Win a Lambretta GP model kit | FEATURE

How many of you have done a Google search for ‘Lambretta models’ in the past and been disappointed?

We first featured Tim Draper’s rendering work way back in 2018. Basically he’d created a perfect computer-generated Lambretta GP image, with every detail imaginable. That’s it pictured above.

Build your own GP

Since then, he’s taken things much further and has created a 3D-printed ‘build at home’ kit from his designs. Not only that but he’s also opened a ‘Tuning shop’ to sell upgraded and aftermarket parts for the models.

Tim’s RetroReplicas models are currently ultra-exclusive but SLUK readers can win one.

Just for clarity, that’s the real Tim sat on his real ochre GP outside some disused factory on the outskirts of Milan…

Tim takes up the story of how his rendered images became a kit for home enthusiasts to build…

The aim of the project was to create a 3D digital model of a Lambretta that has a level of detail and realism not achieved by any other digital artist; and then to transform it into a large-scale, very detailed scale model kit. For my project to be successful, however, it needed to be accepted as authentic by REAL Lambretta enthusiasts, which meant that no compromise was taken on accuracy and authenticity. I have now manufactured and shipped over 45 kits to Lambretta (and model-making) enthusiasts across the UK, Europe, USA and Australia.

Tim’s attention to detail is outstanding, much of the early rendering work was done whilst he was recovering from cancer, a welcome distraction

The CAD-designed images (basically a digital model) were originally going to be used as a tool for realistic rendering of paint and custom finishing for future scooter builds, as well as producing high-resolution framed artwork.

Paul Westaway’s part assembled RetroReplicas GP…

1/6th scale

My research revealed that a plastic scale model kit of the series 3 Lambretta didn’t exist on the market anywhere in the World. So Lambretta owners and enthusiasts have been deprived of the opportunity to build a desktop model of their favourite scooter.

To satisfy this gap, I launched my Lambretta GP200 1/6th scale model kit. It is based on the same ultra-high detail, 3D CAD model that has taken me over seven years to develop.

Action Man sized

Each kit is 3D printed in my own workshop and has an exceptional level of detail, including removable side panels, detailed engine and running gear. At 1/6th scale, the model itself is 30cm long and 167cm high, and at the correct scale for most action figures (such as Action Man). Any smaller scale and some of the finer details are lost when 3D printing.

Retro Replicas Owner’s Club

Each kit is printed by Tim, then hand-finished and inspected. Due to the machine and man-power intensive production process, the kits are quite exclusive and can only be purchased by joining a waiting list. Avid customers typically wait 2 to 3 months for their kit to be built to their own personal specifications, and every kit is issued with a unique serial number card and membership of an exclusive owner’s club.

Video: Erik Westburg’s build

Tim said “I am now seven months into production and a number of superbly built examples of the RetroReplica Lambretta GP200 have been painstakingly built and ‘put on the road’.”

“At the beginning of the journey, I also teamed up with Erik Westburg, an award-winning scale modeller, and scooter shop owner in Sweden. Erik helped improve the kit design and also showcased the model by documenting a complete build with a series of stunning Youtube videos. This helped to ignite interest in the project and build a thriving community in my RetroReplicas Facebook group, where builders swap ideas and share images of their creations.”

Here’s a diorama featuring Howard Clewes’ finished model…

More to come?

I am now watching the phenomenon develop with a deep sense of satisfaction; to see that my original aim to achieve unparalleled authenticity has come to fruition, with many of the images being almost indistinguishable from the real thing.

Next up, will be more accessories for the GP and also a possible customer collaboration to build a chopper. Then in 2025, the plan is to expand the range to include other series 3 models and possibly a series 2 model.

Thanks to Erik Westburg for photos of his exceptional build