Star Alliance Boeing 737-800 (1:200)

Here you will find questions an answers about the Wings900 Model Authentication program and how it has been set up.

1. What is the Wings900 Model Authentication Program? - This program is designed to ensure that collectors are receiving authentic limited release models from manufacturers and retailers. There are many ways to forge limited release numbers on model ID cards, and boxes. With this program you can be confident that the model in your hands is authentic.
2. How does this work? - Wings900 will provide two holographic stickers to Manufacturers to include with any limited edition or special model release.
   
3. How do two labels with a serial number ensure authenticity? Only the Wings900 database has the association between serial number and model. Each unique serial number is assigned a model number in the edition size. From this information there is no way that a model can be fraudulent in the collection as each model in the program has a unique serial number and only the Wings900 system can determine which models are authentic. Additionally a label from one model can not be affixed to another model of a different type; this will show up as a discrepancy when the user goes to authenticate the model.
   - Manufacturers participating in this program contact Wings900 before a release and request labels. Wings900 records the set of serial numbers assigned and sends the associated labels to the manufacturer so that they can be affixed to the model.
4. How do I determine if my model is authentic? - You can check your serial number authenticity at http://www.wings900.com/authenticate - After entering your number you will be informed if the model is authentic, and be presented with the the manufacturer/make/airline and Wings900 database ID#. Additionally the model # and the edition size, the option to register the model in your name, print a certificate of authenticity, and an option to add the model to your collection are presented.
5. How many models in a release are under this program? - This is entirely up to the manufacturer of the model. Some may choose to include labels with every model made [up to a maximum of 250 per release], others may choose to only affix labels to a subset. There are no minimums, so theoretically a manufacturer could create a edition size of one (1) and randomly place a single special model in cartons. This gives manufacturers exciting possibilities of creating special limited releases amongst regular release. Samples, registration/color/livery differences and even gold/silver plated models could receive the labels. The possibilities are endless!
6. What is the limit on serial numbers per release? - There is a maximum of 250 models per release. If a model release has more than 250 models then only those first 250 will be considered authentic limited releases.
7. How will the models with authentication labels be distributed? -This is entirely up to the manufacturer to determine. Some manufacturers may wish to distribute the models as special releases; possibly with a different aircraft registration. Others may treat them as a subset of a larger release and the models may be randomly added to the cartons sent to retailers; obtaining a limited release would then be based on random distribution similar to the Willy Wonka Golden Ticket.
8. What Does the Wings900 Holographic Sticker look like? - Starting in Fall 2008 the holographic authentication sticker was produced in two sizes and shapes as depicted below. The labels have a holographic background with the Wings900 logo printed on a 45 degree angle in grey. The serial number and other text on the sticker are printed in black.
   
9. Why are there two stickers? - The circle label is to be affixed to the model itself, the box or a limited release card. The larger rectangular label is to be included with the model so that it can be affixed to the certificate of authenticity.
10. What is the model # of edition size? - The model # is the specific number in the edition size. For example if you had Model #79 of 100 that means that 100 models were produced and you have the 79th one. Generally collectors pay extra for low or high model numbers.
11. What does it mean to register the model? - Registering the model associates your Wings900 User ID with the specific serial number. From that point forward no one will be able to register that serial number/model.
12. Can a model be registered to more than one person? - No, registration is allowed to only one individual.
13. I've tried to register my model but it says the serial number is already registered. What is wrong? - The model could have been registered previously. To verify that you are the rightful owner of the model a photo of the serial number stickers should be submitted to Wings900.
14. Can a model be unregistered? - Unregistered a model can only be performed by Wings900 staff. Allowing anyone to freely register and unregistered could potentially create issues with fraud.
15. How can model registration be changed to another party? - This can only be done in writing from both parties to the Wings900 staff. The sending party must submit a request with the serial number, recipient's name, email. Wings900 will verify with the recipient and process the change upon confirmation.
16. What is the Certificate of Authenticity? - The certificate of authenticity gives you printed proof that your model is authentic. Additionally your large holographic sticker is attached to further authenticate and limit fraud.
    
17. How many times can I print my Certificate of Authenticity - Your certificate can only be presented to you for downloaded during the time of registration; from here you may save the PDF file to your computer and print a copy.
    
18. Couldn't someone print multiple certificates of Authenticity and claim the model is authentic? - A certificate shall not be considered valid if the holographic sticker is not attached. The number on the holographic sticker MUST match the number printed on the certificate.
19. What models are covered under this program? - The Authenticate Page will have a link to display a list of all models covered under this program.
20. What manufacturers have signed up? - Manufacturer Names will be released in November and December 2008.