[wmosner]

I remember discussing the F-14 in the old forum. The Revell was the clear winner, Dragon 2nd and FOV a distant 3rd and no mention at all of Witty. Have things changed this much for FOV? I don't have any stores in my area that carry diecast. I rely on the members of this forum for most of the opinions that I use in my purchases which is why pictures are also a huge help.

[mustangdriver]

I know that the FOV F-14 that is out now is a huge improvement over the original one. The original one had the really thick panel lines.

[miked62]

I realize this is a bit late, but I wondered if anyone out there can confirm something for me. I purchased the 1/72 FOV VF-154 F-14A a few months back. I was very impressed with the level of detail on it, since my only other die-cast F-14 experience was Corgi's 1/64th scale F-14D (VF-2 markings), which I still find an attractive model. For some reason, I can't quite get too attached to the FOV F-14. I usually do a lot of research before purchasing a model, to verify its accuracy, and I can't find a photo anywhere of the markings depicted for FOV's VF-154 Tomcat. Was that an actual paint scheme, with the wing and elevon tips painted black? I appreciate anyone's input. Thanks!

[Andrew]

Yes its Correct. I think it was to '2000 Millenium' scheme. Century Wings also has one in that colour

[Louie]

This is my honest opinion.

For the money FOV F-14's are the best F-14 in that price range. They are almost 98% identical to the Century Wings F-14's because the Century F-14's are made from the FOV mold that was the prototype for the line. The same guy designed both. FOV F-14's are great if you do not want to spend CW prices. I do believe CW F-14's are improvements and offer more limited #'s and better detailing and generally are all around more collectable. I would call FOV the "poor man's CW". I have (or had) F-14's from almost all the guys who made them in 1/72. I would say IMHO the list should be:
CW The best of the best of the best
FOV (same as CW , but higed canopy landing gear less detailed)
Witty (new and improved w/ some cosmetic issues)
Dragon (same old fiddly's great paint no pitot tube crummy landing gear)
Revell (scaling issues cosmetic issues nice for their time)