The HGUC RX-78GP01 Gundam "Zephyranthes" model kit is a scale representation of the prototype Mobile Suit from the animated series Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory. This model, designed by Shoji Kawamori, was originally released as part of the High Grade Universal Century line in 2000, establishing itself as one of the foundational and most iconic products in the collection.
Product Information
- Release Date: December 2000
- Scale: 1/144
- Series: Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory
- Line: High Grade Universal Century
- Product Type: Regular Retail
Key Features
The kit includes a Core Fighter II figure designed solely for separate display; it cannot transform or dock with the Gundam's torso, a feature reserved for higher-grade models. Once assembled, the final model is a fully articulated figure. Reflecting the engineering limitations of its time, the kit uses single-joint polycaps, which restricts its range of motion. The connection between the Core Block and the torso can be fragile, and the beam saber joints on the backpack tend to be weak; some modelers choose to secure them with glue for added stability.
Kit Contents
- Parts to build the RX-78GP01 Gundam "Zephyranthes"
- One Beam Rifle
- One Shield
- Two unpainted Beam Sabers
- Two backpack-mounted Beam Saber handles
- One 90mm Bullpup Machine Gun
- One Core Fighter II (for display only)
- Stickers and dry-transfer decals
The assembly process is simple and quick, making it ideal for beginner builders. Its straightforward design and low parts count provide an excellent and affordable base for practicing customization techniques like panel lining or painting.
This Mobile Suit has a direct variant, the HGUC #18 RX-78GP01-Fb Gundam Full Burnern, which features the unit in its full space mobility configuration. The design has also been revisited in the Real Grade (RG) line, which incorporates a pre-molded inner frame for superior articulation and detail. Notably, a special collaboration with the rock band Linkin Park resulted in an edition of the HGUC RX-78GP01-Fb with colors and decals inspired by their album cover for A Thousand Suns.
As a foundational kit in the HGUC line, the Zephyranthes holds a special place for many collectors. What are your thoughts on this classic model? Let us know in the comments below!
Where to Buy
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Sources
- Mecha Warehouse. "HGUC #013 RX-78 GP01 Zephyranthes" (Accessed August 25, 2025)
- GundamPros. "HGUC #013 RX-78 GP01 Gundam Zephyranthes" (Accessed August 25, 2025)
- Newtype. "Bandai HGUC 013 RX-78P01 Gundam GP01 Zephyrantes" (Accessed August 25, 2025)
- GameFAQs. "P-Bandai America is open!" (Accessed August 25, 2025)
- GundamPros. "RG #12 RX-78GP01 Gundam GP01 Zephyranthes" (Accessed August 25, 2025)
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