Eduard Albatros D.III OEFFAG Overtrees 1:48 Eduard (8421X)

[Viking]

Albatros D.III OEFFAG Overtrees 1:48 Eduard (8241X)

Albatros D.III OEFFAG 153 PE-Set 1:48 Eduard (8241-LEPT)
Albatros D.III OEFFAG 253 PE-Set 1:48 Eduard (8242-LEPT)

 

 

Plastic ‘Overtrees’.
From time to time Eduard offer some of their kits as ‘Overtrees’ editions. These contain just the plastic parts for the particular model with no instructions or decals, and come in a plain white box. The idea is that with the multiple options for markings in most Eduard kits, you can use these overtrees to build another of the options provided in the original kit. Also, you can use them with aftermarket decals, as even if you don’t have the original kit, Eduard provide the instructions in pdf format on their website.
This release offers all five plastic sprues from the OEFFAG 152 / 153 kits, and will enable you to build one or the other, with the options of ‘prop & spinner’ , ‘blunt’, or ‘snub’ noses, and internal or externally mounted machine guns. It is therefore compatible with any of Eduard’s previous OEFFAG releases and can be used with any of the optional decals within them., for example the recently reviewed 'Viribus Unitis Dual Combo reviewed here. which contains two kits and nine finishing options!

Note that this overtree box contains one aircraft. It is beautifully moulded with fine and accurate detail, and builds up very nicely with no issues. It is certainly one of the best 1:48 biplane kits available.

Often when you buy a new kit, it can be hard to decide which option to finish it in, and you can find yourself dithering between your two (or three!) favourite choices. These overtree releases are a great idea, and offer a cheap and effective way to get another set of sprues, and build all the options you want!#

 

Etched sets.
Should you want to add the set of etched items to your overtree kit, fear not for they are also available to accompany it. There is a set each for the OEFFAG 152 and the OEFFAG 253 with quite a lot of differences between them, so you may need to decide which one you are going to build before you order.

Two frets are supplied in each, and like the overtree kit they do come with any instructions. In both sets the smaller fret is pre-painted and holds the instruments and seatbelts, but the seatbelts are quite different styles.

The main frets are unpainted and share some common parts, but the 153 has a complete seat, ‘blunt’ nose plate, and undercarriage mounting strap.

 

 

 

Both have parts for the engine, inspection covers, elevator control horns & wires, propeller hub, wheels, and several minor details.

Conclusion.
A great idea, these sets are only available direct from Eduards own website. Get them while you can, they are always popular and sell out rapidly.

 

Review samples courtesy of