The Merchandise Guide
Product Enterprise Eagles
Compiled by Martin Willey

Design Commader: Graham Humphreys. Eagle Model Maker: Dave Brian. The model was originally scheduled for release in July 2003, but was delayed several times before the January 2004 release. It was the first in a series of Gerry Anderson vehicles aimed at collectors. Subsequently other versions of the Eagle appeared.

Die cast metal model, 30 x 12 x 6 cm, painted white. Passenger module is detachable (secured with two spring latches). Detailing is based closely on the first 44" Eagle model. Realistically detailed with framework, engine and leg piping and surface details. There are small red and orange markings on the framework, engines and side pods (similar to those seen at the end of Year 2).

Transporter, Rescue and the limited edition silver chrome Eagles have identical boxes. Presentation box is 35.5 x 17.5 x 13cm (25.5 including flap). The model is mounted in clear plastic on a red cardboard base, decorated like a launch pad; there is a folded 70cm long card backdrop with a painting of Moonbase Alpha, also seen on the box sides and rear. The box artwork is a little cartoonish, especially the Eagles on the front and rear. They have obviously distorted nose cones (in contrast to the accurate model itself). The flap has a large "Space: 1999" logo, with a Gerry Anderson "Century 21"-inspired roundel design. The Freighter and Cargo boxes are almost identical, with a description under the logo (other sides of the box still say "Eagle Transporter").

The rear of the box has text in a Main Mission Big Screen (Roberto Baldassari's artwork): Product Enterprise Ltd is proud to present a highly detailed replica of the Eagle Transporter as a metal diecast collector's edition. With detachable central pod, this stunning model captures the essence of this classic spacecraft from Space 1999.

The models were also available from Aoshima, a Japanese model company. The Aoshima boxes are similar to the old Imai Eagle model kit art (although it is actually a photo of the model). Unlike the Product Enterprise boxes, the Transporter and Rescue Eagles have different boxes, although to the same design. The small photos on the side are the same as the Imai too. The English caption says 1/72 scale/ diecast model/ high quality details. The underside of the boxes have pictures of the model in plan and side profiles. Inside the contents (model, launch pad base and Moonbase card backdrop) are identical. It is a little more expensive than the UK version (US$93 vs US$73).

The most impressive Eagle model to date. The model is a third larger than the Dinky Eagle, but without the obvious plastic framework, green and blue paint, or the major simplifications to the design. It is similar in size to the Airfix/MPC Eagle plastic construction kit, but without the need to rebuild it with "accurising" kits (and no model-making expertise is required). The legs do not have spring suspension, but are authentically detailed. The pod release is practical but subtle.

Variations

The chrome and gold plated Eagles were obviously aimed at collectors rather than fans. The gold Eagle came in a box with plush red lining, looking rather like a coffin.

The Freighter pod has a slightly different mechanism, and is the only one with an instruction leaflet ungrammatically titled "Instructions Of Detach Or Attach The Freighter Pod". Oddly, the Freighter is painted inaccurately in two different shades of gray.

The Laboratory Eagle was released individually and as part of a Gift Set (announced for July 2006 but delayed until November 2006). It is very accurate apart from the placement of the Moonbase Alpha decals.

The VIP Eagle is a representation of Simmonds's Eagle from Breakaway, seen very briefly. This was a "limited edition of 4000", due August 2006, released November 2006