follow-up to the Italian Section

ANB
The ANB is not a commercial company, but rather the Associazione Navimodellisti Bolognesi (Bolognese Ship Modelers' Association), one of the world's most important and prestigious cultural and research institutions in the field of maritime and naval modeling.
Founded in Bologna in March 1970, it is distinguished by its apolitical and non-profit nature. Its primary purpose is the preservation, restoration, and dissemination of Italian naval history, both military and mercantile.
The ANB's unique asset is its immense archive, comprising over 2,000 original and scale construction plans. This collection is considered unique internationally and is available to modelers, historians, and researchers worldwide. The plans include precise details on: Military Ships: battleships, cruisers, submarines, aircraft carriers, and historic assault craft such as MAS. Civilian and Merchant Ships: historic workboats, classic passenger ships, and large ocean liners from the Costa, Tirrenia, and Grimaldi lines. Author's drawings: exclusive collections such as the fast boat designs of Renato "Sonny" Levi or the traditional vessels of Alvaro Matteucci. Onboard components: tables dedicated to individual elements such as ancient and modern weapons, winches, lights, propellers, and diving equipment.
Unlike commercial model kit manufacturers, the ANB promotes scratchbuilding. Models are created from scratch using the association's plans, ensuring pinpoint accuracy impossible to find in commercial kits.
The ANB archive was established thanks to the direct support and exchange of documentation with the Italian Navy General Staff, the MARICONAVARMI Technical Archive, the Naval Academy of Livorno, and the Guardia di Finanza.
The association publishes technical monographs and reference manuals for modelers. Among these, the archival volume "Technique and History Through Naval Construction Plans" stands out, a veritable encyclopedia of the Italian fleet.
The association is supported by the Italian Center for Naval Studies and Research, created to coordinate cultural and historical activities that go beyond the confines of pure modeling hobby.



Italeri (plastic)
The Bologna-based company Italeri is a global leader in static modeling. In the field of plastic naval modeling, the company stands out for its selection of unique historical and military subjects, the introduction of unusual macro-scales, and a focus on historical accuracy.
Italeri's main naval trademark is the reproduction of fast craft and torpedo boats from World War II. The company has created iconic kits for the vessels of the Italian Royal Navy and other navies: Kits dedicated to the M.T.M. barchino and slow-moving torpedoes (the so-called "Maiali"). Foreign motor torpedo boats: Excellent replicas of the German Schnellboot and British Vosper boats. [1, 2]. While naval tradition favors small scales (1:700 or 1:350) to reproduce entire battleships or aircraft carriers, Italeri revolutionized the sector by introducing the 1:35 scale to the maritime sector. This choice offers enormous advantages: It allows for faithful reproduction of onboard instruments, weapons, and material textures. The 1:35 scale is the standard for land-based military vehicles, allowing modelers to create combined land-sea dioramas. Kits often include crew members in realistic poses. Founded in 1962 by modelers for modelers, Italeri maintains an almost academic approach. Each naval kit is the result of careful historical research based on original plans, period photographs, and official shipyard calculation sheets. The assembly kits offer decal sheets with a wealth of variations to faithfully reproduce the same ship from different years of service or historical battles.
Italeri naval models are positioned as accessible yet highly customizable products: The molding provides a solid base and clean panel lines. High-end kits include photo-etched (PE) plates for railings and microscopic details, rigging ropes, and transparent parts.
They are excellent models for both beginners who want to practice and experienced modelers who use Italeri kits as a basis for advanced scratchbuilding.

+Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
+You only have static plastic model kits. However, your 1:35 scale models (such as MAS, PT Boats, or Schnellboots) are among the favorites among modelers for RC conversion.

What scales do you use for your models?
1:35 scale (your trademark)
Motor torpedo boats, assault boats, midget submarines (such as the German Biber), and the slow-moving "Maiali" torpedoes.
The models often exceed 60-80 cm in length, offering a microscopic level of detail and perfect compatibility with figurines and land dioramas.
1:72 Scale (Assault Craft and Boats)
Represents the perfect balance between rich detail and display space.
Light destroyers, corvettes (such as the famous Flower Class), American PT Boats, and submarines.
It allows you to reproduce medium-sized vessels that would be too cumbersome for a home display at 1:35 scale.
1:350 Scale (Large Battleships)
This is the international standard for large surface units and modern or historic submarines.
Aircraft carriers, historic battleships (such as the Roma or Bismarck), cruisers, and nuclear-powered submarines.
It offers an excellent rendering of the ships' overall volumes and is ideal for adding photo-etched details.
1:720 Scale (Economy and Collectibles)
A historic and distinctive choice by Italeri (while much of its Asian competitors prefer 1:700 scale).
Large 20th-century military ships and modern US Navy aircraft carriers.
Ideal for beginners or those who want to collect many units, recreating entire fleets in a small space, thanks to very affordable prices and quick assembly.
1:500 scale and other unique scales
Italeri has several reissues of historical molds in less common scales, mainly dedicated to training ships and historic sailing ships (such as the Amerigo Vespucci or historic galleons), designed for more classic and decorative modeling.

Does your catalog also include accessories and materials? YES

follow-up to the Italian Section

Mantua Model (including Sergal and Panart)
The Italian company Mantua Model is one of the historic pillars of global naval modeling. Founded in 1963 by Franco Poldi in Roverbella (Mantua), the company stands out for its philosophy of making modeling a hobby accessible to all, without ever sacrificing historical accuracy.
The Mantua group also includes the renowned Panart and Sergal brands, which further enrich the catalog with iconic and detailed sailing ships; these are the group's brands dedicated to large, highly detailed historical vessels (such as the famous Vasa or the Sovereign of the Seas).
Technical Features of the Kits: All structural parts, such as frames and keels, guarantee perfect fit. Mantua includes meticulous detail and high-quality metal decorations in its kits.
Cast Metal Parts: Cannons, blocks, and decorative components offer exceptional and long-lasting realism.
Selected timber: The included strips and boards are chosen for durability and ease of bending.
Beginner solutions: Some kits include decks with pre-designed planking or pre-cut sides to make it easier for beginners.
Multilingual construction plans: The manuals and technical drawings are renowned for their wealth of step-by-step illustrations.
Their production ranges from large ancient galleons to training ships, tugboats, and racing boats.
Dedicated publishing: Mantua publishes printed technical guides to teach the terminology and techniques of naval carpentry.
Mantua produces a complete range of specialized tools (mini-drills, planes, and batten benders) designed to last and facilitate the craftsman's work.
One of their most famous works is the 1:200 scale Titanic (1.35 meters long), sold in separate boxes to allow the modeler to split the purchase and decide whether to make it static or navigable.
The company is known for its availability of spare parts, even for very old models, a key aspect for those restoring vintage RC cars, while maintaining excellent value for money.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
More static models.
The following models are designed for RC navigation.
Anteo: A seagoing tugboat, very popular among RC modelers for its stability in the water.
Bruma: A classic motor yacht, often sold with a kit for motorization.
Mincio: A 1:20 scale radio-controlled motor launch, compact (450 mm) and ideal for those looking for an agile model.
Titanic: Offered in 1:200 scale, it is one of the most imposing models (approximately 135 cm) available for RC navigation.
Trotamares: Motor sailing vessel built in 1958 in Spain by refitting a fishing boat, transforming it into a luxury cruiser.
Voga Veneta (R.C. Motor Boat of Venice): A reproduction of typical Venetian boats, ready for radio control.

The most commonly used scales in their catalog are:
1:12 and 1:20: Used for small boats or motor launches, such as the Gozzo Ligure (1:12) or the motor launch Mincio (1:20).
1:30 and 1:50: Common for fishing boats or small historic vessels, such as the Santa Lucia (1:30) and the Santa Maria (1:50).
1:60 and 1:65: Used for medium-sized vessels such as the Endeavour (1:60) or the Perla Nera (Caribbean Magic) (1:65).
1:75, 1:84, and 1:98: Classic scales for large sailing ships. The Amerigo Vespucci is often made in 1:84, while the HMS Victory is offered in 1:98 to keep the length under 110 cm.
1:120 and 1:200: Reserved for extremely large ships to allow for home modeling, such as the training ship Mercator (1:120) or the ocean liner Titanic (1:200).

Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalog? YES



Mamoli (acquired by the Czech company Dusek)
Mamoli, founded in Milan in 1972, is a historic brand in naval modeling that has recently experienced a revival after a period of closure, while maintaining its reputation for captivating designs.
Mamoli has always stood out for its balance between historical accuracy and a particularly dramatic aesthetic.
Unlike other, more "austere" brands, Mamoli models are known for the vividness and richness of their decorations. The kits include numerous cast details (decorations, cannons, figureheads) that make the final result easy, even for those who are not expert carvers. Mamoli uses quality woods such as walnut and lime, precisely cut to ensure a solid and clean structure. They offer models in a wide range of scales, allowing you to choose between imposing vessels or more compact ships suitable for limited spaces.
Mamoli's journey is unique in the Italian modeling landscape due to a major change in management:
After a fire that devastated the original factory years ago, the brand was acquired by the Czech company Dusek. This ensured the survival of the historic catalog, improving the quality of the laser cutting of the components.
One of their most famous and beloved lines is the "Mini Mamoli" series; these are small-scale models, very simple and quick to build, ideal for children or anyone who wants to finish a project in a few days. While many focus on 18th-century sailing ships, Mamoli's catalog includes splendid reproductions of Viking ships (such as the Oseberg) and ancient galleys, highly prized for their uniqueness.
The technical drawings are considered among the most intuitive, making the kits less intimidating for beginners. The ability to transform a historic ship into a splendid decorative object. Mamoli models are not just technical replicas, but true display pieces that capture the eye.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
You only have wooden kits of static models.

What scales do you use for your models?
1:32 / 1:35: Reserved for small historical vessels, such as the Leudo Ligure or Viking ships, to maximize the details of the planking and interiors.
1:54 / 1:64 / 1:75: Used for medium-sized privateers, frigates, and brigs (e.g., HMS Surprise).
1:90 / 1:100: The standard for large 17th-century galleons or vessels of the line, ideal for balancing the richness of the gun decks without overdoing the hull size.
1:150: Adopted for giants of the sea with full sails, such as the Amerigo Vespucci or HMS Victory, which would otherwise be cumbersome and difficult to place at home. [1, 2, 3]
Scales of the "Mini Mamoli" Series (Beginners and Kids)
Since this line focuses on models approximately 30 cm long with pre-formed solid hulls, the scales vary significantly depending on the vessel being reproduced:
1:32: Used only for local fishing boats and small vessels such as the Gozzo Mediterraneo.
1:106 / 1:110 / 1:121: For small to medium-sized historical vessels such as Columbus's caravels (Santa Maria, Niña) or the HMS Beagle.
1:135 / 1:177: For frigates and more structured sailing ships such as the HMS Bounty or the Britannia.
1:325 / 1:330: Dedicated to mammoth vessels (e.g., the USS Constitution or HMS Victory), reduced to micro scales to fit the "mini" pocket-sized format of the collection.

Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalog? YES



Euromodel
The Italian company Euromodel (with its historic headquarters in Como), founded in 1970, is considered by modelers worldwide to be one of the elite brands in the field of static and archaeological wooden naval modeling.
Its kits are not simple commercial products to be assembled, but true works of high-level engineering in miniature, renowned for their specific technical and construction features.
The technical drawings included in the kits (often consisting of more than 10 or 14 sheets at a 1:1 scale) are signed by naval architects. They are considered among the most detailed and precise in the entire industry.
The plans not only show the exterior, but also illustrate cross-sections, internal structures, and hidden decks. This allows the modeler to decide the level of depth of assembly.
Unlike modern commercial "fit-and-glue" kits, Euromodel provides a highly precise structural base (laser-cut keel and frames), but leaves the modeler the task of carving out, shaping, and finishing numerous structural elements from the raw wood.
The company provides manuals called "interpretation files," which propose various historical and construction alternatives for the same model, encouraging improvisation and technical growth in the builder. The strips included for the double planking and the finishes are selected from high-quality, flawless woods. The metal castings and decorations for the sterncastles (present in famous models such as the HMS Royal William or the Friedrich Wilhelm zu Pferde) are renowned for their incredible detailing and pinpoint precision of the joints. The products in the Euromodel Como workshop catalog are explicitly aimed at expert or intermediate-to-advanced modelers. They require hundreds of hours of meticulous work, excellent skills in interpreting technical drawings, and a good dose of classical manual skill.
Due to the complexity and quality of the components, Euromodel kits are generally more expensive than their mass-produced counterparts.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
You only have wooden kits of static models.

What scales do you use for your models?
1:72 Scale (Large Vessels and Frigates): This scale is used for ships of the line and large multi-deck warships. Given the majesty of their real-life counterparts, this scale allows for a model length of 110-115 cm.
Famous models: First-rate vessel HMS Royal William (1:72) and the 18th-century frigate Ajax (1:72).
1:60 Scale (Medium-Sized Ships): This is Euromodel's preferred scale for armed merchant ships, smaller vessels, or galleons. It offers the perfect balance between rich detail and space requirements.
Famous models: The English warship HMS Mordaunt (1:60) and the armed merchant ship Falmouth (1:60).
1:47 Scale (Small-medium vessels): Used for slender hulls such as xebecs or schooners. Since these are shorter, real ships, a larger scale allows for maximum display of the rigging and interior deck finishes.
Famous models: The English schooner Lyde (1:47).
1:36 Scale (Small historic vessels): This is the largest scale used by the brand. It is reserved for short hulls or traditional Mediterranean and European working boats, where the details of individual slats or deck fittings must be visible to the naked eye.
Famous models: The Pinco Genovese (1:36).

