I painted mine a fairly dark olive drab. I saw some pics online and went with it. Adding the proper decals really brings it all together. I built a photo etch kit (Aber I think) and I feel like it turned out to be almost a work of art. It sits in a metal bracket and has straps securing it in place.
Good photography, Jimster. Thank you for the compliment. However I am now in trouble with the wife as I am heading down the route you took. I blame malt whisky and you, as I have ordered more parts.