Looking for 3D sculptor — PzKpfw III Kommandantenkuppel 1/35 commission

General Discussions 3D Printing
1

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for a 3D sculptor for a custom commission — a Kommandantenkuppel (commander’s cupola) for PzKpfw III Ausf J/L/M in 1/35 scale.

I have all the technical specs ready:

  • Measurements taken from Jentz/Panzer Tracts reference drawings
  • Scale conversions already calculated (1/35)
  • Detailed geometric requirements: periscope openings with correct angles, shield details with irregular opening mechanics
  • Parts need to be modular (separate pieces for assembly)
  • Some surfaces need texture (simulating filled leather pads, not flat)

I need the final STL file optimized for resin SLA printing. Commercial rights negotiable.

If anyone is interested or can recommend someone, please let me know. Happy to share full specs and reference photos.

Thanks,
Diomi

2

I’m curious about this project and I might undertake it.

I already have a little experience in modelling Panzer III cupolas…

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I will point out that I don’t start from Panzer Tracts drawings. No disrespect to Hilary, but the drawings are already in a small scale. I use the German manuals, which have a complete parts breakdown.

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Surely that’s more detail than you will need.

What I do not have, is any experience or knowledge of how to make a model 3D printable. What could we do about that?

David

3

Dear David,

Thank you for your response. I must be honest with you — I am truly honoured to receive your message.

I have been following your work for many years now, reading your publications and posts with great appreciation. I know the dedication, precision, and scholarly care you put into your research across a wide range of subjects — Tigers, Panzer III, and many others. Your use of original German manuals, not secondary interpretations, is exactly the approach I value most in this hobby.

It has been my habit over decades to study your contributions alongside my own reference archive — photos from Bovington in the 1980s, Jentz books, NARA documents, physical caliper measurements. To now have the possibility of collaborating with you, someone I consider a giant in this field, would be a genuine privilege for me.

I understand you mentioned not having experience making files 3D-printable. That is something we can solve together. What matters most to me is the historical accuracy and the precision of the geometry — things you already master. The technical preparation for printing can be arranged through proper workflows.

Let me share openly: I am 67 years old, and I have accumulated dozens of unfinished model kits over the years. This particular PzKpfw III project represents decades of emotional and financial investment. Completing it with the right attention to detail before time runs out is deeply important to me.

If you are willing to undertake this, I would like to discuss:

- Timeline with periodic check-ins on measurements before final delivery

- Clear terms for ownership of STL/OBJ files and reproduction rights

- Payment structure that respects both our needs

- How we might work around the 3D printing file preparation limitation

I do not expect perfection overnight. What I seek is authenticity — the kind of care you already demonstrate in your public work. If we can find a way to collaborate respectfully, that would mean a great deal to me.

Please let me know your thoughts. I am patient and open to finding a workflow that works for both of us.

Warm regards,

Dionisio Miliaresis

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P.S. Your point about German manuals over Panzer Tracts resonates with me deeply. I have similar concerns about scale distortion in reduced reproductions. I have my own calibration factors derived from physical measurements that I would gladly share for verification.