forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com
WW1 Aircraft Modeling => Under Construction => Topic started by: PrzemoL on March 09, 2017, 05:45:18 AM
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I have started this looooong awaited kit. Yes, I know the decals are still to come. And so is the famed pdf with assembly instruction. But Bo has showed how to begin so I will try to follow his footsteps. Started with the engine
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-31.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-32.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-33.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-34.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-35.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-36.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-37.jpg)
I decided to correct the mistake in the layout of intake pipes running from the carbs - so I cut that part into two separate tubes and will try to rearrange the way they enter the top of the carbs.
Also, the macro photography revealed that painting of magnetos has to be retouched.
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Beautiful start, looking forward to you working your magic on this beauty. :D
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Great to see you start work on this kit Przemol, it will be interesting to see how it all goes together, you have done nice work so far. Is it going to be an OOB build or are you adding extra details.
Des.
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Thanks, gentlemen.
Des, Aviattic team made all the efforts to provide us with the ultimate kit, with all the imaginable extras already included in the box, as related in Bo inbox presentation and announced in Aviattic website. Without the instructions booklet I cannot tell how far did they really go (I even did not try to analyze what all those PE details are destined for, yet). So I cannot tell now if I will add anything extra. Well, electric wires (my copy does not have the wire bits), oil pipes and rigging will surely have to be added. I have also followed the Bo's idea and provided the engine block with rotating propeller shaft, only that I used plastic pieces. But besides this, hard to tell now.
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This is another one on my "someday" list. As usual, your preliminary work looks excellent. Looking forward to seeing what you do with it!
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As usual your work is enviable. Excellent start: what will you be like when you do get the instructions?
Stephen.
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Looking good! There will be no stopping you once those instructions arrive! ;)
Steve
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Following with interest :)
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Cool 8)
Guy
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Mouthwatering! Not long now, I hope, until mine arrives.
Best wishes
Nigel
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Thanks for cheering! ;)
Some further progress on SPA 6. And an apology - I have looked through more photos of Balilla engines and it seems that the intake manifolds at the carb were organized in various ways, not always the front line was more off the cylinders block as I initially thought. So I built this bit back to the layout suggested in the kit.
Now just the breathers and exhausts are missing from what the kit provides. However, there are some more installations which might be added. I have to study the photos available more carefully.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-38.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-39.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-40.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-41.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-42.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-43.jpg)
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Hi
Got this kit on order - a long wait until it comes and longer until I have the skills to build...
That wiring looks superb - as does the whole engine. The wires look like they are plastic coated. May I ask what you are using for them?
Thanks
Alistair
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That looks great...!
Though there are only so many ways to design a straight-six aero engine, if you squint a bit it looks a bit like a Benz or Mercedes to my, admittedly, untrained eyes :)
Following with interest... Jeroen
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Great looking engine, looking forward to your next installment.
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Thanks!
Alistair, this time I used a dark greenish fishing line for the electric cables. I have seen that hue in one of the photos of SPA engine (or was it Breda?).
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Some more work on the SPA 6 engine. The assembly is basically completed. Only some dirt is still missing to tone down that brand-new look. Besides the kit parts I have added a few oil pipes, an oil pump (?) at the rear bottom and three control levers at the carb, where I plan to add a throttle linkage. Also a fuel supply will be added, but these bits will be possible only when the engine is installed. So now it is time for the next subassembly - fuselage with cockpit interior.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-49.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-48.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-47.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-46.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-44.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-45.jpg)
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Super nice! What paint did you use for those metal finishes?
Steve
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My precious.... ;) Looking really good.
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Love your engine. What size wire are you using for ignition wires/cables?
Glenn
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As usual, spectacular work on the power plant, Przemo! Can't wait to get started on mine.
Which scheme will you be doing?
Cheers,
Bud
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Thank you, everyone.
Glenn, in this case I used 0.12mm fishing line. Sometimes I also use soldering wire of 0.25mm.
Bud, after some deliberation I opted for Merian Cooper's "5". I chose him because out of that all together amazing group of American volunteers, he seemed to have the most spectacular experience, being shot down and taken prisoner by the reds. He survived only because he managed to conceal the fact that he was an officer and an American airman from the squadron so feared and hated by his captors.
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Bud, after some deliberation I opted for Merian Cooper's "5". I chose him because out of that all together amazing group of American volunteers, he seemed to have the most spectacular experience, being shot down and taken prisoner by the reds. He survived only because he managed to conceal the fact that he was an officer and an American airman from the squadron so feared and hated by his captors.
Excellent choice, Przemo. I'll probably do Cooper's plane, as well. I love the letter he wrote to General Pilsudski offering his services to the Polish cause. What a remarkable family history!
Cheers,
Bud
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The kit itself looks beautiful, but you certainly do it justice :)
I did Coopers Albatros in 1/72 from the Encore kit, he certainly had an interesting and eventful life!
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Super nice! What paint did you use for those metal finishes?
Steve
Sorry, Steve. Overlooked your question. The metallic paints on this engine are Vallejo acrylic metalizers. Black is Pactra acylic.
Yes, Bud and Jeroen. Cooper's life would make for a sensational movie.
BTW, Cooper misspelled the name of Polish commander Piłsudski. :-) But we do forgive him! ;)
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As usual, spectacular work on the power plant, Przemo! Can't wait to get started on mine.
Cheers,
Bud
I am in complete agreement with Bud! Spectacular as always. It is great that you are leading the way on this one. Perhaps after you, Bud, and Bo finish I will have the courage to start Mine ::)
RAGIII
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With SE.5a finally completed and the publication of Aviattic manual pdf I could return to this model.
The preparation of fuselage innards is underway.
The elements of control gear
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-50.jpg)
The fuselage frames
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-51.jpg)
Opening for the fuel tank cut out in the fuselage bottom
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-55.jpg)
The resin plate from the fuselage bottom served to thicken the tank. With the resin and photoetched bits added it looks like this
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-53.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-52.jpg)
Then it turned out that the thickness increase with the fuse bottom was not enough to have the tank bottom surface flush with the fuselage bottom. I decided to add spacers to the floor underside to correct this
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-54.jpg)
And finally the instrument panel with the ammo magazines together with the gun support. The latter in my copy had missing pair of gun brackets - they seemed to be broken off but I did not find these bits in its plastic bag. They were rebuild from scratch plastic bits.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/balilla-56.jpg)
As is seen, some elements have the primer paint applied - Sand from Vallejo. I meant it as the base for wood but I will most probably redo it with my preferred Pactra A123 Mid stone colour.
