ChristopherB

Jung, Consider it done my friend! Sincerely, Christopher

jwinges, Good solutions. I think we're going to end up going with your solution #1. I just sucks that we will most likely not be able to stick to the line art, but I'm still curious about the disappearing fin trick. I prefer your solution #2, which is similar to what I posted, but I'm glad you mentioned the possibility of adjusting the vector of the missiles to clear the fin. Vostok 7, I agree with you about having not having to modify the 1/48 Yamato's. As I mentioned, most people will want to be able to put the armor on and remove it without any permanent changes to their expensive valkyries. I'm curious to see what Fulcy has to say. Sincerely, Christopher

Can't really see any hinge on the fin:

Mechamaniac, Thank you very much for posting your thoughts. I appreciate it. We have a lot of pretty smart people here on MW, and I hope others will post their thoughts too. To modify, or not modify, that is the question. Once we get some solutions, maybe I'll start a poll to see what potential customers prefer. Christopher

Facts, which cannot be disputed: 1.) The 1/48 Yamato VF-1 valkyrie is the "least" out of proportion transformable "toy" valkyrie ever released. 2.) The 1/72 Hasegawa VF-1 is the "least" out of proportion plastic "model" valkyrie ever released. 3.) The 1/48 Club M VF-1 Ultimate Strike is the "least" out of proportion resin "model" ever released. 4.) The 1/72 Orange Collection, Yellow Submarine/Club M VF-1/Ve-1/VT-1 are the "least" out of proportion resin "model" kits ever released. Of course, 2-4 did not have to worry about transforming, and some of the categories did not have any competition, but the fact remains.

What about screen captures showing the GBP armor? Does the armor bulge around the lower leg, or does it appear to mold to the contours of the battroids legs? I would submit or hypothesis that the only reason that the Takatoku GBP armor and the Yamato armor bulge at the bottom is to accomodate the leg fins, which were never designed by Yamato/Bandai from the beginning to be able to either fold or retract. I would also submit, that there is no logical reason for the GBP armor or the VF-1AG armor for that matter to bulge at the bottom. Look at your 1/55 and even the 1/60 when it is released with GBP armor on, and besides the leg fin, there is no reason why the lower leg armor bulges. Except for battleships trying to deflect/absorb a torpedo blast, armor does not benefit by having space inbetween the part being armored, and I would argue that less structural integrity results from not having armor directly attached to the part being armored. In essence, bulging lower leg armor on the GBP Bandai and Yamato is a consequence, as opposed to deliberate design from the beginning. The cause is an unyielding plastic fin. As such, the ability of a real valkyrie's leg fin to fold, lends credence to the arguement that the lower leg armor should not bulge, but fit snugly onto the lower leg. What about the detailed valkyrie internal detail poster that came with the Macross Gold Book if I remember correctly? Does it show a hinge on the leg fin? As I mentioned, knowledge that the leg fin should fold, does not provide a different solution from what I already mentioned.

Exo, See, that is the thing here. If the fins fold in, then the design problem is solved with regard to Macross, but still means we need a solution for the 1/48 Yamato. Either a slot, bulging leg armor, or everyone that wants a VF-1AG armor set has to get their 1/48 Yamato modified so the leg fins can fold. If it is true that the leg fins can fold, I would love to see proof, otherwise it's not substantiated. Sincerely, Christopher

