Polar Lights Enterprise Refit 1/350th Scale

The finished vid for the Enterprise refit.
Full 33 page build log:
www.ianlawrencemodels.com/wipp...
Been a hell of a long time in the build but finally a done deal.
Full lighting, mucho detailing and the 5 colour paintjob with pearlescent lacquers and DIY dry rubdown decals.
Enjoy!

[@silvereagle2061]

When I first saw this ship in the theater I cried. This is my Enterprise.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

The design was a more than worthy successor to the TOS Constitution Class. She has a flow to the overall design, regardless of the viewing angle, that I have liked since I first clapped eyes on her. Oddly enough I am not a real Trek fan but do love me some good design work and this lady has it in spades. Take care now, ILM

[@kellymartin8090]

So did I...lol

[@davidlonkevich2708]

Robert Dambeck I couldn’t agree more. Enterprise on the big screen gave me chills and made my arm hair stand up!

[@abbaszaidi8371]

It’s my Enterprise. And the uniform in the thumbnail is my kind of uniform too!

[@leroyyoder3494]

I saw this in San Diego, CA right after Navy Boot Camp in 1979. Five minute standing ovation!

[@henrysmiley5878]

Amazing. The level of detail on the shuttle bay is astounding.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Henry, the shuttle bay was one of my fave bits about this model to be honest. Take care, ILM

[@robslack5468]

I wanted to crawl in there, to explore the cargo section :) - absolutely phenomenal

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Rob, took some serious Zen modeling (thinking about it) and then the actual faffing about but got it done and fairly happy with the result myself. All the best, ILM

[@jeffhreid]

The shuttle bay, recessed docking pod connections and primary/ secondary hull connection details are exceptional. Just brilliant

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks again Jeff, I was quite pleased with the shuttle bay myself to be honest. All the best, ILM

[@mickfoil]

She's a beauty - I've always thought that the refit Enterprise was, bar none, the most beautiful ship in films, and you've done her full justice. Wonderful, wonderful work.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Mick. I agree with you, she's a beautiful ship.All the best, ILM

[@insomniacbritgaming1632]

Looks just as amazing as the 8ft Studio Model!

[@Tahoe2002Md]

This was one of those happy little "KZbin Suggested viewing" that I clicked on. Simply ASTONISHING work. Bravo. I am in awe of your skills.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Tahoe, seriously appreciated! All the best, ILM

[@Birdoneful]

Beautiful ❤

[@C.Brown5150]

I don't know how your video got by me , I thought I had seen just about all the build videos.. But running across this video was definitely a wonderful surprise... Because I have to say and be completely honest... Your ship is absolutely beautiful , your work and the detail is incredible... You keyed in on certain areas that make the whole thing come to life.. You definitely did her the justice that this legendary Star Ship deserves... Bravo 👏👍👏👍👏👍

[@michaelkilgore8358]

"Give me a tall ship, and the stars to steer her by". Beautiful, simply beautiful.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Michael. All the best, ILM

[@mattalki]

As a builder of these 1:350 Enterprise Refit kits, I can tell you that making them look this good is done with sheer determination and skill. I hope that someday I can build one that looks this good. Well done, sir! She looks fantastic!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Matt, she don't look too shabby does she. You speak the truth my friend, I would say it can average out to 50/50 determination/skill but sometimes that can go to 90/10. Especially with the pearl paintwork! All the best, ILM

[@kellymartin8090]

IanLawrenceModels As I was watching the video of this beautiful ship, a thought came to mind, “the Devils in the details” Surely, that says it.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

@@kellymartin8090 Thanks and apologies for not responding sooner. I'm thankful I only have one more 1/350th to do and the Deboers 46" Refit monster and then that's me and the Refit done model wise...Well...unless once the commissions are done and I give in and embark on a scratchbuilt studio scale Refit. All 8' 4" of her. That'll be different! All the best, ILM

[@hansehnert5150]

There’s nothing I can say that’s hasn’t been said. Absolutely breathtaking and magnificent!! The detail and shuttle Bay with tiny little people in it not to mention the bridge with the crew working and running the ship. I’m 55 and could look at this for hours!! Congratulations on a job well done.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

I thank you for the kind words Hans, this remains one of my fave builds for how she ended up looking. During the build not so much but that's how it is in this line of work 🙂 Thanks again and all the best, ILM

[@PeterHamiltonz]

So love seeing the results people get with the Polar Lights Refit Enterprise. Like many others who've commented, I remember the pure joy of the scene from TMP when she was revealed. Just breathtaking.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Ya can't beat a beautiful SF design and the Refit is right up there with the best of 'em! The TOS Connie design is iconic and the Refit is a more than worthy successor to that. All the best, ILM

