model yacht restoration

The model yacht company specializes in buying, selling and restoring vintage model pond yachts  and model sailing yachts.

We offer a selection of restored, original and unrestored model yachts and steam boats.

We also sell marine art, maratime antiques, yachting photographs,  and broker the sale of good quality models boats on behalf of owners.

We undertake selective restorations of model yachts for clients.

Please contact us for further information.

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Restoration & Repair

If you have an antique model or pond boat, you may want to consider having it repaired or cleaned.  Over the years, I have gathered quite a collection of antique woods, bone (whale and hoofed beasts) and ivory that I use for this purpose.  A good example of the process is the 19 th  century bone, wood and ivory model of the New York packet ship, “Helena”.  The “before and after” can be pretty dramatic.

If you would like to have your model repaired, please contact me to discuss your project.

A large portion of the work I do is repairing and cleaning old or antique ship models.   It is an aspect of ship modeling that takes a special approach.  For each repair I perform, I create a document that outlines, in text and photos, my conclusions about the model and the reasons for making the repairs in the manner I did.

If you’d like to see what a typical repair/restoration document looks like, click here .  The document is a bit on the long side, but I think it will give you a good idea of what the repair process is like for a large project.

© 2005-2024 Model Ships & Boats by Thomas J. Lauria

Nautical Antiques | Lannan Ship Model Gallery – Lannan Gallery

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Model repairs.

If you have a model boat that is in need of repair or a simple cleaning, we can help!

To give you the best possible attention for your repair, please begin with sending us as many detailed photographs of the damage via email and we can provide a ballpark estimate for the work. This will give you an idea of what would need to be spent on the work. The more photographs you send, the more accurate our repair estimate can be. We have seen all kinds of damage and we have several inquiries each week with regard to repairs.

Antique Clipper Ship Model Repair, Before

Antique Clipper Ship Model Repair, After

It's quite common for customers to think: "It'll be easier if I just come by and bring it in." Since we are a small staff and reserved appointments for estimates can get costly, we kindly ask that you start with a photograph. If you insist that bringing the model in for repair is the best way for you to move forward, then do so, and we will contact you within a few weeks once we are able to review the work involved. We cannot guarantee on the spot estimates.  

If you would like to further protect your investment with a glass case, we can have one custom made for you. Visit our Custom Display Cases page for details.  

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JSB Model Restorations

Rolling back the playworn years.

Restoring Ships

Click on these links to read about examples of completed projects or work in progress that involve model ships of all types.  Size wise I can deal with models up to 6′ or 2 metres in length.

Please note that when returning these models I use ParcelForce Express 24 service.  Over the years I have found them the most reliable and in the event of there being a problem they have resolved the issue promptly.

Come on ‘Eileen’ – The story of an 80 year old yacht

A Frigate Constructed in the 1950’s – A wedding present brought back to life.

Beware Woodworm! – a cautionary tale for the unwary.

Ready to rejoin the fleet – resurrecting the Frigate ‘George’.

A Milbro ‘Ailsa’ pond yacht – a rather nice commercial model back to full health.

A ‘Dogger’ Fishing Boat – a model with a rather unique provenance

An Iraqi Dhow – A display model with sentimental attachment for the owner.

Tri-ang C24 pond yacht – a rather nice commercial model back on the water.

‘Revenge’, ‘Golden Hind’ & Unknown – Another perfect Lockdown 2 project!

AeroKits Crash Tender – The perfect Lockdown project ( completed project )

The Mathew? – A model from the 1950’s

Euphemia – a yacht with a past

Dolphin the restoration of a wonderful model

The Italian Connection the story of two yachts constructed by Italian Merchant Seamen

You Have One New E-Mail the story of the reincarnation of ‘Ellise’

Once again ‘Joanne Of Kyle’ can be admired by her owner

Steam Yacht ‘Elizabeth Morag’ Ex ‘Garland’

From the years of grime & neglect emerged a fine Elizabethan Galleon and a mystery….

‘I saw three ships come sailing in’

Once more Mrs. Catchpole can admire her Grandfather’s ‘Santa Maria’

Donated to an admirer of old galleon models the ‘Pinta’ is rescued for posterity

Producing a flag set for the ‘Santa Maria’

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Yacht Restoration

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Just like the real yacht must go back to the shipyard for repairs and maintenance, the scale model has the same needs. Due to the many boat shows, transport or bad handling, faded colours because of the UV light the scale model yacht can suffer

damages and lose its glow. From collection through the maintenance and repair to delivery and installation we offer a complete service. Whether working for a corporate client or private owner the full confidentiality is guaranteed. 