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Great work and nice to see you back at it. I see you didn't take Bo's route with the fuselage cut - that idea intrigued and frightened me at the same time but I get way ahead of myself. I've downloaded the instruction manual and been through it and my kit can't be far away but a start on it certainly is. Looking forward to your further progress - it is sure to be brilliant because all of your work is!
Thanks
Alistair
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As usual I am completely blown away by the superb painting and finishes that you achieve on your models. Everything you do is just done to as close to perfection as one can get!
Stephen.
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I wish i could afford one of these amazing kits. Przemol you are doing her justice as expected.
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As usual I am completely blown away by the superb painting and finishes that you achieve on your models. Everything you do is just done to as close to perfection as one can get!
Stephen.
I have to agree with Stephen!Your usual Brilliant work!
RAGIII
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Wow, Przemo! This is a great start to this complex but beautifully detailed kit... just the kind of project you tackle so well! That engine is looking great with some really fine wiring, and there's lots of detail going into the controls ... lovely... I'm going to enjoy this! Regards, Marc
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Thank you, everybody.
In recent days I have basically completed the interior of the cockpit and engine bay.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-57.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-58.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-59.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-60.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-61.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-62.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-63.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-64.jpg)
Not much needs to be added to all those meticulously prepared bits included in the kit box. I only noticed missing rods and cables from three control gears (throttle, radiator shutters and one more under the throttle - no idea what for it was), hand pump handle and tiny pipes at the fuel selector on the instrument panel.
With the seat, rear fuselage top and the rear engine cowling not much is left to be seen. Even that lovely instrument panel will not be easy to behold, I wonder how the pilot was able to look under that cowl in front of him.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-65.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-66.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-67.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-68.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-69.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-70.jpg)
PDF instruction is a fine idea but it has a drawback, for me at least. It requires a computer or a tablet turned on on your desk for frequent reference. I somehow ignored it and it then turned out that the installed machine guns and the throttle control slightly interfere with cabane struts jig. Thus I had to cut some openings in them, luckily I do not need to deinstall anything. Well, care is necessary. It is a complicated kit! (I do not mean to discourage anybody, take it as a hint only)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-71.jpg)
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A great performance in interior cockpit, beautifully worked details wood, seats deserves attention, instruments are completely real,in any case, a great work :)
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Stunning work so far, will have to break down and get one of these puppies... ;)
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Stunning interior - very complex but you make it look easy.
You could get that building guide printed so you didn't need a computer at your work bench?
Cheers
Alistair
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Beautiful! I love the combination of wood, leather & metal tones.
Steve
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Gorgeous cockpit, Przemo! Looks just like the restoration aircraft.
Thanks for the heads-up on the jigs.
Cheers,
Bud
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As others have written the cockpit details are just amazing. What a pity that they will not be very easily seen when the model is completed.
Stephen.
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This looks simply stunning Przemo! Is the kit really so good as they say? ;)
I`m sure the final result will not disappoint us - humble mortals ;)
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Wow, there's some fun going on here! This is a nice build
Richard
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As always great done !
With respect.
Jacek
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Some superb work, Przemo... Lovely, just Lovely.... ATB, Marc
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Gorgeous cockpit, Przemo! Looks just like the restoration aircraft.
Thanks for the heads-up on the jigs.
Cheers,
Bud
I agree with Bud! Simply gorgeous work!
RAGIII
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Magnificent, Przemo! This really is a build to follow.
Best wishes
Nigel
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Przemo,
Absolutely a work of Art my old friend. I'll be using this fantastic thread as reference for my own A-1 project very soon as I hear from Richard that mine is on its way to Texas.Thank you very much for your outstanding talent.
Highest Regards
Gregory Jouette
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Many thanks, everybody.
This looks simply stunning Przemo! Is the kit really so good as they say? ;)
I`m sure the final result will not disappoint us - humble mortals ;)
Filip, the kit is excellent. Surely it is not a WNW kit, it is a resin model, with all the vices of this material. But when you remove and clean the parts, fill some air bubbles, work a little with files, sand paper, etc, the fit is ALMOST as good as with WNW. And the detail level in many areas exceeds that of WNW - the advantage of the resin enhanced with an extensive PE range.
And here is a report from further progress. The cabane struts, the engine, the air intake, the front bracing of the fuse, the rear turtledeck and the tail all basically completed. So is the interruptor gear, which will be covered by the cowl. But it was such a fine work of passion from Aviattic that I just could not resist including it in my model. I still plan to add the throttle linkage, maybe a fuel line and some water pipes over the timing gear shaft and under the engine crankcase - these after the radiator is mounted.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-80.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-72.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-73.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-74.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-75.jpg)
The top cowling and the fuel tank
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-76.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-77.jpg)
The under cowlings
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-78.jpg)
And the undercarriage which will have to be attached before I will start decalling the fuselage with wood.
The axle and its cover required some repair (air bubbles and missing material) and still need some sanding.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-81.jpg)
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Your model is looking exceptionally good Przemol, the instrument panel and engine are works of art.
Des.
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Superb work as always Prez !!
Ed
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Everything looks fantastic! Is that top cowling metal or resin? It looks so thin!
Steve
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Stunning......
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looking very good indeed!!
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Thank you, everybody.
Steve, the top cowl is resin, but unlike the usual resin it is very elastic, thin and strong in bending. Which is very good news as pressing it home with the cabane struts, engine and instrument panel mounted will require some delicate pressing and tweeking.
I had thinned it a little from the inside, and one has to scrape the material under the vent louvres to open them. But otherwise - it is a piece of scuplting and casting art.
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Superb modeling as always!
RAGIII
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Excellent, excellent, excellent!! Awesome job all around Prz!
Mark
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Nice work!
