The HASEGAWA company, for which we have been the distributor for France since 1994, is considered the leader in aircraft model kits across all scales by model enthusiasts worldwide.
The Fascinating History of HASEGAWA: The Japanese Plastic Model Brand That Redefined Precision and Passion in the Modeling World.
Since its humble beginnings in 1942 in Shizuoka, Japan, HASEGAWA has risen to become an icon in the realm of plastic modeling. With unwavering determination and a...
The HASEGAWA company, for which we have been the distributor for France since 1994, is considered the leader in aircraft model kits across all scales by model enthusiasts worldwide.
The Fascinating History of HASEGAWA: The Japanese Plastic Model Brand That Redefined Precision and Passion in the Modeling World.
Since its humble beginnings in 1942 in Shizuoka, Japan, HASEGAWA has risen to become an icon in the realm of plastic modeling. With unwavering determination and a passion for meticulous craftsmanship, the company has left an indelible mark in the field. Explore how HASEGAWA has evolved over the decades to become a benchmark in the world of plastic scale models, including airplanes, boats, cars, motorcycles, figures, and military vehicles.
Roots of Excellence (1942-1949)
Under the visionary leadership of Suguro Hasegawa, HASEGAWA emerged in 1942 as "Hasegawa Shoten." The company embarked on its journey by crafting lightweight rubber-powered airplane models and objects from cypress wood. Following World War II, a significant turning point occurred in 1946 with the creation of a wooden jeep model, which rapidly became an emblematic best-seller, paving the way for growing recognition.
The Art of Wooden Models (1949-1959)
The subsequent years witnessed the ascendancy of HASEGAWA. In 1949, the brand initiated the production of wooden models, with a particular emphasis on boat models. This period of creativity laid the foundation for what would later be known as the "Hasegawa of boat models." To accommodate continuous expansion, HASEGAWA Seisakusho Co. Ltd. was established in 1953, with Suguro Hasegawa at the helm.
Venturing Into New Horizons (1961-1970)
The 1960s marked a major transformation for HASEGAWA. In 1961, the brand made its foray into the world of plastic models by introducing its first glider model for the "Primary" series. This period also witnessed the introduction of the 1/450 scale warship series, highlighted by the inaugural model "Yamato." In 1966, HASEGAWA revolutionized the modeling world with the introduction of the 1/72 scale aircraft model series, featuring the "F-4 Phantom II," laying the groundwork for its reputation in aircraft model manufacturing.
Continuing Evolution (1970-1988)
Despite Suguro Hasegawa's passing in 1969, HASEGAWA continued its journey under the leadership of his son, Katsushige Hasegawa. The company maintained its innovative spirit, including the introduction of 1/32 scale aircraft models in 1970, marking the inception of the production of larger aircraft models. Fruitful collaborations with other manufacturers also emerged, including the 1/700 scale Water Line series in 1971, crafted in partnership with Hasegawa, Tamiya, Fujimi, and Aoshima.
Diversification and International Recognition (1981-1992)
The 1980s witnessed HASEGAWA expanding its offerings with the introduction of new series, such as the 1/8 scale wooden Museum Model and the "Aircraft in Action" series. Diversification continued with the manufacturing of car models, initiated in 1986 with the "1/24 World Famous Car" series. International recognition also came to fruition, with the representation of Monogram Models Inc. and Dragon Models Ltd.
A Bright Future (1992 and Beyond)
As HASEGAWA celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1992, the company inaugurated a new chapter by completing the construction of a new building. This commitment to expansion and quality solidified HASEGAWA's position as a cornerstone in the plastic modeling industry.
Since 1992, when our company SCIENTIFIC MHD took over distribution in France, HASEGAWA has continued to expand its catalog, now including motorcycles at different scales and figures.
Today, the brand continues to thrive by inspiring enthusiasts worldwide with its meticulously crafted creations.
As of 2020, HASEGAWA Seisakusho Co. is led by Masato HASEGAWA, the third generation of the family.
The story of HASEGAWA is an odyssey of passion, precision, and innovation. From its modest origins as a manufacturer of rubber-powered airplane models to its current status as a leader in the plastic modeling industry, HASEGAWA has traversed an extraordinary path.
The company embodies the Japanese spirit of continuous improvement, creativity, and perseverance.
Through the decades, HASEGAWA has carved a lasting legacy and captured the hearts of model enthusiasts around the world.
