Gecko Models are to release a 1/16 scale figure representing General Bernard Montgomery
This is partial text from the full article (usually with photos) at https://armorama.com/news/gecko-1-16-general-bernard-montgomery
This is partial text from the full article (usually with photos) at https://armorama.com/news/gecko-1-16-general-bernard-montgomery
This guy and MacArthur are in a league of their own. Dunning Kruger alumni.
Montgomery was one of say, only two British Generals who had the strategic and tactical acumen to defeat a vicious, uncompromising enemy (the other being, in my view, Slim).
His plans did not always work and he did not always prevail (Arnhem for instance), and his personality – flawed to be charitable, repugnant to be unforgiving – did not help; he could never acknowledge that he was wrong. On a personal note, it may be that the untimely death of his wife facilitated the unpleasant side of his character to dominate. Remember though, that one doesn’t necessarily have to be a pleasant individual in order to lead successfully.
He alone – amongst his peers - knew that the Germans could be bested on the battlefield with the right training, equipment and tactics, but he was also grimly aware of the limitations that a citizen, democratic Army could achieve, and Britain’s Army was always haemorrhaging numbers.
As for the model, I won’t be getting it but the sculpting looks more like him – if the images are accurate – than the box art! My only gripe is that the Battledress blouse waistband looks far too deep and should be tapering off to a “strap” where it was secured by a buckle to close the garment. However, that may be down to the perspective of the images. In this large scale, an easy enough fix I should think.
His gorget patches are practically obscured by the jacket, which is a shame as a bit of colour would not go amiss. Montgomery also affected a fob watch chain between the BD breast-pockets – but an easy detail; this is shown on the box-art. Ditto a glimpse of his medal ribbons. The shoes don’t look right but plastic putty/sanding may bring them up to spec.
Something seems a bit off with the position of his hands and arms. Like he’s rubbing his belly after a big meal! Maybe it is the perspective of the photo.
Now I look at it, I think you’re right! Or, or, he’s doing that Brit Army Senior Officer thing when asked for money for the branch coffee swindle by his Chief Clerk, and looking for his wallet, “Sorry Chief, I don’t seem to have my wallet with me today” - or any other bastard day come to that.
Ask me how I know (!)
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I agree about the waist band on the BD Boots, looks far too deep. I also think there’s something wrong with the Irvin jacket on the actual figure, the lining doesn’t look “fluffy” enough around the open lapels and the waist. It looks more like an American jacket. The box art looks better. Also agree about the shoes - they look more like my Sketchers than officers shoes.
A new dimension in a remarkable character. Never tried before? It sparks a discussion in some ways. Nevertheless a promising way in modelling. Thankfully no German subject. One individual with all his actions and beliefs are portrayed. See it like a work of art rather than a photograph. Years after “Monty” lives on. Great job (or joke?) Gecko keep the generals coming.