You can also check out this thread to see a picture of a GBP custom that intentionally did away with the leg fin: Hasegawa 1/72 GBP Here are my observations and solutions: Brief summary of leg fin versus GBP/VF-1AG lower leg armor. Observations: 1.) The VF-1AG drawing in Design Works details the lower leg fin underneath the leg armor, but based upon the perspective shown it is difficult to tell it is there. (Option #1) 2.) Kawamori intenionally left it out, because of convenience or the use of so called "anime magic" that facilitates the ability of valkyries to morph and look good in all modes, regardless of structural changes. (Option #2) 3.) Previously unknown to us, valkyries have the sudden ability to either retract the lower leg fins inside the leg itself, or fold the fin flat against the leg. We know the fin is not jetisoned because once the armor is removed, the fin is still there. (Option #3) 4.) The GBP lower leg armor differs from the VF-1AG lower leg armor. (Fact #1) 5.) The lower leg fin if able to extend through lower leg armor, may or may not interfere with the missile ports firing their missiles. (Fact #2) Solutions: 1.) Since the Yamato 1/48 follows available logic and the fact that there is no need, the lower leg fin does not either fold or retract, and as such this must be taken into account when designing the lower leg armor. 2.) As such, changes will have to be made to Kawamori's design based upon the aforementioned observations. Obviously, customers would prefer that their VF-1AG armor be able to attach to any 1/48 Yamato without the need for modification. 3.) Based upon this premise, the lower leg armor will have to be able to encompass/cover the lower leg fin. If this method is not used, a slot will have to be placed in the leg fin to allow the fin to fit through, but once again will the fin interfere with the missile port doors, and firing of the missiles inside? The when/where/why as to Kawamori's picture are totally moot I would think, because discussing something created in the past will not solve this dilemma. It is a moot point not worth debating, because no one knows his intentions except him, unless your God. Besides, my observations covered all possible explanations: 1.) perspective error on the viewers part, 2.) intentionally ignored, 3.) anime magic, 4.) retracting/folding lower leg fin Now that we've moved past that, the topic becomes a solution. Please let us know if you have a solution besides what I posted to the problem: 1.) Modify every customers 1/48 Yamato so they can have a "Kawamori Accurate VF-1AG" 2.) Design the lower leg armor so that the fin can pass through via a slot, thereby keeping to the "slim" contours shown by Kawamori, while keeping in mind the creation of possible difficulty with the missile ports. 3.) Bulge the VF-1AG lower leg armor so that it can cover the leg fin. Thank you for your indulgence and possible help. I've always believed that a fool listens only to his own counsel, while a wise man considers other's advise before deciding upon a course of action. Sincerely, Christopher

QUOTE: EXO April, 6 2004, 10:00 AM It would be interesting to see how you get around the small wings on the lower legs. That's usually where people end up halting their projects. Exo, You are correct. While the Hasegawa VF-1J GBP custom is amazing and beyond my skills to create, the creator chose to take the easy way out, and conveniently ignore the lower leg fins. It was of course much easier for him/her to just pretend they did not exist, and use their own version of anime magic. If you can't make it work easily, just cut it off. So, here we are now with the 1/48 VF-1AG project and the inherent enigma created by the very same issue, what do we do with the lower leg fins on the 1/48 Yamato. Our hero Kawamori, chose also to take the easy route, and as such the drawing of the VF-1AG gives no indication of the leg fins. Thanks a lot Mr. Floating Head. Fulcy is trying to figure it out, and so have I. He continues to work on the project, but he is anticipating the future solution for this problem. As such, here is a copy of my PM to him with my thoughts. The problem boils down to several premises and solutions: "A folding leg fin will be fine for me because I'm paying for the commission, but other people may not want their 1/48 modified. We can work this out. If a slot were placed in the leg armor to let the fin pass through, would the fin block the missile bay doors from opening or the missiles firing? We have to look at it from a perspective error on the part of the drawing or an outright design flaw. Either the fins had magically shrunk via anime magic and are inside the armor, the true size of the lower leg armor is deceptively small for visual effect, or Kawamori just totally ignored them deliberately or accidentally. It has to be one of these options, as there are no others, unless a VF-1 suddenly developed the ability to retract the fins inside the leg or can fold them." Sincerely, Christopher

Hello, I wanted this subject to get as much coverage as possible, to hopefully promote as much discussion as possible. This topic relates to the ongoing VF-1AG armor kit to be used with the 1/48 Yamato, and conversely relates to the Takatoku 1/55 GBP-1 armor kit. This forum is of course appropriate as compared to the model section, because it relates to the creation of an armor kit to be used with the Yamato 1/48 Valkyrie toy, and not a "model" kit. The topic also involves by proxy the Takatoku 1/55 and Yamato 1/60 GBP armor. Let me start this off with a picture for reference purposes: Link to other pictures: VF-1AG Contest Thread Could someone please post the picture the Design Works? I can't locate it, because the old forums are down. My points of discussion to follow. Sincerely, Christopher

