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Author
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Topic: Danbury Mint: Milestones in Space Exploration
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dsenechal
Member Posts: 223
From:
Registered: Dec 2002
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posted April 07, 2003 12:11 PM
   
Danbury Mint just released a 1/48 scale model called "Apollo 13", that features a beautiful 1/48 scale LM & CSM in a docked configuration, on a black base with Apollo 13 info inscribed. The LM model features retractable landing gear and is nearly as nice as the Franklin Mint model. The Command/Service Module is incredible, with a mirror finish CM. Best of all is the price: just a little over $100 plus shipping. For some reason, they don't have this on their web site. Their phone number is 1-800-243-4664 and I'm sure they'd have info to send you. I received my model on Friday, and liked it so much I just ordered another one.IP: Logged |
Robert Pearlman
Editor Posts: 12300
From: Houston, TX
Registered: Nov 1999
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posted April 07, 2003 12:42 PM
I've asked Danbury to forward pictures and information, which as soon as they arrive (they weren't sure they could e-mail) I will post to the site. I also ordered one for myself, so at the latest, I'll have my own pictures when it arrives.IP: Logged |
Robert Pearlman
Editor Posts: 12300
From: Houston, TX
Registered: Nov 1999
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posted April 10, 2003 07:51 PM
I had planned to post a review and pictures of the new "Apollo 13" model released by the Danbury Mint today (thanks to Dave Senechal for the heads-up). The model is the first in their new "Milestones in Space Exploration" collection. Unfortunately, when the replica was delivered today, it was DOA -- damaged on arrival. So, the review and gallery will have to wait until a replacement arrives. To their credit, Danbury's staff were very professional, quick to offer the exchange even before I had returned the broken model to its box. 
Instead, I'll post a teaser: one picture (above) showing the model as it arrived and the names of the three additional models in the line to be released: Saturn V, Friendship 7, and Space Shuttle Columbia. Want to know more? Wait for the collectSPACE review coming soon... IP: Logged |
Rizz
Member Posts: 1041
From: Upcountry, Maui, Hawaii
Registered: Mar 2002
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posted April 11, 2003 12:28 AM
Geez, considering that the model is of Apollo 13, and not noticing any damage to the SM, how ironic a situation, that if they did in fact land on the moon safely, they would have the ladder fall off.  Rizz IP: Logged |
andrewcarson
Member Posts: 349
From: Liverpool UK
Registered: Sep 2002
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posted April 22, 2003 06:49 AM
Does anyone know which website is offering this piece for sale?IP: Logged |
Robert Pearlman
Editor Posts: 12300
From: Houston, TX
Registered: Nov 1999
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posted April 22, 2003 09:33 AM
Unfortunately, at this time there is no online ordering available. DM has said they only sell their sports collectibles through their website.IP: Logged |
CPIA
Member Posts: 300
From: Boston, MA
Registered: Apr 2000
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posted April 22, 2003 11:54 AM
I just ordered the Danbury Mint Apollo 13 display. It is in stock and you can order it by calling the number listed at the end of the collectSPACE review.Now I wait 10 days for the model. Larry McGlynn IP: Logged |
tedc
Member Posts: 55
From: Renton, WA USA
Registered: Mar 2002
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posted April 22, 2003 05:01 PM
Does any one have any comments on how this Danbury Mint CSM and LM compares quality wise to the Code 3 Collectibles' Smithsonian LM on the moon replica? I would like to purchase one of these and am determining where to spend my money. Thanks.IP: Logged |
Robert Pearlman
Editor Posts: 12300
From: Houston, TX
Registered: Nov 1999
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posted April 22, 2003 05:07 PM
I would say they are in different classes. The Code 3 Collectibles (Smithsonian Collection) LM is more of a diaroma with lunar base and astronauts. The LM itself is more statue than its a model.The DM LM is diecast, with moving parts, and its much more a standalone model. Of course, the DM includes the CSM as well, but it tells less of a 'story'. As both represent different stages of the mission, I think they complement each other nicely. In fact, combined with the Space Voyagers Ultimate Saturn V (or similar model) and the Corgi Apollo Rescue Diaroma, you can now assemble models to recreate each stage of a typical Apollo lunar landing mission. IP: Logged |
Rizz
Member Posts: 1041
From: Upcountry, Maui, Hawaii
Registered: Mar 2002
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posted April 28, 2003 04:09 PM
Got mine today.Aside from a few minor flaws including a loose pin on the LM ascent docking hatch, a CM/SM Umbilical cord permanently bent away from the model, a landing pod swiveled the wrong way, and the ladder and porch somewhat mis-aligned, it looks pretty darn good, (from far away). All in all, it's worth the $100+. Nice review by the way and nice photos. Aloha, Rizz ...just found a new place to display my flown A13 acrylic, signed by Capt. Lovell.  IP: Logged |