Does your catalog also include accessories and materials? YES


continues

ITALIA
ITALY

Italian ship modeling is considered the "cradle" of static wooden modeling worldwide. Italian companies defined the standards we follow today, focusing entirely on traditional craftsmanship and aesthetic beauty. Italy is the undisputed leader in wooden kits (walnut, lime, and mahogany). Italian models are famous for their double planking, a technique that allows for perfect and sturdy hulls. The designs are often based on original archival research. There is obsessive attention to aesthetics: gilded metal castings, photo-etched brass decorations, and quality sailcloth. Italian companies are among the few to sell construction plans and a wide range of accessories (blocks, chainplates, and cannons) separately, allowing modelers to customize or build their models themselves. There's a strong focus on vintage sailing ships (galleons, caravels, ships of the line) and ships of the Royal Navy (such as the Amerigo Vespucci or the MAS).
All the Italian companies listed below sell not only complete assembly kits but also construction plans (drawings).
Beyond the level of assembly kits, the Italian school excels in complete self-construction, which in Italy finds its greatest expression in two currents:
False Keel Technique: Deeply rooted in Italian technical evolution, it starts from construction plans to recreate the frame before planking.
Arsenal (or Admiralty) Model Making: This represents the elite of the sector. The model maker does not use commercial elements, but reconstructs the ship exactly as it was built in the period shipyard, piece by piece, often leaving sections of the hull open (without planking) to showcase the sophisticated internal architecture of the frames, decks, and beams.
For high-end DIY construction and planking, fine, compact-grained woods such as pear (much loved for its stability and rosy color), boxwood, ebony, or walnut are preferred. Unlike other schools of thought that overuse synthetic gloss varnishes, in Italy, the tendency is to enhance the wood's natural grain, favoring historical and realistic finishes based on linseed oil, beeswax, or shellac applied with a buffer.

Italian Naval Modeling Companies


Amati
The Turin-based company Amati Modellismo, founded in Turin in 1879, is one of the world's historic and most prestigious companies in the static naval modeling sector.
Known internationally as a true "Modeling Boutique," Amati stands out for its perfect combination of historical accuracy, quality materials, and technological innovation.
Premium Quality Materials
Aviation-Grade Wood: Amati uses exclusively Finnish birch classified as "Avio" wood (originally developed for the aviation industry). This guarantees a 6-ply, 5mm plywood that is extremely stable, robust, and easy to work with.
The frames, false keels, and sheathing are made of fine woods such as mahogany, cherry, and walnut. These materials facilitate bending and gluing, ensuring an excellent aesthetic result.
Solid brass is used for the metal components due to its ductility and resistance to corrosion over time.
Cutting-Edge Production Technologies
Amati was among the industry's pioneers in introducing high-precision industrial processes:
Laser Cutting: Ensures perfect interlocking of pieces, clean edges, and drastically reduces manual correction times during assembly.
Photolithography: Allows decorative motifs and microscopic details to be printed directly onto materials with pinpoint precision.
Metal Micro-Casting: Used for the most complex accessories (e.g., miniature cannons, winches, railings), ensuring exceptional realism and defined three-dimensional details.
Scientific Rigor and Historical Research
Each commercial kit is the result of a lengthy design process based on original shipyard drawings (for modern ships) or in-depth iconographic, archaeological, and pictorial research (for ancient sailing ships). Before mass production, the company assembles at least one complete prototype in-house to validate the accuracy of each individual component.
Division of Lines by Experience Level
To accommodate every type of modeler, the Amati catalog is organized into dedicated lines:
First Step Line: Designed for absolute beginners. It includes models with pre-finished hulls made from single-piece wood, eliminating the initial difficulty of having to lay the strips on the frames.
Amati Classic: The flagship collection featuring replicas of historic vessels, famous sailing ships, ancient ships (Egyptian, Greek, Viking), and iconic speedboats such as Riva models.
Victory Models: A superior line developed for more experienced modelers, focusing on historical vessels and featuring highly detailed instructions and an uncompromising level of challenge and detail.
Ships in a Bottle: Unique miniature kits designed specifically for the complex and fascinating art of glass assembly.
While older, historical kits required a thorough interpretation of construction plans, modern Amati kits offer high-resolution illustrated manuals with clean technical graphics, detailed parts lists, and an ever-expanding digital ecosystem that includes 3D guides and step-by-step video tutorials.
Before being released for sale, the models are physically built in-house to ensure that every piece fits together perfectly, minimizing errors for the end user.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
You prefer static models; almost all of the models in your extensive catalog are static models. Eight models are adaptable for RC navigation.

What scales do you use for your models?
Large Sailing Ships and Galleons
For the most impressive historical vessels, Amati uses scales that allow for a high level of detail without exceeding the overall dimensions:
1:60 / 1:64 / 1:65: This is the standard for classics like the Santa Maria, HMS Bounty, or HMS Victory.
1:72 / 1:75 / 1:80: Common scales for frigates and brigs.
1:100: Used for very large ships, like the Amerigo Vespucci or the Cutty Sark.
2. Racing Yachts (J-Class) and Modern
Amati is a world leader in vintage yacht models, using larger scales to showcase the woodwork and rigging:
1:20: Scale used for the Dorade yacht.
1:35: The classic scale for America's Cup giants like Endeavour, Shamrock V, or Velsheda.
1:80: "Smaller" version for those with less space (e.g., the Rainbow series or smaller Endeavour).
3. Speedboats and Runabouts (Riva Line)
For mahogany speedboat reproductions, the scales are generously sized to accommodate RC motors:
1:10: Used for the Arno XI Ferrari hydroplane.
1:20 / 1:35: Standard scales for the various Riva Aquarama or Super Ariston models.
4. Warships and Ocean Liners
For steel giants, scales must be very small:
1:200: Famous scale for the battleship Bismarck.
1:250: Used for the Titanic.
5. Workboats and "First Step" Series
1:32 / 1:35: Used for fishing boats and tugs (e.g., Anteo or Fifie).
1:50 / 1:100: Common scales for the simplified series designed for beginners.

Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalog? YES.



Corel
The Milanese company Corel, founded in 1971, is one of the most prestigious historic brands in the international static wooden model shipbuilding scene. Its production is aimed primarily at discerning modelers, distinguishing itself for its traditional approach and high-quality materials.
Corel selects premium wood species with tight grain and varied natural tones, ideal for raw wood finishes.
True to the tradition of classic wooden modeling, Corel kits almost entirely exclude the use of plastic components.
All structural parts (such as frames and false keel) are laser-cut to ensure precise fit and facilitate hull alignment.
One of Corel's most notable features is the richness of its decorations and friezes (such as transoms and figureheads), reproduced in cast metal with a gold or white metal finish.
For the finest and most intricate details (such as railings and plates), the kits include highly precise photo-etched metal plates. Corel's construction plans are renowned for their breadth and graphic precision, and use a unique letter coding system to catalog the components inside the box:
Letter A: Components ready for immediate assembly (e.g., cannons, anchors, frames).
Letter C: The thread (all the ropes and wires wound for rigging).
Letter P: Pre-worked parts that require little manual intervention before assembly.
Letter R: Non-pre-cut parts to be machined from strips or blocks of wood.
Letter D: Components in duplicate (to ensure the ship's symmetry).
Letter F: Optional parts, intended for experienced modelers who wish to make personal modifications.
"Old School" Approach and Target Audience
Corel's classic line of kits are known for being challenging, long-term projects. The instructions are based primarily on large drawing boards and multilingual diagrams, offering fewer step-by-step text explanations than other modern brands. For this reason, they are ideal for those who already have a good deal of experience and enjoy classic wood carpentry (such as tapering and double-wrapping).
The Corel catalog ranges from the great 17th and 18th century liners (such as the Bellona, ​​the Wasa, or the famous HMS Victory) to historic regional vessels and working vessels.
Corelline Line: To accommodate newcomers, Corel has introduced this specific line for beginners, featuring pre-worked full hulls that dramatically reduce the time and difficulty of building the ship's skeleton.
Midship Sections: Corel also offers large-scale reproductions of individual ship sections (such as the midship section of the HMS Victory), ideal for studying the internal architecture of the decks without having to tackle the complexity of an entire hull.
What sets Corel apart from Amati or Mantua is its "traditionalist" and focused identity. Unlike Mantua, Corel focuses almost exclusively on static wooden model ships, maintaining a highly specialized vertical focus. Their models are often designed to be imposing yet manageable, with scales that allow for the details of the rigging to be highlighted.
If Amati is technology and Mantua is versatility, Corel is elegance. It's the perfect choice for those who love working with wood "the old-fashioned way," enjoying the tactile beauty of each individual strip.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
More oriented towards static models. There is only one model listed as RC-ready. Three kits have hull sizes and shapes that allow experienced modelers to transform them into sailing models with structural modifications.

What scales do you use for your models?
1:50: Used for medium-sized models like the Berlin or the Greyhound.
1:75 / 1:80: Very common scales for large vessels and galleons, like the Couronne or HMS Victory.
1:98 / 1:100: Used for imposing ships that require greater reduction to stay within one meter in length.
1:24 / 1:25: Standard scale for models in the "Yachting" series.
1:35: Used for smaller or vintage vessels.
1:40 / 1:50: Typical for fishing boats, cargo vessels, or historic regional vessels.
1:150 / 1:200: Reserved for "miniature" models or extremely long ships to keep the final dimensions to a minimum.

Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalog? YES

Now it's the turn of the Italy section.

NUOVA ZELANDA
NEW ZEALAND
AOTEAROA

There are no indigenous New Zealand companies that produce physical assembly kits (boxes with pre-laser-cut wood or molded plastic) on a traditional industrial or commercial scale.
If you're looking for a "Kiwi" company comparable to Spain's Artesanía Latina, Denmark's Billing Boats, or Italy's Amati, the answer is no. New Zealand's domestic market is too small to justify the costs of industrial machinery, brass fittings foundries, and packaging lines for physical kits.
However, New Zealand modeling has circumvented this limitation by becoming a world leader in another type of indigenous production: digital kits and design packages.
In place of physical boxes, New Zealand companies produce and sell intellectual property, namely complete construction plans accompanied by cutting files and instructions:
Racing Sparrow: This is the most famous indigenous brand in the radio-controlled sailing sector, founded by designer Bane (Racing Sparrow). They don't ship wooden boxes, but sell downloadable digital kits that include full-scale construction plans and CAD files ready to be sent to any local laser cutting or 3D printing service.
Local Club Designers: Organizations like Scale Marine Modellers Auckland act almost like unofficial "micro-businesses." They develop accurate plans for national vessels (such as the famous America's Cup hulls or RNZN fleet patrol boats) and sell the paper plans or digital files directly to modelers around the world.
New Zealand model shipmaking is distinguished by a profound fusion of cutting-edge sporting technology and indigenous historical preservation. As an island nation with a deep maritime culture (ranging from historic Polynesian migrations to America's Cup triumphs), New Zealand expresses unique characteristics in this artisanal niche.
High-tech racing vessels: America's Cup boats are given a particularly strong focus. Modelers faithfully reproduce foil-equipped hulls and the famous "Big Boats" (such as the historic 100% New Zealand KZ 1).
Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) fleet: Scale reproductions of historic and modern warships with a strong local connection are very popular, such as HMS New Zealand, HMNZS Gambia, or the ultra-modern supply vessel HMNZS Aotearoa.
Sailmaking and traditional training: An iconic and frequently reproduced model is the brigantine Spirit of New Zealand, used for youth training.
Waka Ama and Māori vessels: There is a deep-rooted niche dedicated to traditional Polynesian dugout canoes carved from wood, which respect the aesthetic canons and designs of Māori culture.
Many New Zealand modelers, such as the well-known Bruce Tantrum, prefer not to use commercial kits. They start from paper blueprints or maritime books, scan the plans, and create the hull by dividing the model into two symmetrical halves, which are then joined and wrapped.
The local scene embraced digital technologies early on. Many designs are developed in CAD (e.g., Fusion 360) and printed in advanced plastic materials (such as PLA+), ensuring pinpoint precision on modern superstructures.
Predilection for dynamic modeling: Compared to other purely static schools, New Zealand has a very strong connection with radio control. Many models, including large warships and historic sailing vessels, are designed to navigate local lakes or participate in dedicated regattas.


