Different modeling books tend to have a “tools round-up” in their introduction chapter. This book includes which probably is the more important tool: “The modelers’ eye”. What is meant here is that you have to study the subject, look at it several times, noticing details each time you look at the subject in order to take notes and attempt to recreate and model whatever you “see” when you are looking at pictures or the real thing you are planning to model.

The following chapter briefly covers the basic techniques of model weathering and then the book dives into very well photographed and highly detailed construction of 11 models, ranging from 1/32nd to 1/72^ndscale. Markings range from USAF, to Chilenean and Israeli Air Forces.

History and Performance

The Panzerkampfwagen III was one of the workhorses of the German army during World War II. The development order was issued in 1935 for a full-tracked vehicle in the 15 ton class. The Ausf. A model was manufactured in 1937 and was armed with a 3.7 cm main gun. Ten of these vehicles were produced but were withdrawn from service in 1940 due to insufficient armor and poor suspension. Several other variants were manufactured in subsequent years with armament increased to include 5.0 cm and ultimately 7.5 cm main guns. There was also a model equipped with a flame thrower. The Panzerkampfwagen III saw service on all fronts during the war, but the improvements in armament and armor never quite matching its opponents.

Ok, the boys from Eduard have another offering for this famous French kite. In this newest boxing we find 78 plastic parts; a photoetch fret; an express mask, and a beautiful set of decals. These cover the six options which include French, RFC and Italian services. I will omit a history lesson and go on to the build.

The construction is straightforward; my only gripe is that part A25 is too long and the instruction sheet seems vague in regards to it. Right or wrong, I just cut off the nub it left and sanded the bottom side flush. Everything else was smooth sailing adding the photoetch bits along the way. I added the decals early on in the build simply for the ease of doing them while the areas were still accessible.

I really enjoy the Eduard kits and consider them to be outstanding in fit and detail. I finished the build completely out of box without adding any embellishments for the review.