While the Fokker D.VII is perhaps one of the most famous W.W. I aircraft,
far less known are the prototypes that preceded it.
Few realize that the initial D.VII prototype had the signature Fokker "comma" shaped rudder.
Fewer still know that at first it even omitted the inter-plane struts.
These weren't needed due to the Fokker D.VII wings' cantilever construction but were added later to ease the minds of pilots who found their omission disconcerting.
Or so the perhaps apocryphal tale goes.
I came across this D.VII origin story in a book I read as a lad. It may have been by Quentin Reynolds but it's been so long I can't remember.
However, the story stayed with me all these years. I knew someday I'd have to model that D.VII and here it is.
I started with the venerable 1/72 Esci kit that's a re-pop of the old Revell kit. You've got to admit, that's some nice box art.
The instructions begin with a scholarly history of the aircraft.
Then they progress to assembly which isn't complicated and about what you'd expect from a kit of early 1960's vintage.
Last is a helpful paint guide.
As is customary, this would be utterly ignored.
And here's how the classic Esci D.VII looks in the wild.
That's not bad considering it's a 1980's boxing and the molds had been in use for 20 years by then.
I wasn't feeling so sure about the original decals though.
Not to worry, I found replacements from a sheet for an Eduard Albatros.
I started by getting out the old hairy stick and painting as much as I could while still on the sprues.
I also did what little there is of the interior and cut a new rudder from card.
I used acrylics, Polly Scale Aged White mostly along with Model Masters Steel and Aluminum on the cowling.
Assembly was straight forward except for covering over the gap where the guns are supposed to go with card.
I put the main decals on before mounting the wing.
Here's a look at the new rudder cut from card and covered with some of my diminishing Polly Scale Reefer White.
The prop was painted Model Masters Dark Earth with a stripe of Sand. Testors Gold was used for the boss.
The prop was then given a coat of Liquitex acrylic Gloss Medium before I added the logo decals. I was pleased with that extra bit of detail.
I also added a windscreen cut from clear blister pack and attached with PVA Gator Glue.
Then I put those cabanes together and attached the upper wing.
Few things are as satisfying as successfully mounting that top wing.
I decided to go with a minimal prototype marking scheme. Maybe someday I'll do a camouflaged combat version.
It took me about a week to put this one together. I'd like to thank Bill for sending me the kit, I couldn't have done it without you!
I hope you enjoyed this unique version of the famous Fokker D.VII.
Brian da Basher
