Oxford-Cambridge Air Race SE5a - Modified ESCI 1/72nd scale

 

 

 

 

And here it is, one of the six racers that participated in the one and only Oxford/Cambridge Air Race, held during the 1921 Aerial Derby. These planes came from a stock of post-war, demilitarized machines destined for the civil market.

The decal set is from Arctic Decals in Finland.

The base is a vintage Esci kit.

For the whole story, contemporary articles, and the step-by-step building process, please go here:

https://wingsofintent.blogspot.com/2022/11/royal-aircraft-factory-se5a-oxford.html

Looking at the photos of all the competitors of this particular race and the Aerial Derby in general, it seems that there were no strict rules regarding applying registrations and race numbers (or if there were, they were not followed), therefore there is inconsistency throughout. Photos show that the race numbers on this plane were at least applied under the wings (where they did a little mess-up, see the narrative in the building post) and likely on the top.