Kotare

Kotare makes scale aircraft model kits, with a range focused on different versions of the Supermarine Spitfire. Its listed aircraft models are in 1/32 scale and include early, late, reconnaissance and tropical versions. The company brings together people with experience in aircraft model design, aviation artwork, decals and historical research. Kotare designs its kits for both beginners and experienced model builders.

Spitfire Model Kits

The Spitfire is the main aircraft subject in Kotare's listed product range.

Its models include the Spitfire Mk.Ia in early and late forms, along with different versions of the Mk.V.

One example is the 1/32 scale Spitfire Mk.Ia (Late) "Battle of Britain". Other products include the Spitfire Mk.Ia (Mid) and the Spitfire Mk.Vb (Early).

Kotare also lists reconnaissance versions, including the Spitfire Mk.I PR Type A and PR Type B.

Its tropical Spitfire range includes the Mk.Vc (Trop) "Malta", "USAAF", "RAAF" and "Mediterranean" versions.

These kits give aviation model builders a choice of different Spitfire subjects rather than a single general version of the aircraft.

Research and Aircraft Details

Kotare uses historical research when designing its aircraft models.

The company works with original factory drawings when they are available. It also uses historical and modern sources, including photographs.

This research helps the design team study the aircraft subjects before turning them into model kits.

Kotare aims to make its models straightforward to assemble, so builders can focus on the modelling process rather than correcting problems with the parts.

The company designs its kits for people with different levels of experience, including those who are new to aircraft modelling.

Experience in Model Design

Several people involved with Kotare have worked in aircraft model design and related fields.

Darren previously worked as a product designer at Wingnut Wings until April 2020. He was responsible for designing about a quarter of that company's model range.

Richard has worked in the model and hobby trade since the early 1990s and in scale model product design and management since 2006.

Jason studied industrial design and worked as a product designer at Wingnut Wings until April 2020.

Malcolm Laird has worked in the scale model industry since 1981. His experience includes aircraft decals and model kits.

Aviation Art and Decals

Aviation artwork is another part of Kotare's work.

Ronny Bar creates aircraft profile artwork and published a book called British Two-Seaters of the Great War in 2021.

Malcolm Laird contributes decal artwork. His earlier work included decals for Wingnut Wings.

These different skills support the company's work on aircraft subjects, markings and model presentation.

For pilots and aviation fans, Kotare provides a way to study different Spitfire versions through physical models. Its focus on historical sources and aircraft details may appeal to people who enjoy aviation history and careful model building.