AMT Scale Models

AMT (Aluminum Model Toys) is an American company that specializes in producing plastic scale model kits. The company was founded in 1948 by Jerry and Jack Rosenstein, two brothers who were inspired by the popularity of scale models after World War II.

AMT's early years were focused on producing automotive model kits, particularly hot rods and custom cars. These kits quickly gained a reputation for their quality and accuracy, and they became popular among hobbyists and collectors.

In the 1960s, AMT began to expand its product line, offering a wider range of model kits, including spacecraft, military vehicles, and TV and movie tie-ins. The company's Star Trek model kits, in particular, gained a cult following among fans of the show.

In the 1970s and 1980s, AMT faced increasing competition from other model kit manufacturers, and the company struggled to remain profitable. In 1982, AMT was acquired by Ertl, another model kit manufacturer, and the two companies merged to form AMT/Ertl.

Under Ertl's ownership, AMT/Ertl continued to produce model kits, but the company's focus shifted more towards licensed tie-ins, such as NASCAR, Disney, and Star Wars. The company also began to produce snap-together model kits that were easier to assemble, in response to changing market demands.

In the 1990s and 2000s, AMT/Ertl faced financial difficulties and went through several ownership changes. The company's focus returned to its roots in automotive model kits, and it began to produce reissues of its classic kits, as well as new kits based on modern cars.

Today, AMT is owned by Round 2 LLC, a company that specializes in acquiring and reissuing classic model kits. AMT continues to produce a wide range of model kits, including cars, trucks, spacecraft, and TV and movie tie-ins. With a long history of producing high-quality and accurate models, AMT remains a popular choice among hobbyists and collectors.