PRODUCERS
Most small scale ship models are products of a manufacturing process that utilizes metal and resin casting techniques to produce multiple copies of a single master model. Most model producers today utilize latex molds that allow only limited production runs before they have to be renewed. The market for these models is a specialized one with limited mass appeal. Consequently, model production is a very personalized effort which has evolved into a highly developed craft carried on by devoted artisans working in basements and garages rather than by large manufacturing enterprises. While some producers offer their models directly to the public for sale, most prefer to work through dealers, with whom they have evolved close personal relationships over the years. The sub-menu lists former and current producers with links to producer web sites if available.
DEALERS
Buying and selling small scale ship models is now done almost exclusively over the Internet and by mail order. Several dealers operate on-line shopping web sites that are easy to navigate and offer secure payment by credit card and/or Paypal. Most dealers stock new models within a couple of weeks of their release. The sub-menu lists current dealers and links to their web sites.
SECOND HAND MODELS
Models that are out of production may still be obtained from certain dealers who buy and sell collections, either for direct resale or on consignment, and one or two dealers may still accept search lists from interested collectors. Competition from e-bay and other on-line auction sites, however, has narrowed these options, and fewer dealers today are willing to devote the time, space and overhead required to maintain large inventories of second-hand models. Collectors are increasingly turning to on-line auctions to dispose of their unwanted models, but this option has its own risks: while rare models in high demand may command extremely high prices, most sell for much less than their list value. Models are also bought and sold occasionally on the Steelnavy.com/1250 Message Board. The sub-menu lists dealers that offer out-of-production and second-hand models.
COMMERCIAL SCRATCH BUILDERS
Several scratch builders have made their models available for sale over the years, and many of these one-of-a-kind works of are have become prized collectors items. The sub-menu lists some of the more prominent scratch builders, both past and present.
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