I have noticed that you used a marker to mark the struts witch is fine but please before you spray paint over that clean the sharpy ink off with alcohol or thinner, the reason is that the ink out of these pens comes trough the paint in time it rises trough your paint.
Regards Ron
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Thanks, Ron. Also thank you for the warning. I was thinking that black paint will cover the marker. Also, I have some experience, that acrylic paints do not let the marker ink penetrate, I have used black markers to show the wing internal structure through CDL transparent linen and faced no problems. But to be on the safe side I will follow your advice. :)
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Very Nice Prze,
The metal cowling looks very metallic!
Guy
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Thanks, Guy. The cowling is airbrushed with Vallejo acrylic metallic aluminium.
And some more progress. Throttle linkage added (3 rods). The radiator with shutters painted and attached. The control link for the shutters added. So are: 1) the short upper water pipe to the top front of the engine block, 2) two long lower water pipes running to the invisible water pump at the bottom rear of the crankcase and 3) the thin pipe running over the cylinders which goes to... - honestly I have no idea, could not make it out from the photos available but it any case its mysterious end will disappear under the rear engine cowling. The little representative under side with the oil tank and engine bottom will be covered, too.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-82.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-83.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-84.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-85.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-86.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-87.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-88.jpg)
The tail feathers got the wire pins and were temporarily attached to check the outlook. The elevators are still to be connected with piece of their axle passing through the opening in the vertical stabilser.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-92.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-91.jpg)
This kit may not be WNW but like those it will stand on the undercarriage assembly just dry fit without any glue - to show how it looks.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-89.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-90.jpg)
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continuing to look fantastic - that engine detail is something else!
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Wonderful detail as always Prze, it's a genuine pleasure to follow your progress here and my compliments for the motivation you generate through your example. Spectacular!
Cheers,
Lance
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Another masterpiece in the making, Przemo! You've created some magnificent works of art, but I think this one will be your best yet!
Cheers,
Bud
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Beautifully done, that engine is a kit all onto itself. Looking forward to your progress.
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Fantastic work. Mine arrived yesterday, Polish version - yours (plus the other logs) will be very valuable when I get up the courage to tackle it...
Thanks
Alistair
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It's getting better and better.....very nice work
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excellent work my friend, looks exceptional
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Superb work Przemek.
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Sorry, really late to the party, this is beautiful!
Alistair, this time I used a dark greenish fishing line for the electric cables. I have seen that hue in one of the photos of SPA engine (or was it Breda?).
A tiny nit FWIW -- I don't think the dark green wires are period authentic -- if you've owned or restored an Italian car (Ferrari, Maserati, Alfa Romeo etc) from the 1960s you'll probably recognize those green wires seen in the museum photos as "Cavis" brand; They were OEM on most 60's italian cars but I don't think they were around much before that. For instance my 1954 Alfa had black rubber wires.
http://www.midwest-bayless.com/p-15053-14110014-oex10-spark-plug-wire-5mm-green-solid-core-10-ft-roll-oe-cavis.aspx
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Watching with enthusiasm! Really encouraging me to open the box and begin the journey. The photos are well done and appreciated.
Rick
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Hi Prze!
After very long time I am coming back. One reason is HB W12 on the bench and long awaited arrival of my balilla. Which brings me to your build. Saying you are doing justice to this master kit would be understatement! Looks gorgeous! It almost feels to me like it's shame to start this beauty(that's mainly for my hands) :)
Looking forward to see more!
Cheerio
Lukas
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Have missed this somehow. Just WOW is not enough. Somehow you turn plastic and resin into metal, wood and canvass and make everything lok so real!
Stephen.
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Many thanks, everybody.
Bo, thanks for the interesting info about the electric cables. I remember we once discussed it, the ocassion was a Mercedes engine in the Albie. And I remember the conclusion, that it is virtually impossible to determine the colour of the cables in WW1 aircraft. So I just hope, that my greenish ones in this SPA 6 engine are as good as any other colour.
Speaking of colours, I have started airbrushing. Yes, airbrushing despite the fact, that Richard provides decals for all the surfaces of this model. Well, I was too scared to apply Aviattic linen decals with clear background to the flying surfaces - too much fine detail, I was afraid I will not get the fine conforming around ribtapes. Besides I wished to depict the effect of the translucent linen seen on many photos of Polish Balillas, and could not make out how to achieve it with the decals. Thus, airbrushing. You can assess if my attempt is a success.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-93.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-94.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-95.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-96.jpg)
Now for the markings and then white base for fuselage wood decals.
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Exquisite paint work, Przemo! Love the translucent effect. I think you will find, however, that if you try the fabric decals over what you have, the effect will be much the same, just a wee bit subdued. Also, those decals really do conform to surface detail brilliantly. Just a thought. I really do love what you've done and everything is superb as is.
Cheers,
Bud
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+1 on the airbrushing (and other work). Simply beautiful.
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+1 on the airbrushing (and other work). Simply beautiful.
Add another ditto !
Ed
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Thank you, gentlemen.
Bud, I am afraid, that if I applied the clear paper decals I would end up with silvering... My problem...
Anyway, the fun with Balilla continues. I managed to lay down the markings and am currently working on the wood decals - so far so good.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-97.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-98.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-99.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal100.jpg)
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Great! Prezemo I knew it before, but again, you are an artist.
Chapeau,
Manni
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Hi Prezmo
Wow you are really moving ahead with this but for no loss of extremely good outcomes. It looks brilliant and hopefully your build log is all still here when I get going on mine. Can you tell us about the shadow of the "5" and half marking shadow on the wing in your May 27 post? I haven't investigated my kit contents too much but you make things look see-through - how do you do that? Thanks.
Looking forward to more!
Cheers
Alistair
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Thanks!
Alistair, I have done the translucent effects in the following steps:
1) draw the wing spars and ribs with black permanent pen (Faber Castell) - as mentioned earlier, unlike others reporting problems, I have never had issues with pen ink bleeding under acrylic paints
2) airbrush the clear doped linen colour (Pactra acrylic A123)
3) mask and airbrush the checkboard shadow using a "clear" mix of Vallejo Beige Brown and clear gloss lacquer (around 1:10 proportion)
4) mask and airbrush the shadow of "5" using a "clear" mix of black and clear gloss (around 1:10 proportion, too)
Masks were prepared based on the decal dimensions - drawn on a paper and cut from pieces of Tamiya tape.
