TAMIYA 1/32 SPITFIRE Mk.XVIe…
This is one of my many Tamiya 1/32 Spitfires.
It's the aircraft flown by W.O. Murray Lind of 485(NZ) squadron in 1945.
I was fortunate enough to acquire a brief copy of his history as written by his son Alan.
I also referred to the RNZAF records which confirmed the actual serial number of Murray's Spitfire.
This enabled me to correct a number of inaccuracies in the Tamiya kit regarding the markings and serial number.
As I was correcting those details, I got a little carried away and added heaps of wiring and stencilling to the insides as well as HGW microfibre seatbelts.
The model was painted with the "late war RAF set" from Tamiya and the markings were painted on using both Montex and hand cut masks.
The stencilling is from HGW's wet transfer set.
I tried to get the weathering and wear to match my reference photographs, which are from Alan Lind's article.
The pilot figure is from Wings Cockpit and whilst I know he looks nothing like Murray he just looks so cool.
14 additional images. Click to enlarge.
Spiros Pendedekas said on August 23, 2020
Stephen, this is a wonderful job!
I kept admiring the cockpit.
Congratulations!
Terry Schuler said on August 23, 2020
Stephen, I always liked the looks of the MK XVI, I particularly enjoy them when they are built well such as what we have here !
John vd Biggelaar said on August 23, 2020
Fantastic build, Stephen.
Detailing on the cockpit is exceptional.
Tom Bebout said on August 23, 2020
Excellent work Stephen, that cockpit really stands out.
John Healy said on August 23, 2020
Nice model. I’m still amazed at how the magnets actually work to keep the panels on the cowl on that kit. Your figure painting is exceptional!
Tom Cleaver said on August 23, 2020
That's a seriously-good model, sir. Excellent detail work throughout.
Greg Kittinger said on August 24, 2020
Great looking Spit - that cockpit looks like the real thing! Well done.
David Mills said on August 28, 2020
Lovely work Stephen great subject too!