===== Macross VF-0A/S Battroid ===== * Manufacturer: Hasegawa * Part number: Hasegawa Macross Zero kit #20 * Year of production: 2006 * Macross in-universe model number: VF-0A/S (can be built as either -A or -S variant) * Scale: 1/100 * Series: Macross Zero * Kit type: Not directly equivalent to a Bandai HG/MG, but closer to Master Grade, I think. * In-universe role: Prototype transformable fighter * Build date: Summer 2020 ==== Manufacturer Images ==== {{:blog:vf0.jpg?400|}} {{:blog:img_1101.jpg?600|}} ---- ==== Tools Used ==== * Mr Hobby snips ---- ==== Thoughts ==== Macross //Zero// is a prequel to the original Macross series, set before the 1982 TV series. Although supposedly //earlier// vehicle designs, I think the VF-0 mecha is probably the best looking version of the Macross Valkyrie. Every part of it is just __better__, compared to the original VF-1 design; it's a leaner and meaner version, compared to the mainstream, main-series design - take a look at the arms, head unit etc. It's just a better, less-clunky look. But I guess all of that is the benefit of 35+ years of refinement in design and artwork. ---- ==== Progress Images ==== Box artwork... {{:blog:img_1101.jpg?400|}} {{:blog:img_1102.jpg?400|}} Manual / instructions and extensive waterslide decal set.... {{:blog:img_1103.jpg?400|}} {{:blog:img_1104.jpg?400|}} Manual instructions - absolutely minimal Japanese text, as with most Gundam models, I don't think you'd need to know any Japanese to build this (good thing for me!). Also image of the individual sprues. I'd say this was well above a High-Grade Gundam in complexity and approaching a Master Grade; perhaps even exceeding some of the older MG designs. One thing is clear, the moulding and surface detail is //exquisite//. {{:blog:img_1105.jpg?400|}} {{:blog:img_1106.jpg?400|}} **[Update: September 14th 2020]** - Added images of some of the primed and painted sub-components; knee and hip-joints and primed main leg sections: {{:blog:img_1762.jpg?400|}} {{:blog:img_1763.jpg?400|}} {{:blog:img_1764.jpg?400|}} {{:blog:img_1765.jpg?400|}} {{:blog:img_1766.jpg?400|}} **[Update: September 2022]** - Picked up this partially built kit again with the aim of completing it: {{:blog:models:img20221002205841.jpg?400|}}