The Unsung Heroes: R2-D2 Builders Club

Yes, everyone loves the 501st Legion. But what about the R2-D2 Builders Club? Have you heard of them?

I didn't until I went to WonderCon 2012 last weekend. On Sunday, the crowds died down and fans took their time exploring the booths and presentations of artists, geek clubs, and most noticeably, the R2-D2 Builders Club, tucked towards the back.

The club was founded in 1999 by Dave Everett and is an internet fan based club with over 5000 members worldwide.

I met some of the builders, including David Annetta, who briefly showed me some of the detailed manuals to build different kinds of droids.

It was so interesting, I was actually considering (and only for three seconds) of building one myself. However, after discovering answers to the following basic questions, I had to reconsider.

How much does it cost? 

Hmmm, it depends. One of the other builders mentioned his was $1500. David couldn't recall, but said that it can be as much as $40K.

What is it made out of?

Generally, wood, plastic, metal, and fiberglass.

How long will it take?

David said he is halfway done with his droid and it has been 3 years. Another builder mentioned that he finished his in 3 years.

I would so love to find time and build one of these bad boys for RC fun at fan conventions. 

The builders at WonderCon comprised of engineers, an electrician, an architect, IT, etc.  It made sense, right?

I have complete admiration and respect for these builders. The displayed droids had all the bells and whistles. In fact, I also saw several RC controlled droids roaming around the convention.

Over the years, the club has gathered information from Star Wars exhibits, photos, and actual screen used props to produce blueprints in order to build their droids. 

I find this amazingly, geeky hot. Or is it just me? :)

For more details and information about the club, please visit www.astromech.net


This post was written by:
Betty Geek