Master Modeler: Creating the Tamiya Style

by Shunsaku Tamiya

The blue and red star logo of Tamiya is now recognized internationally as the mark of model kits of unrivalled quality and precision. It was not always so. In the 1950s Shunsaku Tamiya joined the family firm-a debt-ridden lumber business in an air-raid flattened city. He started manufacturing wooden models-only to have that business wiped out by the arrival of plastic model kits imported from America. This autobiography shows how he responded to that challenge, successfully switching from wood to plastic before producing a series of hit products-1/12 formula one cars, slot racing cars, military miniature tanks, warships, radio control and 4-wheel-drive cars-that continues uninterrupted to this day.
Model maker, craftsman, photographer, machinist and accidental businessman-this book is the self-portrait of a man whose energy, curiosity and love of perfection created a new standard in modelling and gave pleasure to millions of fans the world over.

272 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 2002

Reviews

[Chris Ainsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating dive into the history of the company, Shunsaku Tamiya's engaging voice and passion really shines, even through the filter of translation.

[H.W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

All around good read for people who like making models and are familiar with Tamiya brand. Excellent translation by native speaker.

[Thomas Hout · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Re-read it again because I've started the restoration of one of the models mentioned in the book.

There's a bit of Japanlish in the translation ("Full of beans!") but that only adds to the character and the word-of-mouth feel. It really feels like you're in there in the room with Tamiya-san, listening to his stories.

Highly recommended.

[Jeremy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty good book if you enjoy Tamiya kits or are a model builder. Neat pictures and a cool story of how the company changed over the years. Good translation but a few areas of odd language.