New Zealand Naval Model Making Companies

Micro Master (Accessories Only)
New Zealand-based Micro Master (based in Christchurch) is a global leader in the production of high-resolution 3D-printed detail parts and accessories, primarily for military naval modeling.
The company is renowned for redefining the standards for aftermarket details (additional components to enhance commercial kits), surpassing the precision of traditional plastic or photo-etched parts.
The core of its production focuses on reproductions of the British Royal Navy, the Allied navies of World War II, and the German Kriegsmarine.
They produce microscopic-scale replicas of armaments (main turrets, anti-aircraft guns, machine guns), radars, life rafts (Carley floats), rangefinders, winches, ladders, deck fans, and lifeboats.
They use photopolymer resin 3D printing technologies that almost completely eliminate the effect of "layers" (the visible layers of printing), offering smooth surfaces ready for painting.
The parts include details impossible to replicate with traditional injection molding. In Micro Master's anti-aircraft guns, for example, the elevation knobs, operator seats, magazines, and even the muzzles are microscopically drilled and faithfully reproduced.
The 3D models are designed from scratch by cross-referencing original historical plans, archival photographs, and reference books to ensure exact geometric accuracy of scale.
Compared to metal photoetch sheets that require hours of bending and gluing, Micro Master parts are printed in a single, pre-assembled piece, ready to be removed from the print supports and positioned on the model.
Given the extreme fragility of the parts (some antennas or sights are as thin as a human hair), Micro Master has developed a proprietary packaging system in which the support bases of the parts are rigidly glued to the bottom of the shipping box and surrounded by soft wadding to prevent any destructive movement during international transport.

Racing Sparrow
Racing Sparrow is a New Zealand company specializing in the design of radio-controlled (RC) sailboats, founded by professional designer and sailor Bryn Heveldt in Auckland. The brand's unique feature lies in its do-it-yourself (DIY) approach, offering construction plans and digital files to allow anyone to build elegant, high-performance boats at home.
The projects are structured to make entry into model shipbuilding simple, accessible, and affordable. The historic models are designed for classic balsa wood construction, while the modern designs are optimized for 3D printing (using standard filaments such as PLA+).
The intelligent design avoids expensive special parts, favoring hardware materials and standard electronic components.
The 3D printed parts of the models are fractionated to never exceed 200-207 mm per axis, making them compatible with almost all consumer 3D printers.
The company distributes its projects (STL files and guides) both through the official Racing Sparrow website and on modeling platforms such as Cults 3D and Printables. The fleet covers various sizes to suit transportation and navigation preferences.

AMP (Plastic)
The company is renowned for reproducing historical prototypes, experimental vehicles, and units rarely covered by mainstream industrial brands (such as vintage submarines or specialized vessels).
Although AMP's main focus has historically been on cutting-edge aviation and helicopters, the catalog extends to exceptional historical marine vehicles, such as small submarines and torpedo boats from the first half of the 20th century (e.g., the French Gymnote Q1 submarine or the Italian Grillo torpedo boat).
The kits are made using low-pressure (short-run) injection molding. While requiring cleaner parts than mass-produced industrial kits, the use of modern technologies allows AMP to achieve an extremely fine level of surface detail and paneling.
The kits are not only made of plastic. To enhance the historical accuracy of the model, they often include: Brass photo-etched plates (PE parts) for the finest details. Pre-cut templates to facilitate painting of transparent parts. High-quality decals printed locally in Ukraine with excellent color reproduction.
Like much of the Ukrainian modeling industry (including partner brands such as Mikro-Mir, Roden, and Amodel), AMP shares a dense network of technical cooperation that makes the Ukrainian modeling school one of the most dynamic and specialized in the world in the production of complex historical and military models.
AMP and MikroMir are not the same thing; they are closely related brands managed and marketed by the same team of designers within the production hub in Dnipro, Ukraine.
The two brands operate in symbiosis and share the same channels, so much so that they have a single official reference and sales website (AMP Ukraine). In international retailers' catalogs, they are often grouped under the unified name Micro Mir AMP.
The main differences lie in their commercial positioning and the type of models they sell:
MikroMir
This is the main historical brand. In the naval sector, this is the acronym traditionally used to market rare, vintage, or modern 1/350 scale submarine kits (as well as a wide range of historic aircraft).
It focuses on the reproduction of real historical vehicles that have actually entered service or famous prototypes.
AMP (Advanced Modeling Products)
It began as a sub-brand or parallel line of MikroMir, focusing on slightly more advanced multimedia kits.
AMP-branded kits often include a greater amount of photo-etched details as standard, pre-cut templates, and focus specifically on rare helicopters, experimental aircraft, spaceplanes (such as the Dyna-Soar), or very specific variants of civil and military aircraft.
In short, they are two product lines from the same Ukrainian "parent company." Whether you buy a MikroMir kit or an AMP kit, you'll find the exact same construction philosophy: short-run molding intended for experienced modelers, parts that are unobtainable elsewhere, and close engineering collaboration at the core.
Looking at the AMP catalog, it seems that Micromir is a subsection of AMP and not the other way around.

Does it focus more on static or dynamic kits?
AMP and MikroMir produce exclusively for static modeling. Some models could be converted to RC.

What scales do you use for your models?
In the official AMP catalog, limited exclusively to naval models (ships and submarines), the company uses only two distinct scales:
1/350 (The main scale)
This is the standard reference scale chosen by AMP for most of its underwater division. In this scale, it produces:
Soviet Navy submarines: Such as the famous S-class (e.g., the S-51/S-13 submarine from World War II).
Historical underwater units: Compact models that faithfully reproduce the original hull and paneling, enhanced with photo-etched details for propellers and rudders.
1/72 (The scale for smaller units)
AMP uses the 1/72 scale only for special vessels or midget submarines, which in reality were very small. This scale includes:
Small boats and manned torpedoes: Special assault craft from World War II, such as the German Neger manned torpedo or similar units.
Assault torpedo boats: Such as the famous Grillo class of the Italian Royal Navy.

Does your catalog also include accessories and materials? NO

@stevedownunder
Here are the additions from the Ukrainian Section to the AMP company (thanks to your suggestion).

I've included some information from the web describing the connection between AMP and MicroMir.

It would be helpful to get the opinions of Ukrainian naval modelers, but I don't know if they're active on this forum.
Incidentally: I've seen many works by Ukrainian modelers online, and I can say they're true masters of static modeling.

In any case, if there are no direct contributions from experts in the final document, I'll cite both AMP and MicroMir to avoid mistakes.

@AlessandroSPQR
Hi Alessandro,
You are probably right I don't know if AMP and Micromir are under the same corporation, I didn't look into this aspect.

I don't know of any other New Zealand manufactures.

@stevedownunder

Hi Stephen, thank you so much for your kind words and your suggestions.

I'm not sure if AMP and Micromir (already listed) are the same company. From a first check online, it seems so; or rather, they are two brands belonging to the same corporate division. I've seen pictures of some kits, and they both have the same wording on the same box.
In any case, I'll update the Ukraine section with the new information.

I'll add the New Zealand company Micro Master, and therefore the New Zealand section as well.
I haven't been able to find any New Zealand companies that produce complete kits or drawings (plans).
If you or other modelers know of other New Zealand companies, please let me know.

@roycv
Thanks for your contribution Roy, I like your appreciation but more than my research I think it's nice to read your comments based on direct experiences.

Hi Alessandro,
Outstanding work compiling this list.
I think that there are a couple of manufactures I would like to suggest one being the PropShop in the UK who make stunning props and running gear.
The other is AMP a Ukraine plastic kit manufacture, who make some very interesting subjects.
A third would be Micro Master in New Zealand who make some VERY nice 3D printed ships fittings and armaments unfortunately they are not operating at present due to the owner being ill.

Cheers,
Stephen.

Hi Alessandro I am happy to leave things the way they are. Your research into the various manufacturers is to be commended.

I agree with the comments on untouched kits it is also true of model wood kits too. I have 4 waiting to be built. However, I decided that it would be best to finish the builds I have on hand before starting a new one. That way when someone clears up after me then pristine kits are saleable but part finished models are not.
Although those of us on the forum are capable of excellent work we represent a small minority, witness the number of kits produced and the number of models you see. I have purchased or been given several part made models, and I have turned at least that many away as the workmanship was indifferent to say the least.

As an example the Billing kit Mary Ann has been in production since 1958. The kit has been up-graded but also had the nice brass fittings mainly removed but the number of kits produced must be incredible and I have 3 of them! Likewise the Graupner Bugsier 3 started production in 1974 over half a century ago!

Keep up the research very interesting to read.
Roy

@jumpugly
Thank you very much for the comprehensive and thorough response.

@AlessandroSPQR
Hi Alessandro! I may be generalizing a bit…

Collectors, especially plastic kit collectors, always prefer kits unbuilt NIB; “New In Box.” Built plastic kits generally don’t appreciate unless they are built to a museum quality. But, collectors love them unbuilt in their original boxes.

Built wood kits can, and often do, appreciate in value as many kit builders don’t have the patience to go all in for plank on frame builds, but those same kit builders respect the effort that goes into wood kits even if they don’t build them themselves.

Unbuilt wooden kits from manufacturers that have closed their doors are, in general, highly prized. Sterling and most recently Dumas kits have appreciated exponentially. I myself am guilty for overpaying for an old Sterling kit or Dumas kit. I even stumbled upon a “Holy Grail” lost mold plastic Formula 1 kit that I paid over $600 for, which was a steal as they go for as much as $2000.
Collectors can be a wild bunch!
👍🏻😂

If I haven't forgotten anything (Jumpugly and Roy can check if they want the closed companies text corrected) the next one will be the ITALY section.

NORVEGIA
NORWAY
NORGE


Norwegian ship modeling is distinguished by its faithful reproduction of the iconic Scandinavian maritime tradition. Its distinctive features focus on the representation of Nordic naval architecture, which combines natural materials, distinctive construction techniques, and a strong connection to local history and culture.
Key features include: The Clinker Technique (Lap Planking): Unlike other traditions, Norwegian ships are known for their construction using overlapping wooden planks joined with rivets. In modeling, reproducing this overlapping technique requires great precision to respect the flexibility and lightness of the original hull.
The famous Drakkar (warships) and Knarr (merchant ships) are the most famous subjects. They are characterized by their slender shape, prows decorated with dragon heads, T-shaped keels, and large square sails. Faithful details include the oar benches and shields arranged along the sides.
Traditional Coastal Ships (Nordland and Oselver): In addition to Viking ships, Norwegian model makers reproduce traditional fishing and coastal transport vessels. These are distinguished by a high bow, a transom stern, and a length-to-width ratio designed to brave the northern seas.
The essence of Norwegian ship modeling is linked to wood, especially pine, fir, or oak. Shipbuilders place particular emphasis on the crafting of sails, which are often sewn from linen or cotton and treated to reproduce the effects of weather and wind.
A Scandinavian cultural peculiarity is the construction of detailed models to hang inside churches (called votive ships or kirkeskip) as thanks for protection at sea or in memory of lost sailors.
For the construction of historical models, model makers often rely on construction plans and advice from specialized institutions such as the Norwegian Maritime Museum.


Norwegian Ship Modeling Companies


Model-Tec
The Norwegian ship modeling company Modell-Tec (often referred to commercially as Modell-Tech) stands out on the international scene for its highly specialized identity and modern construction approach.
Unlike historic Mediterranean brands focused on ancient galleons or vessels, Modell-Tec has redefined its market niche through specific features: Modell-Tec's most iconic feature is its catalog, entirely dedicated to preserving Scandinavian maritime heritage. Each model faithfully reproduces a real ship that shaped the history of the Norwegian fjords:
Mail and Passenger Ships: Such as the famous MS Finnmarken (1:60), an icon of the Hurtigruten line, or the D/S Skibladner paddle steamer, the oldest paddle steamer in the world still in regular service.
North Sea Fishing Vessels: Such as the MS Follabuen or the MS Jeanette (both 1:25 scale), which reproduce the sturdy wooden hulls used for herring and mackerel fishing.
Royal Historic Vessels: Such as the imposing Norwegian Royal Yacht KS Norge (1:60).
The models are designed from the outset with a dual purpose. The internal structure is not only intended for static display (floor model), but also includes lightweight bulkheads, magnetic or removable access hatches in the superstructure, and geometric spaces calculated to accommodate the electric motor, servos, batteries, and radio-controlled (RC) system.
The company uses modern industrial technologies to overcome the limitations of traditional wooden model making: The frames and planking use high-quality, sustainable woods, pre-cut by laser for perfect joints that reduce structural adaptation times. The more complex deck or cabin details (winches, instruments, radar, interior furnishings) are not raw, but supplied as photo-etched brass parts or 3D-printed in high-definition resin.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
Although the kits are designed for both options, Modell-Tec is clearly more oriented and designed for dynamic (radio-controlled) models.
The very design of the kits emphasizes navigability, differentiating them from traditional, purely static kits.
The entire dynamic mechanical and electronic components (propulsion system and radio control) must be purchased separately.

What scales do you use for your models?
The Norwegian company Modell-Tec mainly uses two standard scales for its entire catalog of wooden ship models: 1:60 and 1:25. In some cases, 1:50 is also used.
1:60 Scale (Large Passenger and Historic Ships)
This scale is used for the reproduction of the most impressive ships, such as coastal liners, historic ferries, and large river or seagoing vessels. 1:60 allows for a generously sized final model, perfect for sailing and boasting plenty of interior space.
Iconic subjects:
The royal yacht KS Norge (model length: 133 cm).
The mail and express ship MS Finnmarken (model length: 135 cm).
The historic paddle steamer D/S Skibladner.
At this scale, real ships originally 80-90 meters long are reduced to about 1.3 meters. This is the ideal size to ensure that the hull doesn't roll excessively in the water and maintains a realistic waterline when powered.
1:25 Scale (Working Vessels and Fishing Vessels)
Modell-Tec reserves this scale for smaller, real-life vessels, such as typical Norwegian coastal fishing vessels, herring vessels, or fjord workboats.
Iconic subjects:
The fishing vessel MS Follabuen (model length: 73 cm).
The fishing vessel MS Conny.
The coastal vessel MS Jeanette.
Since real-life vessels are around 15-20 meters long, 1:25 scale allows the model to reach a length of between 60 and 80 centimeters. This large scale allows for macroscopic detail on elements such as winches, nets, cabins, and fishing equipment.
1:50 Scale (Polar Exploration Vessels)
Used for intermediate historical subjects, particularly the famous wooden vessels often reinforced for ice expeditions.
Iconic subjects:
The Fram, the famous polar research vessel used by Nansen and Amundsen (model length: 79 cm).
The Gjøa polar sailing ship/engine.

Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalog? YES



Tall Ship Models Norway AS (produces only three assembly kits)
This company offers both fully assembled and ready-for-display static models (intended for museums, shipowners and collectors) and wooden assembly kits for model makers.
The catalog does not focus on quantity, but on a targeted selection of boats that are symbols of Scandinavian history:
The construction kits (available for most models between 25 and 60 cm) are designed with a strong international and tourist vocation. The assembly boxes are designed to be easily transportable (ideal as high-end souvenirs for those visiting Norwegian museums) and include instruction manuals translated into 8 different languages, broadening accessibility even for less experienced or foreign modelers.
These are the three kits:
- Oseberg Ship (Osebergskipet) - 25cm Kit: A compact version of the famous Viking burial ship, sold in a box designed for transport with instructions in 8 languages.
- Oseberg Ship (Osebergskipet) - 50cm Kit: The medium-sized version of the same historic hull, also supplied in a complete assembly kit.
- The Sea Stallion from Glendalough (Havhingsten fra Glendalough) - 60 cm kit: model created in collaboration with the Viking Ship Museum of Roskilde in Denmark, which reproduces the faithful reconstruction of a large Viking warship (longship).

OTHER COMPANIES NOW CLOSED


U.S.A.

Entex Industries (closed).
Entex Industries was an American toy and model company active primarily between the late 1960s and the early 1980s. Although it was not a manufacturer specialized exclusively in the naval sector (its catalog ranged from full-scale vintage cars to portable electronic games), it left an indelible mark on the history of plastic naval modeling thanks to some very specific strategic and commercial decisions.
Unlike traditional wooden naval model brands (such as Amati or Ocre), Entex focused on plastic (polystyrene) assembly kits. Its hulls and components were injection-molded. The company marketed these products as museum-quality replicas (Museum Series), striving to combine the ease of plastic assembly with the detail typical of high-end models.
The most famous naval feature is linked to the RMS Titanic.
In 1975-1976, Entex released the very first 1:350 scale Titanic kit (also known as "The Late Great Titanic" box set) to the Western market. For its time, it was a gigantic model (approximately 75 centimeters long), celebrated by the modeling community for the incredible level of detail of its superstructures and its overall accuracy, which led it to win numerous competitions of the time.
One of Entex's commercial peculiarities was the fact that it did not directly own all the industrial molds for the models it sold. Many of its flagship naval kits, including the famous 1:350 Titanic and its sister ship, the RMS Lusitania, were actually designed and engineered in Japan by historic companies such as G-Mark and Gunze Sangyo.
Entex purchased the distribution rights and repackaged the components into its own boxes for the American and European markets. After Entex's closure, those same Titanic molds were inherited and marketed for decades by brands like Minicraft and Academy.
While the plastic naval market of the time was dominated by World War II warships (battleships and aircraft carriers), Entex differentiated itself partially by focusing on the great passenger liners of the turn of the century (in addition to the Titanic, the kits of the Lusitania and Oregon caused a sensation) and on vintage work ships and firefighting vessels (Fire Fighter).
Today, Entex has been defunct for over forty years. For this reason, its original, intact and sealed naval kits from the 1970s are considered true vintage collector's items. They are sought after by model history enthusiasts both for the rarity of the original boxes with the classic company logo (a crosshair with a smiley face) and for the nostalgia associated with the golden age of large plastic kits.




CZECH REPUBLIC

Teltech
TELTECH Model Ostrava was a historic Czech company (mainly active between the late 1990s and early 2000s) specializing in the production of assembly kits for dynamic and static modeling, spanning both RC aircraft and naval modeling.
In the naval modeling market, the brand stood out for its specific construction and marketing characteristics: TELTECH Ostrava kits were not semi-assembled products (ARF), but were distributed in the classic Czech format known as "rozsyp." The box contained a complete set of raw materials that required complete assembly by the modeler.
Preference for wood (Balsa and Plywood): The supporting structure and hull of the boats were based on the use of balsa and plywood sheets and boards, combined with strips of various wood species for the model's planking.
Plank-on-Bulkhead hull: For ship models, the company offered the classic technique of assembling a frame skeleton onto which the wooden strips were attached, one at a time. The hull then had to be completed, filled, waterproofed (often recommending the use of diluted epoxy resin), and painted to resist water.
One of the features most appreciated by collectors was the choice of subjects. In addition to classic training models, TELTECH produced scale reproductions of working or historic vessels typical of the Baltic area or Eastern European ports (a famous example among naval modelers is the kit of the Lilka, a Polish harbor inspection vessel used in the ports of Gdansk and Gdynia).
Although the internal structure was entirely made of wood, the designs were conceived from the outset to accommodate electric motors (such as the classic Speed ​​600 series brushed motors), water cooling systems, rudder servos, and the associated radio components.
Despite the highly artisanal nature of the kit, the boxes included so-called naval "trinkets," namely the accessories and metal or plastic hardware needed to complete the deck details, sirens, and lighting systems.
Current Brand Status
The company has not been active on the market for many years (the original company TELTECH spol. s r.o. of Ostrava has gone into liquidation). For this reason, TELTECH Ostrava assembly kits are now considered true vintage collector's items. They are no longer available in normal model shops, but appear sporadically only in specialized second-hand markets, on online auction platforms (such as eBay) or within groups of vintage model aircraft and ship model enthusiasts.



The Otaki company will also be inserted directly into the JAPAN section of this topic, since its turn has yet to come.

@jumpugly

Hi Jumpugly, thanks for the information and sharing the photos.
You have a valuable vintage piece that will surely appreciate in value.
I'm not an expert and can't estimate it; I trust your assessment, even though I believe it's worth even more.

*I have a few questions for you, please:
Does the value refer to the kit before assembly?
Does the complete model gain or lose value in the case of vintage kits like this?
In practice (from a purely economic standpoint), would it be better to assemble it or leave it as is to increase its value over time?*

After this message, I'll post the closed companies (important for discontinued vintage models) to be included in the final document in the sections for each country, and then I'll post the Norway section, which I'd missed. It's a small section, but very interesting and noteworthy.

Alessandro:
As promised. Here is my 1984 release of the Otaki "Long Beach" sailing yacht. It was part of their "exact scale" line of sailing yachts which started with the "Palawan" in 1974.
It's a fabulous kit and has been long out of production as Otaki focused more on aircraft and auto subjects. However, Otaki gave it a shot with these static beauties as large American Sailing yachts made a big "splash" in Japan in the early 1970's. As per usual with Otaki, there is no flash and the detailing is of the highest standard. At 1:36 scale and about 20 inches long, these kits where designed for display and I can't say that I've ever seen one converted to rc, although I do believe it can be done.
This particular hull mold was renamed (i.e. "Florida," "Miss Tahita," and "Santa Monica") with minor alterations along this particular Otaki line. One particular item of note is when Otaki first produced these boats they used vacuum formed sails. By the late '70's they switched fine silken fabric with a nice set of patterns.
When I first bought this kit, it cost just about $40. They now go for $250!


PS: I have one more astounding sailing ship from Japan that I will share with you.
😀

Roy!
What a great looking ship and a worthy project! Keep us looped in on this one, it looks fun and will be rewarding!
😉

Alessandro: I will pull out my original Otaki yacht and send along a quick "in-box" review.

The next company in reverse alphabetical order should have been the Italy section, but since it fits perfectly, I'll include the Norway section, which I had missed.

I'll also include the closed companies reported by Jumpugly and Roy.

@roycv

Thanks so much for sharing, Roy. It's a very interesting model, I hope you can finish it.

TELTECH of Ostrava was a modeling company in the Czech Republic (I could make a summary like the ones now closed, reported by Jumpugly). They are valuable vintage pieces.

The Norwegian company MODEL TECH is active.
I should create a new Norway section. I recently discovered that a large Italian distributor/modeling shop (Stefanoni) sells several Model Tech models.

PAESI BASSI
NETHERLANDS
Nederland

Dutch model shipbuilding companies stand out globally for their strong historical identity and cutting-edge technical choices. Dutch companies focus their production almost exclusively on vessels from the Golden Age Fleet (17th century) and the Dutch East India Company (VOC). Exclusive kits of famous ships such as the Batavia, the De Zeven Provinciën, or the characteristic Fluyt (or flute) merchantmen are also available. Reproductions of local coastal vessels, such as traditional government yachts (Statenjacht) and historic fishing vessels (Botter).
Dutch companies follow a construction philosophy that differs significantly from traditional Italian or Spanish manufacturers: Unlike the widespread double-planking system, Dutch brands prefer a single layer of thick planking (often made of walnut or fine oak). This technique requires greater manual skill but faithfully simulates the true shipbuilding of the period. To enhance historical realism, premium kits include real oak slats, a wood historically used in Dutch shipyards but rare in standard commercial kits. The elaborate baroque decorations on the stern and bow are not made of heavy cast metal, but rather 3D-printed in fine resin or modeled by hand, ensuring razor-sharp details without weighing down the structure. The designs are developed by re-drawing the construction plans from scratch, drawing on rare period texts (such as 17th-century treatises by Nicolaes Witsen) and paintings by the masters Willem van de Velde.
In reality, all these characteristics converge and are found in a single existing and relatively recent company: Kolderstok.

Naval model shipbuilding companies in the Netherlands.



Kolderstok
A renowned Dutch ship model brand, founded in 2013, is currently the go-to place for those seeking 17th-century Dutch historical models. They specialize in Dutch East India Company ships and famous vessels such as the Batavia, the Zeven Provincien, and the D'Halve Maen.
They use high-quality materials such as oak, walnut, and lime. They include hand-cast resin decorations and laser-cut parts. They are primarily suitable for experienced modelers (1- to 4-star levels). Often based on the "shell-first" system typical of 17th-century Amsterdam shipyards.
The catalog focuses almost entirely on 17th-century Dutch vessels, the era of the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and the great naval wars. It produces kits of famous ships such as the Batavia, the Duyfken, the Flute (Fluytschip), and the De Zeven Provinciën (Michiel de Ruyter's flagship). The designs are developed from period prints, museum models, and historical treatises (such as those by Nicolaes Witsen). Unlike many brands that use double planking to forgive mistakes, many Kolderstok kits use single planking. This choice requires greater precision but guarantees absolute historical realism. In models like the Fluytschip, the oak frames are mounted on an MDF base that is then removed. This leaves the hull completely hollow inside, replicating the technique used in 17th-century Amsterdam shipyards. The kits make extensive use of noble and realistic woods such as solid oak, walnut, and lime. The planking strips are often pre-cut by laser with the correct curvature. The transom decorations and friezes are not cast in raw metal, but rather 3D-designed and printed in high-resolution resin, offering tiny, clean details. The company produces a line of resin figurines in 1:50 and 1:72 scales that faithfully reproduce the clothing and duties of 17th-century Dutch sailors. The instructions do not rely on abstract geometric patterns, but consist of full-color volumes with photographic step-by-step guides written in English and Dutch. The models are rated from 1 to 4 stars. While they offer small hulls for beginners, the core of the production is aimed at experienced modelers seeking a complex and rewarding challenge.
+
Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?+
Only static display models.

What scales do you use for your models?
1:72 Scale (Large Vessels and Liners)
This scale is used for the largest and most complex vessels. If they were produced at larger scales, the models would become too bulky to display in a typical home. At 1:72 scale, models remain between 60 and 95 centimeters in length.
1:50 Scale (Medium-Sized Ships, Exploration Ships, and Yachts)
This scale is used for historical vessels that were actually smaller. Choosing 1:50 scale allows for extraordinarily detailed details on deck structures, rigging, and artillery, without exceeding 50-65 centimeters in overall length.
1:20 Scale (Small and Traditional Boats)
For small fishing and coastal boats, Kolderstok scales up to offer a close-up construction experience and showcase the heavy wooden carpentry typical of these categories.

Does your catalog also include accessories and materials? YES



Raboesch Models (accessories only)
The historic Dutch company Raboesch Models does not produce ship kits, but is a world leader in the production of high-precision mechanical accessories and components for ship modeling, with a special focus on radio-controlled (RC) and scale models.
Machined brass propellers: These are the company's true trademark. They are available in a wide range (from 2 to 7 blades, with metric or inch threads) and are perfectly balanced to ensure maximum efficiency and zero vibration.
Waterproof and maintenance-free propeller shafts: The stern tubes and drive shafts are made of stainless steel and brass. They use a unique sealing system that prevents water from entering even at high rotational speeds, eliminating the need for constant lubrication.
Bow thrusters: Highly efficient lateral maneuvering systems, essential for realistically rendering the movements of tugboats, cargo ships, and radio-controlled yachts.
ASA plastic microprofiles: Under the Maquett brand, they produce geometric profiles (T, L, H, and rods) made of superior-quality ASA plastic. Compared to common styrene, ASA is more resistant to UV rays, impacts, and aging.
Motors and couplings: High-torque brushed electric motors (such as the renowned Blue RM series) and transmission couplings designed for perfect alignment and quiet operation.

