"You never really own a PlaneArts model - you merely look after it for the next generation"


Dimensions of the model are:

LENGTH: 14.00 INCHES (35.60 CM)


This model replica is painstakingly hand carved and then hand painted out of solid kiln dried mahogany wood (from renewable sources) by our highly experienced and talented craftsmen at our Filipino owned factory near the original Clark Air Base in Pampanga and takes about 8-10 weeks to manufacture. 

It is our aim to continue to be a "sustainable" manufacturer avoiding the use of man-made materials wherever possible such as plastics, resins or metal in an attempt to reduce our Carbon Footprint and to protect our environment for generations to come. Our models are "works of art" and not to be confused with mass made plastic kits or diecast look–alike where almost all of these are Chinese manufactured.  We are proud Filipino's exporting to all parts of the globe and creating employment opportunities in an impoverished part of our country. 

Production in our factory is supervised by our own resident British Pilot who ensures that exact blueprints are used for these meticulously detailed scale models - custom manufactured and precisely engineered to your exact specifications and that will be cherished by all. To watch a video of the PlaneArts model making production process please click on the image below to start the video which will open in a separate page in your browser (the tab on in your browser for this page will still stay open so you can go back to the eBay listing)


Planearts Manufacturing Process

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The fully assembled model comes with a stained solid mahogany (or mahogany with steel arm) stand and is ready to display on your desk, bookcase or wherever you desire. The photographs you see have not been manipulated or digitally edited - they are exactly as the model looks in real life, but unfortunately even digital photography cannot do full justice to the look and feel of the model once you receive it!

PlaneArts have been producing models for over 20 years which are honed to perfection by the dexterity of our Skilled Master Craftsmen and carefully checked at all stages of manufacture by our dedicated Quality Assurance Team. We promote internationally on eBay to ensure our products get the best exposure worldwide. Due to a high level of demand and the huge diversity of aircraft types and liveries most models are made to order and take about 8-10 weeks to produce (excluding National and Public Holidays). You will also notice that we offer models often way below the price of other companies advertising on the eBay. We are able do this because of the direct manufacturing and selling basis of our business - models direct from the factory and not from an intermediary or trading / marketing company. All models are shipped internationally through FedEx, UPS or DHL Express Courier (Door to Door worldwide within about 3 business days). Fully traceable and insured against damage or loss).

Apart from those models you see in our eBay store - using your photos or images, we will make you a personalized replica model of your aircraft with your own individual paint scheme, logos, registration number, antennas and all the details that make your airplane special. You can even upgrade and personalize your model with a fully customized transparent interior to match your seats, colors, instrument panel and all other important interior details. Alternatively, we can copy any current or historic commercial or military airplane or helicopter that has ever flown just by giving us images or photos. Each meticulously detailed scale model is custom manufactured and precisely engineered to your exact specifications. We will build you a model that will not only meet your expectations but will go far beyond and with detail that will amaze you!

If you do not see the model you require in our eBay Store please message us on eBay with a description and images of what you require including the size or scale of the desired model and we will then do a dedicated listing for you on eBay. Our Customer Service Team will then help you with questions you may have and upon request update you on the status of your order. Our Production Team will work with you personally during construction until your model is ready to taxi on its journey to your own door in its foam fitted heavy duty export packaging. Before dispatch we will send you photographs from all different angles to review and approve prior to the model leaving. This is done to make sure that neither we, nor you, missed any important details.

To watch a video of the professional protective packing of PlaneArts models destined for all parts of the globe, please also click on the image below to start the video which will open in a separate page in your browser (the tab on in your browser for this page will still stay open so you can go back to the eBay listing)


Packing Process

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The Legacy of Gerry Anderson's Thunderbirds: A Timeless Classic of Puppetry and Adventure

When you think of iconic British television, one show that invariably springs to mind is Thunderbirds. Created by the visionary Gerry Anderson, Thunderbirds has captured the imagination of viewers since its debut in 1965. Its unique blend of puppetry, innovative storytelling, and groundbreaking special effects made it a standout in the world of children's entertainment and beyond. Let's dive into the remarkable world of Thunderbirds and explore why this show has remained a beloved classic for decades.

