Thanks to all who commented.
Willem - I appreciate the time you took to mention your observations, and I quite enjoy passing along my experiences if it helps others on their builds, or to try something new.
Looks awesome! Masking over the previously oil painted panels wasn't a problem? The nail decal process looks like fun.
Steve
Thanks Steve - I actually sprayed a clear coat on all of the panels as I went. Which meant I removed the tape from one session of oils, and waited a couple of days for them to dry. Then airbrushed on X-22 gloss, and waited for that to dry before re-masking and continuing with more panels. The tape did make a mark on the gloss surface of the previously painted panels...but disappeared after I re-sprayed it with X-22. It was a bit of a slow process - but a safe way to go forward.
The nail-head decals have been the same - protecting each step with X-22 gloss as I go. Also, I used MicroSol to apply them, as opposed to the manufacturers recommended Mr. Marksofter or Mr. Markset. I just experimented with the Microsol beforehand on a small section before using the bigger, more important sections. You get plenty of spare strips in my "Albatros D.V/Va" set. Plus I bought two sets to be on the safe side (and I have more Albatros kits

)
Cheers,
Gary