Thanks for the tip, Jumpugly. I'll also provide brief (summary) profiles for closed companies, as I did for Dumas, as long as there aren't too many. If there are too many closed and inactive companies, it's best to remove them all to create a more readable and useful document, even if it's less complete.



Now it's the turn of the Netherlands Section (Paesi Bassi)

Hi all now the rain has stopped photos as promised. I include the plan as it has the bulkhead drawings as well. Progress has been a bit slow as I developed a window frame system i am not sure about fitting.
Originally I was given the slightly started kit by a friend, and he had been given the item as it was too difficult for the original owner. The small amount of work done was not good so stripped it back to parts. The wood is very nicely done laser cutting but for some reason no deck was included or referred to in the instructions.
The deck is fine nylon stocking varnished into place and then painted green. The blemish is just dust from sanding.
Someone might know what the article says I could not sort out a translation.
A Monoperm super is fitted is fitted but I might run a brushless motor, same fittings so can swap, after seeing how she runs.
Roy

I forgot to mention that the Eidai-Grip "West Wind" yacht molds were also licensed to Bandai. A truly wonderful kit and highly prized. Pix attached.

@AlessandroSPQR
I am also huge fan of the large plastic Otaki sailing yachts. In the right hands they can be converted to r/c. I still have one from many years ago in my stash.
Entex (via Eidai -Grip) released a number of exceptional sailing yacht kits, the Palawan Ocean Cruiser, the Bluewater Ketch, the Sphinx Yacht, and the outstanding Groupe Finot designed West Wind kit. I had the West Wind in a glass case, but lost it in a house fire in 2009.
They also have a solid set of small scale sailing ships and two great liners in 1:350 scale the Lusitania and the Titantic. The Lusitania is highly prized nowadays.

@jumpugly
Thanks for the info Jumpugly.

@roycv
Thank you Roy.

Hi Alessandro:
The Opty is an exceptional kit, albeit small. The 7.5" hull is one piece and sturdy, no bends with no warps. The two sprues are quite fine and minutely detailed with no flash at all. But, my favorite item in the box is a set of remarkably formed vacuum formed sails that include minute seams in the canvas. Honestly, they are the best plastic sails I've ever seen on any kit. Overall, it can be a wonderful display piece even a museum scale in the right hands. Sadly, I don't think I can carry a museum build off as my eyes are just not that good anymore.

They also include a poster in the box of the box art!!!!
😀

Hi Alessandro. I will take photos tomorrow of the box and progress on the model. I put it to one side a few years ago due to the difficulty of placing laser cut bulwarks onto the forward deck with no support structure. This has now been done and I have experimented with the non-slip deck covering using a part of a fine nylon stocking, you can see if it works!
Roy

@roycv
Hi Roy, this is a model that piques my curiosity.
The more photos you post, the happier I am.
You're lucky to have it. Are you planning on building it?

@jumpugly

Exceptional! Jumpugly, you have firsthand knowledge of your nation's kits and others that's amazing.
What are your impressions of the Mirage's quality (precision of the molds, quality of the plastic, casting flash, precision of the parts and joints)?
Just out of curiosity, this list isn't a ranking.

Hi Alessandro, It is a kit I still have the box the model is not yet completed and parts are still in the box. The fittings are actually quite good although the scale is a bit suspect. Would you like a photo for verification? There are English instructions with the kit.
The plans I have include the bulkheads which are missing on the Internet plans.
Roy

I still have an old Opty kit by Mirage! A very nice little kit.
😀

@roycv


Hi Roy, thanks for your report.
I believe [but I hope some Polish ship modeler will chime in with their firsthand knowledge] that Tel Tech is actually Shipyard. They are almost the same thing.

From online research, the situation seems to be this:
Tel Tech is known in the international modeling world as Shipyard (often identified or distributed historically by names linked to its founders and technologies, such as LiK Lidia Kłyszyńska).
In the context of cardboard ship modeling, Tel Tech and Shipyard are effectively the same commercial and production entity.
Specifically, Tel Tech is the name of the Polish company and printing house/factory (founded and managed for years by Lidia Kłyszyńska), while Shipyard is the publishing and commercial brand under which the company labels its famous assembly kits and magazines worldwide.
• Tel Tech represents the company's legal name and technical infrastructure. This is the company that physically owns the high-precision industrial letterpress printing machinery and lasers in Poland.
• Shipyard (sometimes extended to Shipyard - Laser Cardboard Kit) is the brand name used on the covers and kits, chosen to make the product immediately recognizable on the international model building market.
• In catalogs and stores: Many long-standing distributors and retailers use the terms "Tel Tech," "Tel Tech - Shipyard," or simply "Shipyard" to list the exact same models (such as the famous sailing ship Le Coureur or the HMS Mercury).

This is all I found about the Lilka.
The construction plans for the Lilka model ship (originally classified as Motorówka Inspekcyjna "Lilka," meaning inspection/pilot patrol boat) are not based on a commercial boxed kit, but are a famous vintage editorial project historically published by the Polish magazine Modelarz.

Hi possibly regarding the Polish section. I have a kit from Tel Tech of the launch Lilka. Plans were available free on the Internet but seem to have been taken down. Lilka is, or was, the Harbour Masters launch in Gdansk
I have never managed to find prototype information but assume she is as portrayed in the kit. I did see a couple of years ago a Tel Tech advert, but Lilka was not currently mentioned.
Roy

Continued from the Poland section

The following companies do not produce complete kits



Master (Master-Model)
It is considered a global benchmark not for the production of complete kits, but for its ultra-specialized metal detail sets.
While GPM specializes in complete paper models, Master focuses on improving plastic or resin models produced by other brands (aftermarket), offering a level of precision that industrial molding cannot match. At the heart of their production are turned brass components. These pieces are perfectly cylindrical and hollow at the tip, ideal for replacing plastic gun barrels, which often have unsightly seam lines. The company is led by Piotr Czerkasow, a mechanical engineer who applies millimetric tolerance standards. This results in details such as aircraft pitot tubes or ship radar antennas that are incredibly thin and realistic. Despite their professional appearance, the sets are designed to be accessible. Typically, all you need to do is cut the original plastic part, drill a hole in the base, and insert the Master part with a drop of cyanoacrylate glue.
In the naval sector (Sea Master series), the company is famous for:
Gun Barrels: They offer complete sets for historical battleships in 1:350 and 1:700 scale. For example, you can find all the gun barrels for the Bismarck or the USS Missouri in a single package. They produce turned brass gun barrels in every scale and nation. The precision is such that the barrels of anti-aircraft guns (often less than a millimeter thick) are drilled at the tip. They are suppliers to almost all modelers aiming for international competitions.
Masts and Yards: Instead of using flexible plastic, Master supplies metal masts that do not bend under the tension of the rigging wires.
Special Details: They produce torpedoes, mines, and launch tubes with microscopic details for motor torpedo boats and submarines.



Aber
A historic pillar in the modeling aftermarket, renowned for revolutionizing the concept of extreme detail. Unlike Master (specializing in turned brass) or GPM (focused on paper kits), Aber is best known for its photo-etched (PE) brass and steel kits, considered among the most detailed and complex on the market.
Aber is renowned for producing photo-etched metal sheets with pinpoint accuracy. Their sets are often "multi-layered," allowing for three-dimensional components to be built from flat sheets. Aber sets are notoriously challenging; a single component can be composed of dozens of tiny metal pieces that need to be bent and glued together. They replace thick plastic parts with full-scale details, such as railings, stairs, radar, portholes, and even tiny valve knobs. It produces turned brass barrels for ships in various scales (1:350, 1:700), covering famous units such as the Bismarck and the battleship Nagato. It offers tow lines and rigging made of real braided steel in various diameters, ensuring a realistic texture and superior strength to plastic wire.
While Master is the best choice for those seeking the perfection of cylindrical shapes (the barrels), Aber is the queen of flat details and perforated structures.

POLONIA
POLAND

Polish ship modeling occupies a unique and pioneering position on the global scene. Poland is the undisputed home of highly complex card modeling, a field that the Poles have elevated to a true art form, while also excelling in the production of technological accessories for plastic models. While the rest of the world uses wood or plastic, Poland has a colossal tradition of ships built entirely of paper and cardboard. These are not "children's cutouts," but models with thousands of parts that, once painted, are indistinguishable from metal or wood. Along with South Korea, Poland is the leading producer of photo-etched brass plates for enhancing commercial kits (railings, radar, microscopic scales).
Poland boasts the world's best magazines and publications of construction plans for ships from World War II to the modern era.
Many well-known European companies (including some Danish and German ones) have moved the physical production of their wooden components to Poland, taking advantage of the highly skilled laser cutting skills of local craftsmen.


Polish Companies


GPM (GPM Publishing) (paper and cardboard)
The Polish company GPM Publishing is an institution in the modeling world, renowned for its high-quality paper and cardboard models (card models). Unlike traditional wooden or plastic kits, GPM stands out for the structural complexity and extreme realism achieved with paper.
GPM is a world leader in the production of "pulp" kits, where every component, from the internal structure (frames and keel) to the external skin, is made of paper or cardboard. This technique allows for meticulous detail at often lower costs than wooden models.
The kits are designed for experienced modelers. Many ships are 1:200 scale, a generous size that allows for the faithful reproduction of complex superstructures, armaments, and detailed decks.
The catalog includes large historical battleships such as the USS Missouri, the Roma, and the Bismarck. Although the basic kit is made of paper, GPM often offers additional accessories such as laser-cut skeletons (frames) to ensure perfect structural accuracy and save time during manual cutting. Instructions are often in Polish with technical diagrams; this can be a challenge for beginners, but the exploded views are generally very clear. The graphics are meticulously crafted, ensuring a realistic visual impact even before painting (many modelers prefer not to paint to showcase the paper nature of the piece). In addition to the basic kits, GPM produces detail sets in photo-etched (brass) or resin, such as turned metal gun barrels, to further enhance the model's realism.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
You only make static model kits for obvious reasons.

What scales do you use for your models?
1:200: This is the main scale for large military vessels (battleships, cruisers) and merchant ships.
1:100 / 1:150: Used for smaller vessels, such as tugboats or coastal vessels.
1:250 / 1:300 / 1:400: Adopted for very large models or more compact series.

Does your catalog also include accessories and materials? YES.



Modelik (paper and cardboard)
Another cardboard giant with an extensive catalog covering civilian and military vessels, as well as tugboats.
The Polish company Modelik is one of the most renowned in the international paper modeling scene, distinguishing itself for an approach that combines historical rigor and accessibility. Unlike traditional wooden or plastic kits, Modelik models are based on high-quality pre-printed cardboard sheets to be cut out and assembled. The kits are renowned for their extreme fidelity to the original plans. Despite being made of paper, they allow for the reproduction of complex details such as armaments, superstructures, and deck details. The models are typically sold in booklets or sets. Each kit includes sheets of colored pieces and detailed instructions (often accompanied by 3D technical drawings to facilitate assembly). The company's models range from ships from the First and Second World Wars to modern nuclear submarines and civilian vessels. It is particularly popular for the reproduction of cruisers and battleships, such as the Italian cruiser San Giorgio or the French battleship La Hoche.
For modelers seeking a superior result, Modelik often offers additional sets of laser-cut components (such as railings, stairs, or hull frames), which dramatically reduce manual cutting time and increase accuracy.
Building a Modelik model is considered a rewarding challenge that requires patience and precision. Compared to wooden kits, paper kits are significantly cheaper but offer a museum-quality level of detail that rivals more refined materials.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
Do you only make static model kits for obvious reasons?

What scales do you use for your models?
1:200: This is the premier scale for large warships (battleships, cruisers, aircraft carriers). It allows for imposing models (often between 60 and 120 cm long) with extreme detail.
1:400: Used for very large vessels or those with less space available.
1:100 / 1:50: Usually reserved for smaller vessels such as tugboats, MAS, or civilian vessels, where the smaller size of the original allows for a larger scale to showcase the deck details.

Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalog? YES.



Shipyard (paper and cardboard)
It is one of the most renowned companies in the naval modeling scene, best known for elevating paper and cardboard models to levels of detail comparable to wood or plastic kits.
Founded in 1985, the company specializes in the reproduction of historic sailing ships and lighthouses, distinguishing itself for its innovative use of laser cutting and the variety of its product lines.
Shipyard offers various types of kits, suitable for various experience levels and budgets.
Paper Models (MK Series): Traditional kits composed of color-printed sheets of paper. They require the modeler to manually cut each piece and often glue them onto cardboard to add structure. They are the most economical option but require great manual precision.
Laser Cardboard Kits (ML/ZL Series): These models represent the evolution of the industry. The parts are pre-laser-cut from cardboard, eliminating the need for manual cutting and ensuring extreme precision in the joints and engraved decorations.
Wooden Model Ships (WM Series): More recently, Shipyard has introduced high-quality wooden kits, with a line dedicated specifically to typical Baltic merchant ships such as the Kogge.
The company produces complementary sets that include ready-made wooden masts and yards, pre-cut canvas sails, turned brass cannons, and blocks, allowing a paper model to be transformed into a museum-quality work.
What makes Shipyard unique in the industry are several technical and stylistic elements:
Laser engravings allow for the reproduction of minute details such as deck nailing or subtle decorations that would be nearly impossible to create by hand with paper.
Compared to large wooden kits, Shipyard's paper models offer a very advantageous quality-to-price ratio, while still guaranteeing a visually striking final result.
Many kits are pre-colored and include weathering effects, reducing the need for complex exterior painting.
Dioramas and Ports: In addition to individual ships, the company offers the Quay Port line, which allows you to build entire historical port scenarios, including warehouses, cranes, and docks, ideal for displaying models in a realistic setting.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
You only make static model kits for obvious reasons.

