Tamiya Lunch Box Update 9 - Decals & Chrome

Finally paint is done!!  I was at last able to get a coat of clear gloss enamel on in a layer I was happy with. Not too glossy, but enough to sparkle:

So I was able to start my favorite part, decals. This is the time in the build where I think the model really starts to come alive, and get its personality. 

I had to figure how to poke a hole in the lightning bolt for the rear body mounts and not destroy the decal. Slicing a small cross on the sticker was easy, but it wasn't until I looked at my paintbrush...it has a perfectly tapered handle to slide it in and ease the decal into the cut hole. 

Which gave me a nice, clean mounting hole:

Then I added all the chrome bits:

I have to say that taking the extra time to 'silver' the license plate holder was worth it. I think it adds a touch of class:

Same with the little divider in the front windows:

The only thing that really surprised me is how heavy this body is. I've read a lot of comments about it on several forums, but I wasn't prepared for the sheer mass if this beast. I may pick up the Parma Lexan body for running, and use this one as Lunch Money's display top. 

All in all, I am very happy with how it came out.

Now I can't wait for the milled aluminum body mounts.  I also need to figure out how to protect the body from the clips, as I noted during a test fit they had the potential to gouge the paint. We'll see.