I started this model of the SMS Lutzow back last January and have finally almost finished it. It's actually missing a couple of things, namely the small boats and cranes off the boat deck and two 88mm's on the starboard side. As to the small boat cranes I haven't liked anything that I've built and have run out of ideas so I'm leaving them to another day. This kit is my first attempt at scratch-building a complete ship, also it was my first waterline effort.

Frankly trying to scratch build the lower hull just wasn't working so I cheated and just water-lined the damn thing. The build components consist primarily of evergreen styrene sheets. Who knew they came in 2ft long sheets? Also used in the construction are a number of components from a ICM Konig, and parts from the White Ensign Models and Gold Medal Models Konig photo-etch sets. Don't know when or if I'll ever get around to scratch-building another kit. Frankly I don't know if I'll ever have the time. Although since no one produces the ships I want, who knows, maybe someday an SMS Baden.

Tony Van Wyk

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