Heller 1/72 Potez 63-11 A3

HELLER 1:72 POTEZ 63-11 A3
'INBOX Review'

Reviewer: John Lacey (rec.models.scale)

Heller's pre war French aircraft! Some of the most ungainly, oddly shaped aircraft ever to be kitted came from this French stable. Discounting some obscure 48th scale resin kits, Heller can be relied upon to have some rather 'unique' aircraft in their catalogue.

This twin engined reconnaissance machine is very much typical Heller, a combination of raised panel lines and some finely moulded detail parts. The cockpit areas have bulkheads and some small detail parts to add with some very thick transparencies. There is some detail to the engines, but the most complex are by far would be the undercarriage. Twelve parts comprise each undercarriage assembly and there are two areas noted as 'not to be glued', although I cannot determine whether this means an option for retractable undercarriage or not. Having said that, I believe most will opt for fixed undercart in either position.

The instructions are also very Heller. The first is a single page with a lengthy multi-language history on one side and warnings and construction symbols on it's reverse. The second sheet is a four page fold out of ten construction steps and a multi-view camouflage and decaling guide. Colour call outs are in Humbrol paint numbers only, so research will be important here, or the use of an older Heller sheet that had the paint names noted.

One colour scheme is provided for an early war aircraft from the Groupe Aerien d'Observation 3/551 in May, 1940. It is a three tone scheme of Dark Earth / Uniform Green / Russian Blue Uppers over Steel Grey lowers, this being a fair approximation of the prewar / early war Armee de l'Air scheme.

Decals are a satin finish with separate roundel centres and should conform well, having previously used Heller decals. Separate type and airframe identification numbers for the rudder tricolours are also provided.

In conclusion, an interesting kit with potential for various scheme variations such as Vichy French and Luftwaffe, providing you accept the limitations that the kit presents, in particular it's raised detail and heavy canopies.

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