| For the advanced model collector. This is a model kit with a fascinating history as it may be among the very first injection molded kits produced in the United States (please see the article about early USA kit production on this website). The Hawk model company was the most innovative in America and had been making constant 1/48 scale models in wood and metal since the late 1920s. During the re-run of the World's Fair in 1933, Hawk may have made the world's first injection molded airplanes models - but they were not kits. The models were completely finished and were on display for the princely sum of $25 each. The Mates brothers, who founded and ran Hawk, were quick to incorporate this new technology by adding injection molded details to the wooden kits in the late 1930s. During the war, Hawk put it's injection molding knowledge to work making ID models for the US Armed Forces. Originally there was a nation-wide program to have children and adults make these from wood, but consistency was an issue - injection molded solved this problem. Immediately after WWII in 1946, Hawk made the Curtiss Racer model injection molded in black tenite. The box was a simple one-color affair. This kit, like Varney's PT-17, met a very cool reception at hobby shops. Hawk quickly changed the box to two colors and added box artwork while molding the kit is bright yellow acetate. That makes it the second issue, still from 1946, and that is this kit for sale here. The box is in very good condition with great colors. There is tape on both end flaps. The box has not been crushed or flattened, which is unusual. These came in one-piece boxes and they are not very strong. Inside, the kit has minor assembly. The fuselage 1/2s have been glued. The quality of assembly is excellent - there are no gaps and no glue showing. There is no other assembly. The kit is 100% complete with all parts. The small parts are still sealed in the 'crinkle' bag. The instructions are in as new condition. Please note that Hawk did not issue decals with this issue of this kit. |