In the beginning of every project, we review the photos provided to determine the current condition of the yacht model, based on which we make an initial estimation. A full report explaining all the stages involved will be made based on the inspections carried out once the model arrives in our workshop. Minor repair and maintenance may include full scale cleaning and touch ups. Structural damages as a result of hits, cracks and bad handling may have to be rebuild. In order to repair fundamental components in some cases, undamaged parts or structures must be taken apart. Lost or destroyed parts can be replicated based on the existing or designed using plans. 

The finish of the paintwork of a yacht model is essential in the perception of the viewer. Models exposed to UV light for a long period of time resulting in yellowing and faded colours should be polished or resprayed. We work with a

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SCOTT DOYLE INC

Furniture Restoration Millerton NY

Antique Model Sailboat Restoration

Vintage and antique model sailboats make great decorative objects . On occasion I have an opportunity to restore one.

Restoration of the wooden sailboats on this page included:

• Repairing broken parts
• Replacing missing pieces
• Re-stinging ropes
• Cleaning and touch up

The model schooner below also needed a stand, which I was able to fabricate and finish to match.

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Model Yacht Restoration Decision Making

by Rod Carr, Photos John Stoudt

Decisions about restoration and preservation of a vintage model yacht may be based on an identification of the importance of the actual model in the history of model yachting. It is suggested that as much information as possible be obtained about the model before attempting a restoration. This information should go into the project file as background for the Restoration Plan.

Where to begin?

Category Designation (importance of the model)

There are three categories of importance.

Category I— Model yachts that are historically significant by virtue of taking part in a historic event such as Bill Bithell’s Ranger (International A boat won the 1948 Model Yachting Monthly Cup) and Ains Ballantyne’s DX Class champion. From a historical perspective, such yachts should be restored to represent the event for which they are most famous.

Category II— Model yachts that are historically significant due to technological features in hull design or rigging or for being prototypes for designs that became historically significant. Yachts in this category should be restored to highlight the features for which they are most noted, such as the M class “flipper” keel, etc.

Category III— Model yachts that are not significant in their own right but that represent a historically significant model class, type, or construction. The goals of the restoration should be based upon an identification of the model and its assignment to one of these three categories. This is the first part of the restoration plan, and unguided demolition can be avoided. Then a complete restoration plan can be developed to guide the effort.

Condition Assessment

Level 3 Condition: Frames delaminating.

The next step in any restoration project is to identify the existing condition of the original yacht. The condition descriptions on the following page are suggested:

Level 1 Condition— Yacht is in undeteriorated, pristine condition, and could be exhibited or sailed as is.

Level 2 Condition— Yacht is in “recent use, well cared for” condition. Suitable for exhibit as is or for sailing with attention to watertight integrity or rigging and sail condition. Wear should be the result of use, rather than neglect.

Level 3 Condition— Yacht is in deteriorated and/or unstable condition. It requires treatment, preservation and restoration.

Level 4 Condition— Yacht is derelict, destroyed or partially completed.

The Restoration Plan

A written Restoration Plan should be completed before any work commences on the yacht. The plan should contain photographs of the “as found” condition, notes on the integrity of the hull, lists of missing pieces, and any other historical background that can be gathered.

The Plan documents the basis of the decisions made to guide the restoration. It answers the question: What is the goal of the rehabilitation? It establishes the boundaries within which the restoration work will be carried out and provides the guidance for choices that must inevitably be made while the work is ongoing. Commercial restorations that the author carries out for clients, typically include a statement of the final configuration to be attained and a list of individual worktasks that will be completed to reach that end.

Two to three pages seems typical for all but the most comprehensive projects. Failure to take the time to do the research and develop the Restoration Plan will ultimately result in a hodgepodge approach to the project as it unfolds. Having first decided what the finished product is going to be (see below), individual details of the work can be carried out in a consistent manner.

Document the Boat

Documentation of the project from photographs of the “as received” condition to the completed project should be filed in a project notebook which remains with the yacht. A narrative report of the project would make a good submission to The Model Yacht . As in any historical undertaking, there is a continuous question of how far to go in totally reproducing an antique object. It is the author’s opinion that modern day adhesives and sail materials do not materially detract from the authenticity of the final product, nor does the application of modern radio control systems because they do not materially alter the external appearance of the model.

