Thanks Dave for being on the leading edge of this story; I'm sure we all appreciate the efforts you're making here.
Like everyone, I await official confirmation from WNW themselves. If it is indeed the truth that WNW are closing down, it is a sad moment, even for those of us that don't really dabble in 1/32 scale. Though I have only ever built one of their kits (the Albatros DVa, back in the very early days after its release), it was a joy to build. I would challenge any of us to find someone who has cursed a WNW kit - they are truly works of art, made for modellers. Those of us (and I include myself) that were struggling away in the small niche of WW1 aviation modelling before WNW burst onto the scene can truly appreciate the effect that WNW have had on our little (now a little bigger) corner of the modelling world. I can't understate the positive effect that WNW has had - simply look at the volume of WNW builds on various forums and in magazines all over the globe.
Sadly, if WNW are to depart the scene, I would feel that a 'golden age' of WW1 aviation modelling may well have just come to an end. That 'golden age' will likely be defined, in retrospective examination, by the whirlwind appearance, and equally surprising disappearance, of WNW. I can only hold hope, until we officially hear from WNW, that our golden age might not be over yet.
If WNW leaves the scene, I would feel most for the employees of WNW, who have slaved and produced truly magnificent kits of both significant and esoteric subjects for us all to enjoy. These people are the true artists, and I hope that they can continue their craft.
Whatever happens, this highlights that we, as a modelling community, must support our little part of the hobby world as much as we can in future.
Cheers,
BC
