantastic??? Take a look at some of the full-sized replica links elsewhere on this site...you will be amazed at the price of one particular recreation! It is a fantastic piece of work...it works like the one in the movie, and...it costs much, much less than the price of the intricate miniature from Granite City!!! But, then..it all depends on quality of workmanship...and what one is willing to pay for! This example defeats the sensibilty of investing in the import from Scotland, while opting for a model that does, essentially, the same exact thing as the G.C. model...without sacrificing very much QUALITY or money. Chris Bromham has proven it! Masterpiece has proven it! And with a full-sized replica, ingenuity and skill have proven it! Eric...to echo your own sentiments: if I am going to pay $5000 for a quality piece of workmanship, I definitely expect a high quality job! To then wait for years for its construction and then discover that it is not entirely accurate for that price I have paid, I can't really consider it a sensible investment! So, to reflect: we have several options open as to how to best obtain a working model! G.C. is one....Masterpiece is one... Lunar is one...even the privelege of creating a scratch-built replica is a consideration.... but just think of all you are getting for the price...and take the factors of size, function and overall appearance into reason. Given the right treatment, both the Lunar and the Masterpiece can look as beautiful and stunning as the G.C. model! I would rather save a bit (call me cheap if you wish...I refer to it as being sensibly thrifty)and own a model like Bromham's, or a larger kit like Masterpiece's, or a full-sized machine...all three capable of looking just as impressive as the import...for a substantial fraction of the price!!! |
| Eric Taylor |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 12:19:20 05/03/2003 The notion that quality of workmanship can be equated with the SIZE of a model is one that escapes me ! Hmmmm, I see we are back to comparing with the Granite model again ! I guess one thing to consider is that the Granite model is made mostly of wood and brass and copper, while the Masterpiece kit and buildup are mostly resin. To the best of my knowledge the dish on the Granite model is driven by high precision internal gears and shafts, while the Masterpiece has a simple arrangement of a small wheel sticking out of the back. As I said, it is a personal choice. if one prefers to pay $1000 for a poorly built model, that is one's own prerogative. At least, it is, NOW. The problem is that many people ordered the Masterpiece buildup without ever seeing it. All they had to go by was Chris Perotta's computer rendering (still used by many sellers in place of the actual buildup). There are ample pictures of all models now for anyone to make an enlightened choice. Mr. Bromham's buildup looks interesting but I have noticed in some pictures that the wiring for the electronics appears to be external and runs along the railings. If one can accept such a compromise, it is indeed one among many choices although not my prefered one. I would personally opt for the work of such a gifted modeler as Mr. Ed Turner - again, a personal choice. Yes, I have noticed several people having made a full-size model claiming THEIR costs to be under $5000. However, will they SELL their model for such a price ? That is another matter ! But again I say: quality of workmanship has little to do with size. A poorly built full-size model is no better than a small one. All it does is take up more space ! But if you can find someone who offers for sale a full-size perfect working replica of the Machine for $5000., then please let me know. I will be first in line with an order ! |
| Bruce Holroyd |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 14:09:53 05/03/2003 Hmmmmmm.... Eric Taylor.... Ed Turner.....'one cannot choose but wonder.' Eric...I own two of the Masterpiece kits.... I HAVE SEEN THE WORKMANSHIP! They are certainly WORTH the price! My last word...thank you. |
| ady |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 14:44:31 05/03/2003 Hi Cheap!;-))) No...really Bruce, do you have any idea why Masterpiece scrapped the original design for motorizing the dish? The initial concept was to drive the dish through the bearing mechanism housed inside the ball on the lamp column! like the original Machine! I'd like to know if you (or anyone else for that matter)was aware of this change in design prior to receiving the kit? There was quite a considerable waiting period, as i remember, for Masterpiece to find some elusive part to complete the motor unit!!! Do you think that this was merely an excuse to give them time to simplify the drive system for the dish? I'm not a model maker, and i know nothing about modelling mechanisms! But i strongly dislike the look of any external device for turning the dish!!! I personally think it spoils the (appearence) beauty of the Machine!!! I'm not sure if the Granite City TM works on this principle? But i noticed the system you mentioned for turning the dish appears on Chris Bromham's models! If Masterpiece did not inform customers about the changes to the drive system? Then Masterpiece as clearly misled it's customers(who are awaiting their build-up)with the illusion that the dish will be turned via an internal mechanism? This is certainly one of the main reasons why people decided to buy this (build-up) model!!! |
| Eric Taylor |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 15:50:36 05/03/2003 Bruce, if you are trying to insinuate that I am Mr. Turner, then one might suggest that you, on the other hand, are working for Masterpiece which is the only explanation I can think of given you keep diverting the comments I made regarding the BUILDUP as if I had directed them towards the KIT !!! (I have clearly stated my opinion of the kit in a previous post.) My comments were made on my having LOOKED at the many fine models shown on this website. Yes, I was particularly impressed by the work of Mr. Turner and anyone who wishes to make the comparaison can draw his own conclusions. And for you to imply that means I must be him is rather a questionable judgement !!! Ady, I am not sure the means of making the dish spin are the same on the model of Mr. Bronham than they are on the Masterpiece model. They could be similar. |