Philip
Member Posts: 3326
From: Brussels, BELGIUM
Registered: Jan 2001
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posted May 05, 2003 02:56 AM
Looks like the ladder is too wide in comparison to the astronaut figure.IP: Logged |
Rick Mulheirn
Member Posts: 1025
From: England
Registered: Feb 2001
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posted May 08, 2003 07:10 PM
For anybody in the UK thinking of buying a Danbury Mint Apollo 13 model; the item is not available from the UK offices. It is sold through Danbury US only. This evening I was quoted $144.17 inclusive of postage and packing.Regards, Rick. IP: Logged |
Rizz
Member Posts: 1041
From: Upcountry, Maui, Hawaii
Registered: Mar 2002
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posted May 19, 2003 06:09 PM
quote:
Originally posted by Rizz:
Aside from a few minor flaws including a loose pin on the LM ascent docking hatch, a CM/SM Umbilical cord permanently bent away from the model, a landing pod swiveled the wrong way, and the ladder and porch somewhat mis-aligned, it looks pretty darn good, (from far away).
I'm happy to report that the Mint sent me out a new A13 model.
This one is just fine, none of the flaws that graced the first one. They even paid for return postage.Thumbs up for the Danbury Mint service dept. IP: Logged |
Bob McClimon
Member Posts: 17
From:
Registered: Nov 1999
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posted June 06, 2003 11:40 PM
There is a very nice colorful ad in Flight Journal Magazine (Aug. 2003) for the
Danbury Mint 1/50 scale Apollo 13. The model is selling really well... Bob
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Mike Dixon
Member Posts: 421
From: Kew, Victoria, Australia
Registered: May 2003
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posted June 09, 2003 04:03 AM
With regard to David Senechal's excellent article concerning Danbury Mint's "Milestones in Space Exploration" series, does anyone have any information regarding date releases for the other ("Friendship 7" / Saturn V) models?IP: Logged |
Rizz
Member Posts: 1041
From: Upcountry, Maui, Hawaii
Registered: Mar 2002
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posted June 09, 2003 02:32 PM
Friendship 7 will be released this summer, followed by Saturn V this fall, and Columbia around the winter.You can call 1-800-332-6468 to be put on their mailing list. (not sure if this # works from your neck of the woods, if not, e-mail me off line and I'll get them your mailing info.) IP: Logged |
Robert Pearlman
Editor Posts: 12300
From: Houston, TX
Registered: Nov 1999
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posted August 02, 2003 12:10 AM
Danbury Mint has begun sending out a new flyer promoting their series of Nick Proach-designed diecast models, "Milestones in Space Exploration". This is the first mailing in which the three remaining models to be released -- Friendship 7, Columbia, and the Saturn V -- have been pictured:
Originally DM was to release the next model this summer. Instead, the next model is expected to ship in January 2004. IP: Logged |
MICHAEL CLEMENTE
Member Posts: 74
From: Atco, New Jersey, USA
Registered: Mar 2002
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posted August 02, 2003 01:48 PM
Thanks for the update and the pictures of the upcoming models. I just got my notice in the mail today about the next release in January 2004. I haven't received the flyer concerning the other models and what they look like. Do you think they will do a Gemini capsule also? IP: Logged |
Peter
New Member Posts: 9
From: Milwaukee,WI
Registered: Aug 2001
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posted August 03, 2003 01:30 PM
I hope that the "Saturn V - Apollo 11" pictured is not the final version. The paint job (first stage roll pattern) is wrong. Besides that, the rest look great!Peter IP: Logged |
jutrased
New Member Posts: 6
From: North Smithfield, RI USA
Registered: Aug 2003
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posted August 18, 2003 10:17 AM
Has anyone else had problems with the Danbury Apollo 13?I received mine about two weeks ago. After putting it together, I place it on a display shelf. This past weekend I was startled by a loud crash! My LM was on the floor with several broken pieces. The cause was the small round hole/ring at the top of the command module where the LM is connected. That metal(?) hole was pulled out of the command module. The piece had a very sticky glue on it, and also in the top of the command module. The glue apparently failed. I've already contacted Danbury Mint and a replacement is on the way. (Thank you) Has anyone else had this problem? More importantly, anyone who has the Danbury Apollo 13 should probably check their model to see if they have this problem. Ed IP: Logged |
072069
Member Posts: 163
From: Sayreville, NJ USA
Registered: Oct 2003
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posted November 04, 2003 01:14 PM
quote:
Originally posted by jutrased:
I've already contacted Danbury Mint and a replacement is on the way.