[@IanLawrenceModels]

I just want to say many thanks to all who have commented on this video. Particularly all that have recently done so at this time of typing, i've never answered so many in such a short space of time! :) It does make me feel proud of what I managed to do with this model but more importantly, it shows what can be done when you push yourself and just have a go at making it the best you can. Always try to do better than just good enough. The vast majority of the critique I have recieved through the comments have been quite fair and I have no problem with that, honest opinion and points truthfully made are not something that I shy away from. I wish you all the very best, ILM

[@JulianWest]

Fantastic job. The is my favorite Enteprise and era of the ship. Back then they really put in SO much realism and thought into just exactly the ship could work. So many things logically set-out to improve on the 60s TV era Enterprise. And wow the hangar bay is just total perfection! I like this hangar bay better than the 1701-A's shortened version. I can imagine Scotty's character "now why would they limit our cargo access like this?!". And wow that lounge area! If you build these kits for sale, with the same care, for $ let's talk -- I'm one of those die-hard fans who always wanted one, but have not the skill nor time. I built the ERTL kit in 1984, still have it. It's nothing like this....

[@IanLawrenceModels]

@@JulianWest I thank you for the kind words, it's very much appreciated. I'm afraid i'm not taking any more commission work at this time, the order book is full for at least the next 2 -3 years so i'm working on getting that fully cleared before anything else. All the best, ILM

[@JulianWest]

@@IanLawrenceModels No worries and best wishes in your endeavors! If you start a waiting list in the next couple years, keep me in mind! Cheers

[@richardeckman9273]

THAT, Sir, is a thing of sheer heartbreaking beauty and elegance. Amazing job! Congratulations! Of all the various incarnations of the Enterprise, this one has always been my favorite. You’ve done the old gal justice - and then some!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Richard, your kind words are very much appreciated. Have to say that while i'm not a Trek fan as such, I love me some good SF design and this lass ticks all the boxes for me. All the best, ILM

[@timkoontz6693]

I haven't the patience to snap together a couple of Lego blocks, let alone a time consuming project like this. Your concentration paid off. This is a magnificent piece of labor. Thanks for showing. 👍👍

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks for the kind words Tim, very much appreciated. All the best, ILM

[@abbaszaidi8371]

Some of us do not have the talent, time, application and dedication for a project as beautiful as this. Thank you for taking us on this journey

[@IanLawrenceModels]

I thank you for the kind words Abbas and you are most welcome. Take care, ILM

[@JDBliss-kr9rh]

Holy Crap that is unbelievable! What a thing of beauty. The detail is crazy, the pearl really does look like hull plating. I could look at this piece forever.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks JD, The pearl is the thing with this lady. I had more than a few 'Hell yeah' moments after removing all the masking and getting the light kick off the hull just right. Shame it's such a bloody nuisance to film, looks way better to the naked eye but I have to do the best with what I have. Take care, ILM

[@kevinleftridge8241]

Beautiful! My two favorite themes from the original sound track!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Kevin, music that I just had to have from the OST. All the best, ILM

[@Chuckqnit]

That is just...jaw dropping. I actually prefer your painting tech to what they used in TMP. That touch of pearlescence in the azteking is like nothing I have seen before, and your simulation of the flood lighting is unique to my experience, and just nails it. It's a brilliant hack...I salute you. I'm 53 years a fan, and built my first Enterprise in 1974. Truly, a thing of beauty.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Chuck, your kind words are much appreciated. Well my painting technique was actually based on the pearlescent paint method used by Paul Olsen when he painted the 8' Refit for the Motion Picture. Sad thing is that using full on studio lighting, according to Doug Trumbull, would have made it near impossible to get the right mattes to composite the model properly due to how much the surface shone on the model, the edges particularly. So they had to tone the lighting way down so much of the beauty of the finish was lost. All the best, ILM

[@Marine-oj6mx]

“Damn fine ship if you ask me.” - Scotty, Star Trek Generations.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

"Aye lad."

[@johnbockelie3899]

Jerry Goldsmith should have gotten an Oscar for his TMP.music. it's no t only Awesome. It's lovely breath taking as well, RIP. TMP. 1979. , I liked your Enterprise, it's beautiful.

