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Waterline Guide Issue 5c
Waterline Guide Issue 5c
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CONTENTS
FOREWARD TO THE 5TH ISSUE 7
CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 8
Aim and Acknowledgements 8
The UK Scene 8
Overseas 9
Collecting 9
Sources of Information 10
Camouflage 10
List of Manufacturers 11
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TRIANG MINIC SHIPS LIMITED 28
WASS-LINE 30
WMS (Wirral Miniature Ships) 30
3
Lloyd (& Binnen-Lloyd) 55
Luna 55
Nautilus 55
Noordzee 56
RG 57
Rhenania 57
Risawoleska 57
Schlingelhof (HDS) 57
Star 58
Welfia 59
Westfalia 59
X Modelle 59
Yorck 59
Other Continental Manufacturers 59
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LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
Note: the pictures with blue backgrounds (as below) are of models in my own collection; a few others have been taken
from the web and of course will be removed if anyone feels their copyright has been offended. On the front page from the
top are: Caronia (CM-KR60), USS Theodore Roosevelt (CM-P1017), HMS Hermes (Neptun N1115) and Homeric (Georg
Grzybowski).
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FOREWARD TO THE 5TH ISSUE
The first issue of this guide was compiled in 1990 and was based on a series of eight articles published in Marine
Modelling magazine during 1989. In producing a booklet it was possible to include much additional detail and to provide
listings for certain manufacturers whose ranges were out of production and whose models would therefore not be listed in
dealers’ catalogues. Issue 1 then contained listings for Eagle*, Ensign*, Hornby Minic/Rovex*, Airfix*, Casadio*,
Triang*, Delphin, Hansa, Star and Wiking. Issue 2 (which appeared in 1996) repeated those asterisked and added full lists
for Len Jordan Models, Pedestal, Fleetline and Nelson. With UK collectors in mind, all British models produced by a
further eighteen manufacturers were listed in tables, most of which have been retained and updated for this issue.
For Issue 3 (and continuing with Issues 4 and 5) all the entries have been reviewed and a number of new manufacturers
included. It was decided to retain all previously mentioned manufacturers for the record, even if some are long out of
production. New model lists for American ships have been added for Hansa, Trident Alpha, Navis (capital ships only) and
Neptun (capital ships only), Star and Wiking. Although several of these makes are out of production, models can still be
found second-hand and in some cases the only source of a particular ship may be a discontinued range. Other American
ship models in current production are mentioned with the descriptions of the manufacturer concerned.
New models are appearing all the time. One of the most difficult tasks is determining what has and has not been released,
and which models may have been deleted. Every attempt has been made to ensure accuracy – at least at the time of
writing. To check for current model availability the web sites listed below are especially useful.
To those readers who originally tracked me down through the magic of www.steelnavy.com (and my thanks to Paul Jacobs
for his support and enthusiasm), welcome and I do hope you find the guide of interest. For further reading, there are now
monthly articles in Marine Modelling International magazine (www.traplet.com) in the Waterlines column. Other Internet
sites carrying waterlines data include www.1250fleets.com (a general site) plus www.wiedling.de, www.collnav.de &
www.galerie-maritim.de (mail order shops in Germany; the latter (like ‘steelnavy’) also carrying good links to other useful
sites including many of the manufacturers). GM also have a wonderful and free ‘katalog’ download. Collnav has
extensive and useful model lists. For a site with excellent listings and illustrations check out www.1250ships.com . No
doubt this list will grow.
This issue was last amended on the 14th March 2009 as part of a never-ending review and update. For many of the
discontinued ranges the word ‘do’ should be replaced by ‘did’ and one day this will be ‘done’! Meanwhile feedback and
comments are always welcome ([email protected]).
© Kelvin Holmes
Issue 5c, 2009
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CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION
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As Triang and Eagle ceased production in the mid 1960s, the American company Pyro released a few plastic kits of USN
and IJN warships, but these were poor representations of the ships concerned and definitely intended for wargamers rather
than collectors. By the early 1970s, the various Casadio plastic kits had become available and these are still in production
under the Revell name. Round about this time a shop in Scotland – Argyle Models – began to import what to us were new,
and compared with what we were used to, rather expensive German made models by Hansa, Delphin and Wiking. Little
was yet known of the various mail order shops in Germany, and the vast range of models available.