What scales do you use for your models?
For historical sailing ships (both paper and wooden kits), Shipyard focuses on scales that allow for a high level of technical detail:
1:96: This is the primary scale for large sailing ships and more complex paper kits (MK Series and ML/ZL Series). Famous models such as the HMS Victory and HMS Enterprise are found in this scale.
1:72: Frequently used for wooden kits (WM Series) and medium-sized vessels, offering excellent rendering of construction details.
1:100: Scale used for some specific paper models and for the coastal fleet.

Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalog? YES.



Mirage Hobby (plastic)
Makes plastic kits of military ships, with a particular focus on Polish Navy units and Russian/Soviet submarines.
The Polish company Mirage Hobby is known in the naval modeling world primarily for its specialization in niche historical subjects, often overlooked by large mainstream manufacturers, and for its extensive coverage of the Polish Navy. Their catalog includes detailed reproductions of Polish units (such as the ORP Orzeł submarine or the Grom-class destroyers) and ships from the First and Second World Wars. These are primarily injection-molded plastic (styrene) models. They often include high-quality decal sheets (often printed by Cartograf) and, in some cases, dedicated photo-etched (PE) sets to enhance realism. They often use the same basic molds to offer different versions of the same ship from different historical periods or under different flags.
They are considered "short-run" manufacturers, meaning their models offer unique subjects but can present assembly challenges, such as print flashes or joints that require manual adjustments and the use of putty. In some kits, the detail is described as almost "excessive," with tiny parts that can be fragile or difficult to remove from the mold without breaking. In addition to military vessels, they produce transatlantic passenger liners (such as the M/S Piłsudski or M/S Batory) and diorama sets, such as the 1925 Puck Naval Base.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
Only static kits.

What scales do you use for your models?
1:400: This is Mirage Hobby's "signature" scale for ships. This is an unusual scale (most brands use 1:350 or 1:700), but it allows for destroyers and submarines with an excellent balance between detail and size. This scale includes the complete series of German U-boats and Polish destroyers.
1:350: Used for larger units or specific series, such as the Flower-class corvettes or minesweepers.
1:500: Scale used primarily for their passenger ship and ocean liner models, such as the famous M/S Batory.
1:144: Rarely used, but present for some submarine models or smaller units that require larger scale to show detail.

Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalog? YES.

Now it's the turn of Polish naval modeling and Polish naval modeling companies.
Very original.
Browsing the web, I saw on other forums many Italian and foreign modelers building paper kits. They don't look like paper at all.

@ChrisF

Hi Chris, I haven't been able to find any definitive information about the "Wooden Model Boat Company."
In the meantime, I'll continue with other sections (I'll do more research later), but if you or other UK modelers can find out more, you can fill out the form directly using the same format as the others.

What do you think of the information in the U.K. section? Is it accurate enough?

Alessandro

From a build blog mentioning them I was going to suggest The Wooden Model Boat Company for the UK. But despite there being plenty of UK suppliers I can find nothing on the company apart from this from AI.

The Wooden Model Boat Company is a UK-based manufacturer of traditional wooden model boat kits. Their kits are widely stocked, with official products and kits distributed by major hobby retailers across the country.

As you mentioned, your research is certainly throwing up a lot of interesting information and in some cases little known information on the manufacturers. What is also indicates is that despite the oft mentioned decline in the hobby, falling traffic on many forums, closing of model shops and manufacturers that there is still a good number of manufacturers and a lot of folks still building model boats. I know with car forums that most customers aren't members of forums but with model boats you would think that a far greater number would be members. But across many forums the number of builds being mentioned is relatively small so there must be a large number of builders out there, who aren't members, to make the production of model boat kits viable as well as the many suppliers who supply them and all the other parts and materials.

Whilst it is sad in some ways that model shops have mostly disappeared I personally find it much better buying online. OK, you can't see and browse before buying, but I use many different suppliers and have access to a far greater range of components, parts and materials etc. than a single shop could ever supply. Also, whilst they have declined, smaller companies and one-man bands have set-up, producing a range of specialised parts which they couldn't have done if premises were required. It would be handy if I lived nearer to SLEC though as I've bought a lot of timber over the years! If I need something in particular I have to make up a decent sized order to make the postage worthwhile!

Chris

continued from the United Kingdom section

to be included among the main companies that produce complete kits and/or drawings and projects.





Deans Marine
It is one of the most iconic and respected brands in the world of radio-controlled (RC) and static naval modeling. Founded in 1981 by Ron Dean in Peterborough, UK, the company stands out for its highly artisanal approach to reproducing modern and contemporary work and military vessels.
Deans Marine kits are renowned for their specific combination of multi-materials, optimized for seaworthiness: All major models use lightweight, pre-molded fiberglass hulls. Many structural details (such as portholes, sprayhoods, or exterior armor) are directly molded into the mold. The decks and cabins use pre-cut HIPS (High Impact Styrene) plastic sheets, either laser-cut or computer-printed in four-color for ease of component placement. Finer details include cast white metal (light alloy), photo-etched brass for fragile components (such as ladders or stanchions), and cast resin or 3D-printed parts for high-definition details.
The kits already include standard marine hardware, such as a stainless steel propeller shaft, brass stern tube, rudder, and internal borings to accommodate the motors and servos.
What sets Deans Marine apart from other historic manufacturers in the industry are some very specific philosophical and commercial choices: Unlike brands that produce classic wooden sailing ships, Deans Marine covers a unique niche: harbor tugs, civilian merchant ships, destroyers, historic World War II patrol boats, and riverboats.
Each prototype is rigorously tested on ponds to verify its stability, roll, buoyancy, and seaworthiness before going into commercial production.
These are not "toy" kits or ones that can be quickly assembled. The instructions often require creativity, study of the included full-scale construction plans, and careful hand-crafting.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
Deans Marine focuses exclusively on dynamic (radio-controlled) models.
All the models in their catalog are designed, engineered, and balanced specifically for launch and navigation. However, the quality of detail allows many modelers to display them as static models.
Each kit already contains the standard mechanics for navigation. You'll find the stainless steel propeller shaft, the brass stern tube, the rudder, and the servo linkage arms.
The fiberglass hulls aren't just aesthetically pleasing; they also provide the waterproofing and structural strength needed to withstand engine vibrations and impacts in the water.
For the superstructure, they choose lightweight materials (HIPS plastic sheeting and hollowed-out white metal for larger parts). This helps keep the center of gravity low, preventing the ship from capsizing during turns or in windy conditions.
Each model in the catalog is tested in the water before being released for sale to verify its hydrodynamic behavior, stability, and wave-holding ability.
The user manuals always specify the recommended motors, transmission couplings, and the ideal space for the batteries, receiver, and speed controller (ESC).
Motors, servos, batteries, and radio system are never included in the kit and must be purchased separately, depending on the modeler's preferences.

What scales does Dean Marine use for its models?
Dean Marine adopts a strict philosophy based on consistent and standardized scales, grouping vessels according to their actual type. This approach allows modelers to collect or sail multiple vessels simultaneously while maintaining the correct proportions between them in the same body of water.
The catalog is primarily structured around four reference scales:
1/96 and 1/100 Scale (Large Military and Merchant Ships)
This is the brand's flagship and most popular scale, used for the vast majority of larger vessels.
Destroyers, frigates, corvettes, historic battleships, and large cargo ships.
It allows the model's actual dimensions to be kept within manageable lengths (generally between 80 cm and 140 cm), while providing the space and internal volume necessary to ensure excellent buoyancy and the charging of large batteries.
1/48 Scale (Service and Work Vessels)
Used for vessels that in reality are medium or small in size.
Harbor tugs, civilian research vessels, cable-layers, and fishing vessels.
Since the real ship is smaller, a larger scale like 1/48 allows for a finished model between 50 cm and 80 cm long, ideal for adding fine details to the deck structures without sacrificing stability in the water.
1/24 Scale (Fast Launches and Patrol Boats)
Reserved for small but high-performance military and civilian vessels.
Attack patrol boats (e.g., the famous Vospers of World War II), motor torpedo boats, landing craft, and coast guard speedboats.
The generous scale makes the finished models very imposing and wide, perfect for accommodating powerful engines (single or multi-engine) for dynamic and realistic high-speed navigation.
Other smaller scales (1/32, 1/72, and 1/76)
Presented in smaller quantities in the catalog for specific projects:
1/32 scale: Used for some torpedo boats or medium-sized historic riverboats.
1/72 and 1/76 scale: Adopted for some compact or special models (such as the Fairwind kit), highly appreciated by those who also practice modeling, as 1/76 scale is close to HO scale and allows for the creation of integrated port dioramas.

Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalog? YES

@RNinMunich

Thanks Doug, I forgot about Deans Marine; I'll add it right away.

It will appear among the last ones in the forum, but in reality, it should be listed among the first ones in the document.
It certainly won't be listed among the niche ones (which only make components, not complete kits) in the final document, nor among the very small ones, since their catalog is vast.

In the UK section I'm still missing Deans Marine!🤔
Specializing in naval ships.
(@ Alessandro: that means ships with guns, i.e. a nations Navy, not just general shipping as in the Italian usage.)
😎

https://www.deansmarine.co.uk/

continued from the United Kingdom section

niche businesses and small artisans.



Fleetscale (only fiberglass and styrene hulls and accessories, not complete kits)
The English company Fleetscale is famous for producing warship components and models (primarily for the British Royal Navy and other international navies).
Fleetscale products do not include instruction manuals. The company is aimed at experienced modelers, requiring in-depth historical and technical research.
"Semi-Kits": They do not sell complete kits. Instead, they offer "semi-kits" or "starter kits" that include complex structural elements (such as the hull and basic plans). They leave the modeler free to choose glues, paints, motors, and advanced details.
The reproductions are designed to be flexible. The customer can decide whether to build a display model (static) or add motors and radio controls to make it navigable (dynamic).
The brand's true strength is its handmade fiberglass-reinforced plastic hulls. They feature fine details printed directly onto the surface, such as the lines of the hull, welds, and rivets.
The main superstructures and small details (guns, radar, turrets, lifeboats) are made of cast resin or white metal. These can be further refined or enhanced with third-party parts.
Each hull and component is handcrafted in the UK by a small, dedicated team only after payment for the order has been received.
Scale and Historical Accuracy
The models are based on actual designs from national archives, historical photographs, and interviews with former sailors or naval engineers who served on those specific vessels.
In addition to private individuals, the quality of Fleetscale reproductions is used by museums, naval architects, and universities for display and engineering testing purposes.
The Main Hulls
The core of the catalog consists of dozens of individual fiberglass hulls.
To facilitate modelers, Fleetscale groups its products into about a dozen main Starter Kits. These kits are not traditional kits, but optimized combinations that include: The fiberglass hull of the chosen class. The basic plans and technical diagrams. The running set (propeller shaft and case) suitable for that model.
In addition to the hulls, the catalog includes hundreds of small components that can be purchased individually and divided by ship class. This section includes guns, turrets, photo-etched brass radar systems, lifeboats, and scale helicopters. Since many of these accessories are compatible with different ships, the number of possible combinations is almost infinite.

Does it focus more on static or dynamic kits?
Fleetscale's production is decidedly more oriented and designed for dynamic models (radio-controlled and navigable), although their products also lend themselves very well to static display.
The company's entire design process prioritizes the needs of those who want to sail the model in the water, as demonstrated by its technical choices.

What scales does it use for its models?
The main scales (Main Warships)
1/72: This is Fleetscale's most famous and representative scale. It produces imposing, heavy, and highly detailed models, ideal for modern or World War II frigates, destroyers, and corvettes.
1/96: Another international standard scale widely used in naval modeling. It allows for the reproduction of large ships while maintaining more manageable lengths and weights than 1/72.
The scale for the giants of the sea
1/128: This scale is reserved almost exclusively for the largest ships in history, such as battleships (e.g., Bismarck, HMS Hood) or aircraft carriers. This way, even a battleship that in reality exceeded 250 meters in length is reduced to a model about 2 meters long, making it transportable by car and manageable in the water.
Scales for smaller vessels
1/24 and 1/32: Used for very small real-life vessels, such as fast motor torpedo boats (MTB, Vosper), World War II speedboats, or Coast Guard patrol boats. In these large scales, the details of individual sailors, machine guns, and the bridge become enormous and spectacular.
1/48: Used primarily for tugboats, workboats, auxiliary vessels, and large lifeboats.

Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalog? YES.




