
( Brand: Con-cor ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 002-009070 ), ( Type: Commercial Building ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( Gauge: Ho )
The **Con-Cor 002-009070 HO Scale North Star Glass Building/Open Box** is a meticulously crafted, high-detail model kit that captures the essence of a historic glass-enclosed train station or depot, reminiscent of those found in early 20th-century American railroads. Designed for serious modelers seeking authenticity and precision, this kit offers a striking blend of architectural elegance and functional realism, making it a standout addition to any HO-scale layout. The North Star Glass Building is constructed from durable, high-quality materials, including precision-cut balsa wood, resin, and fine-scale metal parts, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance. The kit features a fully enclosed, transparent glass facade, complete with intricate leaded-glass panels and decorative trim that mimics the craftsmanship of original structures, while the roof is crafted from a sturdy resin material that can be painted or left in its natural finish for a weathered, vintage look. Inside, the kit includes a detailed interior with resin benches, a ticket counter, and even a small waiting area, all meticulously positioned to create a lifelike atmosphere. The open-box design allows for easy assembly and customization, with clear instructions guiding modelers through each step, from assembling the base to installing the glass panels and detailing the exterior and interior features. Whether used as a standalone centerpiece or integrated into a larger railroad scene, this kit exudes a sense of nostalgia and craftsmanship, perfect for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the artistry of model railroading. Its versatility also makes it ideal for diorama builders, allowing for creative additions like period-accurate signage, lighting, or even miniature figures to bring the scene to life. With its attention to detail and historical accuracy, the Con-Cor North Star Glass Building is not just a model it s a testament to the beauty of early railroad architecture, inviting modelers to recreate a piece of railroading history with pride and precision.
The **Con-Cor 002-009070 HO Scale Concorde Kit (North Star Glass Building, Open Box)** is a popular model kit for enthusiasts of the iconic supersonic aircraft. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros**
1. **High-Quality Construction**
The kit is well-engineered with durable materials, including a sturdy plastic body, accurate detailing, and a well-balanced assembly process. The parts fit together smoothly, reducing the risk of misalignment during construction.
2. **Accurate Representation**
Con-Cor is known for producing highly detailed and historically accurate models. This kit captures the distinctive features of the Concorde, including the correct wing design, nose shape, and undercarriage configuration. The North Star Glass Building variant adds a realistic backdrop, enhancing the display appeal.
3. **Open-Box Condition**
Purchasing an open-box kit means you re getting a nearly new product with minimal wear. The box is intact, and the kit is likely still sealed or only slightly handled, which is ideal for those who want to avoid potential flaws in a new kit.
4. **Flexibility in Assembly**
The kit includes clear instructions and allows for customization. You can choose between different paint schemes, decals, and weathering techniques to personalize your model. The open-box condition also means you can inspect the parts before committing to assembly.
5. **Good Value for Enthusiasts**
While not the cheapest kit on the market, it offers excellent value for those who prioritize quality and accuracy. The North Star Glass Building adds aesthetic value, making it a more complete display option compared to a plain kit.
6. **Community and Support**
Con-Cor has a strong following among modelers, and there are numerous online resources, forums, and tutorials available to guide you through assembly. This makes troubleshooting easier if you encounter challenges.
7. **Durability and Longevity**
Once assembled, the model is sturdy and built to last. The materials used are resistant to wear, making it suitable for both static displays and occasional handling.
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### **Cons**
1. **Complexity for Beginners**
While not overly difficult, this kit requires some model-building experience, particularly with precision assembly and detailing. Beginners may find certain steps, such as fitting the cockpit or aligning the wings, challenging without guidance.
2. **Time-Consuming Assembly**
The Concorde is a detailed model, and assembly can take several hours to a full day, depending on your skill level and the level of customization you add. Patience is required, especially when working with small parts.
3. **Cost**
The kit is not inexpensive, especially when factoring in additional supplies like paints, decals, and weathering agents. For casual hobbyists or those on a tight budget, this may be a significant investment.
4. **Limited Customization Options**
While you can personalize the model, the kit itself is not modular or easily adaptable to major changes. If you envision a significantly different paint scheme or layout, you may need to source additional materials separately.
5. **Potential for Errors in Open-Box Condition**
Although the kit is open-box, there is still a slight risk of minor imperfections or missing parts. Inspecting the contents thoroughly before purchasing is essential to avoid disappointment.
6. **Space Requirements**
The North Star Glass Building adds to the overall footprint of the display. If you have limited space on your shelf or layout, this kit may not be the most practical choice.
7. **Dependence on External Resources**
Some modelers may need to purchase additional tools (e.g., tweezers, sandpaper, or a micro brush) or supplies (e.g., specialty paints) to achieve the desired finish. This adds to the overall cost and complexity.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Con-Cor 002-009070 HO Scale Concorde Kit (North Star Glass Building, Open Box)** is an excellent choice for modelers who prioritize accuracy, quality, and a polished display. It offers a rewarding assembly experience for those with at least some experience in model building, and the North Star Glass Building enhances its visual appeal significantly. However, it is not the best fit for beginners, those on a tight budget, or individuals with limited time to dedicate to the project.
The open-box condition provides peace of mind regarding the kit s condition, but it s still wise to inspect the contents carefully. If you re willing to invest the time and effort, this kit delivers a stunning and historically accurate representation of the Concorde.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy this kit if:**- You have some experience with model assembly and are looking for a detailed, accurate Concorde model.
- You appreciate the North Star Glass Building and want a complete display setup.
- You re willing to invest time and money into achieving a high-quality finished product.
- You enjoy customizing your models with paints, decals, and weathering techniques.
**Avoid this kit if:**- You re a complete beginner and prefer simpler, more forgiving kits.
- You have limited space or a tight budget, as the cost and complexity may not align with your goals.
- You prioritize speed over detail and want a quick assembly project.
- You re unsure about the open-box condition and prefer a brand-new, unopened kit for absolute assurance.
For those who meet the criteria above, this kit is a fantastic addition to any HO-scale collection, offering both aesthetic and historical value. For others, it may be worth considering a simpler Concorde kit or a different aircraft model to start.
Made by Con-Cor in the USA, this kit is designed to fit HO scale model train layouts. The open box indicates that the kit may not be complete, but it still offers opportunity for model enthusiasts to recreate a realistic glass company building on their train layout. Perfect for hobbyists looking to add a unique and charming building their collection, this kit is great addition any model railroad setup. T1 The HO Scale ConCor model Kit for the North Star Glass Company Main Building is a highly detailed commercial building model railroads.