Nguyen Duy Son Khe, a 22-year-old model vehicle enthusiast from Ho Chi Minh City, has captured attention in the collector community with his impressive collection of over 1,000 models from renowned brands.

Most recently, he unveiled two stunning handmade miniature Honda SH 350i models that are virtually indistinguishable from the real motorcycles.

Born in 2002, Son Khe developed a passion for model vehicles during his student years and quickly amassed a vast collection. Beyond collecting, his craftsmanship and creativity led him to design unique models ranging from motorcycles and sports cars to airplanes.

His latest creations, a black and a white Honda SH 350i, have garnered widespread admiration. Despite their ultra-small size - each under 20 cm long - they replicate the iconic scooter's real-life details with incredible precision.

Son Khe began conceptualizing the Honda SH 350i models earlier this year but only started building them in November. Completing both models took approximately three weeks.

“I’ve mostly focused on crafting classic Honda motorcycles such as the Honda 67, Cub, and Dream II, which hold nostalgic value for many Vietnamese. However, this is my first time creating a modern model. The SH 350i, a symbol of contemporary style, is a personal favorite,” Khe shared.

He started by sketching the designs and then fabricating the frames, tires, seats, and dozens of other minute components. Key to his success was the use of a 3D printer, which allowed him to produce even the tiniest parts with high precision, provided he had an accurate digital design.

“The main material is resin. The 3D printer generates raw components from computer-designed files. Once the raw parts are refined, the painting and assembly process begins. Digital technology ensures high accuracy, and precise programming eliminates mismatched parts during assembly,” Khe explained.

The most challenging and time-consuming stage was painting and finishing, as these details determine the model’s authenticity. To faithfully replicate the original SH 350i, Khe mixed custom black and white paints to capture the scooter’s signature colors.

“Each detail, such as the rims, brakes, lights, tires, exhaust, suspension, license plates, handles, and fuel caps, required meticulous shaping and painting to resemble the original model,” Khe said.

The black model features gold suspension and a custom metal exhaust, while the white model retains a more classic look with black wheels and a standard exhaust.

Khe expressed satisfaction with the outcome, saying, “I’m very pleased with these SH 350i models. Their quality motivates me to tackle more modern motorcycle designs in the future.”

Handmade model vehicles like Khe’s typically sell for prices ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of dong, depending on their craftsmanship and uniqueness. The craft offers a promising career path for young enthusiasts who are passionate about creating detailed replicas.

“The value of a model depends on its material, size, condition, and rarity. True collectors are willing to pay any price for a piece they love,” Khe noted.

A graduate of Hoa Sen University, Son Khe is determined to turn his passion for model vehicles into a thriving business. His dedication and artistry have positioned him as a rising star in Vietnam’s model-making community.

Hoang Hiep