| ady |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 18:27:56 05/03/2003 Hi Eric: Thanks for clearing up my doubt on the Granite City dish drive mechanism!!!;-))) I don't know if the drive system on Chris Bromham's model is exactly the same as the one Bruce describes for Masterpiece? But i imaging they would perform in similar way! |
| Bruce Holroyd |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 00:13:05 05/04/2003 No, Eric...I do not work for Masterpiece...they are located in Vancouver, Washington. I live on the East Coast. Your 'suggestion' is also wrong. Ady... I have talked with the Masterpiece kit designer...consequently, I have learned more about the kit's background from both he and Chris Perrotta, whose work I will support sooner than some relatively unknown Scottish designer. The drive process of the dish is a matter of economics...and $5000 is still no reasonable answer! Since its introduction from Granite City, the import has increased almost double in price! But then... 'thrifty' to some is spelled differently...thus your first statement in the May 3rd post above. Thank you for your frank honesty. |
| ady |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 06:58:38 05/04/2003 I'm nice to see you can take a joke Bruce, and thanks for answering my Question's so thoroughly!!! |
| ady |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 13:13:28 05/04/2003 Sorry, it's nice! |
| Bruce Holroyd |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 15:22:27 05/04/2003 Hey...I have a great sense of humor, Ady... I find the Granite City price very funny. Oh...and how come G. C. has raised that price? any guesses here? |
| ady |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 15:13:00 05/05/2003 Well, seeing as you can't stop talking about The Granite City Time Machine! I will tell you a little story. A few years back i was seriously contemplating taking out a loan to buy The Granite City Time Machine! But unfortunatly with other financial commitment's i sadly resigned myself to the fact that i would never be able to afford this true Masterpiece! It is without doubt the most Beautiful, high-tech, QUALITY CRAFTED Time Machine EVER to be produced!!! I TRULY regret not taking the opportunity to buy this AWESOME quality JEWEL!!! If i only knew how much it would increase in value i would of taken the risk at the time to have it! And just think of the investment i would have made, as you know QUALITY appreciates in value!!!;-))) I have by chance, had the opportunity to see the HIGH-TECH devise Masterpiece has externally used to drive the dish. As opposed to the original internal drive shaft mechanism, which awaiting customers believe will set the dish in motion on their Masterpiece build-up! IT not only looks CRUDE, and pathetic! But it completely spoils the rear appearance of the engine housing! And the fact that you can see the second row of vents (which should be obscured by the dish) shows yet another inaccuracy on the part of Masterpiece!!! I'm sure glad you've got a good sense of humour!!! |
| Eric Taylor |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 17:13:42 05/05/2003 Funny that there is no way around just talking about this Granite model !!! as if the price of this quality model is an excuse for the lower priced Masterpiece buildup being poorly made !!! Ady, it's interesting what you say about that you can see the vents in the back. It's not suppose to. Another "error" ???? If you say it spoils the rear appearance, then that means it's a wheel sticking out of the back that you can see ? That's different from the model by Chris Bronham, where his wheel is BEHIND the dish, so you cannot see it from the back (you can see it from the top, however) And as to accuracy, I have been looking at pictures of the Masterpiece model and pictures of the real machine in the movie and comparing and something struck me: the seat in the Masterpeice buildup looks sligthly too big for the rest of the model. You can see that in pictures of the buildup in that the back of the seat won't rest properly - instead, it tilts forward slightly. Then if you look at the front of the armrests, they come much closer to the front brass tubing than they do on the real Machine - as if there was not enough space for the seat !!! Did anybody else notice that ? I thought that was kinda funny too. It is lucky we all have a sense of humor when we look at the Masterpiece ! |
| Eric Taylor |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 17:27:23 05/05/2003 Oh yes, Bruce: Of course I know you could not possibly work for Masterpiece ! If you did, their buildups would be first class !!! |
| Bruce Holroyd |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 19:57:17 05/05/2003 I made a big mistake when I opened this post... Eric..Ady... our views obviously oppose each other. Seems as though I am wrong for what I feel... Thank you both for the contest. |
| Bruce Holroyd |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 22:00:42 05/05/2003 Eric, thank you for your kind comments once again in reference to my work...more will come! :o) |
| ady |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 15:28:27 05/07/2003 Bruce: I look forward to seeing your build-up. I'm sure you will make a great job!;-) |
| Eric Taylor |
Re: Masterpiece Model Movie (Currently 0 replies)
Posted At 14:53:12 05/08/2003 Was it a contest ? I see it more as an exchange of ideas. It would be boring if we all had the same point of view. On the contrary, I feel it was very fruitful to have this discussion. For example, I had not noticed that all the lamps light up in the video of the Masterpiece buildup and, on closer examination, Bruce pointed out they did. It was the video quality that made it difficult to see. I would not have noticed if it weren't for Bruce's input. Also, on the whole, we have very few "opposing points of view". We have all agreed that the Masterpiece KIT appears to be better than all previous ones. I guess my main disagreements are with some of the details. However, I am not trying to force my point of view across; just suggest that anyone interested in acquiring a buildup should take a good hard look at the QUALITY of those offered before they fork over their cash ! And there are ample pictures on this and other sites to help make an enlightened judgement... |