The Mechanical Aquarium from Ugears is an ingenious saltwater fishbowl, with
two pet tropical fish chasing each other around a forest of macroalgae fronds,
inside of which hides another small inhabitant of the marine environment—a
seahorse! The beauty, variety and intrigue of saltwater fish-keeping makes it
one of the world's most popular hobbies. Perhaps you are a snorkeling or diving
enthusiast, and would like to be reminded of underwater adventures when you've
dived a colorful reef or explored a kelp forest. Building Ugears' charming and
unique wooden models, brain teasers and 3D puzzles has become a popular hobby
for thousands of people in 85 countries across five continents. Now you can
combine these hobbies in a single model!
Not only is this DIY aquarium
model kit, with its original theme and design, a fine addition to the Ugears
catalogue, but it also features a unique mechanical action. The fish and algae
rotate simultaneously and in parallel, at different speeds and in different
directions, simulating the smooth, undulating rhythms of underwater plant and
animal life. The elegant fish look like they are really swimming as they move
their heads and tails side-to-side. The Mechanical Aquarium model is unique in
that while many Ugears models are propelled by rubber band motors, the Aquarium
is driven by a spring, for longer action and greater longevity. At Ugears we
pride ourselves on innovating, and on listening to our loyal customers, many of
whom have been asking for models with spring-loaded mechanisms. We are proud to
bring you this spring-action aquarium—a first in our growing catalogue of Ugears
models!
To set the model in motion, wind the knob under the aquarium with
about 25 half-turns, flip the switch from "STOP" to "SWIM" mode, then watch as
your Mechanical Aquarium comes to life! The mechanism contains an internal
pendulum to regulate and smooth the movement. We have designed this model to be
the very definition of operational simplicity for users: one switch, two modes:
on and off. You can stop the model at any time, or just let it go and enjoy the
movements of the automaton fish and fronds for about 40 seconds.
At
Ugears we strive for gorgeous design with surprising mechanical action, to charm
and delight our customers. We think you will agree we have achieved that with
this beautiful Mechanical Aquarium. With Ugears there's always that extra touch
of whimsy, embodied in this model by the hidden seahorse at the center. Part of
our core mission is to bring people together, especially across generations, as
they build and play with our unique mechanical marvels. Make the Mechanical
Aquarium your next family project!
The Mechanical Aquarium has 325
pieces, is rated "Medium" level, and has an estimated assembly time of 6 hours.
As you build the wooden aquarium, you will learn about the action and interplay
of drive gears and driven gears in gear sets, the function of pendulums, and
about spring-action mechanisms. You will experience the satisfaction of building
something beautiful with your own hands, without need of glue or special tools.
Everything you need for this fun DIY project comes right in the box: high
quality plywood boards with precision laser-cut pieces that you snap out then
snap together, the metal spring that powers the mechanism, and of course a set
of detailed, illustrated instructions in 11 languages.
Looking for a
unique gift idea for a friend or family member? Maybe someone you know is a
saltwater aquarium enthusiast, a model building hobbyist, or simply someone who
enjoys working with their hands. Maybe you're the hobbyist looking to share with
friends and family the joy you find in saltwater aquariums, snorkeling or
diving, or building 3D puzzles. Perhaps there are some children in your life who
would be delighted to wind up this model and set the fish spinning around their
bowl again and again. The Mechanical Aquarium is certain to charm, and makes a
thoughtful gift for birthdays, holidays, any occasion or no occasion. Give it as
a DIY kit wrapped up in its handsome box, or build it yourself and present the
finished Mechanical Aquarium as a personal gift in which you have invested your
time and care. Either way, the wooden Mechanical Aquarium will be a cherished
gift, and a delightful addition to any home or office.
Model size:
9.3*9.3*7.9 in (23.5*23.5*20 cm) Package size: 14.9*6.7*1.3 in (37.8*17*3.4
cm) Number of components: 325 Estimated time for assembly: 6 hours
;)