In science fiction modeling, one kit which probably almost every modeler with at least a passing interest in science fiction has built at one time or another is the classic 18″ U.S.S. Enterprise kit from AMT. The model stayed in AMT’s catalog for 30 years, something of a record for any model kit. Despite being lovingly restored and released, the reissue is not exactly the same kit as it first appeared in the Sixties. Most would consider the new tool an improvement. Most. I have a penchant for building these chestnuts the way they originally came. So it’s a time travel episode, essentially, a subject that is classic Star Trek, really.
Photos as found / 2014
The very first Enterprise kit was issued in a tall box, featuring artwork of the ship near a red planet.
VERSION 1 KIT / 1966
This is not my first rodeo with the 18” AMT E, but this is my first V1 Kit. Another Must Build Classic Kit.
A barn find. Literally. The dirtiest plastic I ever touched. The pieces looked like each was dipped in a combination of cooking oil and axle grease. Conventional solutions using soap did not work. I ended up using “Purple Power” Degreaser and clean water to flush the dirt and grease off which I followed by a soap and water soak. I finished a few days later with a light 1,200-2,000 grit sanding session.
I thought I lost this kit. Literally. About a week ago I found it. I stuffed it in a UPS bag after separating the parts into sub assemblies and left it on a shelf. When I found it I felt great. It’s been five-six years since I started putzing with this, so I hope I have learned a few things from all you fine gentlemen.
SPECS
25 parts in white, green tint clear plastic, smoky grey plastic base, 2 “grain of wheat” light bulbs attached to a wiring harness plus metal contacts for two AA batteries and one decal sheet (destroyed).
MISSING
1 Bussard Intake Collector (Replace both)
3 Intake Sink Field Generators (Scratch)
1 Rear Nacelle Cap (Replace both)
NOTES
Features single piece bussard collectors with intake sink field generators molded together. My note to cut this apart. The rear nacelle caps have smooth ends. The deflector dish is the largest amongst all versions. Warp pylon mounts use a tab-lock system. My note is to use my own modification of this (Done 2/15/20) to make the support work. Decals must be sourced (Federation Models?) as well as replacement parts (Accurate Parts?).
