Model Airplane International – August 2019

WHEN MODELLING TAKES YOU TO ANOTHER LEVEL...

I

t’s not often that something comes along
and completely blows away any expecta-
tions you might have about what a model-
ling experience can offer. Wingnut Wings
appeared from nowhere ten years ago
and redefi ned the notion of a quality modelling
product, through its packaging, presentation,
subject matter, and the actual quality of the
parts. However, Artesania Latina’s Sopwith
Camel takes modelling onto another level.
Firstly, however, it has to be said that this
is not a plastic model, so it might put a lot of
modellers off straight away. It is also a special-
ist’s model due to its scale, complexity, and

mix of non-plastic parts that include wood,

white metal, and photo-etch. The company is

probably best known for its ship models and

you can see how a model such as this stripped

down Camel fi ts easily into their catalogue,

as does its companion in the range, a Fokker

Dr.1.

The model is packaged in a modestly sized

but heavy box, bearing photographs of the

impressively completed Camel. Lifting the lid

you are immediately aware of the care that has

gone into this model, with three clear vacuum

formed trays with lids safely encapsulating the

white metal parts, two large photo-etch frets

plastic sealed against a stiff card backing, sev-

eral boards bearing the laser cut parts ready

for easy removal, a bundle of wooden lengths,

cotton, wire, and a poster of the completed

model.

No paper instructions though, instead a CD

is provided containing all the details needed to

complete the build. It’s very thorough, includ-

ing PDF and JPEG fi les covering construction,

parts lists, and eight very useful constructional

videos. Whilst this is a necessary way of com-

municating the complexities of the build, the

267 slide instruction ”booklet” will mean that

you will have to have a computer or tablet near

ARTESANIA LATINA 1:16 SOPWITH CAMEL - WRITTEN BY HARIS ALI