An artist is using 2 Tamiya King Tigers in 1/16 as his canvas for unusual non-mil designs. He needs someone to build the kits, but w/o interior details, RC/motor,PE, filler or any paint work other than a primer. I’m not familiar with these kits or how insane the treads might be to construct. Has anyone here built one and what would be a good commission price to ask for to build the two? Let’s assume he’s no Warhol or Banksy. Plus, I may need to subtly reinforce some joints, panels and axles, as this display will be boxed and shipped a few times. Thx for any tips and estimates.
I’d charge $ 1,000.00 each, plus cost of the kits. Don’t discount that you keep the motors.
There’s three ways to price stuff like that.
-
Hourly at $ 100/hr. You probably lose money on that.
-
What your competition charges. Easy $ 500 each, so aim high.
-
Going market value. [:S]
Good position from which to negotiate
If the artist hasn’t already acquired the base kits, he can go cheap by getting the Heng Long 1/16 King Tigers. It will save him money. But may lessen his need for your building services. It’s up to you to inform him if you wish. If the $2000 quote is too much for him ($2K is very fair BTW), then tell him you can get him pre-painted Heng Long KTs that you’ll prepare for his needs at a lesser price.
Those Heng Long models look good. I may tell him, esp since he’s on a deadline and needs more tanks.
He’ll never go for $1000 each just to build. That seems high. I haven’t seen the kits yet, but given his parameters, $500 each might be too high. I built a 1/48 B-17 with hardstand base, glass case and custom decals for $470. I’m not pro though. Thanks for your suggestions.