Limited Edition Die Cast Episode Collection
PRODUCT HISTORY
Premiered: 2003-2024 Edition: Sold out / Discontinued / Will not be reissued
Die Cast Eagle Classics
We couldn't have foreseen 20 years ago that our Eagle Transporters would still be selling two decades later. Testament to the fact it is the most accurate and highly detailed representation of this classic spacecraft ever produced.
First releases included the Eagle Transporter, VIP Eagle, Laboratory Eagle and Eagle Freighter. Each sold individually in window box packaging and featuring original artwork. We produced separate packaging for distribution in Japan with photographs of the actual models rather than artwork. A Deluxe Eagle Gift Set was produced featuring Laboratory Eagle with Spine Boosters, Moonbuggy and Alpha Laser Tank.
The accuracy of the 12inch models was excellent, with open outer frame and cages revealing surface detail below, accurate decaling, weathering and removable pods with discrete latching mechanism. With each manufacturing run improvements were made - the interior cage weathering was softened, spine decals were accurized and the dark grey of the landing feet was lightened in tone. The 12inch Die Cast Eagle Transporters sold in their thousands around the world to a fan base starved of Space: 1999 product, and to date, is the most popular release in our 27-year history.
Limited Edition Die Cast Episode Collection
After resting this product for a few years, it was decided to re-launch the 12inch Die Cast Eagles in a new and exciting range that would allow us to significantly upgrade the original tooling and combine them with features and accessories from specific episodes of the show - and so the Episode Collection was born. The first major upgrade to the original model was the introduction of four hand- turned, rear aluminium engine bells. Along with further finessing of the weathering and decals, this made for the ultimate 12inch Die Cast Eagle Transporter.
The introduction of an in-scale Alpha Moonbuggy with driver, and a launch platform display as standard, enhanced the models further.
Episode sets included "Breakaway" with Eagle Freighter, cargo pallet, winch and nuclear waste barrels, "Immunity Syndrome" with Transporter Eagle and spine mounted Glider, "New Adam New Eve" with Eagle Transporter and four magnetic side booster rockets as well a highly detail Eagle Hangar set with exclusive Laboratory Eagle, Freighter and Alpha personnel.
The sets were beautifully detailed and presented, allowing the collector to recreate authentic displays of classic episodes from both season one and two of the show.
In total 12 sets were released including HAWKS and The Swift. Each set was Limited to 1000 only Worldwide with each set individually and sequentially numbered with a silver foil label.
Sadly, as spectacular as these sets were, Eagle fatigue was beginning to set in. The market was shrinking, manufacturing costs were spiralling prohibitively, and belts were being tightened. After more than 30 variations over 20 years, it was time for our 12inch Die Cast Eagles to return to base once and for all.
In anticipation of this, in 2020, utilizing the research and development of our Studio Scale 44inch Eagle Transporters, we developed an All New Ultimate Deluxe 18inch Die Cast Eagle Transporter range. Designed to supersede our 12inch Die Cast Eagles, these stunning new models featured 100% accurate all new tooling, interior pod details with opening doors, lighting, aluminium engine bells, side boosters and thrusters, opening cockpit with detailed interior and lighting, pilot figure and Alpha personnel. Sadly, due to the same factors, we decided it financially prudent not progress beyond the prototype and approval stages.
Special Editions
Many Special Editions have been released over the 21 years this model has been produced. These include:
A 22K Gold Plated Eagle Transport with Hand Signed Certificate by Gerry Anderson.
Breakaway Anniversary Eagle with Hand Signed Passenger Pod by SFX Director Brian Johnson.
Gold and Silver Chrome plated versions.
A huge Thank You to Mike Burrows for his amazing photographs over the years and for bringing these sets to life.