Just wondering if anyone else has had to have their Apollo 13 model replaced because of part failure at the Command Module docking pin? The weight of the Lunar Module on mine pulled the docking pin out of the Command Module socket. The folks at the Danbury Mint were great about sending a replacement but I've hesitated redocking them for fear that it might be a structural design flaw in the model. The problem is that when the Lunar Module is placed feet down on the stand it doesn't really fit. The span between the lander's feet is just a tad wider than the width of the base. Bernie IP: Logged |
Robert Pearlman
Editor Posts: 12300
From: Houston, TX
Registered: Nov 1999
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posted November 04, 2003 01:39 PM
I had (have) this very same problem and it resulted in my doing a little self-surgery to the piece to rig the pin to offer more support to the LM. The problem is that the hole for which the pin to fit into the CM is not a perfect fit, rather it tapers inwards and therefore there is not a solid connection between the two. My "fix" looks fine as long as you do not try to separate the two, but otherwise is not what I would call an ideal situation. I didn't send it back as they already replaced the model once due a broken leg.IP: Logged |
072069
Member Posts: 163
From: Sayreville, NJ USA
Registered: Oct 2003
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posted November 04, 2003 02:02 PM
Well, I guess I won't reattach it. I do wish the base was just a fraction wider, though, so the Lunar Module's feet would fit without sliding off. It's such a beautiful model, you'd think they'd have managed to perfect those last few details to make it perfect, eh?Bernie IP: Logged |
Rizz
Member Posts: 1041
From: Upcountry, Maui, Hawaii
Registered: Mar 2002
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posted November 04, 2003 04:17 PM
I've been having a 'gravity issue' with the LM.I too have recieved a replacement already, due to a couple of minor problems. The replacement LM now occasionally tries to undock the CM from the SM. arrrghh. IP: Logged |
Robert Pearlman
Editor Posts: 12300
From: Houston, TX
Registered: Nov 1999
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posted February 06, 2004 10:21 PM
Photos of Danbury Mint's Columbia courtesy Larry McGlynn:
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Peter Kemp
Member Posts: 39
From: Chelmsford, Essex, United Kingdom
Registered: Jul 2002
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posted August 07, 2004 06:32 AM
I received a postcard this morning here in the UK from Danbury Mint stating that the next release from their "Milestones in Space Exploration Collection" would be available by early September.Has anybody Stateside subscribing to this series also heard from them? Anybody have any advance information as to which of the two remaining items its going to be, Saturn V or Friendship 7? Peter IP: Logged |
mikepf
Member Posts: 210
From: San Jose, California, USA
Registered: Mar 2002
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posted August 07, 2004 02:32 PM
quote:
Originally posted by MICHAEL CLEMENTE:
Do you think they will do a Gemini capsule also?
