1/48 Revell Spitfire "Dunkirk"

Gallery Article by Chip Berseth on Dec 4 2017

 

      

Easily one of the best movies of 2017, Dunkirk was an intense thrill ride from the beginning. Although there are many big name actors in the film, one in particular was the main reason for not only seeing the film but also for building this aircraft. He is English actor Tom Hardy. My wife and I are huge fans of Mr. Hardy, so it wasn't hard to barter a free lunch at her favorite restaurant in exchange for joining me at the cinema.

Tom Hardy portrays RAF pilot Farrier, call sign "Fortis 1". Farrier was part of a three ship formation of Spitfires sent to protect the area around the Dunkirk beaches. Using the film for inspiration, and as a slight nod to one of my favorite film stars, I decided that I had to replicate Farrier's Spitfire.

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Using an old Revell 1/48 MK.II Spitfire that I had started many years ago and never got around to finishing, I decided to reproduce Farrier's aircraft. Construction was picked up where I left off, and seams were filled and sanded. This kit builds into a nice representation of an early model Spit, although it shows its age and lack of detail in some areas. Most notable are the wheel wells and the raised panel lines. But despite its flaws this kit was a fun build. A pilot was taken from an old Monogram Classics Hawker Typhoon. The exhaust pipes were also drilled out to look more realistic.

Model Master enamels were used for the top camouflage. Even though I have started to transition to acrylics, I found a few jars of Model Master enamels that were still good. White and black spray paint that I had on hand were used for the bottom of the aircraft. Blu-Tak was used for masking off the camo.

Research of the aircraft used in the filming turned up that Tom Hardy's aircraft was Spitfire R9612 London Charlie (LC). Decals were a mixture of kit supplied, Super Scale, and Fantasy Printshop. All set down well after multiple applications of Micro-sol and Micro-set. 

The base was purchased at a local craft store. After finely sanding the edges which were then masked with painters tape, I then drilled a small hole where the support post would go. 

Water was made using spackling paste for producing waves. After the paste had dried, the whole area that was to be water was covered with a few coats of latex house paint. After the latex paint had dried, I airbrushed the water area with a color mixed to replicate the color of the English Channel. White caps were painted using white craft paint. The water was then given multiple coats of Future to give it the wet look. 

Many modelers are hesitant to attempt water because of its perceived difficulty, it is actually easier than you could imagine. Originally used for a transport ship model, I have since used this technique on a few models with great results.

The bare wood sides were then stained using Minwax espresso colored wood stain. After the stain had dried I clear coated it with a coat of Minwax Polyacrylic satin sealant. Using stainless steel rod for the support post, this was secured inside the aircraft, and then affixed to the base. Stick on felt pads were stuck to the bottom of the base for added class.

This was a fun project that helped me perfect my skills at making water, using a different style airbrush, and making an "in flight model". It also allowed me to pay homage to a great film star and a courageous chapter of aviation history. 

Chip Berseth

Photos and text © by Chip Berseth