However, the author does balk at modifications to the original that are obvious attempts to gain advantage on the race course. It is my opinion that vintage yachts are to be sailed, seen, and enjoyed … the order of crossing the finish line in a demonstration race is little of the attraction.

Description of the Finished Project

The following descriptions are suggested to describe the finished product:

Original— Yacht is in original as-built condition, or if modified by the user it remains unaltered from the time it ended service.

Example: Bithell’s Ranger (A-class)

Restored Original— Yacht is composed of at least 50% original components (by surface area or volume) and the remainder returned to accurate early condition made with the same materials, components and accessories.

Reproduction— A reasonable facsimile in appearance and construction of a yacht made with similar materials and essentially the same operating systems. In the case of a vane yacht having radio installed, might more properly be called “Reproduction for R/C”.

Example: Wooden hulled Cheerio II from John Black’s Plans.

Replica— A reproduction built from original plans, but using materials not found in the original.

Example: J.R. LeBlanc’s fiberglass- hulled Cheerio II

Example: Steadman’s M-Class Arrow (~1949)

Completed Project Description

Category I – First US DX Class Champion, first R/C national event – 1952. Condition: Level 2 – Rig missing, deck in need of repair, some original R/C gear.

Restoration Plan – Restore yacht to R/C sailing condition; provide replacement rig and new R/C gear. Photos of original rig obtained from prior owner.

Finished Product – Restored Original – hull, deck, keel, skeg, rudder, deck fittings original. New Sitka spruce mast, booms from 1972 vintage M-class boat, Carr paneled 2-oz Dacron sails, modern Futaba R/C gear, Ozmun Swing-arm winch. Included working stand of 5⁄8-in plywood, and display stand of 1-in teak. Approximately 450 h of work were involved in the restoration.

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Professional Restoration Specialists

Our restoration services are designed to replenish model ships that have degraded either due to damage or simply over time. We are passionate about restoring ship models to their former glory and take great pride in our work. We promise to never compromise the original model in any way that interferes with your expectations; for example, we will not change the features of the model if they are special to you. Please contact us if you have any enquiries regarding a model ship of yours that may need restoring.

All restoration work is completed in our workshops based in the UK by our master model maker, Panos Kourouklis who has over 30 years’ experience in model ship building and restoration work in Europe and the United states for some of the largest shipping companies in the world. Feel free to have a look at our About us page for details of our awards and certifications.

We have completed a large number of restoration projects with a totally positive response from all our customers. Feel free to have a look at our completed portfolio items and testimonials for more details.

During the restoration of your model, we will be providing you with updates as to the repairs and amendments made as well as a timeframe for the project to be complete. In addition, we will numerically list all repairs made for your convenience. Restoration services are ‘made to order’ and we must offer a quotation based on the quantity of work to restore your model to its former glory as well as its size and delivery time requested.

Are you seeking some help with your restoration project, advice or simply guidance? Or perhaps you are interested in 1 of our ships for sale? Or maybe a unique, custom model or design?

Explore Static models and contact us at [email protected]

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Steve Pinney

Ship Model Restoration, Cape Cod

For Steve Pinney, the "Port" in Yarmouth Port has a special significance. A student of original shipbuilding techniques and processes, he creates museum-quality replicas of ships of all ages, from a mid 18th century warship to a modern yacht or sport fisherman. But Steve doesn't work in the docks or even near the water. And his customers never sail in the ships they commission. The ships are detailed, museum-quality miniatures, and Steve is one of the most sought-after practitioners of model shipbuilding in America.

Steve Pinney with his model of the USS Cumberland

Contact Steve at 508-362-4581.

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Model Restoration

A Sneak Peak into the world of Model Boat Restoration…

We are noticing more and more ship, boat and yacht model owners are bringing in their models for Restoration. Whether the models were bought at an auction, build by a keen enthusiast or passed down generations, there always seems to be a fascinating story behind the models we get coming through the door.

So whether the models have been damaged through wear and tear, attacked by pets, damaged in transit, built up dust, unfinished models, you name it we’ve seen it. Each restoration is different but essentially it’s about maintaining the integrity and keep as much of the original model preserved.

Our lead model Restorer Plamen, (pictured below) has almost 30 years’ experience to his name; a keen enthusiast and perfectionist, Plamen has a real passion for building and restoring models to their glory.

