Customized Mystery Model- "Eye Catcher"

[Nitromethane]

This customized mystery model was the very first custom build by my talented, late Brother Ted. It's from the late 50s or early 60s. The basis of the model is a complete mystery as it was not from either a kit or a promo model that I am aware of. The reason I say this is because it doesn't have a definitive chassis, oddly enough. (see last picture). All I remember about it is that a 1958 Buick grille was molded to the front (with plastic aluminum), a Corvette rear bumper added to the back with custom bullet taillights applied. The top was chopped, but the top might not have been the original top. The interior was totally integral to the body and not a separate piece or pieces. The painted-on coves were obviously done with a big nod to acknowledge the Corvettes' unique and iconic design. The model might have been some early Premier or Palmer model, but the complete lack of a chassis seems to negate this notion. To me "Eye Catcher" has sort of a vague Thunderbird look to it now. But what it was originally is still a mystery to me. What do you think the original mystery model was and/or who produced it? One thing is certain; it wasn't an AMT or SMP 3in1 kit car!

Thanks for looking....

 

[Tommergun]

Pretty cool piece of nostalgia right there.

 

[BarleyBop]

Looking through these pics I can't help but think Ted had an automotive vision you'd expect from an industrial designer!
Did he sketch ideas beforehand or was it all inspired improvisation?
Very much enjoying his creations; thanks for sharing them with us!

 

[Nitromethane]

It was all inspired improvisation! He would just have an idea for this or that and glue it up, then mold it in, sand and keep on going. Nothing was ever sketched or drawn out beforehand. Just "design" as you go on building it.