[@fetokai]

To this day my most favorite enterprise model from the franchise, an elegant blend of sleek and retro with layer upon layer of details that bring this main character to life. Incredibly well done!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thank you Jonathan, a lot of work but worth it for how the lady looks. All the best, ILM

[@RichardAugust]

I recall the the haunting sensation of the ship in drydock the very first time I saw Star Trek: The Motion Picture. I love this one and Enterprise E. But wow. So long ago. I remember the drive to Wichita to see this film. What was odd was that Christie Alley worked as a writer for the Wichita Eagle newspaper and was actually there are the premiere as just a regular person interviewing us nerds waiting in line. I was wearing a TOS kirk shirt. Little did she show she would star in The Wrath of Khan. She should have stayed in that role, too.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

The Drydock scene is pretty much the best thing from STTMP personally, like I have mentioned before, I'm not that much of a ST fan and was not that impressed with the first movie. Wrath of Kahn was a different matter but that's just me. Oddly enough Kirstie did one upon a time mention that she didn't like Robin Curtis in the role that she 'created' but then she also said she got offered less money for the next two movies so passed on those. Such are the vagaries of film making. Take care, ILM

[@Z1gguratVert1go]

Rumor has it her agent demanded a lot of money for Kirstie Alley to be in ST III, and they couldn't afford her, but she didn't know about the offer. The rumor is that if her agent had told her about it she would have agreed to do it for a price that fit in the budget. That agent should have been fired (out of a torpedo tube).

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Well i'll just let the lady tell it in her own words in this interview from August 2016, about half way down this page: www.startrek.com/article/catching-up-with-kirstie-alley Take care, ILM

[@gr8oone007]

The dramatic music combined with the shaky camera was pretty funny. Amazing job on the model btw. That lounge!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Can't argue with that assessment to be honest :o) Thanks Gr8oone, take care, ILM

[@patrickdalton3918]

Absolutely fantastic, your work is amazing, the Enterprise looks likes she's ready for flight into deep space for her next mission. Much respect to you sir.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thank you Patrick. For all the pain and giggles, she turned out looking as I had hoped she would and she's a pretty lass. All the best, ILM

[@alanpwhelan]

That is amazing, you should be extremely proud of your hard work. 👍🏻

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Alan. Yep, I was happy with the finished article and so was the client which is the point overall. A fun and not fun ride at times but job done and happy new owner so all good in the end. Not something I'd like to attempt again in a hurry mind you. I think my airbrush is still whimpering after all the pearl work. All the best, ILM

[@jenniferbeyer6412]

This is my favorite Enterprise. Simply beautiful ship. I get chills down and up my spine. Your detail work is awe inspiring. I wish I still had my model Enterprise. My paint work was totally different than yours. Mine was different shades of silver. While you used pearl. I think that using both would be amazing. Thank you for this video. Master work.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

I thank you for the kind words Jennifer. All the best, ILM

[@chrischeshire6528]

Star Trek: TMP, my favorite movie and the Enterprise in dry dock with Scotty and Kirk my favorite scene. On the big screen it looked so real and I tell myself this is what awaits us in the future. She's a real beauty!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Chris. All the best, ILM

[@Luminous_Beings_are_we]

Truely inspiring and motivating! Thanks for showing us the way.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thank you Luminous, the kind words are very much appreciated. Mine is one way, by no means the only way but it worked out in the end and that's what counts. All the best, ILM

[@KlingonCaptain]

Absolutely glorious! Huzzah! Bravo! Such amazing skill. I wish that I could build like that. Thank you for sharing your wonderful model and talent. 😍😎

[@IanLawrenceModels]

I thank you and you are most welcome. Qapla'! ILM

[@uweb.7586]

Craziness! One of the most beautiful and detailed models I have ever seen. And proof of the extraordinary skill of the builder. This could have been used exactly the same way in the films. Congratulations and respect for this work of art.

[@MoonwalkerModels]

She is a beauty! Really like how you put a wash on it to bring out more of the detail and panel lines. That is something alot of the guys overlook!! Well done! You hard work paid off!!1

[@IanLawrenceModels]

I thank ya! It has been more work than previously thought but yeah, gotta admit she looks the part. Not perfect but nothing I build is so there ya have it. All the best, ILM

[@gerardmacdonald21]

IanLawrenceModels Fantastic work mate . Is there anything you can't build ? You seem to have the Midas touch ! Cheers 👍🏼

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Gerald. Oh there are plenty of things I can't build, just not come across them yet but one day I suspect I will and fail in the most spectacular fashion I can muster. I have no idea about the Midas touch, just slightly touched in the head which helps with something like this believe it or not. All the best, ILM

[@kellymartin8090]

Your exterior tour of the ship was reminiscent to watching the motion picture! You did a great job! Congratulations! In addition to all your great work that shuttle bay is absolutely phenomenal. The exterior flood lights are fantastic! Seeing that beauty, brought a tear to my eye. Jerry Goldsmith’s score is as fresh today as it was 40 years ago.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Kelly, your kind words are very much appreciated! She brought a few tears to my eyes as well and that was before I got her finished! But like a lot of things, worth it all in the end. All the best, ILM

