I have been using their instruments for years and love them. They really dress up the cockpit and make the panel jump out at you.
They are ready to go, no painting is required. It is true that you do need a special tool for them though. It's the precision punch and die set (6 pieces total). This is not the really expensive set. I belive this one retails for $35-$40. I forget now, it's been a while since I purchased it. They also make the sub-miniature punch and die set which cost about $90 dollars. That set is great if you like to scratchbuild.
Waldron model products are the only aftermarket items I use on my models period. Anything else I need I scratchbuild. It's money well spent.
Darren