Moving farther afield there are several other manufacturers based as far away as Japan and the USA who deserve an entry.
Early production in the USA concentrated on warships and involved three main companies namely Comet and South
Salem, based in New York State, and Framburg from Chicago. All three firms were active from about 1940, their main
customer being the United States Navy. South Salem were taken over by Comet round about 1941/42, who then either
themselves were taken over, or perhaps changed their name to Authenticast some time in the 1950s. The final twist is that
Superior bought out Authenticast in the 1960s and continue to this day with their ranges of primarily wargaming models in
1/1200 and 1/2400. Framburg are reportedly still in business but no longer making ships, although copies of both
Framburg and early Comet models are available from Metal Miniatures. More information on this story can be found in
Chapter 4.
Collecting
In categorising the continental manufacturers an attempt has been made to assess their relative importance. This begs one
major question – how is that importance gauged?; certainly not on volume but rather on the quality, scope and availability.
Price is another factor, perhaps less significant as almost without exception these are collectors models at collectors prices.
Availability is a major factor; many of the smaller manufacturers are in fact hobbyists who select a particular ship because
they want it in their own collection and then run off just a small number of models, perhaps for trade to friends in their
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immediate collecting circle or maybe to sell to finance the purchase of other commercial models. Even the larger
manufacturers, especially those with huge catalogues, cannot hope to have all models available at all times. Often the
catalogue is cycled through over a number of years, and even then many models may be omitted the second time round if it
is thought that there will little or no demand. For us collectors the guide-line should be, buy it when you see it! Apart
from anything else the exchange rate is likely to be less favourable next time.
Sources of Information
Chapter 3 is based on a number of primary sources some of which can also be consulted for further more detailed
information. My initial source was Peter Jahnke’s Ship Model Catalogue which lists hundreds of models, regardless of
availability, by manufacturer; this is unfortunately no longer in print but in the electronic age has been replaced by the
‘2008 Katalog’ download from www.galerie-maritim.de. Another major source is the ‘WEDE Handbook for Ship Models
1:1250’ which was published in two parts, the first covering German ships with listings by type of 4500 models including
buildings, harbour parts and accessories from 150 manufacturers and running to 170 pages. Part 2 covers non-German
ships and exceeds 5000 models. The WEDE handbooks include only those models which have been released. A further
extremely useful source is Peter Wiedling’s Ship Model Register which lists hundreds of models by country and again only
those which have actually been released. The Register was first published in 1985 with an updated two part version
appearing in 1993-4. The currrent version is available in printed, CD or pdf form via www.wiedling.de. For information
on models in current production perhaps the most comprehensive catalogue is that issued by L. Wiedling. Another
extremely useful source of information is the ‘Hamburger Rundbrief’ (HR) which is the specialist German language
magazine for collectors. It is published six times a year and research for this guide has included all issues from 1983 to
date. Also of value due to the proportion of English language content (now up to 75%) and colour illustrations is the
quarterly A5 magazine ‘Waterline International’ produced by the Rome-based ‘Waterline Italia’ (WI) organisation.
Contact addresses for both WI and HR are included in Annex A.
Very few books specifically about waterline ships have been written; the following being the best known examples:
Camouflage
For those interested in warship camouflage, there are a number of books to look for:
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Argonaut Provence
List of Manufacturers
The table that follows gives lists of manufacturers, past and present, of metal and resin models. These are divided into
‘UK’, ‘Continental’ and ‘Other Overseas’ with each given a separate chapter in the guide. ‘Continental’ has been further
subdivided into ‘Major’, ‘Minor’ and ‘Others’ and in general this reflects volume of production & availability, and
certainly not quality or importance to the hobby. The table also includes a listing of name only of a further group of whom
nothing is known apart from name. Although produced abroad Triang Minic Ships Ltd are covered in the UK section of
the guide. Although full hull models, the latest addition is ‘Atlas Editions’; it will be interesting to see where this series
goes.