Hughes Aircraft Kits (HA Kits)
Is a British brand specializing in the design of high-quality traditional wooden kits.
The Hughes Aircraft Kits naval catalog consists of a very limited and select line of approximately 4 or 5 main models, plus scale variations and structural accessories.
Being a craft company founded for model aircraft, the "Boat Kits" section is deliberately limited and focused on vessels typical of British maritime and river tradition.
The main models include:
Narrowboat "Naughty Lass": A classic English canal boat in 1/12 scale (approximately 106 cm long), rich in details such as 3D-printed window frames and replica solar panels. A more compact and simple version in 1/24 scale is also available.
Morston (Norfolk Crab Boat): A semi-scale fishing boat typical of the Norfolk coast, highly prized for radio-controlled conversions.
Blakeney: A traditional Norfolk coastal/day fishing boat.
Flying Christine II: A 1/18 scale model based on the famous marine emergency ambulance boat that served in Guernsey.
In addition to hulls, a permanent feature of their naval catalog is their Model Boat Stands. These are universal, adjustable plywood supports, sold in three different sizes (Medium, Large, and Extra Large) to support flat or V-shaped hulls during construction or display.
The kits use select wood (such as plywood of various thicknesses and obeche wood) that is entirely laser-cut. This ensures perfect joints, reducing manual roughing time. Many deck and superstructure details (such as the window frames) are made using photopolymer 3D printing, which is included directly in the kit.
Their products are positioned as "traditional kits using modern technology." They are designed for both purists of static wooden modeling and enthusiasts who want to convert models into functioning radio-controlled (RC) boats.
Hughes Aircraft Kits' model ship kits are considered good, solid quality, positioning themselves as niche, handcrafted products highly prized by traditional modelers.
Despite their good technical quality, the aesthetic design reflects the British naval tradition of working vessels (such as narrowboats). If you're looking for exotic, precious woods, gold finishes, or the baroque luxury of galleons (typical of historic Spanish or Italian brands like Amati or Artesanía Latina), HA Kits will seem much more "basic" and spartan.
The kit provides an excellent structure for the hull and exterior cabin, but the interiors are often left empty. This is seen as an advantage by experienced modelers (who enjoy decorating them from scratch using dollhouse-scale accessories), but it may disappoint beginners expecting a completely "all-inclusive" kit, down to the last interior detail.
In short, this purchase is recommended if you're looking for a sturdy, precise-assembly wooden model with a typically British feel.
The company sells these products directly via email or through its official eBay store, often producing them in small batches.



Clevedon Steam (only steam systems for sailing models)
The British company Clevedon Steam is a highly specialized company in the dynamic shipbuilding sector. It is internationally renowned not for the production of wooden hulls or static kits, but for the design and manufacture of live steam engines, boilers, and complete propulsion systems for radio-controlled boats and engineering models.
The company took over the management and maintenance of the historic Cheddar Models brand, inheriting and updating its popular range of oscillating engines.
The products are available in three main configurations to suit the modeler's skill set:
Engine Kits: These include pre-assembled cylinders, fittings, lubricators, and sealants.
Boiler Kits: These include the painted boiler, wooden thermal insulation (lagging) with clamps, the base plate, and the gas burner housing.
Steam Plant Kits (Complete Plants): Complete packages ready for installation in the hull, including the engine, boiler, pre-assembled hydraulic piping, and condenser tank.
Their iconic propulsion systems and engine lines are named after the constellations and signs of the zodiac (e.g., Virgo, Libra, Taurus, Scorpio, and Pisces series).
They produce both standard marine engines for propeller propulsion and specific variants for side or rear wheel drive (Paddle Engines), ideal for reproducing historic riverboats and steamships.
Unlike purely mechanical engineering kits that require a lathe and complex machining, Clevedon Steam kits contain standard components with pre-assembled cylinder assemblies. This makes them accessible even to those without industrial machinery.
One of their unique features is their official overhaul and reconditioning service for older Cheddar oscillating engines (such as the famous Pelican, Plover, and Pintail models), replacing worn O-rings and springs.
The company serves as a go-to source for DIY enthusiasts thanks to a vast catalog of spare parts, from hydromechanical lubricators to burners, hose fittings, pressure gauges, and working steam whistles.



Macs Mouldings (resin naval accessories and details only)
Macs Mouldings is a renowned British artisan brand specializing in the production of high-quality resin accessories and details for radio-controlled (dynamic) and static naval modeling.
They do not produce complete hulls or large wooden kits, but are considered an essential reference for modelers who want to customize or enhance working boats, fishing vessels, and lifeboats.
Their catalog is heavily oriented toward accessories for fishing vessels (trawlers), tugs, commercial vessels, and historic and modern RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) lifeboats.
The company is renowned for its precision molding in polyurethane resin. In addition to traditional rigid resin for components, Macs Mouldings uses special flexible polyurethane resins (similar to black rubber) for special elements such as structural dock fenders, which offer the advantage of being able to be cut, sanded, and adjusted without chipping.
One of their specialties is the production of scale figures depicting sailors and fishermen in realistic working poses, ideal for bringing models to life.
Wide range of "large" scales: Unlike traditional naval modeling, which favors very small scales, Macs Mouldings excels in medium to large scales, ideal for sailing models:
1:12 and 1:16: The flagship scales, rich in minute detail.
1:14, 1:24, 1:35, and 1:48: These cover the standard of the main fiberglass hull kits on the British and European markets.
The true strength of Macs Mouldings lies in the incredible variety of micro-details, faithfully reproduced to recreate scenes of daily life aboard a fishing boat or commercial vessel.



Club 500 Slipway (only one model in the catalog)
Club 500 Slipway specifically produces the eponymous radio-controlled boat model, originally developed in collaboration with Model Slipway. The kit is famous in the UK for being affordable, ready-to-run, and designed for competitions where skill, not engine power, is the key.
It is a speedboat approximately 500 mm long, injection-molded in high-impact styrene (rigid plastic). The kit includes everything needed for basic construction: engine (550 class), coupling, shaft, propeller, rudder, and window decals.
The hull and cabin accessories can be ordered and painted in a wide variety of colors (e.g., red, yellow, green, blue, etc.).
It is a "no frills" model. It requires the separate purchase of only a 2-channel radio, a servo, an ESC (Electronic Speed ​​Controller) for brushed motors and a battery.

continued from the United Kingdom section


Mountfleet Models
It is a renowned British model ship brand, founded in 1994, famous throughout the world for the production of museum quality assembly boxes, designed for both static display and radio control (R/C).
The catalog focuses primarily on historic and working vessels of British and European heritage, such as ocean-going tugboats, steam trawlers, coastal patrol vessels, river boats and lifeboats. Among the most famous kits stand out the majestic steam trawler St. Nectan, the tugboats Assurance and Envoy, and the famous Clyde Puffer boat.
Unlike classic all-wooden kits, Mountfleet Models uses a multi-material approach to ensure maximum realism and stability in the water: The hulls are molded in sturdy fiberglass and already include the effects of the metal plates and rivets of the original structure down to the smallest details. Each kit includes hundreds of detailed cast white metal fittings and accessories and photo-etched brass parts to reproduce winches, cleats, portholes and even crew figures. Superstructures and bridges: Pre-cut wooden elements and easy-to-work and waterproof styrene (molded industrial plastic) components are supplied.
Drive shafts, propellers, rudders, chains and cables are usually included in the package.
As underlined by the company itself, these are not "shake the box and add glue kits". They require manual skill, patience and the ability to work with different materials at the same time (wood, metal, resin).
Many models feature generous scales (e.g. 1:32 or 1:24), which results in long and heavy ships (some exceeding one and a half metres). This mass guarantees exceptional stability in the water, allowing the radio-controlled models to navigate realistically even when facing windy days.
Mountfleet operates as a small, family-run artisan business. This allows us to maintain very rigorous quality control and sell the products directly to customers or through selected specialized distributors, reducing intermediation costs in favor of the quality of the materials.
To complete the model, the manufacturer must purchase the paints, stickers and the entire electronic part (electric motor, servo controls, speed regulator, batteries and radio control) separately if he decides to make it navigable.
Kit details always include full-scale drawings and step-by-step instruction manuals that guide the modeler in building real investment pieces.

Is it more oriented towards static or dynamic kits?
The Mountfleet Models kits are born with a double soul, but are clearly oriented and engineered for dynamic (radio-controlled) use, while offering a level of aesthetic detail that makes them extraordinary static models for display.

What scales does he adopt for his models?
The main scales adopted by Mountfleet Models for its ships are three: 1:32, 1:24 and 1:50.
The queen scale: 1:32
The 1:32 scale represents the true pillar of the official catalogue. It is used for most large freighters, ocean-going steam trawlers and ocean-going tugs.
The result: Since the real ships were imposing, at 1:32 scale the finished models become gigantic, with lengths well over a meter (up to 170 cm).
The scale of maximum detail: 1:2
The 1:24 scale is mainly applied to historic vessels that were originally shorter, such as the famous Scottish riverboats (Clyde Puffers), historic lifeboats or pilot boats.
The result: Reducing the real object less (1 cm on the model corresponds to 24 cm in real life) allows Mountfleet to insert microscopic details and gigantic white metal accessories on the bridge, keeping the final model at a manageable length (around 80-100 cm).
The compact scale: 1:50
The 1:50 scale is reserved for a few specific models or more modern harbor tugs (such as the famous Active kit).
It is the ideal choice for those who have space problems at home or a smaller budget. The 1:50 scale models remain compact, with lengths of around 65 cm, while preserving the fiberglass hull and the predisposition for radio control.
To populate the decks of these ships, Mountfleet Models produces a parallel catalog of accessories and miniature figures divided strictly into the scales corresponding to the kits: 1:24 and 1:32, also expanding into 1:12 and 1:16 scales for special projects or period details.


Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalogue? NO



Airfix (plastic)
This historic company (founded in 1939) made modeling a popular hobby thanks to plastic and injection molding. While others rely on wood specialists or universal suppliers, Airfix is ​​the icon of plastic modeling (entry-level and historical kits).
Airfix introduced the concept of polystyrene model kits in the 1950s, making ships accessible and easier to assemble than wooden models. While many manufacturers use 1:700 or 1:350 scale, Airfix is ​​famous for its exclusive 1:600 ​​scale for warships (such as HMS Belfast or the Bismarck). This choice allows for good detail while keeping the model compact. The company regularly reissues historical molds from the 1960s and 1970s. Although less accurate than modern standards, they are beloved for their nostalgic value and the beautiful illustrations on the boxes.
The catalog ranges from large historic plastic sailing ships (such as the HMS Victory or the Golden Hind) to modern warships and motor torpedo boats from World War II (Vosper, E-Boat).
Many naval kits are sold as "Gift Sets" or "Starter Sets," which already include glue, brushes, and Humbrol paint (Airfix's sister brand), ideal for beginners. It also produces very small scale series (1:1200), historically used for naval simulation games (wargaming).

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
Static naval model kits only, but some experienced modelers use Airfix 1:72 scale kits (such as the Vosper motor torpedo boat or fishing boats) for "micro-RC" conversions. Since these hulls are bulkier, they offer minimal space for electronics, but this is still an amateur modification and not a function intended by the company.

What scales do you use for your models?
The "Signature" Scale: 1:600. This is Airfix's most popular scale for warships. It was introduced to allow collectors to collect various types of ships (from aircraft carriers to destroyers) while maintaining manageable dimensions.
Examples: HMS Belfast, Bismarck, HMS Hood, QE2.
Large Sailing Ships (Various Scales)
For historic sailing ships, Airfix doesn't use a single scale, but adapts the model dimensions to ensure the boxes are similar in size (known as "box scale").
1:180: The classic scale for HMS Victory.
1:130: Used for the Cutty Sark and the Endeavour.
1:72: Used for smaller sailing ships like the Golden Hind.
Small Boats: 1:72
This scale is very popular because it's the same scale as Airfix planes and soldiers, allowing for combined dioramas.
Vosper torpedo boats, German E-boats, RNLI lifeboats, and the famous Mary Rose.
Classic and Wargaming Scale: 1:1200
Used for very small models, historically intended for collectors who wanted to recreate entire fleets in a small space or for use in naval wargaming.
Bismarck and HMS Hood miniature series.
New Standards: 1:350 and 1:400
In recent years, to keep pace with international competition, Airfix has introduced kits in more universal scales.
1:350: Used for modern ships and submarines (e.g., HMS Illustrious, Type 45 Destroyer).
1:400: Mainly for submarines and some civilian vessels.

