A commissioned build for a painted and mildly weathered 1/100 Hangar Base (inspired by the Metal Structure Nu Gundam Design) is an exciting display option that complements your Gundam models, particularly the Nu Gundam. Here’s a breakdown of the expectations and details for such a project:
1. Assembly Quality
- Precision Fit and Detailing: The Hangar Base, being a highly detailed structure meant to display and support a 1/100 scale Gundam model, should be assembled with great care. A professional build ensures all parts fit seamlessly, with no visible gaps or misalignments. The various mechanical structures, such as cranes, scaffolds, and maintenance platforms, should be cleanly attached for both aesthetic and structural integrity.
- Functionality: The base often features moving parts, such as maintenance lifts, arms, and accessories that can be repositioned to accommodate different Gundam poses. A commissioned build will ensure these parts function smoothly without being over-tightened or too loose, preserving both the form and function of the hangar.
2. Painting
- Base Colors: A commissioned painted hangar base takes the standard plastic colors and enhances them with realistic tones. The main structure, often featuring metallic or industrial hues, should be painted with neutral grays, metallic silvers, and subtle blue tones to mimic the actual hangars seen in the Gundam series. The paint job would also include fine accents in red, yellow, or caution-strip detailing to reflect a functional industrial space.
- Layering and Texture: A professional paint job will use various techniques to create depth and texture, making the base look more realistic. For example, airbrushing or layered washes can give the metallic parts a more industrial feel, with smooth transitions between different color sections.
- Panel Detailing: Many hangar base kits have intricate surface details, such as vents, panels, and technical markings. A detailed commission will emphasize these with subtle shading and panel lining to bring out the depth of the design. These fine details make the base more visually dynamic and in line with the high-tech look of the Gundam universe.
3. Mild Weathering
- Subtle Realism: Mild weathering adds a sense of realism to the hangar without making it appear too damaged or old. Techniques like dry brushing, wash shading, and rusting would be used minimally to give the impression that the base is well-used but maintained, showing signs of wear in high-traffic areas.
- Scuff Marks and Scratches: Mild weathering may include small scuff marks around the edges of platforms, cranes, or docking bays where Gundam units might cause slight damage during maintenance. These subtle scratches, applied with sponges or brushes, will give the base a more lived-in feel.
- Dust and Grime: Another common weathering technique involves adding grime to corners or joints where dust would naturally accumulate. This is often done with weathering powders or light washes that simulate dirt or industrial residues. It enhances the realism of the hangar by showing how the environment would age over time in a subtle, controlled way.
4. Overall Aesthetic
- Clean Yet Lived-in Appearance: Since the weathering is described as “mild,” the hangar should retain a largely clean and functional appearance while still suggesting it's actively used. The goal is to avoid overdoing the weathering so it doesn’t detract from the sleek and sophisticated look associated with the Nu Gundam or other Gundam models.
- Cohesive Design: The colors and weathering of the base should complement the Gundam being displayed. For example, if paired with a painted or custom-weathered Nu Gundam, the hangar’s color scheme and wear patterns should enhance the Gundam’s presence, acting as a backdrop without overpowering the mobile suit itself.
5. Display Impact
- Diorama-style Base: When the Hangar Base is custom painted and mildly weathered, it becomes more than just a stand for the Gundam—it’s a diorama that tells a story. The Gundam can be displayed as if undergoing repairs or maintenance, with the surrounding environment reflecting its scale and importance.
- Depth and Layering: The paint job will add layers of depth to the base, giving it a more three-dimensional and immersive look. This layering helps draw the viewer’s eye to both the base and the Gundam, making the whole display feel cohesive and thoughtfully designed.
6. Value for Collectors
- Elevated Display Piece: A painted and weathered hangar base is an excellent way to elevate your Gundam collection, especially for high-end pieces like the Metal Structure Nu Gundam. The attention to detail in the base makes the entire display look more professional and collector-worthy.
- Customization Potential: This type of commissioned base can be customized to match the specific Gundam being displayed. Whether it's adjusting the weathering intensity or color scheme to reflect different environments (e.g., space, earth, etc.), it adds a personalized touch that enhances the overall presentation.
Conclusion
A commission build with painted and mild weathering for a 1/100 Hangar Base (inspired by the Metal Structure Nu Gundam Design) brings a highly detailed and immersive platform for showcasing your Gundam models. The combination of precise assembly, realistic painting, and subtle weathering techniques creates an industrial, lived-in feel while still maintaining the clean, high-tech aesthetic of the Gundam universe. This piece would be perfect for collectors looking to elevate their display to match the quality and presence of their Gundam models, especially for iconic pieces like the Nu Gundam.