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UK:
Atlas Editions Ensign Marine Artists Sanvan
Bassett-Lowke Figurehead MB Models Sea Vee
Broadwater Fleetline Mountford Metal Skytrex/Mercator
Miniatures
Cap Aero/Figurehead Gorky Navwar Solent
Clydeside Gwylan Nelson Triang /Triang Minic Ltd
Coastlines Highworth Models Nemine (Llyn) Wass Line
Connolly Hornby Minic (aka Rovex) Oceanic WMS
Cruise Line Models Leicester Micromodels Pedestal
Deep “C”/Athelstan Len Jordan Santa Rosa
CONTINENTAL (mainly German and Austrian):
Major: Others:
Albatros Aegir Laiva
Argonaut Albert LH
Argos Aquarius Maru
Carat/CSC B/V MK
CM Baltica Mowe
Delphin BESCH Nautik
G Binkowski Navalis Moguntia
Hai BM Nord-Ostsee
Hansa BS Nordica
Navis/Neptun (& Copy) Collecta (inc. Sottpuster) Old Salt
Ostrowski** (part of Modell Pool) Copy (new) Omega
Sextant (part of Modell Pool) Dedo Optatus
Trident Alpha DH Padermodelle
Trident DOESEMA Pharos
Wiking EH Pontos
Eneris Poseidon
Minor: Foerde Quadrant
Anker Fuchs RA
Atlantis (part of Modell Pool) Galerie Maritim Red Tape
Bille GEM RFR
Colonia Granat Remo
Degen*** GS Rostocker Schiffsminiaturen
Helvetia H and B Sailing Maritime
HL H2O Schiff & Schiene
Holsatia Hammonia Seaborne
K Modelle Herpa Sedina
RG HF Seestern
Rhenania Hydra Sirene
Risawoleska Intug Smaers
Kyle Iskra Stauffenberg
Lloyd JB U9-Modelle
Luna JK UVM
Nautilus Klabauterman Vagel Grip
Noordzee KM Vindebona
Schlingelhof (HDS) Kreis
Star
Welfia
Westfalia ** aka ‘Ocean Service Models’ Note re Modell Pool -
X Modelle *** aka ‘Hein Muck’ ceased trading late 1997
Yorck
By Name: Berolina, Biebekarben, Cruise Fleet, Frisia, ‘Hard Ship’, Kompass, Otten, Rudomski, Rupp, Santos, Union,
Welco (due to the absence of further information these are not mentioned again).
OTHER OVERSEAS:
Grifo (Italy) Pilot (Denmark) Midway Models South Salem copies
Kiwi (New Zealand) Metal Miniatures Superior
Konishi (Japan) USA: Sagatoga MS 1250 Models
Mercury (Italy) California Models Shangri-La Ironworks USA Models
Miniships (Spain) Great Lakes Models Scherbak Youngerman
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CHAPTER 2 UNITED KINGDOM MANUFACTURERS
This section of the guide covers UK manufacturers past and present in alphabetical order. For that one-off model to
complete a particular fleet or shipping line there are specialist model builders who can be contacted via the classified ads in
Ships Monthly.
ATLAS EDITIONS
Introduced in 2009 this is a series of 1/1250 full hull models of ‘legendary warships of WW2’. Construction is part metal
and part plastic. The current list (all extremely familiar names) is below, of which Hood & Bismarck have been issued.
HMS Hood HMS Prince of Wales USS Missouri HMS Ark Royal
KM Bismarck KM Scharnhorst IJNS Yamato KM Graf Spee
Production ran from the 1910s to the late 1940s and at its peak over 100 models, from 28 shipping lines, were available.
Models were often updated in terms of colour scheme and appearance, in parallel with the actual ship, and some vessels
were even depicted in wartime grey. Issues 6 & 23 of the defunct magazine Seascape (published in the late 1980s)
contained respectively descriptions of Bassett-Lowke’s warships & merchant ships with illustrations of many of the
models.
