Building Gundam models is easy to get started!

Tashiro: This "Z'Gok" was actually assembled in about three hours by a woman from the Isetan Men's Net editorial department using only basic parts, but it's strangely cute, and I'm quite moved by it (laughs). Oh, and please show us the Gunpla that Nakata-san made.

Even if you don't know the Nakata story, the fact that the designs are so appealing is one of the reasons for Gunpla's popularity! This time, I brought two Zaku models: one that's been "straight out" and another that's been modified from the straight out of the box.

What was Mr. Tashiro Nakata's entry point into Gunpla?

It all started with Gundam erasers when I was in Nakata Kindergarten, and I remember assembling Gundam plastic models back then, but my passion for it was rekindled about three years ago.

What happened to Okada three years ago?

I went shopping with Mrs. Nakata, and we stopped by a toy store where they had Gundam model kits. We went to eat, but I felt restless, so I went back to the toy store during dinner and bought one (laughs). Ever since becoming a working adult, I've been looking for a hobby that doesn't cost much money, and I used to like Gundam model kits, so I thought it might be something that wouldn't cost much.

Tashiro, what's the actual situation?

Because I tend to get obsessed with things , I actually started collecting all sorts of tools, and it ended up costing me quite a bit! (laughs).

Tashiro and Okada (burst into laughter).

Tashiro tested the sharpness of the wire cutters that Nakata had brought, and confirmed the importance of tools.

Nakata: You might be surprised, but even with something as simple as nippers, if they're sharp, you won't get "part whitening" (the phenomenon where the cut edges turn white when cutting parts from the runner). The tools you use are important.

Next, recreate the imaginative world of Gundam with Gunpla!

©Sotsu/Sunrise