Johnnybach's German SS Band - Glossy version (1 Viewer)

[johnnybach]

I saw that the Berlin 38 series made by K&C was being discussed in the Matt section, so thought that "Glossies" might like to see my "take" on this subject. I must admit that I liked the K&C version as soon as I saw them. Problem is - they only do them painted - and that's not my hobby.

My hobby is painting - so - had a good think about HOW I could get a band of my own - but to paint myself in glossy toy soldier style.

So.......visited Dorset Soldiers premises with some old photos I dug up on the Internet - and a book I found on a second -hand book stall (Brian Lee Davies 1980 German Uniforms of the Third Reich 1933-1945) - and had a good long chat with Giles Brown.

After a good old rummage, we decided on a Roumanion Soldier as the base donor figure (54mm; helmet, boots and jhodpurs looked similar) - and only needed some detail work around the neck (SS band wore collar and ties), by Giles to complete the torsoe. This prototype was re-cast by Giles to make up the base figure. Instruments came from Giles' existing range - or were adapted.

Purists may note that some details are not quite right. (e.g Drum Major's mace is not typically German - but will do until I find another). However, I am not a Military Modeller - I'm a Toy Soldier Glossy man! Skeleton webbing was scratch built from scrap metalised foil material, as was music case attached to belt, which came from cut up metal bases. Bayonet isn't quite right again,- but came from another donor figure at Dorset - but gives a good enough impression of the original. A dab of milliput here and there helped out (musicians wings and webbing); whilst a solid base helped stability, as original figure was much lighter.

Paint is all Humbrol - mostly matt with some gloss to highlight (e.g helmet and boots) then varnished all-over with Humbrol 35.

My resulting band is shown above. A 34 piece toy soldier version band which sort-of looks similar to the real thing - and - I made it myself, with a lot of help from a friend - and gave me much satisfaction. Apologies for the photos - I am still practicing - so will hopefully get better.

Whilst I totally disapprove of the German SS generally, and what they came to stand for, - I think most would agree that their uniform, for the time, was quite distinctive.

Hope you agree - johnnybach

 

[Martin Tabony]

I'm not one of those that think that if you collect a figure it makes you a supporter of the regime. We modell historical figures and the SS are a historical fact! I do though wish Germany would re-instate the iron cross and the jackboots as they pre-date the nazis by about one hundred years. I don't make WW2 figures because if I had the time to spend on German subject it would be Imperial Germany. The pre 1910 uniforms put the SS in the shade.

Martin

 

[johnnybach]

Hi Martin - glad you feel the same way as I do. We can't change history by sticking heads in the sand and hoping it goes away. A uniform is just a way of dressing, after all. johnnybach

 

[thebritfarmer]

Very nicely done J.

 

[jazzeum]

I don't feel the same that you and Martin do Johnny but the uniforms were definitely colorful and I think you've done an excellent job. Looks great

 

[Mitch]

johnnyBach...

As an avid LAH collector and having done many in plastic and metal myself of the LAH in matt and gloss this has to be one of the best bands I have seen absolutely superb and you have great skill mate.

the germans were masters at using visual imagery to assist in their rise to power and, in showing strength and, this was no more epitomised by the bands of the LAH

I look forward to more of your pics in the future
Mitch

 

[johnnybach]

Well - thanks Mitch - much appreciated.

Hi jazz - I guess we all have our opinions - and understand that we don't all share the same ones. I can certainly understand why with this subjest area, in particular. I was born during WW2 - and my Dad was involved in fighting against these guys - so certainly respect your right to have differing views.

I guess that was one of the things it was all about eh? The right to hold our own views.

johnnybach

 

[johnnybach]

Hi Mitch - as you collect LAH - perhaps you can answer a query?

I have been told that Airfix did a version of the six-wheel mercedes staff car - but have never been able to see a picture of one - let alone find one to build and paint. I know that K&C do a version - but once again - it is already painted.

Any ideas on where I might find one to build/paint? johnnybach

 

[Martin Tabony]

Hi Mitch - as you collect LAH - perhaps you can answer a query?

I have been told that Airfix did a version of the six-wheel mercedes staff car - but have never been able to see a picture of one - let alone find one to build and paint. I know that K&C do a version - but once again - it is already painted.

