1:32 Messerschmitt Bf-108 Weekend

1:32 Messerschmitt Bf-108, an Eduard photo-etched set

This is a set of photo-etched parts from the Czech manufacturer Eduard for a model of the Messerschmitt Bf 108 in 1:32 scale. The set falls within Eduard's photo-etched ranges: the parts are etched from thin metal sheet, are held on a fret and are glued to the model permanently. That sets it apart both from the CX, EX and JX masking ranges, which serve only for painting glazing and are thrown away after the work, and from the steel restraint belts of the STEEL range, which address a single detail. The word in the name refers to the edition of the target kit, not to the contents of the package, as the kit itself is not included.

The real subject

The Messerschmitt Bf 108 was an all-metal four-seat low-wing monoplane of the 1930s with retractable landing gear and automatic leading-edge slots. It came about as a fast touring and sporting aircraft and was later used for liaison and training duties. The glazed cabin with its large windows is characteristic of the type, and in 1:32 scale you can see well inside, so it pays to add to the interior.

Building and painting tips

Photo-etched parts get into a model where a plastic part would be several times too thick in scale. Lay the fret on a hard surface and separate the parts with the pressure of a scalpel edge, not with nippers. Level the fret tab with a fine file. Degrease the metal with alcohol and from then on touch it only with tweezers. Make the folds in a bending tool or between razor blades, always with the sharp edge to the fold line; anneal larger or thicker parts briefly over a flame so that they stop springing back, and let them cool freely. They are glued with thin cyanoacrylate in minute drops, as the excess goes white and is conspicuous against a light interior. Apply a primer before painting, as otherwise the paint on smooth metal will not survive handling.

Who the set is for

• Builders in the large scale who want a faithful interior and fine detail.
• Modelers with experience of tweezers and cyanoacrylate glue.
• Those who build interwar and prewar civilian and liaison aircraft.
• Builds with an open cabin or uncovered panels.

The set holds photo-etched parts only. The model, glue and paints are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.