It's a far cry from the Cowes' beginnings in 1982. Back then, David was working as a successful freelance graphic designer when he spotted an advertisement for old toy soldiers in a British magazine. After his first purchase, he was hooked onto the world of new and old toy soldiers.

Following his childhood dream of collecting toy soldiers, David decided to have a go at making some, just for fun. The first six produced were sent off to Britain for his dealer's opinion. Needless to say the dealer was delighted and Imperial began. The first models were of New Zealand military units: the Eketahuna Mounted Rifles, the Wellington Amazon Volunteers and a set of Dunedin Highlanders.

One of the reasons for the continuing success has been the careful research undertaken to ensure that each piece is authentic. The Cowes delve into old books, posters and paintings and rifle through military records and files in search of information. Once the research has been done on a set, David can begin to make a prototype. This is carefully sculptured in his home studio, not neccessarily in the same shape as the finished piece, as he must compensate for the pressure created when casting. Next comes the casting process, where rubber molds are placed in a casting machine and filled with hot metal. After the casting is removed, it's a matter of cleaning up the odd burr before priming the bare metal.

It is Kay Cowe's job to train the painting staff and make sure their high standard is maintained. The training generally takes two to three months. For a soldier, first the uniform is painted, then the pack, and finally the detailed buttons, regalia, and facial features. As each layer of paint is carefully applied, the piece gradually takes on a "persona". Attention to detail extends to the cardboard presentation boxes and colorful labels and catalogs, all designed in period style by David.

Dave and Kay's eldest daughter Melinda, has been the manager at Imperial since returning from Victoria University of Wellington. She has helped implement a streamlined order-processing system and production schedule, thus increasing Imperial's ability to efficiently fill all orders. Although Melinda is now travelling throughout Europe and the United States, she sees her future with Imperial, ensuring the family business will continue in the years to come.

The Cowes and their assistants, who work from an old villa behind Imperial's showroom, are brightly looking to the future. David Cowe is a quiet fellow somewhat bemused by his own success, but continually planning new and innovative creations for the Imperial line. David sees the collectors of the world as his most important clients and critics and is happiest when satisfying their demands.

Now little boys peer wistfully through shop windows world wide, at David's creations, dreaming of far-off battles on exotic shores while the 'big boys' gaze proudly upon their own Imperial battles set in display cases at home.