1/72 Hasegawa Mirage F.1C in HAF Colors
I don't normally build 1/72 models, but I was inspired to build this kit by the cool photos posted by Spiros (@fiveten) of Greek F.1CGs. I happened to have this model in my stash, but I added some XtraDecals for the HAF markings, as well as an Eduard photoetch set for the Special Hobby kit. I added the photoetch and some scratchbuilt details to the cockpit, and drilled out the holes for the speedbrakes. I applied some light weathering using AK Weathering Pencils and some artist's oils and mineral spirits.
Spiros tells me that only a couple of planes received this "ghost scheme" at the very end of its career with the Hellenic Air Force. According to the info that came with the decals, this scheme was used on the plane in 2003, which is the same year the F1CG was retired. If you are interested in the build, or using weathering pencils, please check the "In Progress" build in Groups. Cheers.
This is an amazing result, George @gblair!
Your depicted plane, s/n 121 flew many operational missions wearing the ghost scheme, kind of an evaluation machine, the results being totally successful, better than the classic Aegean Blue camo.
I risk to state that the ghost scheme would have been implemented in the whole Hellenic F.1s, should they not have retired by then.
Your model is spectacular: it clearly demonstrates how a skilled modeler can transform an old and basic kit into a masterpiece.
Your thread was a joy to follow.
Congratulations, my friend!
Thanks, Spiros (@fiveten). It was your great photos that got this one off the ground. It also gave me a chance to try some new techniques.
It is possible that Spiros might be a little bit bias towards your build, but his comments are true nonetheless!
The build looks amazing with the Aegean HAF Camo, and the cockpit is something else.
It was great to see the progression of the build, George, thanks for taking us along for the ride.
You really got more than "the most" out of this old chestnut. Great result.
"Liked"
Your F.1 looks great, George. As I mentioned in the GB, that cockpit could easily pass for 1/48. In fact, it looks busier than the pit for the 48th scale Super Etendard I'm currently working on (which has a similar layout and ejection seat). I really like the Greek camo - no doubt you got the best color advice possible from Spiros. Glad to see this one posted. Happy modeling.
You reeled it in big time George. That is one heck of a fine looking cockpit for 1/72nd. Like Tom said, “Great result”.
very nice work
Thanks for the kind words, George (@georgeswork), Tom (@tcinla), Colin (@coling), Eric (@eb801), and Nikos (@nikparts14). I think an F-4 in Greek colors is in my future. This was a fun kit, but I think something in a larger scale will be up next.
A fantastic build, George! That cockpit is amazing.
Thanks, Robert (@roofrat). The cockpit was pretty basic in the kit. The Eduard set and resin seat helped, but I found I needed to add stuff like some pipes and boxes on the rear wall of the cockpit, as well as some extra stuff on the cockpit side walls.
It turned out really sharp, George. Love that scheme, and the F.1.
An outstanding result, George @gblair.
That scheme really stands out.
The detailing on the interior is superb, especially in this scale.
Well done.
Thanks, John (@j-healy) and John (@johnb).
That's a beauty George! Love the cockpit details and the weathering. Fantistic build.
Thanks, Greg (@gkittinger). The AK weathering pencils are easy to use, but I think I will stick to using artist oils and mineral spirits. I feel a larger scale model in my future. :o)
I end up using a little of both - I seem to get a tad different result, so depending on what I'm looking for, I'll use the pencils in certain places, and oils or pastels in others. It's nice to have multiple tools in the toolbox!