John Kuvakas
Warrenton, VA
Thanks for the Chrysler Windsor review, John. I enjoy your good camera work!
David H
Such a great way to actually see the models. I appreciate and enjoy the background info. I've become a fan of these reviews.
Nice review, John, but that's a '53 Dodge popping up in the lower right corner at 1:09.
I have the original issue two-tone tan/beige and the windshield looks OK to me, but I do see the improvement here.
Barry Levittan
Long Island, NY
@moe-parr, thanks. Regarding the '53 Dodge, I think it's an example of MOPAR's overall design philosophy in the late 40's and early 50's. As the video says, all that changed in '55.
John Kuvakas
Warrenton, VA
Nice to know the error mentioned here some months ago was addressed by Tom. Vindication for those of us who pointed it out.
I'm working on another article about a recent model that everyone - I mean everyone - has had nothing but rave reviews about while ignoring some obvious shortcomings. It is time reviews became much more objective, without worrying about stepping on toes. Constructive criticism is healthy, and I applaud Tom Dirnberger for the upgrade he undertook.
I agree a review should be objective. But I also believe that some hear the word "objective" and translate it as "open fire!" If we're looking at prototypes that have been submitted for comments, it's one thing. But when we're looking at a model that is produced and available for sale, it's another. It's easy to forget that someone has invested a considerable amount of money in getting that model to market and will be hindered in producing more if it doesn't sell.
I've seen too many opinions, based on viewing a few photographs of a model, that subjectively slam a model without the commentator ever having seen the model in person. We all know that can be disastrous to a maker many of whom are relatively small operations.
While I don't believe it's fair to be over complimentary and I am not endorsing the purchase of a poorly made model. Neither do I believe it's productive to use a lot of negative language and make accusations about the sincerity or commitment of the maker to his product or his clients. It's far too easy to sit in an armchair and criticize a model when we haven't taken the time to hold in our hand and scrutinize it more closely. I'm hoping the videos I do help in that regard. The video camera is a bit better suited to seeing the models it is. I'm sure others will come along that will do a better job. In those cases where we are unable to view a model personally and we have reservations, I think it's better to remain silent and refrain from buying the model.
In those cases when we have the model in person, I don't think harsh words are helpful. In short, I think there's a big difference between "The trim on this model is all wrong. What is their problem? Can't the makers see this is a problem?" and "The trim could be better."
I've read your reviews, Harvey. I find them to be informative and objective. I've purchased several models on your recommendation alone. But I've seen too many good models shot down by other folks that think they're helping a maker by openly and harshly criticizing a model or the motivations of the maker in the name of being objective.
John Kuvakas
Warrenton, VA
@jkuvakas Thanks John. I will strive to continue to be objective, and review models I have in hand. As for prototypes that we have pictures of, we should always point out any glaring errors we see prior to a model entering the final stages before production. I know that Sergio, for example, has benefitted greatly from this feedback.
I bought the earlier tan with beige spear version in spite of having reservations about the windscreen from seeing pics only. When I received it I came to understand that, for me, the pics overstated the windshield issue; it was a minor detraction in hand. This upgrade is nice to see for sure but I'm quite happy with the example I bought.
In my opinion, if a manufacturer releases images of prototypes, they should be labeled or watermarked as such. It's in their best interest. Especially with vendors using these very images on their websites and eBay listings.
Otherwise, I feel that it's completely valid for us collectors to point out errors and omissions seen in these images.
Our reviews and comments are especially valid once we lay out the cash and have the model(s) in our hands.
Nice video John, it's great to see that Tom was concerned about the final product enough to make it right. He is truly an asset to the hobby.
My dealings with him have been top-notch. I already have all four colors of this beauty and I wasn't really concerned about the windshield, but options are always appreciated.
John Merritt
South Lyon, Michigan - USA