Bassett-Lowke Tirpitz
Further information can be found in the 1997 book ‘Bassett-Lowke Waterline Ship Models’ by Derek Head (published by
Golden Age Editions, 3 Denbeigh Rd, London W11 2SJ). This must be the definitive guide to these models and in 160
pages describes and profusely illustrates (214 photos, many showing several ships, plus reproductions of catalogues etc.)
the story of Bassett-Lowke and their models. In addition to an introduction, chapters are devoted to warships, merchant
ships, the post 1945 period, 50 feet to the inch models (the remainder being 1/1200) plus a short description of the present
day situation for waterline enthusiasts. Some information is also given on other manufacturers of recognition models
which may help when such items turn up at swapmeets. A number of appendices give lists of models produced, including
all known ships made to 1/1200 scale. The quality of production is excellent with the extensive use of colour photography
particularly suited to the merchant ships.
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BROADWATER
Initial releases from ‘Broadwater Models’ were a hump-backed whale hotly pursued by a flotilla of RN submarines –
SSBN HMS Vanguard, SSK HMS Upholder, various A class boats and the much earlier M1, M2, M3 and M3 as a
minelayer. A huge number of models are catalogued for future release although Broadwater seem to be resting on the sea
bed at present.
In 2002 ownership of this range passed to Noble Miniatures USA; but we still have a UK point of contact (see Annex A).
CLYDESIDE
The Clydeside 1/1200 range concentrates on the various belligerent navies of WW2, but also includes, to a lesser extent,
the modern RN and USN, and the British and German navies of WW1 era. In addition there is the ‘Clyde Coast’ series of
merchantmen. In the past some of the WW2 ships were American Superior models produced under licence. The models
are primarily intended for wargaming and are robustly cast in white metal. They are generally produced as one piece kits,
requiring cleaning up and painting, although on the larger models gun turrets are normally cast separately. With more
recent models, such as the Tribal and WW2 ‘war emergency’ destroyer classes from O to Z/CA, there has been a move
towards multi-part kits. This approach facilitates the removal of flash, particularly around gun turrets, and also deck
painting. Some of the earlier models are also being re-mastered and the new offerings are greatly improved.
Of ships not too easily acquired from other manufacturers, the Dutch cruisers De Ruyter and Java, and destroyers Eversten
and Van Nes from the Battle of the Java Sea are worth seeking out, as are the Italian motoscafo armato silurante (MTB)
and vedette antisommergibili (sub chaser), which are particularly fine little models. Similarly, from the Imperial Japanese
Navy, the heavy 8” gunned cruisers Aoba and Kako are recommended. For WW1 Clydeside adopted a battle theme with
the first issues in this era covering the various ships involved in the Battles of Coronel and the Falklands in 1914, designed
as a wargaming set. Availability of Clydeside is somewhat intermittent at present, although the entire catalogue of some
140 models (Superiors excluded) is reportedly being slowly re-worked at an improved standard.
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Rattlesnake, Bathurst class minesweeper HMAS Bendigo & a 72’6” Vosper MTB. Latest release in 2008 is the escort
carrier HMS Audacity.
COASTLINES
Coastlines are, as the name suggest, producers of models of coastal secenery typically where a lighthouse is involved such
as Eddystone and Beachy Head. This has been expanded to include coastal vessels such as Admiralty 1915 H.S.Tug,
Brading (Isle of Wight Ferry 1965), Calshot (1950, Southampton tender to the Ocean liners), Neptune (Red funnel steam
tug 1950s livery) and Southsea (Isle of Wight Ferry 1950s). There are also some RNLI lifeboats for example 1947-65 Self
righting Lifeboat, Liverpool 35’6” type, 1970’s Solent type 1970s and last of all the 1894 Parsons steam pinnace Turbinia.
.
CONNOLLY
An extensive range of modern soviet warships, amphibious types and auxiliaries intended for the wargaming market and
designed/priced accordingly; nearly 70 models catalogued, production ceased in 1986. Not worth looking for.