[@arrrgee]

You've done yourself proud with this, pretty much a perfect replica of the studio model, the lighting up phase is perfect, great work!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks ArrGee, much appreciated and sorry for missing your comment. All the best, ILM

[@DronemanJoeRc]

Wow just wow. I got the model coming next week and the light and sound system from trekmodeler and just about everything I need to build one myself. I will say this is going to be one hell of a build and you did a fantastic job on yours. I hope mine looks as great as yours. Thanks for sharing.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Outstanding Droneman! It can turn from a build in to an endurance trial but the finished aticle is worth it believe me. You are most welcome. All the best, ILM

[@NathanTarantlawriter]

Nice job. Particularly like the interior details.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Super. All the best, ILM

[@randymoyan4754]

This is STUNNING! Great work sir! The detail is incredible and that shuttle bay wow! Thanks for sharing.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Randy. Took a bit of teeth gnashing but got there in the end and worth it. You are most welcome. All the best, ILM

[@bagpopuk]

Lovely, just lovely! Haven't read your build log yet but on my imminent to-do list. Stashed six of these kits away when they first appeared. I remember the fever this kit created and it swept me along as I researched the hell out of the studio model. Some great innovation was shared and some fantastic builds surfaced as a result, and here's another that rivals all those that have gone previously. Your attention to detail is, well... impressive doesn't really cover it. The lit docking ports, the 'Raytheon' effect, the deflector dish housing, the nacelle work, oh bollox there's too much, I love it all. Well done Ian, you should be very proud, she's a beauty! Steve.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Bagpopuk, It's one of those projects that always seems simple until the reference studying begins. And then the real fun and games start. All the best, ILM

[@numberyellow]

SERIOUSLY impressive work.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

I thank you! Take care, ILM

[@PaulGibbons]

Watching this was a religious experience.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Never had anyone react that way to one of my videos. Glad you liked what you saw Paul. All the best, ILM

[@paulgibbons2320]

I agree.

[@williamd1732]

What an incredible job you've done on this. The painting and lighting is the best I've ever seen done with this kit. I can only hope to do half a good a job when I build mine as you've done on this. I was blown away with this video. Thank you for sharing your work. SUBSCRIBED!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thank you for the kind words William. Just do the best you can, if it works out you will have learned something. If not then you will have learned something. Either way, good luck with your build and keep on practising your skillset. All the best, ILM

[@jnichols3452]

You had me at the mini flood lights..... the accuracy and diffusion onto hull of ship and nacelles is truly film-like, plus the saucer array dish glow !!!! Perfect !!!!! you lifted the original score from the first motion picture same as when Scotty is bringing Kirk to Enterprise for first time... BRILLANT !!!!

[@bobbova8708]

professional grade-fantastic!!!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

I appreciate that Bob and thank you. Take care now, ILM

[@CommodoreProductions01]

Shes beautiful and light are amazing

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Jim, she do look her best all lit up. At least that's the way I like her best. All the best, ILM

[@TheKPCoyote]

You made me cry. That is the most beautiful model of the Enterprise that I have ever seen. Thank you for making it. Bless you.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Well thanks Joshua, very kind of you to say so and i'm glad you like her. All the best, ILM

[@billbaker2698]

She looks beautiful-never tire of seeing her and i am so impressed by your modelling skills- Scotty would be proud of you

[@IanLawrenceModels]

I thank you Bill, very much appreciated. All the best, ILM

[@TairnKA]

When I saw the first movie my first thought was how large the blinking lights would be if to scale? ;-) The hull lighting is great, all you need now is a worker doing somersaults. ;-)

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks T'airn'KA. The blinkers would be about 35cms in diameter 1/1 scale...and methinks that's near enough, or the fact that i've worked that out is nerd enough! She was a fun and not fun thing to build but got there in the end. Al the best, ILM

[@TairnKA]

I get the impression their at least twice that size (70cms) but less then 90cms. Thou, it's probably the "light" itself that makes it look larger?

