Vintage Airfix

The Complete Guide to Airfix Kits, Catalogues and History

Welcome to Vintage Airfix, a comprehensive reference site dedicated to Airfix kits, Airfix catalogues and the rich history of Britain’s most iconic plastic model manufacturer. Whether you are an Airfix collector, modeller, researcher or simply nostalgic for the golden age of plastic model kits, you’ll find a wealth of information covering nearly five decades of Airfix production.

Airfix Kit Database

The heart of the site is a detailed catalogue of every kit featured in Airfix catalogues from 1962 to 2010. Each product page includes information on catalogue and patent numbers, the year of first release and, where known, the artist responsible for the original box artwork.

This growing database has been created to help collectors identify kits, trace their history and learn more about the development of the Airfix range through the years.

The History of Airfix

Founded in 1952, Airfix is the oldest plastic model kit manufacturer in the United Kingdom and remains one of the most recognised names in the hobby. The brand became so influential that many people still refer to any plastic model kit as “an Airfix”, regardless of who produced it.

Today, Airfix continues under the ownership of Hornby Hobbies Ltd, building on a heritage that has inspired generations of modellers and collectors.

Airfix Catalogues 1962-2010

Our extensive collection of Airfix catalogues from 1962 to 2010 provides a fascinating record of how the range evolved over time. From classic aircraft, ships, military vehicles and railway models to some of the most sought-after vintage releases, these catalogues offer a unique insight into the history of Airfix and the development of plastic modelling in Britain.

Whether you are researching a particular kit, identifying a vintage release or exploring how the Airfix range changed through the decades, the catalogues provide an invaluable reference resource.

Airfix Box Art and Artists

Airfix box artwork is among the most recognisable in the modelling world and has played a significant role in the success of the brand. Vintage Airfix includes information on the artists responsible for many of these iconic illustrations, together with guides to the changing styles of Airfix packaging through the years.

These articles celebrate the artwork that inspired countless modellers to pick up their first kit and helped define the visual identity of Airfix.

Airfix Instruction Sheets

The site includes a growing library of downloadable Airfix instruction sheets available free of charge. These resources can help collectors complete vintage kits, verify kit contents or research older releases.

Our aim is to preserve and make accessible as much Airfix reference material as possible for the benefit of the modelling community.

Reviews and Resources for Collectors

Vintage Airfix also features reviews of books relevant to Airfix collectors, plastic modellers and hobby researchers. These reviews highlight publications covering Airfix history, modelling techniques, military subjects and other topics of interest to enthusiasts.

For Airfix Enthusiasts and Collectors

Whether you are researching a specific Airfix kit, identifying a vintage release, exploring classic Airfix box artwork or simply enjoying a trip down memory lane, Vintage Airfix aims to be one of the most complete online resources for Airfix enthusiasts and collectors.