The Toy Diary: First Post - MSM 1/48 Zaku II

I shall commemorate my first post with my first Mega Size Model, which coincidentally will also be my first Zaku II (Heck, this is even my first from the Zaku line).

Originally, I had wanted Char's Zaku II of this scale, unfortunately, being a deeply discounted item (SGD68), it was snapped up at the outlet on the day of the sale. Left with no alternative (RX78-2 wasn't offered), I went along with the mass produced Zaku II. (Theoretically, my loving GF bought this on my behalf)

Construction shall commence this weekend if nothing goes wrong, whereafter it will be transported to and positioned on my office desk!

Unboxing

Size comparison with a standard sized tissue box

As seen above, the boxes of MSM models are MASSIVE, comparable to that of some MGs and PGs. The weight of MSMs are also considerable, making them a questionable choice for overseas purchases, whether you will be the one lugging it physically or shipping it from an offshore retailer.

22 runners, including 3 for polycaps

Hobby Japan mini guide on building the MSM Zaku II + instruction manual

The Hobby Japan supplementary focuses on some basic tips to how build a Gunpla and adding a touch of realism to it (and also serves to make me feel severely inadequate). Along with the instruction manual, both editorials are printed in full colour, something that I believe is the first for me.

The Build

Side of the box 1

Side of the box 2

As with all Gunplas, I have learnt not to judge the finished model by the presentation from the side of the boxes. However, in the recent years, Bandai has ensured that the actual finished models (with stickers, less paint and coat) are shown alongside their painted and coated ones. That aside, the main thing I am trying to point out now is the gimmick of the MSMs. As shown in the second picture, the MSMs seem to be a new line to attract new Gunpla builders. Instead of a sprue cutter, this series introduces a sprue remover that also doubles as a parts separator. Additionally, you will be able to snap the parts together first before removing it from the sprue, ensuring a quick and hassle-free experience for new builders.

I am old-fashioned, thus, I will be going the longer way with the basic tools - sprue cutter, hobby knife, file, snap. No point finishing this Zaku quickly since I am still waiting for my shipment from HLJ and this is the last untouched kit I have.

I had intended for the model to be completed by Sunday, but procrastination and the lure of watching shows (Yes, I am a lazy ass) inevitably delayed its completion.

The toothed-gear joints

Building the MSM left me quite surprised by its sheer size, that's why I have taken a few shots of size comparison.

Some gold here and there

With only a gold Gundam marker in my possessions, I have painted some of the joint areas in gold. As above, the height of the Zaku's feet is nearly equivalent to the height of my RG Freedom's entire leg.

Half the body - with the panel lines thrown in

And up until now (Sunday. 2000hours), I have only completed the lower half of the Zaku's body. Nonetheless, look at the size of that thing! Looking at the pictures, I realized I have another excuse in my delay - I was drawing the panel lines!

Fast forward to second weekend since the build started, The upper torso has since been completed, along with the head and weapons. To put it simply, the building of this kit is 99% percent completed - with the wet transfers and spraying of the top coat being the 1% (Weather doesn't favour me today).