Was there anything more disappointing then getting the Subbuteo floodlights edition box set, setting it up on the living room floor, dimming the lights and then switching them on.
The dull glow from classic Subbuteo floodlights could barely light up a corner of the pitch. Introduced in 1961 with the red pylons, the technology was not there to deliver a bright enough light to cover the entirety of the pitch. Newer versions such as the classic white pylons and the ‘Greek’ style pillars were not much better, meaning you would have to resort to reading lamps and LED string lights to play an atmospheric night game.
But that is all about the change because a Subbuteo modeller is about to launch a new set of floodlights that completely light up a Subbuteo pitch and will change those midweek night games forever.
Ron Hogendijk, the man behind SubbuteoStadium.com, a website dedicated to 3D printed accessories such as the world’s first Subbuteo VAR set and stadium seats, has created a new type of floodlight that could literally be a game changer.
He says: “This will be the new model for the replica Subbuteo floodlights. 50 leds, works an hour, usb charging, 3 levels of brightness, easy mounting for charging. Four floods will be more than enough to light up the pitch.
“I did some new tests today and it will be brilliant”
The F50T floodlights look almost identical to the classic Subbuteo-style versions but the actual lighting unit is thinner and more powerful.
They are the natural successor to the F9 floodlights, which cost around £15 each. While not cheap, they are designed to fit on the Subbuteo pylon to keep the feel of a real Subbuteo stadium. The new F50T lights will be a little more expensive, says Ron. But if the pictures do them justice then they will definitely be worth it. You can get them here.
Ron is not the only person designing new Subbuteo floodlights. UK-based modeller You’ve Been Grounded has created stylish black lights powered by battery that are priced up to £57 for four for the top of the range 12 LED light. The smaller four LED version is just £34 for four. You can buy them here.
