The famous Sopwith Camel (photo not from book) |
WWI British Aeroplane Colours and Markings A Book Review by Kerry Nash
After receiving this booklet, I thought it may be a bit thin (at
56 pages) for the subject. After reading it, I realized it well
covered the intended subject. For those of us interested in the
heraldry and markings of WWI, aircraft books such as this are essential.
Although the WWI colors and markings of the British are probably
the least involved of all the Allies, the importance of such cannot
be underscored. The British had fairly standard national markings.
They also lacked an attempt to camouflage their craft outside
of a coat of green- brown paint.
The author, renowned aviation historian Bruce Robertson, covers
the subject in detail with chapters from: General Finishes to
Trademarks and Component Markings. Over 130 photos and diagrams
are used to illustrate the detail and component markings of the
subject. Also, four color plates by Ray Rimell show the typical
WWI British aircraft finishes. Most importantly they show color
examples of the significant colors used by the British. Anyone
who lacks the rare 'Methuen Book of Color References' (the bible
of color reference showing a number reference for all shades and
colors) can sorely use the accurate color swatch reproductions
that are included in the plates. The only addition I would have
liked to have seen would have been the addition of unit and squadron
markings - though covering this would have doubled the size of
the book.
As the second installment of the WINDSOCK FABRIC SPECIALS (the
first covering the von Richthofen Jagdgeschwader) it does justice
to its intended subject. The members of this series are a must
for any serious historian's library. Additionally, they are required
for the scale modelers and other artists involved with WWI aircraft.
If these are your area of interest I recommend get this book.
You can order the book through Albatros Publications Ltd., 10
Long View, Chiltern Park Estate, Berkhamstead, Hertfordshire,
HP4 1BY, Great Britain, for 14.95 Pounds (about $26.00). © 1997 Kerry Nash - All rights reserved |