Robc988 wrote:Wow, when did this monster come out? I never new.
Does anyone know if they plan on another run? Did the facility explode? I heard that about 21c but didn’t know if it was a rumor or true.
What was the asking price when it came out? Was there a lighted and unlighted version?
I bet they run a premium on eBay.
Anyway thanks for any input
Rob
Hi Rob,
JSI's first release was a lighted VF-84 version, released at the AWH XMAS Show, back in December 2009. This was a very limited release of only 250 pieces.
JSI's second release, which came out in 2010, was a non-lighted VF-84 version, which became known as the "Spot Cat" because of the poorly finished weathering job. This version had a release of 888 pieces worldwide with roughly only about 500 pieces sold in North America.
JSI's third and final version, which came out in 2011, was the VF-154 Black Knights "Bombcat". This one was a lighted version and, had a much better finish from the factory. This release had 888 pieces as well with roughly 500 sold in North America.
I purchased both the second and third versions of the Big Cat when they were first released. I paid around $200.00 - $230.00 for each.
Sadly, I believe the molds for this jet no longer exist. I've been following these jets on EBay for the last 5 years and they do command a high price tag, some bordering on insane. They usually sell for anywhere between $450.00 - $800.00. Sometimes you'll encounter some crazy asking prices (there's one on EBay from Malaysia going for $2,200.00, what a steal
) but, they don't sell.
There is aftermarket metal main landing gear out there, again on EBay but, it's not cheap. This is the main reason I chose to display my two Cats "in flight", the weak gear.
I'm a total Tomcat nut and I love my two jets and I'm glad I got them when they first came out.
Hope this answers your questions.
Steve
"TOMCATS FOREVER, BABY...!"