On the product page, almost every model shows one of three levels: easy, medium or challenging. The rating comes from the manufacturer. It helps you choose — especially if you are buying for someone else.
What the three levels mean in our range
Easy. Small to medium-sized models, from a few parts to just over 250, with build times of up to about four hours. Among them are many figures without a mechanism, such as the models to paint. Good for a first try, for short sessions and for building together with kids.
Medium. Models with around 180 to 450 parts, usually with mechanics: cranks, gears, a rubber-band motor. The build time ranges from an afternoon to several evenings. If you have built a model before or like to sit down and focus on one thing, this is the right level.
Challenging. This is where the large clocks, the marble runs and the big vehicles belong — models with spring drives, pendulums, escapements or many interlocking assemblies. The build time starts at about 5 hours and goes up to around 50 hours for the Millennium Falcon™.
How to tell the level before you buy
- On the product page, the level is shown right next to the number of parts and the build time.
- In the collections, it is shown on every product card, below the number of parts and build time.
- The mechanics are the best clue: the more that moves on the finished model, the more likely it is medium or challenging.
What the level does not tell you
Not how long it takes. Time and level are related, but not strictly. The X-wing Starfighter™ is rated medium and takes about 20 hours; the safe with combination lock has only 179 parts and is challenging. More in the article How long does a kit really take?
Not what age it is for. The manufacturer gives a separate figure for that, usually 14+. It tells you whether someone can manage on their own — built together, younger builders can start earlier.
Which level suits whom
- Never built one, want to try it: easy, or a small medium model.
- Interested in engineering, and patient: medium — and then straight on to the next.
- I want a project for several weeks: challenging. Doable even without experience if you take your time.
- Gift: choose by the person's interests and patience, not by price. A clock movement for someone who likes to tinker is a better gift than a big vehicle for someone who wants to be done in an hour.