[@keithmyers6121]

I KNOW THIS SHIP IS SPACE WORTHY

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Keith, she sailed out of dock just beautifully and her new Captain was well happy with her. All the best, ILM

[@s9523pink]

Exceptional! Love the identification lighting, panel work, and interiors; masterfully done!!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Many thanks! Just have to do the same on a bigger DeBoers Refit...oh the fun I have. All the best, ILM

[@cylon1983]

That is the most AMAZING work of art I have ever seen! The details are mind boggling! You brought the Enterprise to life in such a beautiful way. Thank you for this incredibly beautiful upload. it was a pleasure to watch.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

I thank you Scorched, it's very much appreciated and you're most welcome. All the best, ILM

[@type4066]

Damn it Jim i'm a Doctor not a model maker. Lol

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Like it! All the best, ILM

[@johnrocha6212]

Truly an amazing job! And thank you for using the clear pearlescent on the Aztec pattern, was getting tired of two tone grays many have used. 2 thumbs up, 5 stars, GOLDEN BUZZER!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks John! Well I think the two tone grey is just easier for some which is fair enough, their ship to build their way after all. This one was specified to have the full on pearl paint job so it was done...not without some hair pulling, head scratching and many an Anglo-Saxon oath being said I grant you but done in the end. Thanks again for the kind words and all the best, ILM

[@markvittorini5163]

You did great here! The pearlescent paint job is a stroke of genius and I am just fine with your camera work because you show all that fine work and love you adding the ST soundtracks!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Mark, very much appreciated. Had to have the ST soundtrack, just not right without it. All the best, ILM

[@UNIFORM94]

5 stars!!!! Great job bringing to life the greatest spaceship in cinematic history!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Uniform. Very much appreciated. All the best, ILM

[@thomaswilkinson3241]

I am overwhelmed. What an amazing piece you did there. Wow, simply WOOOOW!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Thomas, it's very much appreciated. All the best, ILM

[@Kline2000]

What a work of art. Looks realistic beyond imagination. You have to be proud of that, best I have ever seen.

[@davexbit]

Beautiful, beautiful work to the still the best designed Enterprise in the fleet. Big Thanks for sharing your stunning work. I love how you got the lighting correct in the saucer section. Very film like.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Many thanks Dave, muchly appreciated! I have loved the design ever since i first saw her back in the 70's with publicity shots in magazines like Starlog. All the best, ILM

[@russelljaroszewski51]

no Idea how I got here but so glad I did. That is my Enterprise. The lighting was just like watching the movie again. A wonderful work you did here.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Russell, very much appreciated. All the best, ILM

[@colhero]

Nicely done sir - one of my top ten fav builds of this glorious ship!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

She's worth the effort and I thank ya! All the best, ILM

[@nekodesigner]

beautiful paneling, i love how it is revealed by the light

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Neko. I tried to get as close as possible to how the effects model was painted, sadly all that was lost on screen due to how difficult it was for the crew to shoot the model if it was lit up enough to see the pearl panelling. But it sure does look pretty. All the best, ILM

[@SHONNER]

You've done the best job with the shine and highlighting of your hull, compared to all the other KZbin modelers I've seen. They tend to over-do the aztec patterns so that they are the main focus of the hull detail. And your lighting is simply the best. Your lights aim in the same directions, and with the same intensities, as the lights in the movie. Excellent work!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Many thanks for the kind words. Took a while to get her as she looks but one does ones best and in the end she was well worth it. I was happy with her and so was the client, a win all round. All the best, ILM

[@SkyrayModels]

Awesome work,love all the lighting especially in the shuttle bay,and masking all the pearl coats is an intensive job,very well done.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Lee, The pearl is the most labour intensive paintjob I've ever had to do on any model. It's pretty much a one shot deal to be honest as messing it up means sanding back to the white and going again if you want it to look the way it should. But bloody worth it for how she looks! All the best, ILM

[@ZENITH-tr8xy]

Brilliant job with all the fine detail, This is far and away the best Starfleet ship they ever designed,Great music to accompany your flyovers.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Zenith and you'll get no argument from me about the design. All the best, ILM

[@ModelDiver]

I've watched this video a dozen times. Such a beautiful Model. Fabulous work! I'm currently slogging away at this build myself, and it has been an experience.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks ModelDiver, very much appreciated! Good luck with your build and yep, she can become an endrance trial but worth it. All the best, ILM

[@vinceburgess9012]

That is just breathtaking. Now I know how Admiral Kirk felt when he saw her in space dock!

[@Sttuey]

Just found your vid and have to say it's really impressive model building, looks amazing, I don't think I've seen another with such a faithful recreation of the internal areas, the hangar deck is very cool!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks for the kind words sTTu. Took a bit of work and more than the usual amount of head scratching but got there in the end. All the best, ILM

[@davidteague3849]

Wow. Simply stunning. The detail is incredible

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks David. All the best, ILM

[@wakemanedwards3450]

Ian, Ive just finished viewing your completed build again and I must say, your 5 color pearlesent paint job, raytheon lighting, well all of it is one of the best Ive seen and I have seen a lot of them. Yours looks like the movie prop especially the subtle pearl color highlights. Just magnificent! When I get to that point on mine, please brother, we gotta talk!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Wakeman, It's a lot of work. Well strike that, it's a hell of a lot of work but worth it for the finished article paintwork. By all means drop me a line via my site email if you have any questions and i'll do my best to help. All the best, ILM

[@ericschl.1996]

Now with your close-ups I see you did the Aztec game oh my God what I love to see a video of step by step how you build these things and the sources of where you got your materials WOW!