The tips of the wings, where original Italian green and red was painted and then scraped or overpainted in Polish service were not translucent.
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Przemol, admiring your work it's a pleasure as always.
Thanks for sharing the way to get "translucent effects"...
Great work on a great kit
Antonio
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Thanks very much Przemo for that guide will look into the method when I get into this kit.
Cheers
Alistair
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The linen decals were painstakingly designed to be laid over just such (if not more subtle as they are very "see through") preparation and achieves the perfect result with a little effort. The results achieved by others are plain to see on the gallery page of the Aviattic website.
Regards
Richard
Thanks very much Przemo for that guide will look into the method when I get into this kit.
Cheers
Alistair
As Richard put it, one can (maybe even should) try to cover the prepared (preshaded) surface with transparent linen decals. I chose not to do it - but I do not wish to discourage anybody!
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Wow! Everything is looking great!
Steve
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Thanks, Steve.
Some more progress. The fuselage got full wood-decal treatment. I sealed them with a varnish including a delicate addition of Clear Orange. Now I am working on nail-head decals. I decided, that all the markings will be overpainting them, not vice-versa. These HGW-made decals are a very fine addition to the kit! They are very subtle, one really needs good eyesight (or glasses) to see them, yet they do cater for a better depiction of wood fuselage, at least IMHO. Some of the lines still have their transparent foil not removed - it is advised to let them dry 6-8 hours - justly so, if you try to remove it earlier, some heads will be torn off. There are a few missing lines, yet, too.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal101.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal102.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal103.jpg)
Quite a few PE fittings for the fuselage prepared for airbrushing
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal104.jpg)
And the upper wing with the checkboards shaded and the underside see-through effects slightly subdued - they were indeed too strong.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal105.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal106.jpg)
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Another great update to inspire us all !!
Ed
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Another great update to inspire us all !!
Ed
Could not agree more, spectacular.
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That's simply fantastic. Really great progress on the Ansaldo. Those wooden decals are very impressing.
Borsos
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Fabulous Job Prze
The plywood is as good as it gets!
Guy
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Absolutely lovely. Very motivational as well
Rick
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I think this is one of the best of your many OUTSTANDING builds! Just beautiful!
RAGIII
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Thank you for your kind words, gentlemen.
Some more steps. Fuselage wood with nail heads is completed. Cockpit rim leather painted but still some wash has to be applied. The chin cowls attached. Markings applied. I am only waiting for the replacement decals for Kosciuszko Squadron badge from Melius Manu. We had a very extensive discussion at a Polish modeling forum recently. On the Kosciuszko badge decals for WNW Camel and Aviattic Balilla. WNW ones are full of mistakes and those in the Balilla kit have some minor inaccuracies. It was promised to me, that a more correct version will be printed for me.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal107.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal108.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal109.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal110.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal111.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal112.jpg)
And even more fittings - those are for the strut ends with rigging eyelets. I still have to attach turnbuckles at the lower end ones but have just realised I have to order some smaller 1/48 Gaspatch ones. Those for 1/32 would be too long.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal113.jpg)
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Prze,
Awesome,nothing else to say my old friend. Thank You for this build thread!
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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It's still the wooden finish that excites me most. An overall brilliant build. So nice to follow!
Borsos
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so mamy tricks how to do sth which seems to be impossible to achieve...
astonishing results
regards
K
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Incredible results thus far, really excited to see your progress.
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Wow....this looks so good! I am still amazed at that resin panel to represent the metal engine cover. The thickness & finish are as close to perfection as possible!
Steve
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It's a gem Prze!
Can you tell what was the colour of your wood undercoat & which wood decals did you use?
Thanks
Guy
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Thank you, all!
Can you tell what was the colour of your wood undercoat & which wood decals did you use?
Guy
Guy, the wood decals are from the kit. They are printed on the white paper, so no undercoat in any specified colour is necessary. My experience with wood or linen decals was that I had problems with sticking them to acrylic airbrushed surfaces, which seemed to be rough and this led to silvering (in the case of clear decal paper) or not conforming to surface details. But this time, seeing the perfectly smooth fuselage surfaces in this kit, I disobeyed the instructions and applied the wood decals to bare (though degreased and washed) resin fuselage. And it finally worked, the decals hold firmly!
As mentioned earlier I gave the decals a coat of clear gloss lacquer mixed with clear orange to give them more orangy hue.
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Ah thanks Prze ;)
Guy
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Prze,
Beautiful wood finish on the fuselage and the detail is mind numbing! I'm drawn to those (Photoetch I think) fittings, are they one piece or assembled?
Cheers,
Lance
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Thanks, Lance.
I'm drawn to those (Photoetch I think) fittings, are they one piece or assembled?
Lance
The rigging fittings I showed in my last report are indeed assembled. PE base with bent-up sides, a wire axis (scratch - I used a copper 0.3 mm wire) to make the hinged support for the rigging eyelet (single or double), which itself is a PE wrapped around the axis and secured with a drop of CA glue. And there are additional PE eyelets for stagger and cabane rigging lines.
The fittings shown earlier are mostly single-element bits, with a few exceptions, as for instance the air inlet scoops for the engine compartment - they come as two-piece affair - a horse-shoe shaped base and a bent scoop. Probably an illustration will be better so I suggest you refer to the publicly accessible pdf instruction in Aviattic website.
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Continuing to be a real education in how to build this kit! In addition like I said earlier one of your most beautiful builds!!
RAGIII
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I have missed this recently - Wow you have really made excellent progress. Looking at those wing fittings I really appreciate the amount of intricate detail that you put into all of your models. Another masterclass for the rest of us to follow.
Stephen.
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Hi Przemo! Some really amazing modelling there! As usual, your interpretation of wood, metal and various fittings is really beautiful - a real tutorial in modelling! I would be really interested in the correct badges for the Polish Camel - please let us know when and where we can order them! Regards, Marc
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Great amount of details! Love it.
Cheers,
Frank
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Thank you, gentlemen.
