Quinta Studio Albatros D.V 3D Interior Decal (QD32085 for Wingnut Wings)

[Mike]

Albatros D.V (QD32085 for Wingnut Wings)

1:32 Quinta Studios

 

 

When Quinta’s innovative products first came to our attention, they caused quite a stir, as well they should.  The replacement Instrument Panels and internal details are mind-boggling to look at, because we’re used to seeing simplified styrene instrument panels, or Photo-Etch Brass panels with either two layers of etch, or laminated parts that can be tricky to glue together, even if they are pre-painted for your ease.  But decals?  These aren’t your run-of-the-mill decals though, they’re 3D printed in many layers and colours on a flat carrier film, having as much in the way of elevation as is needed to complete a realistic panel printed in the correct colours, complete with shiny dial faces and metallic-effect hardware, and often including cushions and seat belts in the set.

 

 

Each set arrives in a Ziploc bag with a folded instruction booklet protecting the decals, which are also separately bagged, so they should reach you in good condition.  The pictorial instructions are printed on glossy paper, and are shown in full colour as befits the awesomeness of the sets, showing exactly where each part should go on the actual model, so there’s no confusion due to the “pictures speak a thousand words” maxim.  Additional hints and instructions are also included, marking out parts needing bases, kit parts that are used or replaced and other useful tips.  The technical instructions in the text-based, giving additional tips to the new user about maximising adhesion and preventing lift at the edges by wicking in super glue.

 

 

Although you are advised to use Super Glue (CA) to attach the decals to the surface permanently, preparation is much the same as your standard decal, but you will need to remove any raised detail that would be underneath the location depicted in the instructions, and some new parts will need small backing panels or bases on which to apply the decal.  A slim piece of sheet styrene would perform that task, and painting the edges a matching colour should minimise its appearance or turn it completely invisible.

 

 

This set is patterned for the Wingnut Wings Albatros D.V, and is probably the only aftermarket these kits could want or need.  The set comprises two sheets of decals, starting with a rear bulkhead that has a choice of linen or lozenge-coloured covers; instruments and compass for the simple panels of the day; key-like switches on the panel; a length of bead or chain and a dial for the right sidewall; a set of detailed four-point harnesses for the pilot, and an exquisite button-quilted cushion for his seat that has just the perfect amount of shine to represent leather; realistic wood pattern and textured floor panel; two wood effect panels for either side of the engine block; details for the ammo feeds and tanks inside the fuselage; a substantial number of raised inspection hatches for the exterior of the fuselage, wings and the aerofoil between the wheels, all of which will improve an already excellent model substantially.

 

 

Conclusion

The detail on the parts is incredible, down to the stiffening around pass-throughs, the dials, that seat, and overall impressive crispness of the set.  This WWI cockpit is open to the air, which is just the ticket to show off the superb details.

 

Very highly recommended.

 

 

Review sample courtesy of

 

[Corsairfoxfouruncle]

Well seeing as Ive got one of these this may very well find its way into my possession.