Hey Brian, been following this from the shadows since grabbing one of these radios after the pictures were released.
I was curious to any thoughts about the areas on your source image that are highlighted. Some sort engineered hole, that I cant find on versions of the radio (interesting german KANAL label just above). As well as the paint texture, could that be the prop maker painting over older preexisting paint?
I've made the same observations. I figure the hole is either some sort of light (maybe a power indicator) or a dent (or even a bullet hole? ). The label says 'channel' in German (I guess you already know that), which makes a lot of sense, given that we are talking about a radio (is it also used as one in the film?). It looks more like a military label, than something the prop maker would make up. So maybe its a sticker from another military item?
I'm also interested in the meaning of the characters. I tried to translate them with Google Translator, but it only points me to some singer and a person on Facebook.
Plus there are rivets and slots in the clasps, which at least Candykiller's and my radio don't have. That would mean that there is some sort of variation between different models?
Candykiller, I really like your progress and once more have some questions: What was your process to apply the white numbers? I plan on making stencils with a vinyl cutter and then applying spray paint. And how did you create the 'fuzzy' worn down edges around the numbers? The only way, I can imagine is masking with tooth paste or something similar.
Also thanks for the last image you posted, I haven't had one, that showed that much of the topside.
Oh, and by the way please forgive me, if I make any spelling, grammar or punctuation mistakes. If you want, please point them out to me so that I can learn!