And some more progress, slowly but still crawling forward.
The turnbuckles were tied to the kit PE fittings using loops of copper 0.07mm wire secured with CA glue
1) lower stations at interplane struts
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal115.jpg)
2) upper stations for cabane rigging
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal116.jpg)
3) lower fittings at wing roots
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal119.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal118.jpg)
With this the wings could be attached for good
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal117.jpg)
And the undercarriage done
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal120.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal121.jpg)
In the last photo are just visible 16 PE fasteners added to the chin cowls - those from some spares, unfortunately not included in the kit.
And the silver painted fittings now ready to be glued to the fuselage
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal114.jpg)
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Yes! Great update! What are you using for rigging on this?
Steve
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I am only waiting for the replacement decals for Kosciuszko Squadron badge from Melius Manu. We had a very extensive discussion at a Polish modeling forum recently. On the Kosciuszko badge decals for WNW Camel and Aviattic Balilla. WNW ones are full of mistakes and those in the Balilla kit have some minor inaccuracies.
So please, do tell us what the inaccuracies are. Richard and I went to considerable trouble to produce the most accurate decals we could for the Balilla. A throw away line saying that the decals are inaccurate without qualification is less than helpful.
As you know, I have produced Polish options on a number of Pheon decal sheets - a lack of constructive feedback and a virtual absence of sales in Poland don't persuade me that I should bother doing more. I expect that the Polish option in the forthcoming Fokker EV decals will also be deemed lacking in some way. I expect the experts are already lining up, just waiting for them to be released before showing their superior knowledge. I should also expect that WNW are less than overjoyed that their decals in the Camel kit have been so comprehensively rubbished. All very encouraging.
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I am only waiting for the replacement decals for Kosciuszko Squadron badge from Melius Manu. We had a very extensive discussion at a Polish modeling forum recently. On the Kosciuszko badge decals for WNW Camel and Aviattic Balilla. WNW ones are full of mistakes and those in the Balilla kit have some minor inaccuracies.
So please, do tell us what the inaccuracies are. Richard and I went to considerable trouble to produce the most accurate decals we could for the Balilla. A throw away line saying that the decals are inaccurate without qualification is less than helpful.
As you know, I have produced Polish options on a number of Pheon decal sheets - a lack of constructive feedback and a virtual absence of sales in Poland don't persuade me that I should bother doing more. I expect that the Polish option in the forthcoming Fokker EV decals will also be deemed lacking in some way. I expect the experts are already lining up, just waiting for them to be released before showing their superior knowledge. I should also expect that WNW are less than overjoyed that their decals in the Camel kit have been so comprehensively rubbished. All very encouraging.
Dear Rowan,
You touched several issues in your post. So here are my answers.
1. Camel decals are wrong in the following issues:
- stars on the perimeter should penetrate through the black circle and make it a dashed line
- feather on the cap is wrong in shape and texture (colours are debatable)
- the cap side corners overlap on vertical red stripes too far to the sides
- red and ultramarine colours used match those on British cockades but they are highly unlikely, the badge was painted in far east Poland, as far as possible from the source of such paints, most probably red was the same as on Polish checkboards and should be more bright (like artery blood colour) and on blue agreement is that it was much brighter, too - as pale as in Balilla decals.
close-up of Polish Camel badge:
(http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww109/PrzemoLPP/Balilla/001_zpsiszejm3d.jpg)
2. Balilla decals are wrong in one issue:
- stars on the perimeter should overlap the black circle
close-up of Cooper's Balilla badge:
(http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww109/PrzemoLPP/Balilla/002_zpsrfe7rxoe.jpg)
3. I am sure that there are many people around the world who just like to criticize and not help. Such individuals can surely be found among Polish modellers, too. But I am sure there are many who are more than eager to help, if they are given a chance. To support this statement I would like to remind you, for instance, our fruitful cooperation on the decals for Hannover and Salmson. As for the decals for Camel and Balilla I was never asked for any help. But I do not mind, firstly because I can hardly be considered an expert. However, I was told and it was stated several times, among others in the discussion on Polish modelling forum, which I mentioned earlier, that :
- WNW were given the full photographic documentation on Polish Camel and never presented their ideas on the decals for their kit for discussion/verification
- Aviattic ignored several remarks on mistakes in the Polish Balilla decal sheet and considered those who suggested changes as ignorants
- Actually, I have to rectify, I was asked by Aviattic (and Bo) for help related to Polish Balilla release but it was only on spelling of some Polish names for the instruction leaflet. Unfortunately not all my corrections were taken into account.
4. I do not wish to sit between an anvil and a hammer. I cannot verify the points given above, I only repeat what I was told. But since you present your opinion on Polish modellers:
I expect that the Polish option in the forthcoming Fokker EV decals will also be deemed lacking in some way. I expect the experts are already lining up, just waiting for them to be released before showing their superior knowledge.
... I felt obliged to present my opinion and opinions from the other side.
5. And at the end I would like to state clearly, that me, I am always eager to help anybody as much as my limited knowledge allows, who wishes to bring to life any piece of Polish aviation history. If my knowledge is not suffcuent I will ask the questions to others here, who are more experts. But I also reserve my right to point out the problems I encounter when dealing with the kits/decals related to Polish subjects. Still, my critical remarks never outbalance my general gratitude to anybody, who brings to general public Polish aviation subjects. I will take what is given, I will try to correct the errors and I will present it to those who might be interested. After all, we modellers in Poland, have been forced to deal for long long years with horrible kits of Polish subjects, full of serious errors. Provided they were released at all! Now it seems we entered the golden age of modelling with more and more surprising releases of Polish subjects. I, personally, thank everybody venturing this niche field of modelling industry, including WNW - for the new Camel, Aviattic - for the Balilla, you - for your decal sets with Polish subjects.
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Yes! Great update! What are you using for rigging on this?
Steve
Thanks Steve. I will use the black fishing line for single cables. For the doubles... I have an idea but I will reveal it after a test, if it is successful. Soon... :-)
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I have written many times that I am bowled over by the amount of tiny detail that you manage to achieve on your models, regardless of scale. This is no exception - just first class modelling from a master.
