Colors for early WWII USN aircraft

Modeling Subjects Aircraft
1

I just bought a AK Real Colors early war USN aircraft paint set. They include Light Grey, Blue Grey, but the third color is a mystery to me. This is Bronze Green. The only color that remotely resembles this was used in the movie Dive Bomber (1941) with a USN Lockeed Electra painted in this shade. I’m sure this is for something else.

Can anyone shed some light on this Bronze Green?

Andy

2

It was used as a cockpit color very early on. I think it was also called Dull Dark Green by some aircraft manufacturers.It was replaced by interior green.

Hope this helps,

Tom

3

Sure Andy. Bronze Green was an early cockpit color for aircraft in WW2. They would eventually switch to the interior green which I imagine more people are familiar with.

Here’s a link that will do a good job explaining everything. I encourage you to browse through it.

https://www.ipmsstockholm.se/home/interior-colours-of-us-aircraft-1941-45-part-i/

4

Thanks guys!

Andy

5

I have to wonder if that “bronze” green is close to “Gruman Green” which was distinctly “greener” than “iterior green” (if memory serves).

6

Dull Dark Green and Bronze Green were two different colors used on pre WWII and early WWII US aircraft interiors. They also saw some post war use as well.

Here is a good article on what color(s) were used on which aircraft.

https://www.ipmsstockholm.org/magazine/2004/01/stuff_eng_interior_colours_us.htm

7

Now that were on this subject, I wonder what prewar Vought interiors were painted?

I have a 1940 Kingfisher that needs interior paint. Accurate Miniatures recommends a gloss aluminum interior for their SB2U ‘yellow wings’ ship–a Vought product. Seems if the deck for the observer on the Kingfisher was silver, it would be hard on his eyes.

8

Looks dark in there, possibly Dull Dark Green… much darker than the interior green on the TBD