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WWII
Pilot Training Models
(a.k.a. ID models, Spotter models)
What are Recognition models?
Recognition models, also referred to as ID models or spotters models, were used by the armed forces to train troops to identify ships, airplanes and ground vehicles. This aided in many areas, from preventing casualties from friendly fire, to better estimates of enemy troop strength. It was not unusual for spotter models to come in at least two scales. A small scale for students to use, and a large scale 'teachers model' to aid the instructor in describing the important aspects of a particular vehicle. Spotter models were made of many different materials, including lead/zinc alloys, plastic/cellulose acetate, and wood. In addition to recognition models, the government also issue recognition cards, pamphlets, and even used kites with airplane silhouettes to help train soldiers.Framburg
H.A. Framburg and CO. was (and is) a manufacturer of lamps
and other lighting products. During WWII, Framburg was awarded
contracts to build recognition models. Framburg built models
for both ships and land vehicles (tanks and armoured cars).
Framburg built both the smaller scale ships (1:1200) and larger
scale (1:500). Framburg also build a series of large (1:36)
land vehicle models. These models are hollow, with a large
oval hole in the base. They were cast in one piece, so none
of the parts (turret, etc.) articulate. In the mid 40's, Framburg
returned to the lighting business, and ceased making ID models.
Dale Models
Near the end of WWII, Framburg decided to refocus on lighting
fixtures. An employee, Mr. Dale, left the company and started
producing models with the molds under arrangement with Framburg
(note that in the brochure blow that Dale Model is the "official
distributor" for Framburg). Dale modified the original
Framburg land vehicle molds by making two fundamental changes.
First he added wheels to the base, allowing the model to roll.
Second he separated the mold into parts, casting the turret
separately from the chassis. This allowed the turret to rotate.
These changes allowed Dale to market the models as toys, and
made them popular with children. Dale also continued to manufacture
and distribute the Framburg line of ship models.
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Model: 1942 Dodge WC56 Command Car
1941 M3 Stuart Light tank Serial #2026
RC5 Model Stuart Tank
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