RX-78GP03 Dendrobium

November 2007

This is incredible. 0083 is an awesome series. Even though it ended a bit too conveniently, it is still way better than these new Gundam shows. 0083 features some of the best mecha design out of any Gundam series, and the GP03 Dendrobium is one of the coolest Gundam designs of all time. The Unit 3 Stamen Gundam rides in a mobile armor called the Orchiss, and together they are called the Dendrobium.

Be careful with the gluing. There are some parts that are not meant to be glued. Of course, any of these HG Gundam models aren't really meant for gluing, but I always try to glue them to make them more solid. However, the manipulator arm sections are made to be removed and the bazooka grip is also made to fold away. Also, there are parts to make the missile cluster covers lift up to expose the missile pods.

Not much painting was really necessary. I used the flat black enamel plus Zippo fluid trick to get the panel lines, and I used Testors Model Master Engine Gray to paint in the I-Field generator middle section. I also used Model Master Gun Metal to color the inside of the missile clusters. For the miniature GP03 Gundam unit, I used Gundam markers. I pressed them into a well to make the colors bleed out and I used a super fine tipped brush to get the details. Basic blue, red, black and yellow Gundam Markers were used. I was initially nervous about getting the minute details done, but I actually had fun painting the tiny little Gundam figure. Glue was definitely necessary for the Gundam.

I have an older GP03 Gundam model kit, but I don't know when I'll ever assemble it because it requires an airbrush to make it look nice because I refuse to use the stickers it comes with. I really need to get an airbrush since it's been a year since my old one broke. It was a bottom-of-the-line Testors airbrush for only $30 or so, so it's no wonder it didn't last long. However, I've been unemployed since the end of September, and I put this Gundam model together while I've had plenty of free time. Whenever I get an airbrush, I plan to take a break from all these Gundam models.

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