When asking Plamen, he says  ‘the most important task in the restoration process was to ensure that any work done on the model would keep the model as close as possible to the original model.’

Above we have an example of a Model Boat Restoration carried out in the UK. The photos sent to us by the client capture the model boat in its prime. These photos allowed us to ensure that any work done to the model would not change the general appearance of the model too much from the original.

But at 2 meters in length and filled with heavy machinery it wasn’t an easy task.

From examining the model we noticed that unfortunately the wood was rotten.

In the above picture the extent of the rot can be seen clearly along the left side of the deck.

The model’s deck also had several removable parts which allowed access to the parts beneath.

The above picture displays how the deck has been removed to show the parts underneath. During the restoration process several new parts for underneath the deck were produced and replaced the old parts.

The old paint was stripped from the model; as seen in the picture below.

The model was then repainted, giving attention to matching the old model’s colours and giving the model boat an authentic look.

The above picture shows the model after the restoration process had been completed. The photo is a good representation of the quality of the painting that was undertaken.

The structure was treated with conservation solutions, to avoid woodworms affecting the model again.

In total the restoration process took 8 weeks.

Displayed below are two photos; one which shows the condition of the model when it was initially received and the second showing the model following the completion of the restoration process.

The above two pictures show the extent of the quality and care involved in the restoration process. They also demonstrate how we have closely matched the client’s expectations whilst also improving the overall quality and appearance of the model.

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PSM’s Modern Military Models

4 Key Questions About the Monaco Yacht Show 2023

Discover the Sydney International Boat Show!

Model Restoration

A Sneak Peak into the world of Model Boat Restoration…

We are noticing more and more ship, boat and yacht model owners are bringing in their models for Restoration. Whether the models were bought at an auction, build by a keen enthusiast or passed down generations, there always seems to be a fascinating story behind the models we get coming through the door.

So whether the models have been damaged through wear and tear, attacked by pets, damaged in transit, built up dust, unfinished models, you name it we’ve seen it. Each restoration is different but essentially it’s about maintaining the integrity and keep as much of the original model preserved.

Our lead model Restorer Plamen, (pictured below) has almost 30 years’ experience to his name; a keen enthusiast and perfectionist, Plamen has a real passion for building and restoring models to their glory.

When asking Plamen, he says  ‘the most important task in the restoration process was to ensure that any work done on the model would keep the model as close as possible to the original model.’

Above we have an example of a Model Boat Restoration carried out in the UK. The photos sent to us by the client capture the model boat in its prime. These photos allowed us to ensure that any work done to the model would not change the general appearance of the model too much from the original.

But at 2 meters in length and filled with heavy machinery it wasn’t an easy task.

From examining the model we noticed that unfortunately the wood was rotten.

In the above picture the extent of the rot can be seen clearly along the left side of the deck.

The model’s deck also had several removable parts which allowed access to the parts beneath.

The above picture displays how the deck has been removed to show the parts underneath. During the restoration process several new parts for underneath the deck were produced and replaced the old parts.

The old paint was stripped from the model; as seen in the picture below.

The model was then repainted, giving attention to matching the old model’s colours and giving the model boat an authentic look.

The above picture shows the model after the restoration process had been completed. The photo is a good representation of the quality of the painting that was undertaken.

The structure was treated with conservation solutions, to avoid woodworms affecting the model again.

In total the restoration process took 8 weeks.

Displayed below are two photos; one which shows the condition of the model when it was initially received and the second showing the model following the completion of the restoration process.

The above two pictures show the extent of the quality and care involved in the restoration process. They also demonstrate how we have closely matched the client’s expectations whilst also improving the overall quality and appearance of the model.

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Restoration of Old Model Ship

By Intex February 6, 2018 in New member Introductions

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Hi, I am new to this forum, but have been doing restorations of one kind or another for many years.

I have what we think is a very old Model Ship that was brought here by great grandparents from Spain (We were told). For sure it is over 60-70 years old

I do not know if this is the correct forum sub-heading to list this topic, but I would like to get help with the following:

1. What type of ship was this, A Spanish Armada supply ship (No Cannons) ?? or something else.

2. Was this a one off, or some type of Kit at the time?

3. How should I begin the restoration and follow thru?

I have started to glue the masts together, I was at one time all together, but I boxed it up thinking I would work on it in a few months, and it stayed boxed through 3 moves, storage, abuse by movers, and when I opened it last week, everything sticking out was broken. Most of the sails, look like they were some type of cotton or linen, with hems and seams, and then hardened in place as if fully filled with wind. They also seem to have wire in the hems. A couple are completely destroyed, and some have rips, I tried to clean one with a paintbrush, and the dirt came off, I tried also soapy water, and it cleaned just a wee bit, but the water did not seem to ruin the fabric.

