TOMY International and Paramount Launch Crowd-Funded Star Trek U.S.S. Enterprise Replica

TOMY International has partnered with Paramount to unveil a crowd-funded initiative to create a large-scale, premium die-cast model of the Star Trek U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701, based on the starship from the first motion picture. Pre-orders for this highly detailed 1:350 scale replica will be available from August 1, 2024, through September 12, 2024. This project marks the second collaboration between the two companies and offers Star Trek enthusiasts a unique opportunity to own a definitive version of the iconic starship.

Bill Walters, Senior Vice President at TOMY International, emphasized the significance of this release, stating, "This TOMY Plus crowd-funded U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701 will be the centerpiece of any avid Star Trek fan's collection." The announcement coincides with the Las Vegas Star Trek Convention, where the model will be showcased to the public.

To ensure utmost accuracy, TOMY is working with noted Star Trek experts like Gary Kerr. "As far as I'm concerned, this is the most accurate model of the Motion Picture Enterprise that has yet been produced," said Kerr. The replica incorporates reference materials previously unavailable and features the same color-changing interference paints used on the original studio model. Kerr added that this pre-painted model saves hobbyists hours of laborious painting, making it a must-have for fans.

The model boasts several exciting features: a 1:350 scale with dimensions of 34.29" x 16.00" x 11.15", iridescent paint to mimic the original, and diecast components for the saucer, main body, and neck. It includes detailed interiors of the hangar deck, officers' lounge, and arboretum, as well as three lighting modes that illuminate various parts of the ship. Additional elements include a SURAK Shuttlecraft with Warp Sled, an Enterprise display base with a Type-C USB power port, and premium collector packaging.

Weighing 20 pounds and priced at $699 USD (continental United States only, before shipping), production will begin in the fall of 2024 once the goal of 5,000 pre-orders is met. The model is expected to be delivered to buyers by October 2025. TOMY is supporting this limited-time offer with a robust digital campaign targeting U.S. Star Trek fans and will promote the preview on https://startrek-signup.tomy.com/.

This announcement is significant as it taps into the enduring popularity of Star Trek, offering fans a meticulously crafted, high-quality collectible that pays homage to the franchise's storied history. The crowd-funding approach also highlights a growing trend in consumer-driven product development, allowing fans to directly influence the availability of niche, high-demand items.