DEEP “C”/ATHELSTAN
A range of British merchant ships made in resin including such models as the coastal tanker Shell Welder (1956), Coast
Line’s Pembroke Coast (1936), the oil rig support vessel Far Service from 1995 and the Empire Ken (1945). ‘Athelstan’
is a series of ‘super-detailed’ resin models from the same maker; first releases are: - Pacific Bridge, 1967 (AM 1), Bidston,
1933 (AM 2), Ocean Coast, 1935 AM 3), Tarawera (AM 4).
ENSIGN
Ensign provide(d) several series of 1/1200 and 1/1250 scale models mainly aimed at wargamers & modellers and hence
supplied as white metal kits. The largest series, known as ‘White Ensign’, covers almost without exception WW2
warships of all the belligerent nations, with some 60 models released. These include submarines, escorts, destroyers,
cruisers and even a few aircraft carriers. ‘Red Ensign’ consists of 25 WW2 era merchantmen and finally a lighthouse
(Triang copy) on an island. Examples of the range are British Endurance (oiler), SS Avoceta (passenger/cargo), Temple
Mead (cargo) and Japanese Kongo, Calcutta and Noto Marus. British ferry Isle of Guernsey, like some of the warships, is
a Triang copy.
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which are modern warships – from the RN HMS Leander (gun version) and HMS/m Oberon; plus soviet and USN
destroyers, frigates and submarines, French and West German submarines, soviet and West German FACs, a couple of
Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force vessels and even a Nigerian Vosper Mk9 frigate. The largest vessels are the
landing ship USS Suffolk County and the guided missile cruiser USS Little Rock; most popular soviets are probably the
missile destroyers Kashin I and Kashin II. WW2 models include some Hansa standard ‘Narvik’ class destroyers, a few
landing craft and submarines; American escort carrier and destroyer escorts, and the stars of the range IJN monster
submarine I400, fleet submarine I16 and destroyers Akizuki and Kagero. These models are almost identical to their
equivalents in the Japanese produced Konishi range (see separate entry) and one wonders if they are simply copies. Ensign
also sell HDS 1/1250 aircraft, with a huge selection of over 200 types although as with the ships some of the moulds are
starting to lose their sharpness.
FIGUREHEAD
This is a series of white metal kits of minor warships of WW2. Most belligerent nations are covered with various types:
MTBs, MGBs, PT boats, Air Sea Rescue launches and minesweepers. An unusual offering is an Italian Caique sailing
boat. The largest warships are RN and RCN Flower class corvettes and a German 1935 T-boat. There are also some
merchant types, namely Ben Read (tanker 1923) & Broomfield (tramp steamer 1938 Zillah line).
FLEETLINE
In 1971 the Fleetline Model Company launched into 1/1200 waterline model ships with a 16 part kit of HMS Armada, a
Battle class destroyer of the first group with a Mark VI director and quadruple torpedo tubes. This was followed by HMS
Jutland of the second group with the US Mk 37 director and quintuple tubes. Such attention to detail has characterised the
range through its metamorphosis from ‘Fleetline’ through ‘Scaledown’, ‘House of Hobbies’, ‘1/1200 Scale Ships’ and
finally to ‘Seascale’ as it was known until its final demise. The catalogue eventually stood at some 170 models, primarily
from the WW2 and modern eras, and included ships, aircraft, vehicles and harbour accessories. All were cast in good
quality white metal, requiring assembly and painting.