So where is the Gemini model? The series seems a bit misnamed without one!Mike IP: Logged |
AlanLawrie
Member Posts: 49
From: hitchin, herts, UK
Registered: Oct 2003
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posted August 16, 2004 08:02 AM
It's a pity that the first stage of the Saturn V has the identification of S-IC-11 because if it's supposed to be Apollo 11 it should have been S-IC-06.IP: Logged |
1202 Alarm
Member Posts: 239
From:
Registered: Nov 2003
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posted August 16, 2004 12:34 PM
Have you received your Saturn V? If so, can you give us a small review as to size and quality? Because, as many others, I got the first two, but I'm not sure on this one now that I bought the Dragon Wings 1/400th model. In fact, I called Danbury to cancel my automatic order, until someone writes a review... thanks for the help if you've got time.IP: Logged |
1202 Alarm
Member Posts: 239
From:
Registered: Nov 2003
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posted August 16, 2004 12:37 PM
As I wrote my message above, a review has been posted to collectSPACE! Great! IP: Logged |
flyboy
Member Posts: 30
From: Kansas City,MO,USA
Registered: Sep 2004
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posted September 10, 2004 01:51 PM
I just got the Danbury Mint's Friendship 7 model yesterday. It's awesome!!!IP: Logged |
Rick Mulheirn
Member Posts: 1025
From: England
Registered: Feb 2001
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posted September 10, 2004 04:02 PM
A post on cS in mid-August went in to great detail about Danbury's latest release, the Saturn V model. We would now appear to have Friendship 7 too. Can somebody confirm which one it is, or are both now available?IP: Logged |
flyboy
Member Posts: 30
From: Kansas City,MO,USA
Registered: Sep 2004
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posted September 11, 2004 03:06 PM
I haven't made any decision to get the Saturn V rocket yet, so I don't know any info on that, but I can confirm I received the Friendship 7 (again I repeat, awesome) capsule Sept 9th.IP: Logged |
Peter Kemp
Member Posts: 39
From: Chelmsford, Essex, United Kingdom
Registered: Jul 2002
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posted September 14, 2004 09:37 AM
I received the DM Friendship 7 Model this morning.I was expecting the Saturn V Model and some members of the Yahoo Space Modelers Group to which I also subscribe have, in the last few days posted photos of the Saturn V Model, which they have received. They don't mention the Mercury Model at all. Perhaps Danbury have released both together? I may fire off an email to them to check what the situation is. IP: Logged |
1202 Alarm
Member Posts: 239
From:
Registered: Nov 2003
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posted September 14, 2004 10:38 AM
I'm living the opposite situation. Got My Saturn two weeks ago and no Mercury yet! Though it's normal, since I called them to wait until my firm order... as I have the Code 3 Mercury model, I want to be sure this one is adding something to my collection. Can someone take and put online here a couple of pictures of their Danbury Mint Mercury? Along with an idea of its size? IP: Logged |
Peter Kemp
Member Posts: 39
From: Chelmsford, Essex, United Kingdom
Registered: Jul 2002
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posted September 14, 2004 03:33 PM
Further to my previous post,I emailed DM Customer Services asking about the release of the Saturn V model.I very quickly received a reply from them confirming that it is in stock now, although I am not scheduled to receive mine until December 2004. They have offered me the option of shipping it early, which I will probably accept. IP: Logged |
flyboy
Member Posts: 30
From: Kansas City,MO,USA
Registered: Sep 2004
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posted September 15, 2004 10:15 AM
quote:
Originally posted by 1202 Alarm:
Along with an idea of its size?
The capsule is the same size as the Code 3 model (both are scale 1:24). In my opinion the DM model has a better display (better stand, includes the tower and the retrorockets). Don't get me wrong, the Code 3 model has it's pluses as well, due to the the window is clear (it's painted on the DM model), you can remove the hatch and see the nice details inside.IP: Logged |
Michael Davis
Member Posts: 167
From: Houston, Texas
Registered: Aug 2002
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posted January 29, 2006 02:01 PM
The Friendship 7 Mercury model from Danbury is the only one of the series that I don't own. I'm not dying to get it, but was wondering if others thought it was a good purchase. Any input from those who own the model is appreciated.IP: Logged |
Rick Mulheirn
Member Posts: 1025
From: England
Registered: Feb 2001
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posted January 29, 2006 05:27 PM
In my humble opinion the Danbury Mint Friendship 7 model was not outstanding but a nice model all the same and good value for money too. It stacked up well with the Danbury Apollo 13 piece which most people seemed pleased with (apart from the fact the docked craft on occasion separated involuntarily). I would recommend it.IP: Logged |
Dennis Beatty
Member Posts: 143
From: Medford, Oregon, 97504
Registered: Jan 2000
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posted January 29, 2006 05:34 PM
I purchased... then returned the Friendship 7. While the model was very nice, the insignia (as well as other lettering) was done with decals. When applied over the ribbed surface of the capsule, it looked very poor. Additionally, the decals could only adhere to the high points, leading to my concern that they would not be permanent. It was a real shame as I would have liked to have added it to my collection.IP: Logged |
