Product test
I capitulate after 15 hours of building time
by Ramon Schneider
How I conquered my model building demons with Ugears
6.9.2023
Translation: Patrik Stainbrook
Pictures: Christian Walker
Despite several failures, I venture once again into the world of model making. Today’s challenge: the flying Ford Anglia from Ugears. The question remains, will I triumph or will this one also end up in the bin?
So I still have a score to settle with wooden vehicles. And the time has come.
To increase my chances of success a bit, I’m going with a slightly smaller set this time: the flying Ford Anglia from Harry Potter by Ukrainian manufacturer Ugears. It comes in 246 individual parts, so it should be half as challenging as the Jeep. Just like in Harry Potter, the model car is supposed to have a life of its own and should be able to eject its occupants along with their luggage. Let’s see if I can make this work.
Initial difficulties and flashbacks
Given my past experiences, bad memories come flooding back when I see the laser-cut wooden arches in front of me. And as I separate the first parts, this feeling is only reinforced. But I try to stay positive and suppress my bias as best I can.
I’m initially resistant during the first steps. The little wooden thingies annoy me and I can already see my next failure coming. After half an hour, however, my initial bias subsides. The quality of the wood is a lot better than I expected. Sure, every now and then a small corner breaks off, but it doesn’t get as bad as the Jeep.
Relief and pride
Time flies during assembly. It takes me a while to realise how smoothly the individual wooden elements can be put together. All of a sudden – motivation. Maybe it’ll work out this time. But pride comes before the fall. So better to move on and not think about it.
After three and a half hours, relief: I’ve reached the last page of instructions. The Weasleys’ enchanted Muggle car rests complete in front of me. The only things missing are the suitcases emblazoned with the Hogwarts logo. I take my time and enjoy slotting the last individual parts together. Then, the big moment: I did it. I actually did it. For the first time, I’ve completed a model kit.
Thank you, Ugears, for this victory
The Ford Anglia is parked in front of me. The doors, hood and trunk can be opened. I almost can’t get the grin off my face. And best of all, the car’s luggage ejection function also works.
Verdict: I’ll stay with model building
Model making and I had our differences. Several failures made me doubt I’d ever get off the ground with this hobby. However, Ugears’ flying Ford Anglia proved to me that I’m not a lost cause. I completed a kit for the first time. Thank you, Ugears, for this unexpected success! It proves that I should continue to try my hand at model building. And I will!