Edited so as to not detract from the original intent of this thread, which is a member's project to make custom GBP armor for a model. Please see this thread regarding discussion of the VF-1AG Yamato Toy Thread, as opposed to a model thread. VF-1AG for 1/48 Yamato Valkyrie Toy Thread

Edited so as to not detract from the original intent of this thread, which is a member's project to make custom GBP armor for a model. Please see this thread regarding discussion of the VF-1AG Yamato Toy Thread, as opposed to a model thread. VF-1AG for 1/48 Yamato Valkyrie Toy Thread

Report on Mugen Toys: Ordered (5) Hasegawa VF-1S Strike Valkyries and (2) Hasegawa VF-1A Super Valkyries Total Price: $140.00 (7 @ $20.00) Shipping: Free Received: (2) days Great packaging, no damage godfather, Wow, they do have good prices. Do they provide free (2-3) day priority shipping like I got with Mugen Toys? If not, the price per valkyrie is still $4.00 lower, so that will help count against the total shipping price. Sincerely, Christopher

Gene, congratulations! I looks like you were inspired by the 1/55 Blue Roses camo. scheme valkyrie I sold you a while back. Jung, great work, you are indeed very talented!

Kawamori uses Legos. I've heard several stories about him and his Lego valkyries, used to test transformation, and I think I've even seen a picture. His first "valkyrie" was able to transform, I'm not sure if it was a "perfect transformation" or not. He was having a hard time figuring out where the arms would go when in plane mode, and then he realized that the space that the F14 has in the middle, would be perfect. His initial transforming valkyrie was either cardboard or Lego, I can't recall for sure. Kawamori was integral in the 1/55 design, and the VF-1J head did not have a chin, because some of his initial VF-1J designs did not have a chin. So if you call the VF-1J a "chinless wonder" you are actually mocking Kawamori. The 1/55 is the original mass produced transformable valkyrie and holds a special sentimental place in my heart.

Kurt, Wow, absolutely beautiful customs! Can't wait to see them with the armor on, and especially the strike cannons. Gene, I am very envious of you, and I know your collection of customs has surpassed mine. I've been investing in Gundam resin kits, and as such my Macross custom collection has suffered lately. Not only that, but the price for a Yamato VF-1S and Super/Strike armor is close to $200.00 each once shipping is factored in, plus the custom commission means that each project is a lot more of an investment as compared to when the 1/55's were popular. I'll reply to your PM as soon as possible. Sincerely, Christopher

Hello, There is one for sale in the MW "For Sale" Section. I wonder who it belongs to? Or rather the question is, "Who will it belong to?" Sincerely, Christopher

Hello, I placed my order with Mugen Toys today for some Hasegawa Strike and Super Valkyries. The prices are great, and purchases over $50.00 include free shipping. I called them today before ordering, and they seemed very nice. I'll post once I get my items, or run into any problems. Sincerely, Christopher

Anasazi37, Great job! I am really, really impressed, and very envious of Gene. Sincerely, Christopher

Hello, "You know nothing" perhaps? "Du" is you, and "nicht" is nothing if I remember what I learned in German class around (12) years ago. An "Enigma" is of course a puzzle or riddle that cannot be solved, so the phrase would make sense if I've interpreted correctly. Of course I'm not cheating by using an internet translator or anything like that, so we'll see once someone does that. Anyway, the custom looks great, and speaking for me personally, I'll never get tired of seeing them, but I'll continue to be jealous that I'm not the owner. Sincerely, Christopher

