KING & COUNTRY WS007 WS07
Overview
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Introduction
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History section: German motorcycles in WWII
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Collector notes
This review examines the elusive WS007 German Dismounted Motorcycle Rider, part of King & Country’s WWII Waffen‑SS ‘WS’ range. While concrete documentation on WS007 proves scarce, it fits within the dynamic and highly collectible WS line. These 1:30 scale, hand‑painted white metal figures portray German motorized troops, typically crafted with dramatic poses and detailed uniform insignia. Although specific release data and piece count remain unverified, the WS series is known for limited production runs and strong secondary‑market demand. Collectors benefit from understanding the general context of the WS range to appreciate WS007’s appeal.
Historical Background
In World War II, German motorcycle units played a vital reconnaissance and dispatch‑running role. Early in the war, the Wehrmacht and Waffen‑SS relied heavily on BMW R75 and Zündapp KS 750 models—robust, sidecar‑equipped bikes that could traverse muddy roads and carry machine‑guns when needed. These motorcycles enabled rapid liaison between forward echelons, headquarters, and mobile units. For instance, in the Eastern Front’s fluid early campaigns (1941–42), motorcycle dispatch riders delivered vital orders across sprawling battlefronts. They wore protective leather or rubberized jackets, goggles, and sometimes com‑bat helmets. DKW models also supplemented BMW and Zündapp production.
By mid‑war (circa 1943), increasing vehicle losses and fuel shortages led to the gradual phasing out of motorcycles in favor of Kubelwagens and Schwimmwagens for reconnaissance duties (reddit.com). However, motorcycle troops left a lasting legacy: their mobility contributed to the Wehrmacht’s early ‘Blitzkrieg’ successes and symbolized German operational flexibility. Moreover, Feldgendarmerie (military police) often used motorcycle combinations to conduct spot‑checks and traffic control in occupied territories, blending mobility with authority.
Collector Notes
Identification: WS007 belongs to the Waffen‑SS WS numbered series by King & Country, known for their Waffen‑SS themes and expressive figures (operationtoybox.com). Though no direct retailer listing exists, it likely mirrors other dismounted motorcycle rider sets in scale (~1:30 or 54 mm), white metal, and hand‑painted finish. Rarity: As with much of the WS line, limited production increases desirability and second‑hand prices tend to exceed original retail. Packaging: Expect branded King & Country window box with WS code and artwork. Common defects: Look for paint chips on equipment, particularly bike handles or insignia. Variants: Possible small camouflage or uniform pattern differences—compare photos from listings referencing dispatch rider or combo sets.
Pricing: Sold sets of similar WS subjects often trade for USD 100‑150 or more depending on condition; without confirmed WS007 examples, expect similar or higher valuation. Overall, collectors should verify pose, base, and marking details against known WS dispatch or combo figures to confirm authenticity.
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