Stephen.
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I continue to be amazed by your superb workmanship and your attention to detail, an excellent build for sure.
Des.
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Thank you, Stehen and Des.
Now all those lovely designed PE details are attached to the fuselage. Also the tail feathers including their rigging are completed.
I was a bit afraid if the PE mount points for rigging will hold well to the tail surfaces under the tension of the lines. I had some troubles, one turnbuckle got loose, one PE fitting went off. But it was surely not beyond repair. in the end I did not tension the rigging very much, only to have them straight. It should now hold, I hope.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal122.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal123.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal128.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal125.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal127.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal126.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal124.jpg)
Now I see this build will take me much more time than I thought at the beginning. It is a complicated kit, with many details included, and some others that could be added. And every bit in the box is worthy to take time to install it as planned by the Aviattic team. And this inevitably lengthens the process. Well, it is not a race of course. My advice to anybody thinking to start Balilla - just do it and take your time enjoying building it!
As for me, in two weeks I will be off for one month holidays and my build will pause. Still, I plan to do as much as possible before. Now it is time to try my idea on replicating the double rigging lines connected into bands... Keep your fingers crossed.
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Wow, masterful kit handled masterfully. Outstanding detail worthy of your time and talent. When I grow up I want to have 1/10th of your talent.
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Beautiful work, PrzemoL ;)
Always a pleasure to see your updates.
Happy Holidays!!
von B
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Marvelous craftsmanship as always, Przemo! Another masterpiece in the making.
Cheers,
Bud
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Completely agree withBud. Never mind the holiday break - as you write enjoying the experience of building is what matters, not the time it takes.
Stephen.
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Przemo, Thanks for your reply.
Just to illustrate the problems with generalisations about lack of "accuracy" or otherwise, here are two photo examples used when researching and drawing the decal badge in the Ansaldo kit:
(https://s5.postimg.org/qmtgycp8n/badge_2_cropped.jpg)
(https://s5.postimg.org/meyoplnt3/Badge_cropped.jpg)
Neither of which have stars crossing the black surround, as in your example.
(https://s5.postimg.org/jywvbr5qf/IMG_0522.jpg)
Do you know if these photos were all taken at the same time? The variation could have been the result of the badge being re-applied at some point, or these could just be individual variations..... Whatever, I take accusations of "inaccuracy" seriously - to the point that I have reprinted decals when mistakes have been pointed out. In future, perhaps you could offer an explanation of criticism at the time of posting it - or even contact me directly - I have been known to respond to emails.
I of course acknowledge your help with decals in the past - and as you must know, I have always added a note of appreciation in the decal booklets - just in case anyone got the impression from your post that I did not give due recognition for any help previously received.
Rowan
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Rowan, thanks for your post with important info. I see now better, maybe I will become more expert than earlier, that the issue is more complex. Surely, there was no one fixed pattern for the squadron badge. Chess invented it, also to have a method of covering fuselage insignia of earlier owners of the airplanes. He might have prepared a template for some elements but the overall size surely varied influencing the layout, too. It is rather not a question of time of photography, when it is about Italian built Balillas. Later ones of Polish manufacture, may have a different story - they were used for a longer period, also when Americans left the unit. However, I was so decided on Cooper's machine, that I did not analyze the other options. And definitely, the badges in the kit are not exact copies of what is seen on 16.5. Here the time does not matter, either, because Cooper was shot down in July 1920 just three months after first Balillas were attached to the squadron. And the badges were not painted immediately. I think there was no time space enough to think of repainting 16.5.
Also, I confirm, that you have always indicated in the leaflets the credits of those who helped you with the decals, me included. Still, I will repeat, that nobody asked me for any help with Balilla decals. I was even not aware, that you were involved. Let me also repeat, that I am far from lurking and waiting for a product release to criticize it. And I am sorry to say, that in the case of Balilla some advice from my fellow modellers was ignored, as were some of my corrections on issues with spelling of Polish names.
Also, many thanks to all who follow this build and leave so many nice comments.
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Overlapping of stars on the outer circle is not the only error in this design. The photo attached by PrzemoL corresponds perfectly with the others shown. The differences between the badges on the original planes are negligible.The decals design does not match the original on the photos which apparently were used to prepare it. The differences are easily seen. The key issue is that the circumference of the red vertical stripes is too small which leads to further differences. The strips have too small spacing, stars are mislocated, the feather has wrong shape and wrong location. Here are some examples:
(http://www.meliusmanu.pl/pliki/Obraz%2001.jpg)
It is a pity because we are speaking of a fine model. But such mistakes in decals are noticed by many - there are also issues with the width of checkboards rim. Pity, because when I pointed out these problems when the model was presented in Facebook I was ignored and treated insolently - how dared I criticize the work of British experts. I have also offered my help to Richard in private correspondence but was treated in the same way. Thus, please do not write about your openness to cooperation, when you know better than Poles how the Polish Kosciuszko Squadron badge should look like. The same concerns the WNW Camel case. I take that you think Poland is an exotic country where no one knows anything. Not even on Polish national emblems.
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As the owner and administrator of this forum I have concerns regarding the direction that this brilliant build log topic is taking. Forum rule No.5 states that any disputes between a supplier/trader are not to be aired on the forum. Please keep this topic to the original content which is the build of this excellent kit by our very skilled forum member Przemol.
Des.
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This is continuing to be another fabulous build! Looking forward to your progress!
RAGIII
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Prze , wonderful work.
Just my observation bout none of those emblems are exactly the same as the other (and after all it is a 1/32 model decal)
Ed
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As the owner and administrator of this forum I have concerns regarding the direction that this brilliant build log topic is taking. Forum rule No.5 states that any disputes between a supplier/trader are not to be aired on the forum. Please keep this topic to the original content which is the build of this excellent kit by our very skilled forum member Przemol.
Des.
+1
Keep up the great work, PrzemoL.
vB
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So here is my experiment on double rigging forming the bands. I plan to use Evergreen 0.25 by 1.50 mm profiles with short lengths of fishing lines CA-glued at the ends on trimmed sides. This is how it looks like on a spare part between ordinary Bob's buckles eyelets:
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal700.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal701.jpg)
Painting (which in the model will take place before tying the lines) revealed that some more careful sanding and polishing at the ends where the lines were glued will be necessary.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal702.jpg)
But generally I am satisfied and will proceed with this.
