WOODEN.CITY Build a Windmill 3D Puzzle - Wood Model Kit for Adults - 222 Pieces Mechanical Wooden Puzzle

While the finished product here is very cool, the kit itself wasn't very fun to assemble.When it comes to geared projects like this, there are really one of two ways to install the "guts", which is where most of the gears are. One way is to assemble all of the gears on one side and then put the other side over top like a sandwich. The risk with this is that there are typically a lot of little axles, spindles, and tabs to line up, so it takes patience. This is the preferred way.This kit instead has you install the base tower, and then you pry apart the sides to fit the gears in. This was extremely tedious. Essentially, with every new gear added, you had to go fix all of the previously installed gears.But for me, the place where this almost hit the trash bin was at the point where I realized, towards the end of the build, that the axel on the main gear (the one that has the string tied to it) had broken . I had to figure out how to replace it with the kit almost completed.On the one hand, I suppose I should be pretty proud of myself for being able to accomplish that. On the other hand, I actually had to put this aside for about a week to decide whether or not I wanted to even try.The reason why this gets 4 stars (and not worse) is because I honestly can't believe it works with as much trouble as the assembly was. It actually works very well. I had to use an extra spindle from a different kit to replace the main one that broke, and it is about three inches longer than needed. Instead of trimming it, I just let it hang out as a reminder of how much a pain the butt it took to get it to stay there.

This is a great quality wooden 3D puzzle. The wood is of good quality - stiff enough for assembly and enough flex to avoid broken pieces. The pieces are very precisely cut and assemble easily. A small hammer and something to hammer against are very helpful to assist with assembly. Once done, it's a very impressive build.

There is a question about one of the sub assemblies. We have tried contacting the manufacturer directly with no luck.Any suggestions on being able to get some help?

Got this for my father in-law. These types of gadgets occupy him during retirement. Keeps him busy and he talks about them all the time when we get together. Makes a great gift. Would recommend!