[Closed] A word about our input to the manufacturers

I agree, but more and more I am returning to the earlier years of production of our scale and others close by. A brand new item, never removed from its box, is always fun (Last night I ordered a Model T Ford speedster that I will share when it arrives); but it's also fun to compare items of thirty or even fifty years ago. I hope to have a post here later today to illustrate this.

My first rule of collecting remains "Have fun!"

Wise words, John.

I would generally agree. Constructive criticism is better than name-calling. However ...

it is one thing to point out politely to the likes of Goldvarg or Brooklin that perhaps some small detail, or a colour choice, could be corrected in order to improve an otherwise admirable effort.

But when it comes to models with such glaring mistakes in shape or fit and finish that they should never have been put on the market (like those recent GLMs and some Neos) and when the manufacturer seems to be taking the attitude of "take it or leave it, no apologies, no refunds" I think it is understandable that the comments might be a little more robust, shall we say.

There's no excuse for rude or libellous remarks, of course, but if the manufacturer seems to be getting complacent or contemptuous of the paying customer, maybe it takes some pointed criticism and complaint to make them realise they risk losing customers for ever.

I agree with you, Graeme.

But there's been no indication that GLM or Brooklin is ignoring critique nor do they seem to be contemptuous of their clients. I know there have been some makers in the past that were hard to get along with. But, I can think of only a very few current makers that aren't trying to listen.

I know the folks at GLM, Esval, AutoCult, Brooklin and a handful of others read Forum 43 and listen to the comments. Sometimes they can respond, at others, it's too late in the product cycle. Sometimes a model is what it is. Our buying decision should be based on the final product. If we don't like it, we shouldn't buy it. IF we decide against buying, we should be careful how we offer up our critique. I'm not saying to keep silent. But I am saying we should consider our response carefully and respectfully.

But when one collector says he likes the model and it looks fine while another blows up a detail to ten times its size and points an error out as some indicator that the maker is trying to get over on us or taking advantage or somehow lacking in their approach, no one wins. The new owner feels put down, the maker really has no way to defend himself and the one who made the accusations moves on to the next model hopelessly trying to find perfection there.

My main point is this: a little respect and a more judicious choice of words, at times, can be more effective than being harsh and making accusations.

Objectivity is absolutely necessary and needed.

I'm not saying we should not be objective. I'm just saying we should be level-headed in choosing our words and treat each other including the makers with respect.

Here I agree with John. How we communicate what we want should be with comments as an adult would express face to face. We may have worked many hours or not for the buying power of the car but abusive criticism will not get any improvement. Many of us have been in this hobby for long enough to find profitability, but this is not the object of it. It should be about appreciation. Most of these manufacturers are artisans. We are only the hoarders.

that s why i love much this forum with forumers of quality and before to buy a model in first a read the forum .

+1...Correct Don...I am a model hoarder!!!

Absolutely great points on all sides....well said John.

That's always been my philosophy Chris.

You never take your customer for granted, whether you are a manufacturer or a dealer. I have known of dealers who, once they have got your money, they then want to move on to the next. With that approach, there could soon be no "next customer".

It seems to me that generally our comments are reasonable and fairly respectful, but frustration is triggered mainly when a model is delivered and doesn't live up to the example in the advert. Neo and now a few others are allowing sub-standard warped bodies and ill fitting trim pieces to leave the factory and go to the retailer, who in turn allows it to be sold to the hobbyist, even when it is obviously sub-standard. Given this misrepresentation and lack of diligence the collector rightfully feels cheated and disrespected. Returning the item is a headache and can be expensive. Such manufacturers and retailers deserve our criticism but it should be delivered properly. It is interesting to note that I have never had any even minor issue with a Goldvarg product. Sergio mentioned to me that he personally checks every model from the factory before it goes out. This attention to detail is the main reason I buy almost everything he makes....not so with the other resin model manufacturers.