This is my contribution to the large selection of 1:200 Bismarcks in this forum.
The model was completed more than three years ago and won Best in class, Exhibitors price and Best in Show in the Norwegian annual «Skala» exhibition.
As my main interest in modelling is the Kriegsmarine, and although I have built at least 10 models of this ship before, I could not resist the challenge to take on this 1:200 project.
From the outset I decided that I would try to utilize as many details as possible that are not already in place in this well designed set.
I don’t intend to write everything about the build process, that is fairly well covered by others before me, but rather focus on small improvements and scratchbuilt items picked up from different sources.
If you have the interest and patience this thread should be able to give you further ideas when building YOUR Bismarck!
I did not buy and build the kit at first chance, but waited until Pontos were ready with their comprehensive PE kits including resin and brass parts as well as a wooden deck.
Smaller items were sourced from Veteran Models and lots of stuff from the spare bin, Plasticards etc. Colours mainly from Lifecolor sprayed in my two Iwata airbrushes, 0.2mm and 0.5mm.
My version of the ship is built trying to correct and detail some of the areas that I have been able to spot in my references. I guess that quite a few of you out there are able to correct me if I have things wrong – please do! If you have questions, feel free to ask, and I’ll try to answer as far as I’m capable.
The more important reference books are the two «Schlachtschiff Bismarck» by Josef Kaiser, Simon Frey Verlag (publisher). The volume «Das Modell» is interesting, but it is the other volume «Das Original» that you will find first hand, excellent pictures of the ship. And mind you: As built!!!
Nice pictures down to details such as rigging, ventilators, hatches, labels on lockers etc.
As you already may know, Bismarck was modified is several areas before putting out on her fatal operation. So always check other sources if you intend to build the ship in another timeframe.
If you don’t have access to these books, many of the photo can be found on net and in the Bundeswehr archives. Also, nice ref photos in AJ press series on Bismarck and Tirpitz, but be careful: the colour drawings are always accurate!
And do consult the Internet – with caution of course. And check your findings with different sources.
Some of my other Kriegsmarine models can be found here:
http://www.modelshipgallery.com/gallery ... index.htmlHave fun!