The range included a variety of modern submarine models with fourteen different soviet types, including nuclear powered
ballistic and cruise missile types (SSBN and SSGN), nuclear powered hunter killers (SSN), and various conventional diesel
electric boats (SSK). These were complemented by two USN SSNs, the Sturgeon, lead vessel of a class of 37, and the one-
off USS Tullibee; and from the RN HMSs Dreadnought, Swiftsure (SSNs), Resolution (SSBN) and SSKs of the Oberon
and A class. Earlier versions of the Resolution model had the diving planes in the vertical as opposed to horizontal
position, and these are now quite rare. The RN/RFA surface fleet is represented by HMS Invincible, the Type 42 destroyer
HMS Sheffield and the LSL Sir Tristram, all as built. Other modern models were the fast training boat HMS Cutlass and a
soviet Osa I missile boat, the latter being the vessel the Cutlass and her two sisters were designed to simulate for fleet
training purposes. To complete the era, Seascale provided Lynx and Sea King helicopters, the Sea Harrier, two types of
Hovercraft, the infamous Icelandic gunboat Aegir, and two merchant vessels, the ocean-going tug Lloydsman and the 1974
Brazilian chemical tanker Quitauna.
The majority of WW2 models were RN vessels, mainly light forces. The largest ships were the light cruisers Ajax,
Caradoc, Curacoa, Cairo and Coventry, and the escort carrier Pursuer. These ships were supported by the fast minelayer
HMS Abdiel, plus various destroyers, frigates, corvettes, minesweepers, submarines and MTB/MGB, a total of 33 different
types. The RN range was complemented by a small selection of amphibious and auxiliary vessels, and a very nice model of
the monitor HMS Roberts. This kit also contained the extra parts needed to model her sister ship Abercrombie. The Axis
navies of WW2 were less well represented. IJN vessels included the destroyer Asashio, three submarines, one of which
was a full hull Kaiten, and a landing craft; from the Kriegsmarine there was a ‘Narvik’ class destroyer, an E-boat, a type D
landing craft, and Type XB and VII U-boats; finally from Italy the seaplane carrier Giuseppe Miraglia and a Balilla class
submarine. The largest navy in WW2, the USN, had minimal representation, namely two submarines, three MTBs, and
EC2-S-C1, C2 and ET1-S-C3 Liberty ships. Of the latter, the Type C2 tank transport (FCA35B) seems to have been
released in limited numbers. WW2 accessories included Wildcat, Corsair, Sunderland and Catalina aircraft and a number
of different vehicles, mainly tanks and trucks. From earlier times Seacale offered three Napoleonic warships, the WW1
12” gunned submarine M1 and a range of confederate and union vessels from the American Civil War. Unfortunately
Seascale ceased production in 1990 and reportedly the model masters are all but destroyed.
GWYLAN
Gwylan produce etched brass detail kits for the Hobby Boss plastic kits and have also issued the cargo ship Zhen Hua with
its load of container cranes.
LEICESTER MICROMODELS
Long discontinued WW2 era wargaming quality models in 1/1200, comprising the following – HMS Roberts (monitor),
RN Towns class and Tribal class destroyers, Flower class corvette and a Fairmile D; from the Kriegsmarine a ‘Narvik’
class destroyer, T boote and a Type VII U-boat; also a couple of WW1 dreadnoughts.
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MBM Type 45 destroyer
MARINE ARTISTS MODELS
A series addressing mainly UK lighthouses, lightships and lifeboats; ‘flagship’ of the range is the Needles, with lighthouse.
New releases seem to have dried up with the final (?) being Cunard’s Britannia dating from 1840. Also available are
SAXMAMTREX, being Skytrex kits assembled, super-detailed and painted by Marine Artists, and marketed by Saxon
Miniships. What’s left of the range can be found with ‘Coastlines’..
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Nelson Southern Princess
NEMINE/LLYN
A limited production range of finely cast and well painted resin models, with some 150 releases at the time of writing.
Some examples are tugs Barents See (L. Smit & Co, 1957), Ionia (Hull, 1980) and Stackgarth (R & JH Rea, 1959), coastal
tanker Petworth (Stephensen Clarke, 1958), freighter Fred Everard and side trawler St Christopher (1958). The models are
listed in Germany under the trade name Llyn and are regularly seen at swapmeets in the UK. From 2003 all models are
being produced under the Llyn name.
OCEANIC
An elusive range which is no longer in production. The catalogue lists some 200 ships, primarily from the period 1939 to
the present day and concentrates on British ships such as coastal craft, tugs, naval auxiliaries (tankers and storeships),
trawlers, escort carriers, ferries and modern RMAS types.
