Sepecat Jaguar GR3.A / GR1.A in 1/12th Scale (UPDATE: August 16, 2025 Instrument Panels)

[wunwinglow]

On 5/19/2024 at 3:34 AM, Timmy! said:

I'm moving forward with composite solution with durable resin and metal tubing inserts where required.

Sounds good. I tried to fin that investment casting supplier we used, but it seems they are no longer in business....  Sorry about that. 

[Timmy!]

She ain't dead.  I'm working on some more pics with better resolution.  New process for me, and it resulted in this. 

 

[Pete Fleischmann]

Is that a Tomcat panel?

[Timmy!]

1 hour ago, Pete Fleischmann said:

Is that a Tomcat panel?

You know it is.  I only build the best!

[Timmy!]

As mentioned previously, the panels are a new process for me.  The panels are formed by stacking 0.005" aluminum sheets and 0.004" glass sheets.  Both sheet types have been laser etched and cut to shape.  The glass parts have had markings etched into the back side, and the etching filled with various paints and inks.  This technique creates a nice layering effect.  Decals, knobs, and switches, all custom 3d prints, finish out the panels.

 

Aluminum and glass test panels.

 

 

ADI (Attitude Direction Indicator) stack is a separate part.

 

 

Version 2.  A few mistakes that were probably fixable. But the effect was too flat.

 

 

Added one more layer of aluminum. 3 plies of aluminum, 1 ply of glass, and a final back layer of aluminum.  A random wash and decals have been added in this shot.

 

 

A few beauty shots.  The camera is so unforgiving, and I'm working on the sharpness of my photos of these tiny parts.  Each panel is approximately 1.25" high.

 

 

 

Cheers!

Timmy!

[geedubelyer]

Epic 

 

Are you leaving the panels new and pristine or do you plan on weathering/wearing them? 

[Timmy!]

They will probably get a little more work.  Mainly a little wear on the edges.  Since the panels are close to vertical and covered by the coaming, they are generally cleaner than the horizontal surfaces, and the instruments are regularly maintained, plus crews clean the glass regularly, too.

 

TimmY!

[geedubelyer]

That makes sense TimmY!

 

Many of the panels I've been looking at show some signs of wear around regularly operated knobs and switches through repeated use as well as the edges of the panels. 

 

Occasional light scratches here and there might also increase the authentic look?

 

That multi-layered result looks superb. 

 

Great stuff. 

[Timmy!]

You are correct.  Looking at my photos, dust and debris removal is required, so while I'm at it, I might as well add some wear.