All these replicas started from someplace. Arntz, ERA, Contemporary all had someone who could do these things. Look at all the street rodders that build their cars. Very possible to build. Takes time, talent, patience and money to make it all happen.
Maybe the gentleman that Hal was talking with had three eyes, 8 fingers on each hand and whatever else that made Hal question his abilities. Who knows
Now I built a ca..... aaaha I built a hou.....aaaahaa I built a lawn mow... Damm I have never built a friggin' thing but I will COMPLETE my ERA when it gets to me.