Oceanic Girdleness
There is also the ‘Target’ listing of WW1 RN torpedo boats and destroyers designed for wargaming The models are
supplied as white metal kits and although not to a particularly good standard, offer the benefits of reasonable price and the
possibility of finding many ships not available elsewhere.
‘Oceanic’ occasionally materialise at UK swapmeets.
PEDESTAL
Well detailed resin models of merchant ships that participated in Operation Pedestal in 1942, hence the name, and various
RN WW2 ships that were converted merchantmen. The models were based on Len Jordan originals suitably modified and
with much extra detail. The range is no longer in production. Lists of models follow; several may not have been released;
those in italics almost certainly were not.
Almeria Lykes 1942 US Lykes Line Wairmerama 1942 Shaw Savill & Albion
Brisbane Star 1942 Blue Star Wairangi 1942 Shaw Savill & Albion
Clan Ferguson 1942 Clan Line Santa Elisa
Dorset 1942 Federal Ajax 1942 Blue Funnel
Deucalion 1942 Alfred Holt Aukland Star
Empire Hope 1942 Ministry of War Orari
Transport
Glenorchy 1942 Glen Line Fort Halkett
Melbourne Star 1942 Blue Star Empire Might
Ohio 1942 Eagle Oil & Shipping Co. Empire Darwin, CAM ship Ministry of War Transport
Port Chalmers 1942 Port Line Empire Lankester Ministry of War Transport
Rochester Castle 1942 Union Castle Hansa German AMC
Typically ships are presented in wartime grey with a full complement of AA guns, all correctly sited. SR10 is available
with a range of deck cargoes including planes, tanks or trains. The Brisbane Star has a deck cargo of two landing craft and
a particularly nice touch is the pair of oars stowed in one of the ship’s boats, a detail also found on the Melbourne Star.
This latter ship is also fitted with a minesweeping A frame and such attention to detail makes these unusual models a
worthy addition to any WW2 collection.
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SRs23 Jaunty, fleet tug CC5 Cordene, 1924
SR24 CC6 Fulham, 1936 Thames flat iron
SR25 Eaglesdale, RFA tanker CC7 Kylbrook, 1924
SRS26 Empire Fred, Armed tug CC8 Holm Force
SR27 Empire Regent, fast Empire
SR28 HMS Hilary, LSI (HQ) Special Models
SR29m KM trawler SM1 Glenorchy, 1939
SR29ma KM trawler type II SM2 Belgian Veteran, (Ocean), 1942
SR30 KM patrol boat M/S SM3 Belgian Crew, (Empire), 1943
SR30ma KM patrol boat A/S Pedestal Convoy
SR31 HMS Grey Fox, gun boat P1 Melbourne Star
SR32m Fairmile D MTB P2 Brisbane Star
SR32ma Fairmile D MGB P3 Dorset
SR33 P4 Port Chalmers
SR34 P5 Almiria Lykes
SR35 P6 Rochester Castle
SR36 P7 Ohio
SR37m RN drifter, M/S P8 Empire Hope
SR37ma RN drifter, A/S P9 Deucalion
SRs38 Empire Julia, rescue tug P10 Santa Elisa
SR39 Fairfield City (US freighter PQ 17) P11 Wairangi
SR40 KM R boat M/S P12 Wairmerama
SR41 KM S boat S18 P13 Clan Ferguson
SR42 KM S boat S181, armoured bridge P14 Glenorchy
SEA-VEE
The evolution of SeaVee started in the mid-1980s with resin cast models of the STUFT vessels Atlantic Conveyor &
Atlantic Causeway and tanker British Explorer under the name Fleetrain. These were similar in quality to Degen but rather
more detailed and well finished & painted. Over the following years a number of models were made, all in resin but to an
ever improving level of sharpness and detail, examples being HMS Gloucester (Type 42 Batch III), HMS Malta (cancelled
aircraft carrier), HMS Cornwall (Type 22), RFA Sir Caradoc, RFA Argus and USS Arleigh Burke. Work was commenced
on a USS Tarawa but this does not seem to have been finished. A number of modern merchant ships were also made
including complete a rebuild of the Atlantic Conveyor, Columbia Star, channel ferry Pride of Sandwich, Sealink Isle of
Wight ferry St Helen, Elizabeth Bowater and P & O’s Strathewe still in resin but to a superb standard of detail and
paintwork. One of the first to be cast in metal was Seacat (Hoverspeed ferry 1991). Some of the larger ships have been
cast in metal in Germany (apparently by Rhenania) for example the Strathewe and reportedly a number of ferries.
