Tamiya 32nd Zero.
I've been working on Tamiya's 32nd scale Zero for a few months now.
Generally I enjoyed the build but didn't appreciate the added complication of the working features. I also struggled with getting the front of the fuselage to line up correctly and I had to thin the upper cowling to get it to fit exactly.
I reworked the figure by sharpening the detail with a scalpel blade. I ground out the face as he looked like Hitchcock and gave him the face of the seated figure after grinding away the rest of the head.
The engine got a scratch built ignition harness and I added the missing screw heads on the rocker covers using punched out foil discs.
The model was pre-shaded and highlighted before several thinned coats of the final colour were misted on.
Except for the tail codes all the main markings were sprayed on.
Thanks for looking.
Very nice work, Robert. I built this same kit three years ago and concur re the working features - an aspect of the kit I now think gimmicky and over-engineered, but like you I persevered. The figure looks convincing, too, and your work on the national markings is first rate.
Nice work Robert…..wish I had the space to work in 32nd scale.
I wholeheartedly agree with you about those working features. I like building the engine the most out of the kit I had and when you get to the machine gun placement, I am speaking of the ones in the cockpit, make sure that you have the charging handles in the correct place or it will throw the whole cockpit and wing installation off. Ask me how I know.
Anyway, quite the job and a real nice build.
Outstanding work, sir...very nice result(s) indeed.
Outstanding result. Good to see you got the fact that the PH Zeros were new, and still semi-gloss (and clean!).
Thanks everyone for the replies, they are appreciated. I knew very little about the Zero Tom but one of the things I did pick up during my research was the polished finish, couldn't resist making the engine a bit grubby though. Speaking of which I forgot to mention I added the rocker lubrication lines from wire.
Like- Nice build and pint!
P.k
Lots of extra detail work make this a very special Zero. I think the only problem with these large models is managing to photograph them...
Thanks P.k
You are right George I find photographing larger models tricky. Depth of field is the biggest issue. Thanks for your comments.
Rob.
Gorgeous Zero! Love the detail work you did.
Thanks Greg.
I have been watching your progress with this model on your face book page and on my occasional visits to you man cave
And I can honestly say the photos don't do this build justice
Even the the base itself is a little masterpiece absolutely fantastic Rob
I am looking forward to seeing your next project
Well done mate ?
Thanks Mark.
Beautifully done, Robert!