Most all of the rigging is crumbled, but the "catwalks" ?(triangular webbing to climb the masts are all OK, since they were also strengthen with some lacquer or glue. The wood is OK, needs claeaning and maybe a coat of tung oil?  The bottom half of the hull is either apinted in a crackler finish like car undercoating or the paint has crackled with time.

The name plaque on the Ship says "Santiago" underneath it says PORTUGAL.

Approx 32" long, 34" high to tip of mast.

Without any pictures it will be extremely difficult for me to re-rig it. I am a sailor, but of 16 ft. boats, not three masters.

Any help much appreciated

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Intex - welcome to MSW!  You are not alone in restoring.  My project is restoring a 3 master full rigged ship which is about 120 years old. You'll find my blog under a Restoration heading.  I wish you well - it can be a very satisfying effert.

Paul from NZ 

Welcome to MSW "Intex". Good luck with your restoration, let us know how you get on with it! All the best, Geoff

Hi, Welcome to MSW (should we call you Intex, or..?)

With respect to your questions: I suspect that it is not a kit, but a decorative model. Used to be very popular around the fifties in Europe.

Sometimes they were intended to represent a certain type of ship, sometimes they were just a mixture of 'ship-like' details.

Your model is (I suspect) from that last category: three masted, rigged with tops, square rigged (but I can't get how the mizzen was rigged.)

The hull, however, has clipper and yacht-characteristics, but can by no means represent (scalewise) a sailingship: that hull with three masts will tumble over)

The superstructure, has some 'clipper-like' design charactyeristics.

1. no Spanish armada for sure.

2. perhaps no one-off, certainly no kit, and if produced in a larger series, probably the last surviving 

3. I guess, but am not an expert: 

  - take pictures of all stages of your work (try to get as much detail on the rigging you can still get before taking it apart)

  - try to take the whole thing apart (especially the damaged parts without using brute force)

  - clean the parts and repair (not overpainting, but filling in the missing parts)

  - put everything back together.

The other route is: try to put everything together without taking apart, and fill in the missing gaps.

The result will be a very nice decorative model with a story. Not a museum quality ship model.

JerseyCity Frankie

It’s  all just opinions for the most part but I think most will agree it’s a charming “decorative” model that is worth restoring. Not all old broken models are worth restoring! In my opinion it’s certainly not a kit. I’m guessing whoever built it wished it to evoke a generic fishing vessel, not a specific vessel despite its having a name. “Decorative” means, in the context of ship Models, a lack of realism in scale and detail. A decorative model builder isn’t concerned with a precise representation, details on decorative models are often toylike. Look at the portholes on the deck house: the builder had some off-the-shelf round parts so he incorporated them. So the size of the resulting portholes was determined by the availability of the part, not any measurement taken from an actual vessel. 

The life ring would suggest the size of a human but the boat suggests another scale, as does the stove. No doubt the model builder had the parts on hand and his vision did not necessitate that the scale of the parts needed to match precisely. had He intended a more serious representation the parts would match.

Whaling vessels are typically the only ships with stoves exposed on deck so a case can be made that this is a whaler. However the other halmark of the whaler are multiple whaleboats, usually at LEAST three but often six boats with davits for each boat. Your model has only a pair.

theres also a red navigation light in the Port Shrouds (not catwalk) and I’m guessing there was a green one in the Starboard Shrouds? This feature dates the model to a more modern era-I don’t know when nav lights came into widespread use but certainly late 1800’s but my impression is the builder was making a representation of a modern fishing vessel or yacht, the absence of big cargo hatches precludes a transport.

• CaptainSteve and mtaylor

  Niagara   USS Constitution  

Thank you everyone for your input, as I continue, if I have questions, where shall I post them?

I was thinking that with the size and type of the portholes, that this was not a scale model..., but its been in the family, so I will do my best to restore it, without going overboard

Post a log for the restoration in the Scratch Model area with the keyword "RESTORATION" at the end of the title.   Have some fun with this and good luck.

