Mauve 1/48 P-40N Kittyhawk IV
This is the Mauve 1/48 P-40N, utilizing a True Details resin cockpit, Squadron (Falcon) vacuform canopy and Red Roo Decals to make the P-40N flown by Wing Commander John Waddy, Australia's leading P-40 (only) ace when commanding 80 Wing at Halmahera in 1945. Note that the white wing leading edges and white tail are not masked off - according to Red Roo's research (borne out if you check photos carefully), they were applied "freehand."
I had the opportunity of meeting John Waddy at the 1984 AFAA convention (when they were all still alive and all capable of drinking me under the table, which they did). He was "quite a character" and you would never mistake him for other than an Aussie. Some have claimed over the years that the Aussie P-40s were repainted in RAAF Foliage Green and light blue. When I asked him about that, his comment was "Bollocks! We had a war to fight and no time for such foolishness!"
11 additional images. Click to enlarge.
Craig Abrahamson said on June 30, 2014
Never heard of a manufacturer named "Mauve"...they still in business? Nice photos.
Tom Cleaver said on June 30, 2014
They were in business 1994-95, produced the P-40M and P-40N, the first good 1/48 P-40 kits. Went out of business when their factory was destroyed in the Kobe earthquake in 1995. I'm sure their kits were an inspiration to Hasegawa, since they look so much alike once assembled and painted.
bob mack said on June 30, 2014
are they AMT...didn't eduard have a dance with them or somebody
Tom Cleaver said on June 30, 2014
Eduard did both a P-40M and N from their kits - they bought the ones done that didn't have boxes or instructions from the earthquake. These were the first Eduard "upgrade" kits. Resin cockpit and wheel wells and a different decal sheet.
Bob Bailey said on June 30, 2014
Who's the most prolific modeler on the planet? Tom Cleaver, of course.
More good work, Tom
You've been a wonderful mentor for me since the mid-90's when I retired and got back into this great sport we all appreciate so much. Thanks for the good guidance over many years in your build articles.
Peace,
Bails-In-Minnesota
.
Tom Cleaver said on June 30, 2014
Flattery, sir, will get you Everywhere. 🙂