by Rainer Michalek
1/350 SMS Markgraf (ICM)
Markgraf was launched on 4 June 1913 and commissioned on 1 October 1914. Duke Friedrich II von Baden performed the christening. Trials lasted until 12 December 1914. On the 10 January 1915, Markgraf joined the III Geschwader. During the Battle of Jutland, she took five hits that killed 11 of her crew. Repaired in Hamburg in July.In September 1917 Markgraf took part in the Baltic islands battles. On the retreat, he hit a mine. The repair was carried out in the imperial shipyard Wilhelmshaven. On the 19 November 1918 sailed for the Firth of Forth and on the 26 November it went further to Scapa Flow. The Markgraf was sunk there of with the High Seas Fleet. A group of British Royal Marines killed the captain during the scuttling. The wreck was sold 1962, but has not been raised.
The Commanders
Technical data
The Russian firm of ICM created the kits of the König-class in 1/350. when one opens the carton, you will see 6 sprues with 518 parts. The building instructions are quite clear, and a color plan round off this beautiful Kit. Many parts can be built to rotate, like the floodlights, main guns, etc. Nevertheless the kit is to be enjoyed with caution, and not suited for the beginner. Also, one should get a PE set, which stands the kit really well, as the kit no railing. Both the sets of White Ensign Models (WEM) or Gold Medal Models (GMM) are very good.
