There is no resisting the charm of a scale model, whether it be a Dinky toy car, a Hornby train set, or an Airfix model aircraft kit. The miniature wonders shrink the real world into something that promotes creativity and imagination… and even better when the model is built from scratch, from a puzzle of parts.
The complexity of model kits is on a sliding scale, but turn that dial from “simple” to “complex”, and we see miniatures like these that are so realistic that you need a double take to check that you are still in the real world.
These ultra detailed 1/9th scale models are Model Factory Hiro kits. Model Factory Hiro are a Japanese company that specialise in the manufacture of high quality automotive kits for the modelling enthusiast. The models are primarily made from white metal and go into a huge amount of detail.
The models have been assembled by Scott Kilford, a master craftsman, who has modified the builds with his own personal touch, using machined and customised parts. The chrome work takes advantage of the white metal which is polished to a shine, the chains are assembled from hundreds of individual pieces, and the wheels are all hand-built.
The first model is a 1932 Brough Superior SS100. It wears the registration GW 2275, which was the last Brough Superior that Lawrence of Arabia was destined to own. It was on this machine that Lawrence had his fatal accident on in May 1935, when he lost control on the road leading north from the Bovington army camp – just 500 yards from Clouds Hill – his Dorset cottage.
The second model replicates a 1948 HRD Vincent Black Shadow. The Black Shadow was the most powerful standard motorcycle of its time.
In an age when the magical “ton” still quickened pulses, the 125-mph standard top speed of the bike was simply astounding. Add to this a bunch of race-spec components, and these bikes were a tough match for the competition and it is little wonder why they smashed world land speed records.
These detailed models have taken a mammoth amount of patience, and 7-8 months of time to create a lifelike resemblance. I think you’ll agree, they do look the real deal – artwork on another scale.
Thanks to Scott Kilford for the photos of his incredible builds.
an article by The Girder Club
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