Thunderbirds are go - why can`t I find any models?

The new Thunderbirds from the movie have significant variations over the originals and I have little doubt that someone will be making models of these ships. In the meantime, the originals can be found with a little determination. I appologize in advance for the length of this post.

Plastic Kits - Thunderbird 1
IMAI produced a seven-inch Thunderbird 1 (TB1) kit. Unfortunately, they have added large, ridiculous wheels. Bandai’s TB1 leaves a bit to be desired. Toyz 4 Boyz produced an 18" solid resin TB1, available either in kit form or already assembled.

Plastic Kits - Thunderbird 2
There were at least eleven variations of plastic kits of Thunderbird 2. IMAI released a TB2 Special Edition in 1/350th scale that had the correct profile. There were four variations to this kit:
1) TB2 with the Domo (a tractor-like vehicle).
2) The same as version 1 except the engine pods, legs, and some trim is in brass.
3) TB2 with all six pods and all the little vehicles that fit inside.
4) The ultimate 9" TB2 is available in the TB2 Container Dock kit.

There was a 13" TB2 with a Mole, a Thunderbird 4, Thunderbird 1, and a very poorly detailed Thunderbird 5. There was also a 1/144th scale TB2 available in foam and resin that was nearly two feet long with a 22" wingspan, and sold for more than $400.

Plastic Kits - Thunderbird 3
There are several small versions of Thunderbird 3. The most popular includes the space station (Thunderbird 5). A 16" resin TB3 kit is available from England.

Plastic Kits - Thunderbird 4
Thunderbird 4 is fairly ignored in the plastic model kit department. IMAI and Bandai produced similar TB4 kits. There was an 18" 1/24 scale model is available from England as a vacu-form kit. Toyz 4 Boyz had a solid 18" TB4 in three variations: 1) unassembled kit, 2) fully finished, and 3) solid crystal clear resin (I wanted a paperweight).

Plastic Kits - Thunderbird 5
Bandai produced a 9" model for only $10. IMAI’s TB5 makes a beautiful display piece and includes a TB3 (the space transport rocket) that docks with the TB5.

Plastic Kits -Thunderbird 6
The IMAI Thunderbird 6 model kit is actually a model of Skyship 1 from the movie Thunderbird 6. The IMAI box art features Skyship 1 with TB1, TB2, and a little bi-plane in the background. The bi-plane is actually Thunderbird 6.

Plastic Kits - Thunderbird 7
Thunderbird 7 never appeared in any of the shows or the comics. TB7 is only made by IMAI.

Plastic Kits - Tracy Island
Tracy Island kits are available in three versions, some of which include individual ships:
1) The original 1960s IMAI Tracy Island Kit.was the best.
2) IMAI’s Secret Base #2 is smaller.
3) IMAI’s Secret Base #3 (labeled International Rescue’s Secret Base on the box).

These are only a selection of the original TB models available and I hope this helps.

Enjoy your modeling...

Thanks for the reply, I didn`t know that so many kits have been produced.

Yeah, Robert -
I had no idea so many different models were produced - man, would I love to have some of those old models! Too many models, not enough time (or money!). Story of my life.
Here in Oz, there's been a resurgence in the popularity of the 12" action figures - a mate of mine has 2 or 3 - kinda like one of the old G.I. Joe dolls, but with a bigger head. They're pretty cool - but I'd still rather build them myself.......

That is strange, eh? I've seen quite a few toys of the new TB vehicles, but no bona-fide models.

Thanks for the comments.

Here's a little additional information:

"Bandai Acquires Worldwide Master Toy License for Upcoming Film from Universal Pictures and Working Title Films

October 27, 2003 – Bandai Co., Ltd announced today that they have signed a worldwide licensing agreement with Universal Studios Consumer Products Group (USCPG) as the master toy licensee for the upcoming theatrical presentation, Thunderbirds. From Universal Pictures and Working Title Films, Thunderbirds is a live-action feature film based on the hit British television series of the 1960s, which followed the perilous exploits of the Tracy family. Thunderbirds, starring Bill Paxton and Sir Ben Kingsley, is slated for release on August 6, 2004.

Under the agreement, Bandai Co, Ltd. will develop articulated action figures (3” – 12”) with related accessories including toy weapons, playsets, dioramas, roleplay gadgets and vehicles, as well as candy toys, plastic model kits and capsule toys. Additionally, Bandai is licensed to produce stationary items, die cast toys, block toys and prize toys for Japan and Asia Pacific. The products are scheduled to hit shelves by June 2004."

Hee, hee...Well, I guess they're a little behind schedule, but I'll keep looking.

Enjoy your modeling...

Update to the update...

Looks as though the Bandai kit will be snap together for $26.95 each. The set includes Thunderbirds 1, 2, 3, and 4 plus the mole. It's due out this month. Here's a link:
http://fabgearusa.com/bandai_movie_thunderbirds_snap_kits_set.html

Enjoy your modeling...

Hobby Link Japan has Thunderbirds 1-3 from the new movie available in kit form.
Retail (in Japan) about $4. Thunderbird 1 is in 1/200th scale (19cm long which is about 7 1/2 inches). The other 2 are in 1/450th. detail is ok for the size but a little small for my tastes (I also would prefer 1/72 but then they would be huge).
They are supposed to have a stand at the Nationals (just 11 days away) and should have the kits at their prices vs the amounts they are raised as they cross the Ocean.
I have seen some of the Diecast toys make it to the local Toys R Us.

The new Hobby Japan has an article reviewing those Bandai kits...small, yes, but pretty cool!