• CaptainSteve

Mark "The shipwright is slow, but the wood is patient." - me Current Build:                                                                                              Past Builds:   La Belle Poule 1765 - French Frigate from ANCRE plans  - ON HOLD            Tri ton Cross-Section    

  NRG Hallf Hull Planking Kit                                                                             HMS Sphinx 1775 - Vanguard Models - 1:64                

Non-Ship Model:                                                                                           On hold, maybe forever:           

CH-53 Sikorsky - 1:48 - Revell - Completed                                                      Licorne - 1755 from Hahn Plans (Scratch) Version 2.0  (Abandoned)           

• 1 month later...

I'll disagree with a few and say it may well be a kit. I just finished a 70 year old restore and had many of your questions when I started. Interestingly, your boat while completely different than mine has the same style and feel to it. Even the name plate is similar in design.  As mentioned - pictures, pictures, more pictures. Every piece of wood. Every sail. Every rope. From both sides and front and back. You will thank yourself one day.

Don't take things apart piece by piece if you can help it. For instance I cut the rat lines (the triangle climbing ropes-catwalk) right at the hull and was able to take out the entire mast with everything still intact. The mast then becomes just one project in many for the restore. Working on items off the boat is a lot easier than on the boat.

I was also able to keep much of the original material in place. You will find that modelling ropes made today don't look much like those made years ago so the more original you can reuse the better. The same goes for other materials.

Have a look at the structures on deck. Even under the structures. Take them off.  I took off a skylight and there was the manufacturers name stamped on the deck. A company out of business for almost 60 years now. But if you find a piece of info like that, Google is your friend. You might even find the same model today on Ebay and now you have spare parts.

Save every scrap you remove, cut, sand, etc. It may be just the thing to make a repair somewhere else on the ship.

For some reason, many kits back then were of fictitious and fictional boats. Mine came from Treasure Island. Since there was no real model to go by, a lot of artist discretion was used. Does it look like any real boat? Not really. Does it matter? Not really.

In my signature there is a link to the restoration build log I kept. It shows a lot of what I am describing here. If you are going to follow thru with a restore I strongly suggest you consider a log.

Good luck and enjoy. There will be frustrations, just persist.

Sail on...... Mike         "Dropped a part? Your shoe will always find it before your eyes do"

Current Builds:                                                          Completed Builds:

Lancia Armata 1803 - Panart                                    US Brig Niagara - Model Shipways ;  Section Deck Between Gun Bays - Panart   ; Arrow American Gunboat - Amati     

 Riva Aquarama - Amati                                           T24 RC Tugboat   ;  Hispaniola - Megow - Restoration ; Trajta - by Mikiek - Marisstella ; Enterprise 1799 - Constructo                               

• 2 years later...

I bought this model ship, which is over 6 feet long, a decade ago in Barre, MA. It was built in Lubec, Maine and I need help restoring her. I am in Charlotte, NC. I would love to know more about the history. It has hand carved people and buoys to go with it. Very primitive and loved. I want to hire someone to restore her or restore her for placement in a museum or place that would make people happy. I posted it on FB because I couldn't find any takers and received so much feedback that I decided to make a more serious search for help. 

How do I insert a photo?

Julie, I suggest you start a new topic and include some photos.  Here's  alink on how to upload:   

• 1 year later...

my father had this and I kept it.   

-Does anyone know what this is?

-Worth restoring?

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Modelshipworld - Advancing Ship Modeling through Research

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Nautical Research Guild 237 South Lincoln Street Westmont IL, 60559-1917

Model Ship World ® and the MSW logo are Registered Trademarks, and belong to the Nautical Research Guild (United States Patent and Trademark Office: No. 6,929,264 & No. 6,929,274, registered Dec. 20, 2022)

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About the NRG

If you enjoy building ship models that are historically accurate as well as beautiful, then The Nautical Research Guild (NRG) is just right for you.

The Guild is a non-profit educational organization whose mission is to “Advance Ship Modeling Through Research”. We provide support to our members in their efforts to raise the quality of their model ships.

The Nautical Research Guild has published our world-renowned quarterly magazine, The Nautical Research Journal, since 1955. The pages of the Journal are full of articles by accomplished ship modelers who show you how they create those exquisite details on their models, and by maritime historians who show you the correct details to build. The Journal is available in both print and digital editions. Go to the NRG web site (www.thenrg.org) to download a complimentary digital copy of the Journal. The NRG also publishes plan sets, books and compilations of back issues of the Journal and the former Ships in Scale and Model Ship Builder magazines.

