Mitsubishi A5M4 Claude.
This is the 1/48 scale Finemolds Mitsubishi A5M4 Claude. Imperial Japanese Navy, INJ Kaga, 1939.
The kit contained 67 parts, and apart from the seat harness, was built straight out of the box.
It was painted with Alclad II, Aeromaster & Tamiya Acrylics.
The decals are the standard kit markings.
I made this model when it was first released last year (2016).
Thanks for looking, Julian.
11 additional images. Click to enlarge.
NIce work, Julian. I think Special Hobby also do this arcraft (?). It always looks simple but the finishes give it that little extra "something" that catches the eye in a table display.
There was one at Telford in 2012 that won best in its Class, so the scope is certainly there for "added value."
Your metal work is very effective, if I may say.
Thank you Rob. I've been looking on imodeler for a few months now and really look forward to your Friday Briefing.
It looks simple but you've achieved a lovely soft metallic finish that is very convincing , welcome to iModeler, Julian.
Hello George, thank you. Thank you also for your welcome.
Like George, I think the metal finish is very authentic and looks beautiful. Just perfect wear on her, too - really lovely build.
Thank you David, I'm pleased you like it
Fantastic ! It looks like a model packed with photo etched details and resin parts but it all comes from the box ! Amainzing. Its also a very interesting bird with a global shape that anounces the zero that was to come after.
Bravo
Thanks kloster. Yes, your correct. It was the forerunner of the Zero.
It looks really great!
Thank you Ken.
What a gem! Proves that a solid build and painting takes any scheme to a higher level. I like the subtle weathering, very realistic. Well done
Thanks Pedro. It's a gem of a kit that Finemolds have made making it easy to assemble.
Outstanding build, my friend...simply stunning. "...straight outta the box except for the seat harness...", huh? I'll bet that antenna wire wasn't in that box, though, was it? 🙂
Thank you Craig, and well spotted. I forgot that. The antenna wire is a length of EZ Line.
That EZ line is great stuff...makes easy work of antennas.
Oh...I just realized this was your inaugural post, Julian. Allow me to add my "welcome aboard" as well. You'll like it here...nice buncha folks.
Thank you for your warm welcome Craig.
I agree, EZ line is great stuff.
Excellent work sir, nice touch with parts tag, and welcome
Hello Robert, thank you sir. I see you recognised the parts tag.
Thanks also for your welcome.
Welcome onboard at iModeler, Julian. You've done justice to one of the prettiest inter-war fighters IMHO. How was this kit - as good as it looks finished :)?
Hello Martin, thank you, it's nice to be here.
I really think the Claude is a think of beauty.
The kit was a little gem to build. It went together so well, that I built it in subassemblies, then glued them together knowing I would not need any filler.
I've added another photo to show you what I mean.
I always make my models like this if the fit is good.
Julian, Nice work, on this very attractive build. Your metal finish looks great. I like it a lot !
Thank you Terry, that's much appreciated.
This is one of those builds that comes along only occasionally and really turns your head - I have been through the photos about a dozen times - beautifully done!
I don't know what to say Paul, other than thank you very much.
I'm really pleased you like it. Thanks again.
Hello Julian.
Well done. Do you have any suggestions for me (us) regarding the use of Alclad. Base coats and so on. Would appreciate some more info.
Regards, Dirk / The Netherlands.
Hello Dirk, thank you.
When I use Alclad, I use Tamiya Fine Grey Primer from a aerosol can for the base coat.
I then spray the Alclad on top of the base coat.
I leave this to harden for a couple of days before applying a Black Flory Wash.
I remove the excess wash with a damp cloth, and polish the surface with fine Micro-Mesh (8000).
I hope this helps. Please just ask if you need anymore information. Regards, Julian. UK
Great build of an interesting aircraft, Julian. As already mentioned; Welcome aboard!
Thank you Jeffry, thank you also for the friend request and your welcome.
Fantastic work Julian. The natural metal finish looks great, specialy with the weathering you have applied. It shows again that building straight form the box can lead to something fantastic.
Thank you Ferry, I always try to build the kit straight out of the box if I can. With modern kits, I find the detail adequate for my builds.
Welcome aboard Julian. Your Mitsubishi looks great ! I really like it. The paint is outstanding.
Hello Louis, and thank you.
I had a quick look at the models you have posted.
I will look at them in more detail when I get the time.
I noticed you put some history behind your builds.
Great idea, I very much like that.
Hello Louis, and thank you.
I had a quick look at the models you have posted.
I will look at them in more detail when I get the time.
I noticed you put some history behind your builds.
Great idea, I very much like that.
Lovely build Julian. I concur that the finish on the metal work is nice and subtle - just right! Welcome to the community...
Many thanks Greg. Alclad gives a good finish. Thanks also for the welcome.
Beautiful looking aircraft.
Thank you George.