A highly detailed 1:48 scale diecast representation of the SPAD S.XIII flown by America's leading fighter ace of the First World War. Released as part of the Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series, AA37903 depicts aircraft No. 1 of the US Army 94th Aero Squadron, associated with Captain Eddie Rickenbacker during 1918.
The 94th Aero Squadron became one of the best-known American flying units of the First World War. Nicknamed the “Hat in the Ring” Squadron, it carried a distinctive red, white and blue top-hat emblem and participated in combat operations over the Western Front following the entry of the United States into the conflict.
Eddie Rickenbacker joined the squadron after initially serving as a military driver and engineering officer. He quickly demonstrated exceptional ability as a fighter pilot and progressed to command the unit. By the end of the war, Rickenbacker had become America's highest-scoring fighter ace, with his name permanently associated with the powerful SPAD S.XIII.
Developed in France as an improved successor to the SPAD S.VII, the S.XIII combined a strong airframe with a powerful Hispano-Suiza engine and twin Vickers machine guns. Although less manoeuvrable than some lighter fighters, it offered excellent speed, diving performance and structural strength, making it particularly effective in fast attacks and high-speed combat.
Limited to 2,001 pieces worldwide, this substantial release is particularly appealing to collectors of American military aviation and First World War fighter aircraft. The model features simulated fabric-covered surfaces, fine rigging, a detailed open cockpit with pilot figure, twin machine guns, separately rendered exhaust pipes, radiator detailing, authentic 94th Aero Squadron markings and the original Corgi Aviation Archive presentation stand.
Fact Sheet
Brand: Corgi
Series: Aviation Archive Collector Series
Model code: AA37903
Aircraft: SPAD S.XIII
Tactical Markings: Aircraft No. 1
Pilot: Captain Eddie Rickenbacker
Unit: US Army 94th Aero Squadron “Hat in the Ring”
Campaign / Event: First World War
Theatre / Base: Western Front, France
Date/Period: 1918
Operator / Country: United States Army Air Service / United States
Scale: 1:48
Limited Edition Size: 2,001 pieces worldwide
Material: Heavyweight diecast metal with quality sub-components
Special Features: Limited edition release, authentic 94th Aero Squadron Hat in the Ring insignia, simulated fabric-covered surfaces, fine interplane rigging, detailed cockpit with pilot figure, twin Vickers machine guns, separately rendered exhaust pipes, radiator detailing, rolling rubber tyres and original presentation display stand
Model Dimensions
Length: 5.25" or 13.3 cm
Width (Wingspan): 6.75" or 17.1 cm