For half a century German warship camouflage has proven a mystery to enthusiasts and model makers due to widespread destruction of naval archives at the end of WWII and ad hoc application of 'unofficial' schemes in theaters like Norway. This first of a two-volume work is based on close examination of all available photos, including many only recently discovered. The authors challenge many accepted views while greatly expanding the general understanding of the subject. The fruits of their labors are presented in the form of exquisite color illustrations of every scheme and variation for which evidence is available.