UGears Globe

This mechanical model of the Earth is the ideal gift for anyone who loves puzzles and travel. This model features a wooden globe on a platform which conceals a rubber-band motor. Thanks to the motor, you can wind up your 3D Globe puzzle by moving a lever and let it go to watch the globe spin around. As the Earth moves, don't just look at the rotating continents; observe the gears sliding past each other as the motor runs.

If you've never constructed a model before, don't worry. The directions are straightforward enough that anyone over 14 should be able to complete the Globe. Still, assembling more than 180 parts into a globe should keep you busy for a few afternoons. When you open your UGears Globe for the first time, start by punching out the pieces from their boards. They should pop out immediately, but if you're having trouble, use a knife or another sharp object. To avoid bending the pieces, push on the edges, not the center. Bent, ripped, or furrowed pieces are more likely to get stuck, so if you break a piece, contact customer service for a replacement. Once all the pieces are ready, it's time to gather your materials and put them together. You shouldn't need anything besides what comes in your package, which includes toothpicks for your axes and rubber bands for your motor. However, if you're worried about gears sticking, rub candle wax onto the motor's parts or sand down their rough edges before assembling them. Now that you've completed your rotating globe, you have the option of painting it.

The Globe is wooden and its colors are brown and silver-white. This material does accept watercolors, but unless you're particularly artistic, you'll probably prefer the sleek original look. Not only do you get to build the Globe yourself, but you can also personalize it when you're done. The continents come in two styles, and you can attach a shuttle to the globe to mimic space travel. Whether you prefer adventures on the ground or in the air, the UGears Globe is the perfect way to express your love for adventure. Give yourself or your loved ones the double gift of a hobby and an eye-catching decoration with the Globe. Even if you haven't assembled models before, the Globe's lightweight design and intricate gears capture your fascination and make you eager for your next project. As you pull the lever and watch the Earth and its shuttle spin, start planning your next big adventure across the real globe.

• Model Size: 8.3 x 7.3 x 7.3 in.
• Package size: 14.6 x 6.7 x 1.3 in.
• Number of parts: 184.
• Level: Intermediate.
• Assembly Time: 5 hours.
• Recommended Age: 14+