Roden's kit is moulded in quite soft pale grey plastic. There is a little flash evident on some parts, but nothing serious. The parts show a slightly textured finish, and will benefit from polishing; a gloss finish will be important if lozenge decals are applied...
The kit is designed so that a number of different versions can be released; the nose is separate from the rest of the fuselage, allowing for the different style cowkings of the original. Additionally, Roden include 3 types of propellor, 3 styles of wheels and axles, and 2 different engines. Quite a package, although most of the parts will be consigned to the spares bin.
The kit is designed so that a number of different versions can be released; the nose is separate from the rest of the fuselage, allowing for the different style cowkings of the original. Additionally, Roden include 3 types of propellor, 3 styles of wheels and axles, and 2 different engines. Quite a package, although most of the parts will be consigned to the spares bin.
The cockpit and engine compartment are very nicely detailed, and Roden give the option of building the model with the nose panels removed to show off the engine.
Compared with plans in Windsock Datafile No. 9, the rear fuselage seems a little too deep, and the upper wing span slightly too great. But, importantly, the DVII's distinctive wing section seems correct.
Decals & Conclusion
Roden have supplied a full set of lozenge decals plus a separate sheet of crosses and personal markings. The decals are thin and glossy.
The lozenge decals are impressive at first glance, but the colours are extremely dubious compared with samples on the Pegasus website. Closer inspection also shows that the inks used are quite translucent, causing distinct borders where colours overlap. The crosses are not quite in register (on my example), so careful trimming will be needed.
I have read that Roden's decals are extremely fragile and hard to apply, so it might be safer to scrap all the kit decals and buy one of the many aftermarket sheets that are sure to be released to accompany this kit.
Roden have done well to spot a gap in the market. An accurate Fokker DVII is sure to prove extremely popular and the lack of rigging makes it a good choice for anyone tackling the first bi-plane. Eduard have also announced a DVII, but it isn't due for release until 2005... 'till then, Roden have the skies to themselves.
SUMMARY
The Fokker DVII aquired an awesome reputation during its brief combat career 1918; the French issued orders to Spad XIII pilots to avoid combat with the new aircraft, and it was uniquely singled out for surrender in the Armistice terms. The DVII wasn't particularly fast, although its cantilever wing did not need drag-producing wires. But it was strong and extremely manoeuvrable, with an exceptional rate of climb. It's greatest asset was it's resistance to spinning - the DVII could continue to climb and turn steeply long after its oppentents had spun away.
About Rowan Baylis (Merlin) FROM: NO REGIONAL SELECTED, UNITED KINGDOM
I've been modelling for about 40 years, on and off. While I'm happy to build anything, my interests lie primarily in 1/48 scale aircraft. I mostly concentrate on WW2 subjects, although I'm also interested in WW1, Golden Age aviation and the early Jet Age - and have even been known to build the occas...
