SANTA CLARITA, Calif. — FineMolds has begun shipping its new 1/72 “IJN A6M5 Carrier Fighter ZERO Model 52 (Mitsubishi, Mid Prod.)” (product code FR02) in Japan today, October 10 (JST), with retail arrival in Japan expected from October 14 onward. The kit lists at ¥2,860 tax-in and includes four historical decal options.
Why it matters (U.S. angle): A fresh-tool 1/72 Zero from FineMolds is an easy pickup item for U.S. retailers—price point friendly, high-volume subject, and timed to stock up for the holiday window if import lead times hold. Expect U.S. distributor solicitations shortly; typical international fulfillment places stateside shelf arrival roughly 4–8 weeks after JP ship date, depending on the lane.
FineMolds’ product page confirms the ship notice and highlights color-separated runners and four marking choices (381st AG ×2, 204th AG Rabaul, and 253rd AG ace Tetsuzō Iwamoto). The page also lists the JAN code (4536318715023).
Factory sample build highlighting surface detail and color separation.
Four marking options: 381st AG ×2, 204th AG, and 253rd AG (Iwamoto).
A companion brass detail-up set (AA54 “1/72 20mm barrels & pitot tube for Zero”) and plastic “Nano Aviation” seatbelts are showcased as recommended add-ons for the FR02 release. These are optional aftermarket from FineMolds intended to sharpen leading-edge details and cockpit presentation.
Starboard profile with centerline tank fitted.
Japanese enthusiast press flagged the ship timing at midnight (JST) as well, mirroring FineMolds’ announcement cadence for today’s batch.
Port profile emphasizes cowl shape and wing root fairing.
Retailer angle (Artrovo Gundam): We’ll monitor U.S. distributor feeds (Bluefin/BNTCA does not carry FineMolds aircraft; look to import-friendly wholesalers).
What’s next: Watch for U.S. distributor listings and initial ETA windows.
Release Table
| Manufacturer | Line/Grade | Scale | Product Name | MSRP (currency) | Release/PO Window | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FineMolds | Aircraft (plastic model kit) | 1/72 | IJN A6M5 Zero Fighter Model 52 (Mitsubishi, Mid Production) [FR02] | ¥2,860 (tax incl.) | Ships Oct 10, 2025 (JST); JP retail arrival from Oct 14 | JAN 4536318715023; 4 marking options; color-molded runners |
Fact Box
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TODAY_PST: October 10, 2025
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TODAY_JST: October 11, 2025
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SKU: FR02
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JAN: 4536318715023
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JP Ship Notice: Oct 10, 2025 (JST); in-store JP arrivals from Oct 14 (JST)
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U.S. Takeaway: Watch for importer/distributor solicitations within ~1–2 weeks; aim to land before Thanksgiving if possible.
Sources
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FineMolds — Product page: “1/72 零式艦上戦闘機 五二型（三菱製・中期型）” (FR02). finemolds.co.jp
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Hobby Watch (Impress): “ファインモールド…本日出荷開始！” (confirms Oct 10 ship). HOBBY Watch
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FineMolds official X post noting today’s shipment (JST). X (formerly Twitter)
