BAYKO Glazing
Firstly, a confession... |
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...I don't really like the BAYKO Glazing... |
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...and I rarely, if ever, use it. |
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But don't let my blind spot affect your judgement, after all 12-inches-to-the-foot scale models have glazed windows, so, if you're looking for realism... |
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Just as a matter of interest, Glazing was not a new idea - it was incorporated in the submissions for the first BAYKO patent, which was granted in January, 1935... |
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...only 20 years or so earlier!!! |
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Plimpton took a decision in the mid 1950's - I'm afraid I can't be more specific than that - that polystyrene was the material of the future as far as BAYKO was concerned - presumably based on its price. |
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Polystyrene moulding technology is completely different and so Plimpton began a gradual programme of retooling which eventually affected Bricks, Half Bricks, End Bricks and Curved Bricks. |
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It also affected Windows, Large Windows and, eventually, Doors. |
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The retooling plans for the windows generated a spin-off in the form of Glazing. |
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The retooled Windows and Large Windows [left] have "small" lugs at each corner which allow rectangles of clear plastic sheet - Glazing - to clip in behind them, creating the impression of a glazed window. |
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Curved Windows were never converted to polystyrene, neither were Side Windows nor Opening Windows - glue being the recommended method for securing the Glazing in position. |
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The Plimpton era Glazing was actually printed, clearly marking out the correct sizes for the various BAYKO windows... |
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...this was then supplied, wrapped in white paper, [right] in uncut lengths, which the young BAYKO modellers cut to size themselves - I wonder who did the risk assessment on that one!!! |
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These wraps of Glazing were included in all the sets and could also be bought separately. |
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Perhaps with the safety question in mind - though more likely driven by the 'added value' / profit margin motive - MECCANO supplied their glazing pre-cut to size. |
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In 1962, when MECCANO launched their range of new BAYKO parts, the Shop [or Picture] Window was supplied pre-glazed.
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The French Windows launched at the same time stuck to the glue method! |
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Today's modeller has three choices... |
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...stocks of original BAYKO glazing do still turn up... |
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...or use the cellophane sheeting available in art/craft shops... |
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...or even simulate tinted glass with coloured cellophane!!! |
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Well that's it for Glazing - perhaps one day I'll take up the challenge - in the meantime I've a website to finish! |
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Below here are links to related info : - |
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Click on any of the links below for related information. |
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Latest update -
March 12, 2010
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