This machine was designed around an 11 cylinder, 160 hp engine which the Siemens-Halske company had developed.  This engine differed from traditional rotaries in that the crankshaft rotated in one direction at 900 rpm, while the crankcase and cylinders rotated in the opposing direction, also 900 rpm, for a combined engine speed of 1800 rpm.  This made for superior airscrew efficiency, however, the reduced speed of the rotating cylinders, combined with the poor grade of castor oil available to the Germans invited overheating problems.

In addition to overheating problems, the Siemens demanded an excellent pilot, particularly on landings.  Many front line pilots found themselves hanging upside down by their shoulder harnesses seconds after touchdown, including the first three allied pilots to fly this type following the Armistice.

The Siemens was best known for its phenomenal rate of climb.  During the First Fighter Competition of January 1918 (which the German Military held to select the most promising fighter aircraft for its air force), the Siemens DIII outmaneuvered a Fokker DVII prototype flown by Manfred von Richthofen.  In June of 1918 at the Second Fighter Competition, the Siemens outmaneuvered a Fokker DVIII prototype flown by Anthony Fokker himself.

The museum's example is a reproduction built by Cole Palen in 1969.  A 160 hp Gnome takes the place of a Siemens Halske as none were available at the time of construction.  It has been taxied, but never flown.  It is finished in the colors of the aircraft flown by Leutnant Helmut Lange who, in mid November 1918, along with 11 other pilots, landed in neutral Switzerland to prevent their aircraft from being turned over to the allies.  Upon landing there, white Swiss markings were painted over the black German crosses.