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Sheer genius, keep those photos coming Prze! Your approach to detail is remarkable.
Cheers,
Lance
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Sheer genius, keep those photos coming Prze! Your approach to detail is remarkable.
Cheers,
Lance
I agree with Lance!
RAGIII
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Great minds think alike, Przemo! That's what I did with my Karaya kit.
(http://i1022.photobucket.com/albums/af342/coyotemagic_photos/Ansaldo%20A1%20Balilla/DSC00006.jpg)
Can't wait for the next update!
Cheers,
Bud
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ordinary Bob's buckles eyelets.
The simple things in life reap the greatest rewards.
Nicely done, Prze ;)
Von eyeOntheLine :) 8)
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Thank you, gentlemen.
Bud, great idea! ;)
I just wonder, how did you solve the problem of intersecting of double bands. As for me, I plan to do one band with a gap (2mm to allow for some inaccuracies in length measurment) through which the second one will pass.
And in the meantime I have attached the upper wing. I glued it first to the cabanes and then added the interplane struts with their fittings one after one. The stagger and cabane rigging is now done and I have started preparing the bands. Interesting for those who did not know - the left wings are longer than the right ones on this aircraft. And so are the right interplane struts when compared to the left ones! All this apparently to counterbalance the engine moment of momentum.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal129.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal130.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal131.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal132.jpg)
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This is just an outstanding build. Very nice, it gives credit to the highest quality of this kit and of your modelling skills.
Borsos
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Really nice job indeed did the top wing go on easy?
Ron
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Magnificent work, Przemo! One of the most beautiful models I've seen in a while.
On mine, I actually ran my landing wires aft of my flying wires as seen on several, but not all, of the Italian aircraft. One of the clearest photos of this is on page 21 of Bo's excellent booklet. There are a number of other photos of Italian ships in the Datafile similarly rigged. Had to put my optivisors on to see this. Perhaps there was some variation in wing stagger? I've read of that on other aircraft and maybe that was the case with the Balilla. Anyway, that's my story and I'm sticking with it. ;)
Cheers,
Bud
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Thank you, Borsos, Ron and Bud.
Really nice job indeed did the top wing go on easy?
Ron
No problems at all. I have cleaned the sockets in the wings, then the strut pins entered without any problem. However, the pins had to be trimmed slightly to pass through the openings in the PE fittings. Otherwise - a piece of cake. The cabane structure is so stiff, that the wing sat on it very stably.
On mine, I actually ran my landing wires aft of my flying wires as seen on several, but not all, of the Italian aircraft. One of the clearest photos of this is on page 21 of Bo's excellent booklet. There are a number of other photos of Italian ships in the Datafile similarly rigged. Had to put my optivisors on to see this. Perhaps there was some variation in wing stagger? I've read of that on other aircraft and maybe that was the case with the Balilla. Anyway, that's my story and I'm sticking with it. ;)
Cheers,
Bud
That is interesting. I will have to look into it more carefully. However, it seems strange to me - according to the scale drawings and to what I see in the model, each set of four rigging attachment points are coplanar (stagger does not matter here, different sweepback of upper and lower wings would be necessary), what means the bands would need to bend in plan view if they do not intersect... Oh, how I love those little riddles!
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Your usual Outstanding Modeling is exhibited in your latest update! Beautiful to say the least!
RAGIII
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Thanks, Rick!
As for the way of intersecting the rigging tapes I have examined the photos from the Aviattic booklet, WD and a book on Polish Balillas. And I am sorry not to agree with you, Bud. Indeed, in one or two photos the bands seem to pass one behind the other but my impression is that it is a game of shadows tricking our eyes. On the contrary, there are several photos, including one or two in page 21 of Balilla booklet made by Bo, where the tapes clearly intersect. Also, if the did not, it would mean that the wing main spars of top and low wings were not parallel in plan view, which is not a case in Balilla, according to the scale drawings.
Any way, my interpretation will be with those intersecting.
Here are 8 tapes with fishing line sections glued, prepared for airbrushing. I plan to pass the single-piece ones through the gaps in the two-piece ones. Also, probably I will cut (or sand) tiny notches at the edges of the former ones, to allow for one of the lines of the latter one to pass - however, this will be possible only when the tapes are fixed to the airframe. It is also important to note, that the left and right side sets are not identical - because of asymmetry of the wing cellule.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal133.jpg)
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Wholly agree with Rick's last comment: this is turning into a first class model in every way.
Stephen.
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Przemek - what can I say what hasn`t been already said - your model is truly superb!
The rigging seems to be a little bit tricky here.
Are you going to weather/ shade or apply the wash over the plywood or is it the final result?
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Thanks, Stephen and Filip.
Filip, I am still thinking of adding some dirt around the engine. But I do not want to exaggerate. Only delicate wash, probably. Yet, there is some already, around the PE fittings.
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The rigging constitutes main problem with Balilla's replicas. I had same task in 1:48, but in this case it looks like it should do. So great work!
regards
K
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I keep my fingers crossed.
I believe that you can do it with the rigging.
Adam.
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The work you have done to prepare your rigging is Brilliant as always! I am looking forward to the results.
RAGIII
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Being speechless in front of Preze's majesty in building this wonderful plane, I can only add some historical background on the name "Balilla", that maybe, not all of you are aware of.
Balilla, actually was the nikname of Giovanbattista Perasso, born in Genova in 1735 who, at the age of 11, sparked a revolt agains occupaying Austrian forces by throwing a stone to a group of soldiers forcing people to pull a gun from the mud.
Balilla became soon an heroic symbol and was later used in Italian fight for unity in 1800s and still later by Mussolini that gave his name to a paramilitary organization which scope was to teach children (from age 8 to 11) how to be good citizen according to fascist principles (other 'classes' were in place from age 6 to 21).
Ansaldo an industrial construction conglomerate established in 1853 in Genova gave the name Balilla to this little but full of pepper plane.
ciao
edo
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Thank you for the background on the name, Edo. I've often wondered about it. I just assumed it had something to do with birds. That is a very cool story.
