Trimaster

Lore & Background

Trimaster operated from 1987 to 1991 in Fujieda City, Japan, producing scale models exclusively of Luftwaffe aircraft in 1:48 scale. The company focused on rare variants and prototypes, such as the Focke-Wulf Ta 152H-1 and the Messerschmitt Me 262A-1a/U4 with a 50mm cannon. Their kits were noted for exceptional detail and complexity, incorporating white metal castings, metal tubes, wires, vinyl tires, and photo-etched parts. The high level of craftsmanship came at a steep price—US$55 at the time—which contributed to the company’s closure.

After Trimaster ceased operations, Hong Kong–based Dragon acquired the molds and reissued the kits in a simpler, more affordable format, replacing most metal components with plastic. Dragon’s 'Master Series' lettering resembles the original Trimaster logo font. In March 2020, Dragon announced its Trimaster Collection, reissuing the kits in the original box design to commemorate Trimaster’s significance and historical contributions.

Reader's Guide

Trimaster’s significance lies in its uncompromising approach to detail and its focus on obscure Luftwaffe prototypes and variants that were largely ignored by other manufacturers. The kits set a benchmark for complexity in the 1:48 scale, with white metal castings, metal tubes, wires, vinyl tires, and photo-etched parts that were unusual for the era. However, the high price point of US$55 limited their market and ultimately contributed to the company’s closure after only four years of operation. The legacy of Trimaster was preserved when Dragon acquired the molds and reissued the kits in a simplified plastic format, making them more accessible. In March 2020, Dragon revived the original box art and branding with the Trimaster Collection, acknowledging the historical importance of the original company. The product line included 16 main kits (MA-1 through MA-16) covering Focke-Wulf Fw 190 variants, Heinkel He 162s, Ta 152s, Messerschmitt Me 262s, and Me 163s, plus a resin conversion set for the Ta 152C-0. Trimaster remains a notable example of a short-lived but influential manufacturer that prioritized detail and rarity over mass-market appeal.

Did You Know?

• Trimaster was based in Fujieda City, Japan, and operated from 1987 to 1991.
• The company specialized exclusively in Luftwaffe aircraft in 1:48 scale, focusing on rare variants and prototypes.
• Dragon acquired Trimaster’s molds and reissued the kits in a simpler plastic format; in March 2020, Dragon launched the Trimaster Collection with original box design.