[Celtic]

Received my first Vampire late last week, with mixed feelings.

The first thought you have when ordering the model is, "Boy, this thing is expensive!" The first thing you say when you open the box (if your wife is out of earshot) is, "Boy, this little thing was really expensive!!" But, beyond that (he said, while juggling a whirl of credit cards), the little thing is worth it if that is what you want, and I wanted it (so there!). It IS a cute little thing, if a bit seamed in the boom area, but still cute. Small and cute...I know that sounds like a description of Sandra Dee (you younguns can look it up), but it really is a very attractive model. I'm convinced enough to get the next two, even though I normally don't collect jets.

Though there are those sneaky mixed feelings about that high price for such a small model, I think it is possible the Vampire will become a favorite of a lot of collectors. It has a great gear-down stance, the pilot/canopy/engine arrangement is very unique, and the layout of the straight wing with the twin-boom tail are fun to see on display.

If you collect post-war jets, or just want something unique, this little model is a must, and well worth having in your collection. Of course, it's up to you if you want to wait for a less painful price!

[1250ships]

I want one but the initial price combine with the first three liveries has me waiting. If I see one on Ebay or on sale for a good price I'll get it. Otherwise I'm likely to wait to see if they do any Sea Vampires.

[Nimrod48]

Originally Posted by Celtic

Received my first Vampire late last week, with mixed feelings.

The first thought you have when ordering the model is, "Boy, this thing is expensive!" The first thing you say when you open the box (if your wife is out of earshot) is, "Boy, this little thing was really expensive!!" But, beyond that (he said, while juggling a whirl of credit cards), the little thing is worth it if that is what you want, and I wanted it (so there!). It IS a cute little thing, if a bit seamed in the boom area, but still cute. Small and cute...I know that sounds like a description of Sandra Dee (you younguns can look it up), but it really is a very attractive model. I'm convinced enough to get the next two, even though I normally don't collect jets.

Though there are those sneaky mixed feelings about that high price for such a small model, I think it is possible the Vampire will become a favorite of a lot of collectors. It has a great gear-down stance, the pilot/canopy/engine arrangement is very unique, and the layout of the straight wing with the twin-boom tail are fun to see on display.

If you collect post-war jets, or just want something unique, this little model is a must, and well worth having in your collection. Of course, it's up to you if you want to wait for a less painful price!

Got it in a nutshell Celtic mine sits next to a Century Wings Jolly Rogers Tomcat which cost me £5 less ....I would love to know how the bean counters of Corgi etc arrive at their prices, but it was a must have for me it is one of my favourite post war British planes.
Of Sandra Dee my only comments are ooooooh!!! mmmmmmmmmm!!! aaaaaaahh!!!

[Shamrock]

Corgi D.H. Vampire July 11th Posted

---

Picked up the first new release from Corgi today. At last after a long drought there is something new to admire. The Vampire is well worth the wait but be prepared for a shock; it is a tiny aircraft! It does not seem like a 1/72 aircraft. The dimensions are approximately the same as the ME-109 and the Gloster Meteor dwarfs the Vampire even though they are of the same vintage.
Once you get over the minute size of the aircraft you can begin to appreciate that Corgi have done an excellent job IMHO. The model is totally bare of stores and for that reason I displayed it in flight with the well detailed undercarriage down. The stand upright is now made of plastic and I presume it is to cut costs. One suggestion that I would make is that Corgi supply a painted rubber plug to fill the large stand hole in the bottom of the fuselage. Members who like static display would appreciate this. Undercarriage system is sturdy with grommets ensuring a tight fit. The stand arrangement is superior to the P-38 IMHO. Silver overall finish is excellent and no unsightly joins in evidence. Tricatus snaps of the pre-pros will show you exactly what you are getting; small, but perfectly formed post war fast(ish) mover. Highly recommended IMHO.

Having had the Vampire now for nearly three weeks I would have to agree that it not a lot of model for big(ish) money. I like the transition period of 50's aircraft, both British and American, the Vampire along with the F-86,,etc to shows the clean lines with silver finish. Any post war collection needs at least one Vampire and a two seat trainer in Irish Air Corps colours would be the business IMHO. Small and perfectly formed like Barbara Windsor (in her hey day!)

[Nimrod48]

I am trying to remember if it was a Vampire that formed one half of what was known in the 1970s as "The Vintage Pair" the other half if memory serves me correctly was a two seat Meteor both sadly lost during a display in the mid 1980s at Mildenhall I believe.
Whilst on the subject of a vintage pair I bumped into Barbara Windsor at Brands Hatch about 1970 mmmmmmmm which ever way she stood her "assets" always seemed to be in profile. bless her.

[jim]

I bumped into Elizabeth Windsor a few years ago and she was not bad either!

[dilligafocau]

Originally Posted by jim

I bumped into Elizabeth Windsor a few years ago and she was not bad either!

Is'nt she the one in "Carry-On up the Palace"

[Nimrod48]

Originally Posted by jim

I bumped into Elizabeth Windsor a few years ago and she was not bad either!

Between my normal line of work I was a porter at both Downing College & Christs College in Cambridge & I once had the honour of greeting HRH the Princess Margaret ( I was the one holding the umbrella) I can under stand why men fell at her feet she just oozed charisma I was so taken by her I completley forgot to doff my bowler hat .

[Shamrock]

Was that a "We are not amused" moment , Nimrod? A few centuries ago I reckon you would have lost your 'noggin' for that!!

[Nimrod48]

Originally Posted by Shamrock

Was that a "We are not amused" moment , Nimrod? A few centuries ago I reckon you would have lost your 'noggin' for that!!

HRH was very sweet but I still shudder when I think back .