Profile Photo
Frank Cronin
80 articles

Repair job of models by an unknown builder

August 4, 2013 · in Aviation · · 7 · 1.2K

I received a commission from a gentleman to repair some models that he had had in his possession for quite a number of years. He bought these models a long time ago and he does not remember who he bought them from or who had made them. They had been in a state of disrepair for a very long time prior to contacting me. He asked that they be brought back to good health as best I could do. The clear parts on the Mig were browned out but he wanted me to leave it as it was. (Whew!)

He bought these from the builder and as I said he does not remember who built them. All of the models are 1/24th scale. All were scratch built using hard wood, metal, tissue, wire,and formed clear plastic. Originally all of the models had sprung oleos and moveable canopies. Whom ever built these models did a beautiful job and was a real craftsman. The attention to detail was remarkable for a model built so long ago.

I did the best I could to bring them back to their original form. I could not re-do the surfaces as I would normally do because of their construction. Particularly the Mig which had the rear fuselage done in tissue paper. Fortunately I was able to obtain decals for the Spitfire and the 109 in 1/24th scale. He was alright with the change of the scheme of the 109. As to the Mig, I had to make the decals and did the best I could with them.

I would really like to know who built these models and compliment him on the outstanding skill he processed in making them. I have not built a model from scratch and from multi types of materials since I was into control line flying scale. Nor do I expect I will ever do it again.

Whom ever built these models, my compliments go out to you.

Reader reactions:
7  Awesome

9 additional images. Click to enlarge.


7 responses

  1. you sure made those shine...your a far better painter than the original

  2. They look great. Hats off !

  3. I'm with you. Someone really possessed some talent here & you more than did them justice Frank.

  4. Frank
    The planes looked so good in the lead photo, I thought they were plastic. You did a great job, the unknown builder would be happy with your work.

  5. Great work, Frank, a true professional.

Leave a Reply