The Messerschmitt Bf-109 needs little introduction and it was the most produced fighter of the Second World War with over 33,000 built between 1936 and the end of World War II. It fought on every front with distinction during this period largely due to the continuing refinement and evolution of this superb fighter's basic design. The Bf-109E was tropicalized for operations in the harsh conditions in the desert including the introduction of a special dust filter fitted over the supercharger air intake. The first Bf-109s arrived with I/JG 27 in Gazala, North Africa on April 20,1941. Under the astute command of Hauptmann 'Edu' Neumann, one of the Luftwaffe's most capable field commanders, the Bf-109E-4 and Bf-109E-7 fighters proved superior to the Tomahawks and Hurricanes flown by the RFA's Desert Air Force.

While photography of these little models is a challenge for our equipment and limited skills, check out the details of the well proportioned model including the graceful fuselage complete with a detailed canopy, the engine exhaust stubs at the nose and especially, the distinctive 'Trop' dust filter over the supercharger air intake; the wings with radiators and retracted landing gear on the underside and the tail assembly complete with the tiny tail wheel! We've also included a quick photo of a work in progress painted gear down model (not included in this auction) which shows how these tiny gems can be brought to life with a little patience, the right accessories and some magnification!

Although the surfaces are not perfectly smooth (3D printing is done in layers), the plastic used can be sanded and painted much the same way you would handle resin or styrene. The models may still have some powder and oil-like agent on them that needs to be removed by washing in warm water with a drop of detergent in it. While the landing gear is represented in the retracted in-flight position, it should be fairly straight forward to add photo etch parts for a "gear down" rendition, perfect for an air base diorama.

NOTE: We currently maintain limited inventories of most items but some may have to be "printed on demand", which usually requires 10-15 business days from order to shipment.