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New 1:32 Decal Release
from Radu Brinzan Models preview by Jay Laverty
Very quickly, Radu Brinzan is establishing himself a reputation as a producer of high quality items and accessories for the Large Scale Modeller and this latest release certainly shows some of his personal passion and subject interest, as well as his ability to create a quality set of decals. The artwork in the instruction sheet is on a par with the best, and above and beyond most, decal producers that are well established names in the market-place. Laid out clearly and each aircraft receiving a brief historical paragraph there is little room for confusion about the subject matter, which is particularly welcome considering the fact that the subject matter is relatively esoteric, and not allot of information is going to be readily available, without some extensive research. The colour scheme is carefully explained on each airframe, adding to the overall impression and ease of it's interpretation. Fantasy Printshop have established a reputation for high quality decal reproduction, so seeing their name on the sheet is in itself a solid assurance of quality, and examination of the sheet up close shows that this particular example lives up to their normal hallmarks. Everything is in excellent register, and the colours are solid, bright and well defined. The only slight problem I noticed with my particular sheet was a nearly imperceptible gap on the rudder I.D. band between the yellow and blue stripe. Of course, given my lack of knowledge about the airframe, this could be an accurate representation of the original, especially considering Radu has gone to great lengths to recreate the hand decorated inaccuracies of the American markings painted onto selection #4. Several options add to the value of this decal sheet, and while 2 or 3 choices would seem to be the industry standard when it comes to decal sheets, Radu has added to that with this sheet comprising 5 different aircraft, all flown by Romania's Top Scoring Ace; Captain Aviator Constantin Bazu Cantacuzino. ( 3 109G-2's, a G-4 and a G-6)
Personally I rate this decal sheet very highly, for a couple of reasons. Firstly and most obviously is the quality of it, and the thoroughness of the research as well as the clarity of instruction. Secondly is the fact that all of the aforementioned factors mean that this decal sheet will not be beyond the remit and interest as it comes, for the average modeller. That is to say that some one will not have to delve deeply into the subject and spend allot on books and time on research, to model a 109 that is off the beaten modelling path, and free from black crosses or swastikas. Unless of course they want to, finding this decal sheet inspiring. Also available in 1:72 and 1:48. Highly Recommended.
MDC Fantasy Printshop |