[@mr.modern4419]

No words can do this build justice... out of this world!!!!!

[@signx]

Wow! Seeing this beautiful work in person must be fantastic, how proudly I would display this beauty in my studio-man cave, great great work, my sincerest congratulations. Cheers!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

I thank you for the kind words Bernardo, very much appreciated. All the best, ILM

[@paulaburrows8660]

A wonderful video, it took me back to a time when I built every Star Trek kit I could get my hands on. However, my builds were no near this level, amazing.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

In the way back when Paul, neither were mine I can assure you but that's what time and sheer bloody minded persistence are for. All the best, ILM

[@boomerhgt]

Awesome model detail and lighting paint all outstanding great job , and that hanger bay wow

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Boomer. Truly an uphill struggle but worth it for the finished appearance, seriously worth it! All the best, ILM

[@hannable70]

Wow, I'm in awe. When I saw the ship from the front I swear I had a literal heart flutter. For a split second I thought I was looking at a clip from one of the movies. You have some mad skills and I'm incredibly envious. I build models as a hobby myself and, while I can do a reasonable job and even won a few local contests, I could never do something like that. I still have difficulty just doing panel lines without mucking up the paint job. Anyhow, I can't stress enough what a fantastic job you did and hopefully you're able to put those talents to good use. As was said in Star Trek IV, "see you around the galaxy."

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Hannable, if you're happy with the models you build then it's all good. Well done on winning some local gigs, I used to do a lot of that myself in the way back when. Never say you never in regards to what you can do modeling wise, time and practise will eventually get you where you need to go. Well that and sheer determination. Dedicated modellers aren't quitters so you'll get there. All the best, ILM

[@jeffhreid]

That ready room is crazy! Great job

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Jeff. More than a fair amount of sqinting and paintbrush with three bristles waving about but got there. All the best, ILM

[@valiantodyssey567]

You have build a impressive starship enterprise refit.I like the artificial light you build in this model kit and the irridescent colors on the the ship. It is a beautiful ship and well lit.awesome work .

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Valiant, Very much appreciated. All the best, ILM

[@andrewamidala]

Incredible work, the shuttle bay is awesome, well done and thank you for sharing

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thank you Andrew. You are most welcome. All the best, ILM

[@stevehaun3178]

I built this model back shortly after the original movie came out in 1979 but it didn't look anywhere near the quality of this build.I love the lighting details especially on the lounge behind the bridge the shuttle bay and the colors of the deflector.I especially like the running lights and strobes that flash at differenf intervals.Very well done sir and thank you for the video

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Steve and you are most welcome. Don't worry about the quality of past models that many years ago, back then my first build of the Refit was nothing spectacular believe me. All the best, ILM

[@KatHazelton]

The best model of the Enterprise I have ever seen! Amazing! You are very talented! Thank you for sharing on youtube.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Kat, your kind words are very much appreciated and you're most welcome. Only got to do the same thing to two more Refits on the build list...Now if you'll excuse me, I think I'm just going to go lie down and whimper for a while. All the best, ILM

[@KatHazelton]

IanLawrenceModels lol good luck!😂

[@buddyparrot1]

I must admit, that's the best I'v ever seen that, "through the hull" lighting effect work! I was looking at the model and when I read that I thought NO, DON'T DO IT, but you really pulled it off. I hope I can do half that job.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Hi Leo, Since I first came up with the idea back in 2006 when I built the first issue of the Refit, it's gone through a few changes but I wasn't sure myself whether it would work the first time. I harks back to the old AMT smoothie Refit of many years ago when I first tried it by putting a string of Christmas tree lights through it. Back in those days though, they were filament bulbs as the LED type tree lights we have today were still some 20 plus years shy of being invented. Didn't leave it on for more than a minute or so at a time! Oh one thing to note, if you are going to try the backlight thing, it only seems to work well on the original Polar Lights issue Refit kits. The Round 2/Polar Lights issue has a problem with the plastic that white lights show up with a distinctly yellow cast on the outside on the new issues. Test before building! All the best, ILM

[@ShellBryson]