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Nautical Research Guild ® and the NRG logo are Registered Trademarks, and belong to the Nautical Research Guild (United States Patent and Trademark Office: No. 6,999,236 & No. 6,999,237, registered March 14, 2023)

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Seaworthy Boats

Guaranteed To Sail

SEAWORTHY BOATS, JACRIM MANUFACTURING

Dedicated to collecting, preservation, identification, restoration, and displaying the boats designed by Chester Rimmer and manufactured by SEAWORTHY BOATS, JACRIM MANUFACTURING. TOM THUMB and KEYSTONE.

So many of their toy boats have survived to date and many may disappear if not recognized for what they are – A true American hand crafted Toy boat with beginnings in the 1920’s and ending in  the machine age of the ‘50’s.

For years collectors have been buying and selling toy boats and sailboats with the label Seaworthy Boats- Guaranteed to sail- Chester Rimmer navel Architect and later boats marked Jacrim Mfg. Hollow Boat and then Keystone. The company’s products were both sailboats and toy motorboats with wind up motors, rubber band powered boats, Tom Thumb floor toys, Ride Em toys and forts and furniture. There is a misconception about Seaworthy Boats. There never was any registered company with the name Seaworthy. Jacrim manufacturing had as its president David W. Rimmer, John W. Rimmer was secretary and Chester was treasurer.

The Seaworthy Boats are the most sought after toy boats by collectors of all other toy boats on the market, from Chein’s “Peggy” series tin boats, Rich toys, Tillicum toys, to Starr and Bowman sailing Yachts from England, and Lionel, Lindstrom, Mengle motor boats and many other lesser name products. These production boats differed from the home built pond boats created by fathers and sons in the thousands with each entirely different. First, Seaworthy Boats were designed by an MIT trained navel architect, second they really would sail, and last the boats looked good, floated on their water line and were inexpensive by today’s standards. Later Seaworthy Boats Jacrim Manufacturing was acquired by Keystone Manufacturing and were then factory crafted and, I might add, also very well made.

THE POND BOAT STORY & A LITTLE HISTORY

Today the term “pond boat” also called “pond yacht” is used to name anything that looks like it would float or be a toy boat. I believe Pond Boats have been made throughout eternity both as toys and models. Early records back more than 3,200 years ago like Egyptian petroglyph (pictographs on rock carvings) and pot drawings show small boats with oars, paddles and sails. Boats have even been found in tombs of ancient kings.

The earliest boats were probably just wood or pod droppings that floated and were played with by children. Egyptian petroglyph and pot drawings depicted boats of many types. Some Pharos and Kings were buried with their boats. However, soon boat builders realized that a model could be used as a plan since there were no drawings or computers. By the time America was settled half hulls and scale models were used extensively for building ships. The builders were parents so I am sure some time was also spent to make boat toys . I have owned examples of these with clockwork motors and intricate complete sailboats. As you know there wasn’t a lot of time for fun for kids and many worked very long hours from an early age.

One of the early experimenters with model boats was by Benjamin Franklin who put a small model in a 14 foot boat hull in a tank and dragged it to determine how it would sail. This was noted in a letter Franklin sent to Sir John Pringle in 1768. What we have left today are examples of these items in complete models, half hulls and early photographs. The models were sailed by men, women and boys in ponds, lakes, parks, rivers and harbors all around the world. There are photos of crowds of people in New York Central Park sailing huge gaff rigged model boats at the turn of the century. Most of these people sailing were men.

Sailing got a lot of press coverage starting in 1851 when the schooner “America” beat the British boat in a race around the Isle of Wight. This event was named the “Americas Cup” and was held by the United States until 1983. Late in the Century the Model Racing Union of North America was formed. The boats were complicated and heavily canvassed with a six foot boat carrying 2,200 square inches of sail. They were essentially miniature versions of full size boats. Most of this sailing was based around New York City. By the 1920’s the Union had died out.

