Fokker D. VII OAW early, Uffz. Bäder, Jasta 65 - 1:72 Eduard 70131 - Aviattic decals

Aviattic decals, what else? 🙂 

some of the small parts ready 

I have been asked the differences between Aviattic decal and the Eduard's original.
I hope this photo can explain it better: the printed fabric effect is subtle but obvious and together with the rib tapes already in place, makes for something worth it. 

The top wing's decals is in three parts, I didn't align them right on the bottom ...
 

 

to match all the rib tapes with the corresponding ribs I placed the two outer decals first, then the center part; I forgot to trim the two outer ones were they meet the midst, so I had to slice two small stripes once all the parts were dryed  

I replaced the plastic middle sewing with a PE from Parts, once the lozenge decals applied. 

Port... 

... and starboard Schwaben! 

I had to place the rabbit forward then Eduard shows in the instruction, and remove the starboard top engine cowling as per reference photos 

 

UniPOSCA oil pastels: my new way to go for oil detail painting  

Here the comparison betwee before and after the pastels treatment, it is subtle and difficult to catch with photos, but I am really satisfied with the results.
All the differences that you see are obtained only with them 

 

 

 

Finally finished! The assembly of the main parts is difficult because there is litttle tollerance for paint and primer thickness, all the mating surfaces need cleaning and testing (like all the latest Eduard's kits, anyway...) 

 

 

 

I used GasPatch 3D printed Spandau 08/15, a real treat for the eyes: I am not a good photographer but I hope you can tell it!
I scratchbuilt the flare gun starting from a spare gun in the kit, maybe is a bit overscale, but I am happy with it 

I used Eduard's Brassin Mercedes D.III engine because I liked more the top of the cilinders, where all the valves and springs works, but I am not sure it is a big improvement over kit's parts and the PE ignition wires don't look too accurate to me, maybe next time I will use the beautiful Small Stuff resin one.