The Genesis of Thunderbirds

Gerry Anderson, alongside his wife Sylvia Anderson, conceived Thunderbirds as a continuation of their successful run of "Supermarionation" shows. This unique form of puppetry, characterized by its marionette puppets with electronically moving mouths, became Anderson's trademark. Prior to Thunderbirds, Anderson had produced other successful series, such as Stingray and Fireball XL5, but Thunderbirds was a significant leap forward in terms of production quality and ambition.

Inspired by a 1963 mining disaster in Germany, where a dramatic rescue operation unfolded, Anderson envisioned a futuristic rescue organization equipped with advanced technology to save lives. Thus, the International Rescue team was born, led by the Tracy family. Each family member piloted a distinct Thunderbird vehicle, from the sleek Thunderbird 1 to the massive Thunderbird 2, each designed for a specific type of rescue mission. This diverse set of vehicles added a dynamic element to the show, making each episode a new adventure with its unique challenges.

Characters and Vehicles: Icons of Innovation

At the heart of Thunderbirds is the Tracy family, named after the American astronaut John Glenn’s fellow Mercury astronauts. The Tracy brothers—Scott, Virgil, Alan, Gordon, and John—are led by their father, Jeff Tracy, a former astronaut turned philanthropist. Each brother is assigned a specific Thunderbird craft:

The cast of characters also includes Lady Penelope Creighton-Ward, the sophisticated British aristocrat and secret agent, and her loyal chauffeur, Parker. Their Rolls-Royce, FAB 1, equipped with gadgets and weapons, became an icon in its own right. The interplay between the characters, combined with their distinctive personalities and roles within International Rescue, added depth to the show and kept audiences engaged.

The Magic of Supermarionation

What truly set Thunderbirds apart was its innovative use of Supermarionation—a portmanteau of "super," "marionette," and "animation." This technique, developed by Gerry Anderson, involved the use of marionette puppets with electronic components to simulate speech and facial expressions, giving the characters a more lifelike appearance than traditional puppetry. The detailed miniature sets and elaborate models used for the Thunderbird vehicles and other elements of the show added a level of realism and depth rarely seen in children's programming at the time.

The special effects in Thunderbirds were groundbreaking. Derek Meddings, the show's special effects director, utilized pyrotechnics, model work, and other practical effects to create thrilling action sequences that rivaled those of contemporary live-action films. The iconic opening sequence, featuring the countdown—“5, 4, 3, 2, 1... Thunderbirds are GO!”—became a hallmark of the show’s excitement and anticipation.

Cultural Impact and Enduring Popularity

Thunderbirds was an instant hit, both in the UK and internationally. Its unique format, combining thrilling action, high-stakes drama, and memorable characters, appealed to a wide audience. The show's messages of bravery, teamwork, and the importance of helping others resonated with viewers of all ages.

The series' popularity led to two feature films, Thunderbirds Are Go (1966) and Thunderbird 6 (1968), as well as several revival attempts, including the CGI-animated series Thunderbirds Are Go (2015-2020), which introduced a new generation to the beloved franchise. The original series has been celebrated for its creativity, technical innovation, and imaginative storytelling.

Thunderbirds also had a lasting impact on popular culture, influencing filmmakers, animators, and storytellers worldwide. It inspired a generation of fans and creators, many of whom went on to work in the film and television industry, citing Thunderbirds as a pivotal influence on their careers.

Conclusion

Nearly six decades after its debut, Gerry Anderson's Thunderbirds remains a beloved classic, cherished by fans young and old. Its innovative use of puppetry, compelling characters, and thrilling stories have ensured its place in television history. As we continue to explore new frontiers in entertainment, the spirit of Thunderbirds—bold, imaginative, and always ready to save the day—remains as inspiring as ever. "Thunderbirds are go," indeed, for generations to come.