Revell Model Kit - Ringo Starr
Most Beatles memorabilia and merchandise was designed for young female fans.
Revell produced four kits, one for each Beatle. They were “precision-molded plastic—easy to assemble.” The labeling on the kits read, “©1964 by Revell Industries, 4220 Glencoe Avenue, Venice, California, U.S.A., manufactured in U.S.A., Litho in U.S.A.,” and included another disclaimer: “Licensed by NEMS Enterprises, London.”
The models were made of white plastic and were designed to be painted. The British version featured brighter colors on the boxes and used the British spelling of “moulded” on the packaging. When the models were first released, it is said—though this has not been verified—that only the John and George kits were released on the British market, while those of Paul and Ringo were available only in the United States.
The British versions were marked “Revell (G.B.) Ltd.” and did not include the U.S. price code next to the model number.
Each box measured 9“ x 6” x 2“ and featured vibrant color artwork designed by artist Donald ”Putt" Putman. Once completed, the model officially measured 2'½2“ x 6” x 9“. The description stated that each figure was 9” tall—except for Ringo, whose model measured 7" when completed. Inside the model boxes were individual plastic bags containing assembly instructions.
A written description of each Beatle was printed on the outside of the box.
For example, John’s description read: “Features… This beautifully detailed reproduction of John Lennon with guitar stands a full 9" high. Each feature is so lifelike that it is a ‘must’ for every teenager’s room. A few simple pieces.... a few dabs of paint... and John will be your very own.' There was a slight variation in the name and instrument on the other individual boxes.
John’s model box was labeled “Kookiest Of Them All” (model H-1352: 150).
Paul was labeled “The Great McCartney” (model H-1350:150).
George was labeled “Lead Guitar—Loud and Strong” (model H-1353: 150).
Ringo was labeled “Wildest Skins In Town” (model H-1351:150).
A brief biography of each Beatle was also printed on the side of the box:
“John... the most ‘way-out’; he writes many of the Beatles’ songs with Paul McCartney. It was John’s inspiration that started the group, and today he is considered to be the leader of the Beatles.”
“Paul... an irrepressible, good-humored member of the McCartney clan, he is loved by thousands as the zaniest Beatle. His black hair and hazel eyes have won as many hearts as his left-handed strumming of the bass guitar. Not only does he possess a sharp tongue and a wild imagination, he is also regarded as the best-looking Beatle.”
“George... the youngest of the Beatles, plays lead guitar for the group. He has always championed ‘freedom of expression’ and once considered becoming an artist. Off stage, he is quiet and sensitive... but on stage, he comes on loud and strong!”
“Ringo... is the pulsing, throbbing creator of the Beatles’ myth. Best known for his rugged features and jeweled fingers, his beat has brought ecstasy to fans all over the world. The pounding crescendo of his drums has made ‘Ringo’ a name to remember... everywhere.”
On the sides of the boxes for the “Paul” and “Ringo” models, Revell mistakenly labeled George’s face as “John” and John’s as “George.” The text read “Get Them ALL… For Your Very Own” along with “@NEMS Enterprises Ltd. London, England!”