Preview: Kotare's second Spitfire Mk.I PR - the Type B in 32nd scale

Kotare Models introduces a second, limited-edition numbered photo reconnaissance Spitfire in 1/32nd scale. The Mk. I PR Type B kit. Art, CADs, history & feature set in our preview...

Preview: Kotare's second Spitfire Mk.I PR - the Type B in 32nd scale

Spitfire Mk.I PR Type B

From Kotare

Kit No #K32502

1/32nd scale

Over 150 parts

35 cm wingspan.

Decals from Cartograf.

Expected fourth quarter of 2025.

Price: US$109

Kotare website

Kotare are pleased to present their 2nd Photo Reconnaissance Spitfire exclusive limited numbered edition model.

The Subject: The Spitfire Mk 1 PR Type B

The Spitfire PR Type B was a specialised photo-reconnaissance variant developed from the mid-production Mk.I airframe between late 1939 and early 1940. To maximise performance and range for scouting missions, these aircraft were stripped of all armament and radio equipment. Key aerodynamic and functional modifications included taping over unused gun and magazine access panels, as well as installing teardrop-shaped blisters on the canopy hood to provide the pilot with better visibility.

Technically, the Type B was distinguished by several internal and external upgrades over the initial PR Type A. It featured an additional 29-gallon fuel tank and extra oxygen cylinders behind the pilot's seat to facilitate longer missions. It was equipped with two downward-facing F24 cameras, which utilised 8-inch focal length lenses protected by aerodynamic blister fairings under the wings. For cooling, the engine cowlings were fitted with additional ventilation, while the windscreen was replaced with a lighter, unarmoured version to save weight.

Internally, specific airframes like N3117 and P9331 featured a unique "Supermarine green" or "apple green" cockpit paint, differentiating them from the "grey green" used in later production. While major internal components from sub-contractors often varied in color, the primary fuselage was primed in light grey and finished in aluminium.

The kit:

Kotare is pleased to announce that K32002 Kotare 1/32 Spitfire Mk .I PR Type B is now available for pre-order. The kit features some of the previous Kotare kits, so you know what to expect. Although this one is a strictly limited, numbered edition, once the first production run is ended, no more will be produced.

Kit features:

-150 high-quality injection-moulded parts with 13 all-new tooled parts.

- Optional open and closed canopy hood with the slightly larger & rounded typical PR side blisters

-Unarmoured PR windscreen

-29-gallon fuselage fuel tank, 

-8” focal length camera lenses & wing blister fairings

-Port & starboard engine cowlings with additional ventilation found on the PR Type B.

- This is an exclusive, limited numbered edition of 2000 hand-numbered models.

-High-quality Cartograf decals for all currently identified Spitfire Mk. I PR type B.

 

Spitfire Mk. I PR Type B, N3117, RH Niven & IG Richmond, 212 Squadron, Seclin, February-March 1940

Spitfire Mk. I PR Type B, P9331 '9'; LD Wilson & AJ Blackwell, 212 Squadron, Meaux, May-June 1940

Pre-order bonuses:

Pre-order before release and receive a beautiful (and highly collectable) Darryl Legg box art print (to be revealed later) suitable for framing.

Also, the #32P001 Kotare 1/32 Spitfire Mk.Ia (Mid/Late) 3D print exhausts (value US$12.99),  free of charge. Only available while stocks last. 

Additionally, the first 300 pre-order customers will also receive the 32P003 Spitfire Door (Mk.Ia Mid/Late) free of charge.

Shipping is expected during the 4th quarter of 2025. Pre-order deposit payment in full with 100% refund available on request up to the actual shipping date.

This kit is now available for pre-order directly from their website...