Tyrannosaurus Vinyl Model Master Craft Edition

Interview with Supervisor Kazunari Araki

The Dinosaur Vinyl Model Master Craft Edition uses a new production process: in addition to the traditional methods for faithfully reproducing Mr. Araki’s prototype, we make finer adjustments using 3D data. The aim has been to improve accuracy and represent his vision more faithfully. What are your impressions of the finished product?

This model was created by digitally scanning my prototype and adjusting the data, allowing it to be enlarged almost exactly as it was. Distorted areas of the prototype were corrected, improving the accuracy of the sculpt.
Previously, the material used for Vinyl Models meant that the figure could stand only in a three-point “Godzilla stance,” with its tail touching the ground. New techniques, including stronger material in the hind legs, allow this model to stand on two legs with its tail raised, making Tyrannosaurus look more active.
A variety of techniques developed over the years have also been incorporated, creating a groundbreaking model that combines impressive proportions and pose with ease of play.

Tyrannosaurus was part of the earliest Vinyl Model lineup. Were there any particular points you focused on to distinguish the sculpt of this Master Craft Edition from the Tyrannosaurus Vinyl Model and Premium Edition?

Tyrannosaurus is the most popular dinosaur, so it is usually one of the first models in any series. As a result, it is often developed before we fully understand the strengths and limitations of the series. When producing early prototypes, we sometimes realize only later that certain features need special consideration, such as the spread of the hind feet or the need for larger feet to keep the figure stable.
For example, the hind feet may need to be spread farther apart, or made larger for stability—details that may only become clear after the prototype has been made.
This model incorporates lessons learned from those experiences while reflecting current reconstructions of Tyrannosaurus, including scales on the face, lips covering the teeth when the mouth is closed, a thick neck, and an abdomen without a prominent pubic bone. I think the product faithfully preserves the shape of the prototype.

The paintwork uses yellow tones also seen on the Tyrannosaurus Vinyl Model and Mini Model. Were there any particular considerations behind this choice?

The paintwork uses colors and patterns seen on Favorite’s previous Tyrannosaurus models. It is the color scheme that feels most Tyrannosaurus-like to me, and I think many people will find it familiar and appealing.
That said, the color scheme is not especially adventurous. It could be fun to release a special version with an alternative color scheme, perhaps chosen by a public vote in a coloring contest.
After all, we do not know what colors dinosaurs actually were.

Finally, do you have a message about the Tyrannosaurus Vinyl Model Master Craft Edition?

The Master Craft Edition uses modern technology to enlarge the prototype while preserving its form, and changes to the materials allow poses and details that were not possible in previous Vinyl Models. I think this has created a large, more naturalistic dinosaur figure that can still be played with.
To help the series continue to grow, please welcome a Tyrannosaurus Master Craft Edition into your home first!

Supervisor Profile

Kazunari Araki

One of Japan's leading dinosaur model artists, he creates dinosaur reconstruction models for natural history museums and master models for dinosaur encyclopedias and other publications.