S-5 Megow China Clipper - Martin M130 Hawaii Clipper
Wood Model Kit, Box Condition: Good
Rare late 1930s/early 1940s solid wood scale model features a 6" wingspan, balsa printwood, fuselage block, color insignia sheet, detailed instructions and very nice plans. Never started and complete. Includes cut-out registration NC14714, the Hawaii Clipper. The Pan-Am Clippers were the high-point of luxury air travel. Passengers gazed out large windows from only 5,000 feet for an unprecedented view. The spacious cabin was all first class and there was every type of amenity available. In addition to the mysterious Orient, the Clippers stopped at exotic South Sea islands as well. Most had safe, long and distinguished service careers. The exception was the beautiful Hawaii Clipper. This Martin flying boat departed Alameda on a flight across the Pacific Ocean to Manila. Intermediate stops were made in Hawaii and Guam. The airplane departed Guam at 11:39 (18:30 CST). The last radio contact was at 22:03 CST saying that it was 565 miles from the Philippine coast, flying through layers of clouds and moderately rough air. The aircraft failed to arrive at Manila and a search was initiated.On 30 July, the Unites States Army transport ship USAT Meigs discovered an oil slick approximately 28 nautical miles (52 kilometers) south-southeast of the flying boat’s last reported position. The slick was described as being approximately 1,500 feet (457 meters) in circumference. No physical evidence of the Martin M-130 has ever been found. Search for the plane was called off on August 5, 1938. Fred Megow founded one of the very first national-wide (and world-wide) hobby empires during the 1930s Great Depression. Megow Models became a giant manufacture and carried extensive lines of solid scale model, flying stick-and-tissue rubber or gas powered models, rolling stock & passenger equipment and even an extensive line of military and civil ships in all sizes. His autobiography is available and makes fascinating reading. Megow kits are very collectible today for their high quality and attractive box designs.
This item has been sold.
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