Prior to WW1 there were American, handmade boats of all kinds -sail, steam and wind up. Wind up boats had clockwork motors, some boats had complete steam boilers with steam engines and many more were sailboats. Besides the many home built boats, there was organized sailboat racing with several model yacht sailing sizes. The Class “A” models were up to 85 inches long, with masts up to 9 feet high. These boats were scale models of full sized boats and were built after the turn of the century. Most of these were gaff rigged as was the configuration popular in that era. In Europe many toy boat companies copied famous battleships, ocean liners and cargo ships of the day and were generally more detailed. Many American manufacturing companies then got into the same business and began making similar American toys. Both are highly collectable today and very pricy. Some of these American companies were Schoenhut Company 1872, Wilkins toy 1890 became Kingsbury Mfg 1919, Bliss 1832, Mengle 1920’s and J Chein 1903, Jacrim Mfg 1921 & Keystone 1911. There were hundreds more that have diapered. I have a model of J. P. Morgan’s 1891 “ SS Corair” yacht with a working, live steam engine complete with boiler for steam as well as provision for sails built by by an unknown skilled craftsman. These boats were sailed on ponds and the owner followed in a row boat to retrieve and turn the model since there was no way to control their direction. Also a few Toy companies began offering dolls, Trucks as well as well as boats and other toys.

During the Depression years the US Government set about to create jobs and built many ponds designed for pond model boating. The idea was people needed to be busy and earn a living and working with their hands to build a model yacht was good experience. The US Government through the WPA gave people jobs to build the ponds and create parks. There was no TV and little Radio. In the 1930’s aManual Arts teacher named John Black designed a racing class boat called a Marblehead 50/800 and followed it with a book “Yachting with Models” and it started international competition that is still continuing today. The original rule was 50 inches long and 800 square inches of sail. This class boat became an international sensation and others followed with boat designs that matched those class rules. Today many other classes are available and are administrated by The American Model Yacht Association. The older boats are represented by the Vintage Model Yacht Group.

What we have today are relics of the past from attics, barns, garages basements, trash piles and other storage areas. Many have been destroyed by play and age. They can be carefully restored either by complete repainting or cleaning and touch up keeping the original flavor of the toy. The windup motors can be oiled and the sailboats can have new sails and rigging. This does not totally devalue the toy. These restored toys rescued from oblivion will only increase in value over time. And over time they will disappear.

Lately there has been a resurgence of copies of all kinds of toys both mechanical and sail. These have been crafted and copied from old time toys and can be pretty attractive and are made off shore from America. Many times these are sold at prices close to the price of genuine antiques. Some are called pond boats but were never on a pond and cannot sail as there is no keel weight as in an operating pond boat. They are for shelf display only. It is my opinion that an antique boat is a much better value than a copy and definitely should cost more and will definitely increase in value with time! The new made boats probably will not. My message is buy an antique not a new made copy!

WELCOME TO Elite Marine specialists

Let our 50 ton lift haul your vessel, servicing boats from 18' to 80' since 1998..

Elite Marine Specialists is a full service boat yard in St. Petersburg, Florida. We have been serving the community with yacht restoration and boat maintenance services since 1998. Let our company get you back on the water right in time for summer! We are experienced and have the know how to solve a wide range of problems that might be happening with your vessel.  Need a full service boat yard in St Petersburg, call (727) 289-7019 today!

Carl Humbert

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Yard Manager

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Our Services

Here are a few of the services we offer and much, much more: Inboard/Outboards, Stern Drives, Gas or Diesel Motors Installs or Repairs - Service, Repair & Maintenance - Repower - Fiberglass / Gelcoat Repair - Topside Paint - Electrical - Electronics Install - Bottom Paint - Running Gear - Pressure Washing - Cutlass Bearings - Prop Reconditioning - Interior Renovation - Custom Fiberglass Parts - Woodwork - Upholstery - Vessel Loading / Unloading - Bow Thrusters  ...     Call us today for an estimate: (727) 289-7019 .

Electrical Systems

From troubleshooting battery problems to a complete rewire with custom electrical distribution panels. We can design a system to accommodate your needs, and make your electrical panel beautiful and service accessible.

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Fiberglass, Gelcoat & Paint

From simple Gelcoat repairs to custom parts, Elite Marine has the experience and skill to take care of your needs. (Hurricane storm damage repairs, Bow Thrusters, Mezzanines, Swim platforms, Transom Doors, Deck Recore, Hard Tops, Fish Boxes, Imron - AWL Grip Paint Applications, Complete Interior Renovations.

From a standard engine maintenance service, to a complex, "they say it can't be done" repower, our capable crew will get your vessel ready to cruise or create that "head turner" you've always wanted. We can service anything from small outboards to large inboard diesels. Our mechanics don't cut corners when it comes to engines.

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