OK I need your opinions please; in terms of just the awness (I know it is not a word but I couldn't figure out a word for what I was trying to say) What is more impressive;
1. The Bismarck with the sharp black and white demarcation lines (may 1941)
2. The Bismarck with the sharp black and white demarcation lines on hull only
3. The Bismarck with the low visibility (faded) black and white demarcation lines on hull only
4. The Bismarck with no demarcation lines
I am not sure how I want to her, I have always swayed towards #1. But it seems like the lines just jump out at you in a stark contrast. Kinda leaving Bismarck in the shadows, if you know what I mean. I know the in May 1941 configuration was when Hitler came to visit Bismarck so she was looking very pristine and not yet weathered. Even just before her sinking 1 week into sea trials was she weathered enough to weather a 1/700th scale model? or maybe not. What a dilemma!
Thank you once again

Hi

I would recommend you take a look at the galleries on modelwarships and steel navy. There are quite a few Bismarck's on there, it might help you decide, which colour scheme to go for.
Also the Warship Pictorial book on Bismarck is an excellent photo album of her and again may help you choose. I would favour some weathering, especially if you model her at or after the Denmark Strait encounter.

thanks
Mike