She's perfect! Nice work. The detail level is outstanding.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Shell, took a bit of work but worth it in the end even if that was a hell of a long time coming. All the best, ILM

[@ShellBryson]

You're welcome. Looks to me all the effort was worthwhile. Wish I had the space for such a beauty :)

[@johnneumayer9263]

This is an awesome build. the flood light effect is great for this ship. i only wish I had the patience and time to put in that level of detail and care to a project like this.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks John, I appreciated it. All the best, ILM

[@GrouchyMarx]

Outstanding job Ian. Watched your entire video. You know, it wouldn't surprise me given the pure love many have (including me) for Star Trek, that in 200 years or so people will build such a ship full scale that will actually work like the ones in the movies. Hopefully we can build such a world as envisioned in Star Trek so that our distant descendants can do just that whether for fun or practicality, and thus remember us dreaming of such a world and ships for them.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Grouchy. I thank ya kindly and good words there sir. Didn't someone once say 'That's where ideas begin'. All the best, ILM

[@beaconassassingaming741]

Wow.I mean,Wow!A fine job indeed.the level of detail is amazing.Paint,lighting and sheer skill level to pull this off is no small feat.Congrats.its beautiful!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Joseph, it's very much appreciated. All the best, ILM

[@MeBeTheDB]

I have been fortunate to see (and touch) the ENTERPRISE model created for STTMP when she was at ILM at the time they were doing the effects on ST2: THE WRATH OF KHAN. Now I share this because your recreation of this fine, ageless beauty of NCC-1701 is ever so perfect. In short, BRAVO-! Spot on and exacting detail. In fact, BRAVO TWICE-!! D.A.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Then thou art a damn lucky individual and nicely done! Wish I could have seen her in the flesh so to speak. I thank you for the kind words, very much appeciated. All the best, ILM

[@PantslessDragon]

As soon as the pearlescent hull patterns started shimmering against the matte white, my breath was took (as if it wasn't already by that point). That is an intense attention to detail and looks absolutely stunning.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks McKaz, Took more than a bit of working out but got there in the end. All the best, ILM

[@paulsmith8988]

The work is Amazing!!! Fantastic job!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Paul, she's a pretty lass is she not. All the best, ILM

[@richardfiegen7378]

Amazing attention to detail. That is a job well done.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thank you Richard, very much appreciated. All the best, ILM

[@user-sn4km5oo1d]

This is the most epic 1/350 build I have ever seen. Wow.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Most kind of you to say so, many thanks and it's much appreciated. All the best, ILM

[@six3sin]

When I started this video I was spellbound! please forgive my candor but when the flood lights came on all I could say was "Oh Shit". Thank you for making me feel like a kid again!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Your candor is very much forgiven! You are most welcome and I thank you. All the best, ILM

[@mtreams72]

That is some beautifully detailed, intricate, work there.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Mark, took a while and a fair bit of grunt work but got there in the end. All the best, ILM

[@milesfears]

ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! I AM SPEECHLESS! I WOULD GIVE A KIDNEY TO HAVE ONE JUST LIKE IT! STUNNING!

[@bobastu]

This is a work of love. I have read that the original ILM model builders for Star Wars (the birth of Industrial Light and Magic) had such a connection to the detailed models they built, some of them (young men) understood what it meant to be a parent as they felt proud of their accomplishments (kit bashing from plastic model kits, etc). What you have done here is, IMHO, is the best scale representation of the Enterprise refit I have ever scene, outside of "professional" modelers. Great job.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Boba. Labour of love? Well more a love/hate relationship with this particular model I have to be honest. Love the design and always have since I first clapped eyes on her back in the late 70's but have grown to hate what has to be done with this kit to bring her up to this kind of standard after doing 6 or 7 before this. That said, that's what I was paid to do and it was done. I was happy with the finished article, so was the client, got paid and other folks seem to like how she looks so high fives all round! All the best, ILM

[@bobastu]

@@IanLawrenceModels it is funny you should say that as the crew attached to the upkeep of NCC-1701 were overjoyed when they heard they could blow up the model in The Search for Spock. Maintaining a model of that size in a filming state was exhausting for the crew. Just wanted to let you know your melancholy emotional response to your model was shared by others with your gift!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

True enough that Ken Ralston hated the model, she was a right royal pain to film and he didn't like the design at all but each to their own. Melancholy? You are incorrect there. I feel no sadness in any way about the model, quite the reverse once it was finished as the client was very happy with her and I was happy I had finished it and allowed my self a bit of pride in what I had done. That said, in the end it was the same as the rest of the models I do for others, I'll always do the very best I can but once done, job done and I rarely give it much thought. Oddly enough, that feeling applies to those I do for myself. I'm just a builder, not a collector. Take care, ILM

