Problems with Dora color interpretation

[Sylvester Stadler]

Having just received my copy of Part 2 of the Focke Wulf Fw 190D, I noted the inclusion of the Stab/JG 4 Dora, <1-+-, W.Nr. 600150, with its unusual mottled camouflage on the forward part of the fuselage along with the knight's emblem on the port cowling. Interpretation of colors is always a challenge, especially with late-war Luftwaffe fighters. This aircraft is no different. The authors describe its colors as RLM 83/75/82/76.

Jerry Crandall's book, The Focke Wulf Fw 190 Dora, features color photos of this aircraft which show that the aircraft was finished in grays 74/75/76. Does this revelation cause the authors to rethink the use of such grays on the Dora?