No news yet, apparently. I checked the website again this morning, and unless it is a typo, the last update posted is from (13) months ago. "Latest News and Press Releases PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING: Update for March 2003." According the most recent e-mail from (1) month ago, pictures should have been up by now, but I didn't see them. Sincerely, Christopher

Carl, Thank you, we are definitely on the same page, and I appreciate you taking the time to post information regarding the (3) 1/144 VB-6 Konig Monsters. I just wanted to recap what had been discussed so far, and like you, I won't believe it until I see pictures or read a report from a reliable source. So, in essence, IHP has created (2) separate VB-6 kits: 1.) 1/100 VB-6, which Valkyrie is currently recasting 2.) 1/144 VB-6 We know the 1/100 VB-6 was released in such a quantity as to wear out the molds, or at the very least materially deteriorate. I suppose we do not know if more than one of the 1/144 IHP version was ever produced, because there is no evidence to indicate otherwise. The same holds true for the L-Trans-R, and Chris version apparently. LSB, I suppose that it is perhaps presumptive to assume that if Yamato was planning to make a VB-6 toy, whether they would start from scratch, or as you mentioned "take the best from each model." Yamato would have to have access to all (3) 1/144 versions to evaluate them, and that is assuming that 1/144 is the scale that they would even choose to go with. Due to some of the intrinsic differences between a toy, and a resin display model, I'm sure quite a few changes would be required. Sincerely, Christopher

Hello, The G-System RX-78-2 will be the next project. It's already been mailed to Mike, and he should have it. I'm hoping that he'll do a detailed build-up for us, but that also means I'll have to wait longer to receive it. Might be worth it though. Sincerely, Christopher

Graham, Thank you for verifying that your review was not posted (3) years ago. It's really a moot point though as to when it was though, but that your review did cause quite a stir. Blaine23, Yes, that's right, it was George Sohn. The name doesn't really matter though, the story is the same. All I remembered was an Americanized name followed by an Asian one, which both of them share. That was indeed an interesting time, and just goes to show how long some of us have been around. wwwmwww, With regard to keeping the thread on track, I'm a little confused regarding the so called "rumor" we are discussing, which Graham is so sure of that he is willing to bet against someone offering their home. What do we know at this point? From what I've read, (3) different VB-6 1/144 were shown at a Anime Convention held in China/Japan/Singapore/etc. The makers of the kits according to you are: Studio Half Eye, someone named "Chris"(?), and (?). Apparently there was some type of contest, and even though (3) different versions were created, the contest was never concluded? The pictures you posted are of the (3) completed kits from the January 2001 issue, but no winner was ever decided and the kits were not released, and the matter has been dead for over (3) years. Now someone sighted a Konig Monster at the aforementioned convention, and it's presence has been subscribed to Yamato, because it was at their display stand? We do not know if the kit shown was one of the (3) 1/144 kits shown above, the 1/100 IHP, another resin kit, or a prototype Yamato toy. The 1/144 kits are actually a separate discussion as to "what" was shown at the Anime Convention, because no one has heard or seen of them since January 2001? And finally, nobody can locate pictures of the alleged VB-6, verify if it was something old or new, or provide any additional information at this time. Graham who no longer gets much if any information from Yamato is so sure of the rumor that he cannot post any comments, and jokingly accepted a bet that a VB-6 toy is in the works? I hope I summed up everything as I understand it, and look forward to any clarification of what I posted. Sincerely, Christopher

Hello, Yeah, that was an interesting discussion, but it was not (3) years ago. Maybe a year or something like that, but (3) years would be March 2001, and no one had an idea Bandai would even reissue anything. I remember my first e-mail to Graham where he advised me not to spend my money on the expensive Takatoku valkyries, because something better was coming. Little did I know that he was referring to Yamato. Going even further back, I remember reading about the failed effort where I think it was Steve Yun split off, and Yamato went their own way, and the US was left out. I think Kevin at Valkyrie-Exchange had a whole write up describing how the fall out happened, but that is for us old school MW members/lurkers to recall. This of course all pre-dates the Toyfair "Sunwards(?)" affair. Sincerely, Christopher