Cheers,
Bud
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Sensational rendition of a type that is unfamiliar to me. I must go off and do some research!
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Thank you, everybody. Also special thanks for Edo for the historic background on Balilla. I remembered reading this story some time ago but failed to know all the details, now it will surely remain for a longer time. ;)
Some more progress led me to almost complete this model. Rigging is done - tying the tapes was an experience, their stiffness made it much more complicated than with usual flexible lines. Especially, passing the flying ones through the gap in the parking ones was straining. After some small disasters with lines torn from the plastic bands I finally made it. The rest was much easier - drag lines, aileron pushers, propeller... Now only squadron badges decals are missing. But here I am at mercy of Melius Manu. With this - time for holidays!!! :-)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal134.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal135.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal136.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal137.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal138.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal139.jpg)
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Amazing!!!! Bravo. Endless applause - a masterpiece.
Cheers
Alistair
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Stunningly beautiful! Your rigging obviously worked out perfectly!
RAGIII
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You are the master, Przemek. You can solve any problem.
Adam.
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Stunningly beautiful! Your rigging obviously worked out perfectly!
RAGIII
Cannot agree more, outstanding.
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Thank you for your kind words!
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Looking absolutely stunning Przemol, a masterpiece from a master modeler.
Des.
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Amazing!!!! Bravo. Endless applause - a masterpiece.
Cheers
Alistair
absolutely!
Borsos
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Speechless... :o
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Truly gorgeous. Well done!
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Exceptional Prze,
Even for you. The rigging is outstanding!
Love it.
Guy
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Fantastic build, Prze ;)
vB
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Breathtaking, beautifully done.
I know I won't be alone in coming back to this build thread many, many times when I eventually tackle this wonderful kit.
Thank you indeed!
Mark
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This is one of your truly stunning and beautiful builds, Przemo! I do love every detail! It is a great lesson in how to tackle a resin kit, too! I have enjoyed following along and learning all the time from a real Master! Regards, Marc
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Thank you very much, everybody! I feel overwhelmingly flattered. But after all, what I did - was to put together a finely designed multimedia kit - a great credit is due to Aviattic team for making it possible!
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You are far too modest, Przemo! I just had another peek inside the box and my kit doesn't look anything like this. It's your sublime craftsmanship that turned this magnificent kit into a masterpiece. She's truly spectacular, my friend. Congratulations!
Cheers,
Bud
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You are far too modest, Przemo! I just had another peek inside the box and my kit doesn't look anything like this. It's your sublime craftsmanship that turned this magnificent kit into a masterpiece. She's truly spectacular, my friend. Congratulations!
Cheers,
Bud
My Amigo has said it all !!!!
Ed
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Hi Prez:
I just read through some of your build, what an accomplishment! The solution to the rigging dilema is pure brilliance and outstandingly executed. This is one outstanding model and tribute to your skill and craftsmanship.
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Thank you again, Bud, Ed and mguns!
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The long wait is finally over. I have just got the brand new Melius Manu decals and immediately applied them to the model.
Aviattic Balilla is now finished! It has been a long but overly enjoyable journey and I think it led to a very fine destination. Aviattic kit is worth every recommendation! Thank you Richard for making it possible, and especially for your efforts to bring to life this important piece of Polish avaition with American background.
A few shots here, and the proper gallery will appear in a couple of days when the base for the model is ready.
For those interested in the replacement Melius Manu decals with squadron badge I also present a photo with original Aviattic decal and the corrected version vs the original shot of Cooper's 16.5 Balilla badge. As rightly put some time ago by Rowan, please note there were fine differences in the appearance of the badge between individual aircraft. What is presented applies to Cooper's mount ONLY. Many thanks Melius Manu for the splendid job - as usual!
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal146.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal140.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal143.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal144.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal145.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal141.jpg)
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal142.jpg)
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i would be interested how do i obtain a set?? i don't own a decal printer
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Simply outstanding, beautiful job all around. ;D
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Your very best model ever, Prze. Magnificent work, incredible appeal, and one to be so very proud of. My hat's off to your remarkable skills.
Cheers,
Lance
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Your very best model ever, Prze. Magnificent work, incredible appeal, and one to be so very proud of. My hat's off to your remarkable skills.
Cheers,
Lance
I couldn't agree more, Przemo! Magnificent!
Cheers,
Bud
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Thank you.
i would be interested how do i obtain a set?? i don't own a decal printer
Please contact directly Melius Manu, either here or in FB.
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Your very best model ever, Prze. Magnificent work, incredible appeal, and one to be so very proud of. My hat's off to your remarkable skills.
Cheers,
Lance
I couldn't agree more, Przemo! Magnificent!
Cheers,
Bud
So says Aye to the above !!!
Ed
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Beautifully built Przemo!
Salute! :)
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The squadron marking is the final touch to a SUPERB build! Like Lance and my two Amigos perhaps your best work to date!
RAGIII
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Przemek congratulations. Beautifully built.
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Superb!!! Bravo!
Alistair
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Beautiful work, Przemol, and congratulations to Richard and the team for putting such a magnificent kit on the market. I am so pleased to have one in the stash.
Best wishes
Nigel
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Congratulations on finishing this beauty, Przemo!
I especially admire the perfect work you have done on the obviously difficult rigging, extremely well done.
Cheers
Ondra
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Beautiful, really beautiful. Almost feeling to look at the real thing.
Giuseppe
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Absolutely stunning Prez. I have been following along with greta interest as this is a new type for me. You have made a model that looks as though it is about to run across the field and take off!
Stephen.
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Thank you, everybody, for your support in this build and all the nice comments. Now, with the base completed, I can invite you to the final gallery. One photo here, more in the appropriate section.
(http://www.ikb.poznan.pl/przemyslaw.litewka/modele_pliki/bal-10.jpg)
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WOW, what a Model Prze! Incredible work!
Cheers,
Lance
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Beautiful model, excellent presentation. 8)
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Przemek, this is the most beautiful model made by you, that I have seen.
With great joy I look at my favorite plane from the 7th Squadron.
Adam.
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Thank you, gentlemen.