My first WW1 build - WNW Hansa-Brandenburg W.29

[petero]

Well, it's not really my very first WW1 build, but it's the first since the late 1960s or so!  I discovered WW1 modeling after WNW started up, and instantly liked the W.29.  Unfortunately it was already OOS, but I found one on eBay for a reasonable price.  That was several years ago, so it's about time I got started.

Here is the interior...









I've used Eric Larson's wood grain technique, and I was lucky enough to get a one-on-one master class lesson from him.  After that, it took me about a half-dozen attempts to get it reasonably good, but it's easy to remove and reapply.  Practice makes perfect... or at least better than the time before.

You'll note that the observer's cockpit lacks the seat, seat belts and ammo rack.  I'm building a post-war DLR mail plane, as I posted here:

http://forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com/index.php?topic=7491.0

I've created and printed decals for the DLR titles and postal flags, and all of the crosses will be painted over.  Other than that, it appears to be in the usual wartime scheme.  A company called Reality in Scale makes 1/35 WWII postal bags which should work for filling the former observer's cockpit.  And, of course, all of the armament will be removed.

Peter

[Ssasho0]

Excellent start is a phrase, that is used too often, but in this case it is 100% valid! It will be an interesting build to follow, so keep us updated on the progress.
Best regards,
Sasho

[RAGIII]

I have been building for 50 plus years. Your start on this kit looks like you have also! I only wish my interiors looked this sharp and clean!
RAGIII

[lcarroll]

    Just an excellent job on the cockpit so far, Peter, your long absence from modelling is not at all apparent! I really like the subject you've chosen, it should be a very unique model when finished. Keep up the spectacular work.
Cheers,
Lance

[lone modeller]

I wish that my first WW1 model had looked as good as this after my long break from modelling. Your interior is wonderful - and an interesting idea to present a mail plane in place of a wartime machine. This is going to be one to keep an eye on in future.

Stephen.

[petero]

I've been modeling for 50-ish years too .  This is a fun project because I've been building almost exclusively for Airfix Model World since they started in 2010.  It's great to be doing something just for myself again, and not having to worry about photos, captions and articles.  The editor has always allowed me to choose my own projects, so I've never been forced to build something I didn't want to, but all the overhead really does turn it into more of a job than a hobby after awhile.

This site and all you folks are a tremendous resource too.  I wouldn't be doing anywhere near as well without you!

Peter

[eclarson]

You have learned well, my not-so-young apprentice.  :-)

Eric

[Des]

You have done a superb job on the internals Peter, you certainly have mastered the wood grain technique.

Des.

[Manni]

Veeeery nice. The wood looks terrific and the interior seems to be like a good one but zoomed in with a 4K camera. So sharp and clean, great, simply great.
Manni

[petero]

I've now finished the engine, with spark plug wiring and lifter rods added.





Although most of the armament will be omitted, I've left the empty shell bucket in place, because it hides the prominent tab on the back of the instrument panel.



And here's the panel itself.



Next up, I'll work on covering the holes in the fuselage and cowlings where the guns were removed.  I want to get that done before I insert the innards and engine into the fuselage, so I don't wreck anything 

Peter

[Suffolk Lad]

Hello Peter -

As someone who has only just got his first two WW1 builds completed I'd like to say what a cracking start you have made on your return to WW1. Lovely work indeed and a very nice engine, but that woodgrain on the panel is superbly done - no hint of build up around the various dials etc - great work if I may say so

Looking forwards to seeing more

Tug

[coyotemagic]

Gorgeous work on the engine and interior, Peter!  That instrument panel is superb.
Cheers,
Bud

[lcarroll]

   Splendid and spectacular work, Peter. Your clean and super detailed results show you haven't lost your touch, this is very very nicely done and I add my compliments to the others. I'll be following your progress with great interest and pleasure!
Cheers,
Lance

[lone modeller]

I agree about the wood texture/tone on the instrument panel - that could easily be taken for real wood. This is outstanding modelling.

Stephen.

[Manni]

Wow, I wish I was able to have such a steady hand to paint my Brezels like you do. Very, very nice.
Manni