FIRST DUE FIREHOUSE REPLICAS

Model Fire Engines © 2017-2023 Andrew Benzie. All rights reserved.

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First Due Firehouse Replicas
Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Q)How do First Due Firehouse Replicas compare to Code 3 firehouses?

  2. A)Our goal is to make our series of models display seamlessly when placed on a shelf next to a Code 3 firehouse. The main difference between the two is Code 3 firehouses were cast out of resin, while our models are constructed from foam-core board containing photo-realistic images.


  1. Q)Is there any assembly required? Are your models sold as a kit?

  2. A)No. Each First Due Fire Replica is sold as a finished product. Most of our models require the (simple) installation of a flagpole—instructions are included.


Q) Do the apparatus bay doors work?

  1. A)Yes. We created a unique system which allows the bay doors to easily slide up and down and will remain in any position you like (up, down, halfway up, etc.).


Q) Do the firehouses come attached to a base?

  1. A)Yes. Each replica is mounted to a thin black baseboard which includes a two inch apron in front. Each First Due Firehouse Replica is designed to be displayed together as part of a series, so this will be consistent with all the models we produce. We do not include raised curbs inside the bay (like Code 3 models) as we find them limiting and unrealistic.


Q) Are interior details modeled?

  1. A)Unless otherwise noted, no. Each of our firehouse replica’s roofs are removable, so the addition of interior details is easy to accomplish if desired.


Q) Does each firehouse come with an information booklet?

  1. A)Yes. Similar to Code 3 firehouse releases, each of our models includes a printed fact sheet booklet detailing the history and apparatus quartered at the firehouse.


Q) How many editions will you release of each firehouse?

  1. A)Since each model we produce takes around eight hours to assemble by hand, our releases will be on a very limited basis.


Q) Why are some models more expensive than others?

  1. A)Each model has a fixed materials and printing expense (starting at about $50 each)—in general, the larger the model, the more the cost to produce. In addition, some models we replicate include intricate detailed parts (such as the railing on top of the Fire Factory) which take additional time to create by hand. Our models typically take about eight hours each to construct, not including the many hours of preparatory research and design time spent to create each model.


  1. Q)How do you decide which firehouses to replicate?

  2. A)Each firehouse we create is deigned to house one or more existing Code 3 model. We perform significant research before a firehouse is chosen—some factors we consider are: interest of architectural design, the history of the building and companies housed there, availability of the apparatus models, and what firehouses we feel would be popular with collectors. We also have a goal to produce a variety of styles, from century-old gothic to new-age modern, from single company houses to department headquarters. We are always open to your suggestions, please let us know your thoughts. 


  1. Q)How do I purchase models of the apparatus that go with each firehouse?

  2. A)Some of the more rare models housed at the firehouses we produce are quite hard to find, however most are readily available on eBay and other auction sites. You can also contact us for a list of vendors we trust and recommend. For units quartered at our firehouse models which have not been replicated by Code 3, we include a printed sheet of unit numbers to assist in converting existing models.


  1. Q)Have you considered making 1:50 or other scale models?

  2. A)Yes. Please let us know if you are interested. If there is enough demand we would consider it.


Q) How do you ship the models?

  1. A)We offer UPS shipping to the lower 48 United States. Each model is hand-packed within two sturdy boxes to securely protect the item during transit.


  1. Q)How much is shipping?

  2. A)We always double-box (with padding in between) our models to ensure safe delivery. Shipping cost to the lower 48 United States is typically between $69 and $89. Please contact us for exact shipping costs to your location.


Q) What’s included in my purchase?

  1. A)Each firehouse purchase includes the hand-crafted replica itself along with a removable flag/flagpole, a printed fact sheet booklet detailing the history and apparatus quartered at the firehouse, a coupon towards the purchase of a future product, and (if applicable) a poster-printed sheet of apparatus numbers you can cut out and use to re-number existing models into units quartered in the firehouse.


  1. Q)How long does it take to receive my firehouse?

  2. A)Each model we produce is custom-made by hand. Once you place your order we will contact you with an estimated timeframe, usually 3 to 6 weeks. You can always contact us with any questions you may have.


  1. Q)Can I return the model if I am not satisfied?

  2. A)As each firehouse is custom-built according to your order, we do not offer returns on our models. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have prior to placing your order.


  1. Q)What if the model arrives damaged? What do I do if something breaks?

  2. A)Feel free to contact us, we will work with you to resolve any issue you may have, including sending replacement parts. We take pride in having satisfied customers.

About Us     Firehouse Replicas     Custom Models     Fleet Services     FAQ     Contact/Order

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About Us     Firehouse Replicas     Custom Models     Fleet Services     FAQ     Contact/Order

About the Owner/Designer/Builder/Author

Andrew Benzie began collecting model emergency vehicles in the 1970s when his grandparents gave him his first Corgi and Dinky toy fire engines. He has an extensive collection and knowledge of Code 3 models, and has published three books on Conrad, Siku, and Tomica emergency vehicles. Andrew currently lives in the San Francisco Bay Area where he runs a design and book publishing company, and plays bass and drums with several local bands.

  1. Q)What inspired you to build a series of model firehouses?

  2. A)As the proud owner of an extensive collection of Code 3 fire apparatus models (including their companion series of firehouse replicas), we wanted to expand our display capabilities… so we created a series of 1:64 scale firehouse replicas in order to accurately house the models in our collection. We are happy to offer a limited number of these hand-made replicas for sale to fellow collectors.
    Firehouse models make a great way to display a collection, and the buildings we replicate share a rich and often fascinating history with the companies that call them home. As designers, we really enjoy the creative process, and working to replicate these beautiful and historically-significant buildings is truly an honor.