[@nexxo00]

Impressive paint job and great attentinn to lighting detail there. Lighting through the plastic was a really clever solution. It works well!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

I thank you most kindly Robin. All the best, ILM

[@JC-qx5hd]

That shuttle bay is amazing.i also like the command module's officer's lounge.Make's me want to take off on a new adventure.Great work!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks JC. Have to admit, I rather liked how the shuttle bay turned out myself. All the best, ILM

[@baltod4978]

Amazing job friend! I wish I had your talent and patience!!!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Balto, very much appreciated. Many things counted toward getting this model done but mainly it's skills learned over the decades and a very large dose of sheer bloody minded determination to do it as righteously as possible that got me to the finish line. Sometimes it's that rather than patience that pulls it off but it got done by fair means or foul...foul if that's what it takes and it did more than once. All the best, ILM

[@jamfieldcentral372]

The true enterprise, a true masterpiece you've created. I had this kit which I had built and painted but no wiring kit was available at the time

[@IanLawrenceModels]

I thank ya kindly Jamfield. That was always the problem in the early days when this kit was first out, it is one that in my humble opinion seriously needs lighting but that's just me. All the best, ILM

[@johnmogavero8156]

So clean ! So beautiful ! Brought a tear to me eye it did !

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks John, very much appreciated. All the best, ILM

[@Kiyosuki]

Man all these Refit Enterprise models with lights that people upload to this site are incredible. I will say though that as far as the exterior goes, yours does stand out a bit more because, as minor as this sounds(again because all of these always so unbelievable.), you managed to add the spotlight effect to the registry numbers at the tail ends of the nacelles, as well as the Starfleet symbol on the side of the engineering hull as well as that one on the neck. The spotlight effects in general are on point. I've heard about that technique of having the light shine through specific points of the plastic from inside before but it really pays off I think for the authenticity imo. It's a detail even some other unbelievable builds of the 350th scale model that get all insane with microchip controlled lighting often leave out, so great job there.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Kiyosuki. The bit about the lights through the plastic was a bit of a cheat I tried many years ago when I did the first PL 350th Refit, seemed to work out and a little bit of refinement since then has improved certain things. It's not the best solution and some folks don't like the way it looks, but that's fair, it's all in the eye of the beholder so all good. All the best, ILM

[@AljonGo]

Wow. That shuttle bay. Tremendous work!!!

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks Aljon, have to admit I was pretty happy with how that turned out. All the best, ILM

[@cestall1]

What an incredible labor of love!! I had this model when I was in 3rd grade. You might guess the comparison between that one and this is rather insane. But I remember it had a lighting kit of some kind, because I put glue-and-fingerprint covered D cell batteries in the secondary hull.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks! Glue fingerprints are all a part of the process Chad, I do a lot less of those these days than I used to but don't think it doesn't happen occasionally. All the best, ILM

[@5200210jim]

incredible work. so much to say,but speechless at the same time. about 45 percent done with mine. dreaming it comes out like yours. great job big guy.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thanks James. Don't dream anything, just make it happen the way you want it to. in the end, your ship to build your way but above all, have fun. Best of luck with your build and take care, ILM

[@ludovic9200]

no words just amazing I just discovered your video I wish I could own a home and starting to have the same passion and habit than yours to make this happen. thank you for sharing

[@IanLawrenceModels]

You are welcome Ludovic. On one point though, it's not a passion, it's my job. That said, I always try to do the very best I can, nothing less will do. All the best, ILM

[@nicholasdickens2801]

A full 5 paint job? Well whatever that is it's made this tall lady look as beautiful as she's always been in my minds eye. Fantastic work. A true labour of love. Congratulations.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

Thank you Nicholas, It just mean that it's white paint with 4 colours of pearlescent lacquer airbrushed on as per the original filming model hull paintwork. No exact to the studio finish but she looks the part. All the best, ILM

[@nicholasdickens2801]

Thank you. Sadly all the studio reference and original paint scheme bit the dust on the original model as early as The Wrath of Khan.

[@IanLawrenceModels]

True enough, I only have a set of black and white pics off the net that were taken shortly after filming on the Motion Picture was completed. As with proper film stock, the contrast is excellent but as to the colours, very, very few colour pics exist that Joe Q. Public like me have access to. Saying that, some have done incredibly extensive research and come up with what appears to be as close as one is going to get so much kudos to them. All the best, ILM

[@nicholasdickens2801]

IanLawrenceModels I've since learned on the B&W photos that the panel details that look it's black or black on the TMP paint scheme is actually the gold. They used a lot of gold on the model in the first movie.