Sopwith Camel F1 – Hasegawa 1:8 (2nd build)

Having built the first 1:8 scale Hasegawa Sopwith Camel kit, I was given the opportunity to build a second as a commission. Not surprisingly the build was much the same as the first model, though I did take the chance to add quite a bit of extra detail and improve the rigging in particular. The improvements are covered elsewhere in the blog section of this site.

The covered half of the model is painted in the colours of the Elliott White Spring’s Camel. He was an American who joined the RFC early in the war and flew SE5as with 85 Squadron. He later transferred to the 148th Squadron of the USAS where he flew this Camel. He was credited with 16 victories in total by the end of the war.

For a more detailed description of him have a read of the entry on The Aerodrome.

12 thoughts on “Sopwith Camel F1 – Hasegawa 1:8 (2nd build)”

      1. Hi, apart from admiring your work, your’e an inspiration as I work my way through this 1/8 scale Sopwith Camel. You mention that you had a batch of seat belts for the said model which I will be more than interested in purchasing one (1) complete set should you desire. I’m in the UK just indicate availability, price and postage costs.

        many thanks RJ Gilbert

        7 GROVE ST, HIGHAM FERRERS, NN10 8HX

        07934 246 361

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      2. I’m afraid the spares got binned ages ago. I tend to build several parts and choose the best. The rest get scrapped soon after, or I’d have parts all over the place.

        I’m trying to remember, but I think I just used some of the wing covering material painted an appropriate colour. The buckle was made from soldered brass rod and sheet.

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    1. I don’t unfortunately. I do have a clean set of them in my possession though and I’d be prepared to get them copied at a printers if you were prepared to reimburse the cost and postage.

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      1. Thank you for your offer to print the camel plans. I’d be happy to pay for the copies and postage to Brisbane Australia if you advised the amount and details for payment. Thanks again, Geoff

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  3. How big is the Hasegawa Camel?

    Where can I obtain the kit?

    I realize a kit of this quality doesn’t come cheap.

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    1. The finished model is about 42″ (107cm) wide, 28″ (71cm) long and 14″ (36cm) high. It weighs about 2.2lbs (1kg).

      To get one, Ebay and the like are your best bet. The model has been out of production for decades and is now a collector’s item. Prices reflect this.

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  4. Hello MBIQModels

    Did you manage to get hold of a Camel kit ? I know I’m a year late but I’ve only just read your post.

    Regards

    Geoff Taylor

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    1. I’m a bit confused by the question if I’m honest (it’s been a while since I did anything Camel F1 related).

      I have my own Camel model hanging up at home which was my first build. The second build, which these are photos of, has been delivered to its owner. I don’t have plans to make another at the moment.

      If I do make another Hasegawa 1:8 model it will be the SE5a. Then I will have made them all.

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      1. Hello

        So sorry. I should have replied to Gary Brounstein, the post above yours.

        I just love your work BTW. Very skilful.

        I built the Camel some years ago and thought I did a pretty good job but after seeing yours, I feel like burning mine in shame. I had problems with the Hasegawa rigging thread supplied. It went saggy after a few years. I’d recommend to anyone intending to build the model to use wire as you’ve done.

        I have a spare SE5 kit if you need one.

        Best regards

        Geoff

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