Does Airfix also offer accessories and materials? YES, but very limited.

continued from the United Kingdom section



SLEC UK
The British company SLEC UK (originally Sun Lane Engineering Company) is a historic pillar in the modeling world, renowned for producing high-quality wooden naval and aircraft kits.
Founded in the mid-1970s in Gravesend, Kent, the company stands out in the model ship scene for its very specific technical and philosophical characteristics: Unlike brands focused on purely static modeling, the vast majority of SLEC kits are designed specifically for dynamic naval modeling. The hulls are structured to accommodate electric (brushless) or internal combustion engines, rudders, and radio-controlled systems.
SLEC has preserved and modernized the legendary designs of historic UK brands such as Aerokits and Lesro. Their catalogs include reproductions of 1960s cabin cruisers, police launches (Police Launch), lifeboats, and Vosper patrol boats (KD Perkasa or RAF Crash Tender).
One of the rarest features for a kit manufacturer is that SLEC owns and operates its own sawmill in Watton, Norfolk. They import balsa wood in logs and process it independently into sheets and strips.
This complete control of the supply chain guarantees excellent wood quality. In addition to top-quality balsa, the kits include birch plywood and stable hardwoods, essential for withstanding humidity and the stresses of sailing.
SLEC's modern kits completely abandon the old die-cut method (which often splintered the wood). All frames and structural components are pre-cut to the millimeter using CNC routers and laser plotters, ensuring perfect joints that minimize sanding. Laser technology is also used to engrave realistic aesthetic details directly onto the wooden parts, such as simulating the battens and joints on decks or cabin roofs.
SLEC is aimed at modelers who enjoy the experience of traditional construction. The kits include structural materials (wood, clear acetate for the windows, 1:1 scale plans, and detailed step-by-step photographic manuals), but allow the user to purchase the propulsion hardware, motors, and brass or resin accessories separately, depending on their preference.
SLEC recently (2023) incorporated Belair Kits, further expanding the availability of laser-cut part sets and supplementary wood packs for projects based on magazine drawings.
SLEC is the ideal choice for the modeler seeking the classic style of 20th-century speedboats and working ships, combined with the precision of modern digital cutting.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
You definitely lean more toward dynamic (radio-controlled) kits. The vast majority of SLEC ship models are designed from the start to go on the water. The hulls are sturdy, the decks are removable (for easy access to the electronics), and the plans always include the spaces and provisions for installing: an electric motor (or a combustion engine for vintage models), a rudder servo, a battery and electronic speed controller (ESC), and a propeller shaft and its case.
Although they can be mounted and displayed on a shelf as static models (thanks to the beauty of the wooden lines and details), their true purpose and fame comes from their excellent sailing qualities.

What scales do you use for your models?
1:8 Scale: This is the standard scale for their famous vintage motorboats from the Fairey Marine line (such as the famous 34-inch Fairey Huntress or the larger version of the Huntsman 31). This scale allows for boats between 85 and 120 cm in length, ideal for excellent stability even in windy conditions or small waves on the lake.
1:16 Scale: Used for reproductions of slightly more compact and easily transportable motorboats, with lengths around 60 cm (such as the 25-inch Fairey Swordsman or the smaller version of the Huntsman 31).
1:40 Scale: This scale is reserved for larger real-life military or patrol vessels, such as the famous KD Perkasa motor torpedo boat. At 1:40 scale, the finished model reaches a length of approximately 77 cm, an optimal size for installing the motor without weighing down the hull.
The "Stand-Off Scale" Approach (or by Length)
For many of its historic kits (such as the River Police Launch, the Crash Tender, or the Sea Scout), SLEC does not declare a rigid mathematical scale. The company prefers to classify and sell kits based on the overall length of the hull expressed in inches (e.g., Wavemaster 25 or Wavemaster 34, which indicate 25 and 34 inches in length, respectively).
This is because many hulls inherited from the old Aerokits designs of the 1960s were originally designed as "Stand-Off" models: aesthetically faithful reproductions that look spectacular in the water, but with slightly modified underwater proportions to ensure stable sailing, perfect gliding, and sufficient space on board for modern battery packs and servos.

Does your catalog also include accessories and materials? YES



Mobile Marine Models
The British company Mobile Marine Models is one of the most well-known and respected institutions in the field of dynamic naval modeling (RC), specializing in the design and production of tugboats, coasters, barges, and workboats.
Unlike other brands that focus on historic sailing vessels or military vessels, Mobile Marine Models is considered the British pioneer and leader in the field of radio-controlled tugboats. Their models (such as the famous Portgarth or the Nangee) are designed not only for aesthetics, but to faithfully replicate the actual towing, thrust, and maneuvering capabilities of real-life vessels.
One of the company's most famous commercial features is the finish of their fiberglass (GRP) hulls, hand-laminated and reinforced in critical areas. The tugboat hulls are factory-molded with a rust-orange gelcoat. This allows the modeler to paint the ship and then recreate a realistic wear effect: intentionally scratching the exterior paint will reveal the underlying layer, simulating real metal rust.
To make the hobby accessible and sustainable, the company has introduced the Budget Building System. Instead of forcing the purchase of a complete and expensive kit, the kits are divided into five separate packages that can be purchased separately at different times:
Pack 1: The raw fiberglass hull.
Pack 2 (Template Pack): 1:1 scale drawings, paper templates for cutting the superstructure, and wiring diagrams.
Packs 3 and 4: Accessories, finishes, and detail parts.
Pack 5: Propulsion hardware (shaft lines, rudders).
The company not only packages third-party components, but also boasts an in-house mechanical workshop. They directly produce components in brass, bronze, white metal, and stainless steel, hot stamping the metals and creating custom castings (such as propellers, transmission systems, and adjustable Kort ducts).
Mobile Marine Models' products are not intended for complete beginners looking for immediate snap-together assembly. Paper instructions have historically been essential and basic, as the company assumes the buyer already has good manual skills. The superstructures (decks and cabins) are not laser-cut, but are instead machined from sheets of plywood, wood, or plastic (Styrene) according to the provided drawings, leaving plenty of room for customization and scratch-building.
The models feature very wide and deep hulls (high geometric stability), designed to accommodate heavy lead-acid batteries and generously sized electric motors (such as old car windshield wiper motors or industrial brushed motors). This interior space and cargo capacity allow for the installation of advanced dynamic accessories, such as working water pumps for fire hydrants, radio-controlled winches, smoke generators or sound systems.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
The company is 100% focused on dynamic (radio-controlled) kits.

What scales do you use for your models?
The vast majority of Mobile Marine Models' tugboats and workboats are strictly 1:32 scale.
According to the brand's designers, smaller scales (such as 1:48 or 1:50) lack the mass necessary for good grip in the water, making the models unstable in wind or small waves.
The 1:32 scale applied to a real tugboat generates physical models typically between 70 cm and 110 cm long. This is the perfect compromise: the boats are large enough to behave realistically on the lake, yet still easy to transport in the trunk of a car.
Hulls of this size offer enough interior space to fit your hands and perform quick repairs on board at the lakeside, without the frustration of having to deal with micro-components.
The Exceptions: 1:24 and 1:12
For real-world vessel types that would be too small at 1:32 scale, the company moves to larger scales to keep the hull above the critical seaworthiness threshold:
1:24 Scale: Used for smaller, real-world vessels, such as small harbor pilot boats, workboats, or riverboats.
1:12 Scale: Reserved for tiny, real-world vessels (such as small fishing boats or traditional fishing boats), allowing for a finished radio-controlled model that is still long and stable in the water.
The standardized adoption of 1:32 scale translates into a huge practical advantage: the company's entire line of proprietary accessories (the Fellini© Fittings white metal and resin castings) is perfectly interchangeable between almost all models in the catalog. Furthermore, it makes it very easy to find crew figures or additional details on the market, since 1:32 scale is also very popular in heavy modeling.

Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalog? YES

Regno Unito
UNITED KINGDOM

Ship modeling in the United Kingdom is considered the aristocracy of the industry. Along with France, it boasts the oldest tradition. While Italy focuses on aesthetics and Spain on simplicity, British modeling focuses on scientific rigor and engineering precision. It is modeling made by experts for experts. Faithful to the Admiralty Plans, the kits are designed directly from the original plans at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich. Historical accuracy is not an option; it is the starting point.
The United Kingdom led the way in laser cutting (especially with "millimeter-fit" technology), reducing human error in hull structure to almost zero.
They were among the first to massively integrate photo-etched brass plates for the finest details (such as the stern window decorations or chainplates), preferring them to raw metal castings.
The manuals are not simple illustrated sheets, but real books (often over 100 pages) that explain not only how to assemble a piece, but why that piece was made that way in historical reality.


British ship modeling companies



Caldercraft (division of JoTiKa)
It is the absolute benchmark for high-end modeling. The "Nelsons Navy" line is their most famous series. It includes models such as the HMS Agamemnon and HMS Victory. These are complex, enormous, and extremely expensive kits, intended for modelers with years of experience. They use superior-quality wood and high-resolution cast white metal accessories.
It is considered one of the most prestigious ship modeling companies in the world, known for its uncompromising approach to historical accuracy and quality of materials.
Caldercraft models are distinguished by the use of advanced production techniques and premium materials: Unlike many competitors who only use laser cutting (which can leave burn marks), Caldercraft uses extensive CNC cutting for walnut and plywood components, ensuring clean edges and perfect joints. Almost all kits use a double-plank system (usually basswood for the first planking and fine walnut for the second) to ensure structural strength and a realistic aesthetic finish. The kits include turned brass cannons, detailed carronades, and numerous brass photo-etch plates for the finest details. The rigging is made of natural and black hemp of varying shades, eliminating the need for aftermarket materials.
The production is divided into three main lines:
Nelson's Navy: The flagship series that faithfully reproduces the vessels of Horatio Nelson's era (such as the 1:72 scale HMS Victory and the HMS Agamemnon).
Heritage Series: Focused on iconic historic British ships, such as the Tudor Mary Rose, designed in collaboration with the Mary Rose Trust for maximum archaeological accuracy.
Dynamic Modeling (RC): A wide range of tugboats, fishing vessels, and steam yachts (such as the North Light or the Imara) with fiberglass (GRP) hulls ready for engine installation.
The designs are based on extensive archival research and, in cases like the Victory, direct surveys of the original vessel. These models are primarily intended for experts; a piece like the Victory can take up to 3,000 hours to complete. The boxes contain numerous full-scale design sheets (up to 18 for the larger models) and highly detailed instruction manuals, often accompanied by photos of the prototype.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
Caldercraft is one of the few companies that maintains a near-perfect balance between the two. Static (Wood): This is the sector for which it is most famous worldwide. The Nelson's Navy series (wooden sailing ships) is the absolute benchmark for museum and static collectibles. Dynamic (Fiberglass): dominates the market for RC (radio-controlled) models of working vessels, such as tugboats and fishing boats, thanks to ready-to-use fiberglass hulls.
Dynamic (RC) kits focus on functionality and durability:
GRP hull: Pre-molded fiberglass, highly resistant and waterproof.
Preparation: Pre-built housings for servos, motors, and batteries.
Realism in the water: Despite being dynamic, the detail above deck remains of superior modeling quality, far from a "toy" look.

What scales do you use for your models?
1:72: The "queen" scale for large vessels such as the HMS Victory and HMS Agamemnon. It allows for extreme detail without making the model impossible to model at home.
1:64: Very common for frigates and brigs (e.g., HMS Diana, HMS Badger, HMS Snake). This is the preferred scale for Caldercraft modelers due to its balance between size and precision of brass details.
1:80: Used for some specific models in the Heritage line, such as the Mary Rose.
1:32: The standard scale for tugboats (e.g., Imara, Envoy) and fishing vessels (e.g., Milford Star). It is ideal for realistic deck details.
1:24 / 1:25: Used for smaller vessels or steamboat kits (e.g., the yacht Sirius or the fishing vessel North Light).
1:48: Adopted for medium-sized or historic steamships (e.g., SS Talacre).
1:12 / 1:16: Very large scales dedicated to sporting models or smaller civilian vessels, where cockpit and interior detail are essential.

Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalog? YES.



Vanguard Models
Is a British ship modeling company founded in 2019 by Chris Watton, a world-renowned designer known for his collaborations with historic brands such as Amati and Caldercraft and considered one of the world's greatest ship model designers. He stands out for raising industry standards through the use of premium materials and cutting-edge design techniques. Unlike many commercial kits, Vanguard Models uses almost exclusively pear wood for the second planking and laser-cut decorative parts. This fine-grained wood allows for a superior level of detail and an exceptional natural aesthetic. The kits feature pre-laser-engraved decks and high-quality MDF bulkheads to ensure a perfectly square structure. Laser engraving is also used to simulate intricate details such as deck riveting. Each model is based on original plans and meticulous research. The company avoids the use of generic "catalog" accessories, preferring to produce custom parts for each kit, including photo-etched brass parts and 3D-printed resin.
One of the most appreciated strengths is the quality of the manuals, which contain hundreds of color photographs that guide the modeler step by step, making construction more accessible than traditional and sometimes obscure technical drawings. Although these are high-end kits, the offerings range from beginner models (such as service boats and cutters) to complex vessels of the line intended for experienced modelers ("Master Level"). Many advanced-level kits include details rarely seen in standard kits, such as complete gun decks and furnishings for the captain's cabin. Among the most famous models are the HMS Sphinx, HMS Speedy, and HMS Indefatigable.

Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
Only static display models.

What scales do you use for your models?
Vanguard Models primarily uses 1:64 scale as its standard for nearly its entire catalog. This choice is a trademark of founder Chris Watton, who believes it to be the perfect compromise between manageable final model size and the ability to incorporate extreme detail (such as full gun decks or pearwood decorations). However, production also includes other specific scales depending on the type of vessel:
1:64: The "queen" scale used for large sailing ships and frigates, such as the HMS Indefatigable (over 120 cm long), the HMS Sphinx, and the HMS Speedy.
1:32: Used for smaller models or service vessels, such as longboats (pinnaces and 32-foot barges) and some small fishing vessels.
1:48: A larger scale intended for models requiring even higher detail resolution, such as the upcoming release of the famous HMS Surprise.
Smaller scales (e.g., 1:200): Although Vanguard focuses on wood and sailing ships, there are specific accessories or projects (such as submarine models or special collaborations) that may appear in smaller scales for space reasons.
In general, if you purchase a Vanguard Models kit, 1:64 scale is the one that will allow you to create a cohesive collection of ships from the golden age of sailing, maintaining perfect visual consistency between the various vessels.

Does your catalog also include accessories and materials? YES.