US Hobbies/KTM never imported 'assembled' brass models for one very important and compelling reason - IMPORT TAXES! As I recall brass models imported partially assembled in the 1960's and 1970's were taxed at a lower rate than completed models and the various importers took full advantage of this tax loophole. I have owned several of these fine brass models and can't recall ever seeing one completely assembled in the orginial packaging box. I can say with a little bit of fiddling they are excellent runners and extremely durable compared with some of the more recent brass engines being imported today.
For the most part these models don't have the level of 'detail' we've come to expect on more recent brass imports but they are without question an absolute bargain in todays overpriced marketplace. Both the printed instruction sheet and parts bag are essential to complete these models as envisioned by the importer but a good model craftsman can work around any missing parts with a little patience and creativity.