Any ideas on where I might find one to build/paint? johnnybach

If they did it must be extremly rare. The only Airfix staff car I've seen is Monty's Humber.

Martin

 

[johnnybach]

Hi Martin - I am clutching at straws here. I got chatting to a guy in a model shop in Bath (another customer) who told me about a plastic version of the car. I have never been able to find any information about it - so just thought I would take my own advice - and ask someone who MIGHT know.
I have a sneaky feeling that it may NEVER have existed. But if it does - I want one! johnnybach.

 

[lancer]

The band looks fantastic. Very nice job with the conversions. -- Al

 

[Martin Tabony]

Hi Martin - I am clutching at straws here. I got chatting to a guy in a model shop in Bath (another customer) who told me about a plastic version of the car. I have never been able to find any information about it - so just thought I would take my own advice - and ask someone who MIGHT know.
I have a sneaky feeling that it may NEVER have existed. But if it does - I want one! johnnybach.

You could alway get a Humber and paint it black. Not ideal but a start.

Martin

 

[trooper]

Hi Martin - I am clutching at straws here. I got chatting to a guy in a model shop in Bath (another customer) who told me about a plastic version of the car. I have never been able to find any information about it - so just thought I would take my own advice - and ask someone who MIGHT know.
I have a sneaky feeling that it may NEVER have existed. But if it does - I want one! johnnybach.

Never heard of an Airfix kit, Johnny, but there is a resin kit made by Plus Model a Czech company which is available through Netmerchants. To be precise the kit is of the SdKfz 21 Mercedes G4. They also make a six wheeled Mercedes G4 radio car which is similar but enclosed. Both are 1/35th scale./I]

 

[trooper]

Have just checked the Netmarchant website and note that the staff car kit is over £70, the enclosed radio car is £60 odd but a new kit has been added which is a "gun" car. This looks exactly like the staff car but has the addition of two MGs on pivot mounts and costs £58. I would think this would be the best value as a few minor modifications would give you the staff car and save you £20. Forgot to mention before, there are no figures included in the kits.

 

[johnnybach]

Hi trooper - You are a Star!

That's the one I have been looking for! This forum is simply the BEST! I have been trying to find that model for about three years. The guy who tipped me off about a plastic version, simply got the wrong manufacturer. He told me it was an Airfix kit - when in fact it was Plus Model. (I suppose its a bit like someone calling a vacuum cleaner a Hoover - when its actually made by someone else!)

I agree with you too - the "Gun Car" is a nicer kit than the "Staff Car". Shame I didn't find out about it before Xmas - but solves another problem for me; when "The Commandante" asks me what I want for my birthday present - I'll simply reply " Well darling, I'd like a PLU 200 version of a Mercedes SdKfz21 Gun Car please my dear".

Simples!

johnnybach

 

[Mitch]

johnnybach...

Just saw this but, You have been given great info. the only really other good one was the version at 54mm Andrea did some were unpainted but, eventually went into the ready for use being painted prior to sale. It had really great figures.

I think you can still see it on the Historex site under discontinued
Mitch

 

[johnnybach]

Thanks Mitch - I chased it down - very tasty with a nice discount price too. So, choices, choices - the one from Anrdrea has figures too...

Hmmm.... will need to think - then choose..............Hmmm...

When in doubt - sleep on it. Thanks again for another very nice option. You'll have to wait and see - 'cos when the one I choose next appears - I will have painted it! - johnnybach

 

[Mitch]

johnnybach...

It really is a superb release and bought one not so long back at this really good price
Mitch

 

[johnnybach]

Thanks for the suggestion Martin - what was all that about " we model historical figures".
Anyone want Uncle Adolf in a humber? - well, it is painted black!

Yes - you did make me larf! Do you think we could hire it out for weddings?

Cheers mate! johnnybach

 

[johnnybach]

I have e-mailed H to check whether it's painted or not - as the "blurb" in the advert is contradictory. One line says it's painted - the other suggests unpainted. As my hobby is painting - it will depend on the answer I get. I do agree though, it's a very tasty model, so thanks for the tip off. - johnnybach