SKYTREX/MERCATOR
This firm is producing, or have in recent years produced, no less than eleven series of models as follows:
• Mercator 1/1250 liners and warships (from the original German Mercator range); } no longer
• Mercator 1/1250 liners (new by Skytrex); } in production
• Triton 1/1200 Napoleonic 1790 – 1815;
• Triton 1/1200 American Civil War;
• Triton 1/1200 transitional era 1840 – 1860;
• Triton 1/1200 ironclad era 1860 – 1885;
• Mercator 1/1250 pre-dreadnoughts (new by Skytrex); } production ceased
• Leviathan 1/1250 World War 1 warships – RN dreadnoughts only at present; } production ceased
• Triton ‘1250’ modern warships, auxiliaries and aircraft;
• Triton ‘1250’ merchant marine range; } production ceased
• Seascape 1/1250 harbour components and accessories.
For their current status please check www.skytrex.com or write to the address in Annex A. As of mid 2008 the following
1/1250 ranges are in production – Triton Harbour Accessories (formerly Seacsape), Modern Warships (formerly Triton
1250 but offering now only RN ships; HMS Illustrious (as recently modernised), HMS Eagle, 1960s commando carriers
HMSs Albion and Bulwark have been added to the new range.)
The original Triton 1250 range of modern warship models was launched in 1983 and when in full production included over
50 different ships from minesweepers to nuclear powered aircraft carriers. The models were cast in white metal and
available either as kits or assembled/grey painted. A kit would typically comprise the hull, cast in one piece, with
superstructure, masts, radars, guns and missile launchers provided separately. In general the models were reasonably well
detailed and easy to assemble. In some instances a degree of filing and filling was needed to achieve a satisfactory finish,
particularly to overcome problems of hull register. The modern warship models are currently discontinued for re-work to
an improved standard and presumably these early shortcomings will have been overcome.
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Skytrex Triton 1250 HMS Norfolk
Over half the total range listed is taken up by ships of the modern RN and RFA and virtually every class and batch in
current operational service is covered, plus an increasing selection of ships from earlier years, including the CTOL carriers
Ark Royal and Victorious and a number of destroyers and frigates. The model of HMS Hermes, complete with ski-jump
and landing craft left over from her previous role as commando carrier, is especially impressive. This ship could of course
now be depicted in Indian service as the Viraat, or with the removal of the ski-jump and appropriate flight deck markings
as a good old fashioned fixed wing carrier. Several different variants of the Type 42 are available, with varying weapon
and sensor fits, showing Batch I and II ships as built and currently modified, plus the Batch III or stretched version.
Unfortunately the latter features a rounded stern as in the original design, rather than the square stern which was ultimately
adopted. The more expensive Albatros K model of HMS Manchester is also incorrect in this respect although the recent
HMS Edinburgh is spot on. Four different Leander class frigates are produced including the original gun-armed version,
and Exocet, Ikara and Sea Wolf conversions. The other Leander conversion with a lowered Exocet mounting and a towed
array sonar has not been produced. The Sea Wolf Leander is a very disappointing model but the others are quite good.
The latest Type 23 frigate is also available and has set new standards in terms of detail and finish. As can be seen from the
list Skytrex cover many of the large RFAs, some exceptions being the support tanker Oakleaf, the new Fort Victoria class.
At present the following British warships/RFAs are believed to be available (as kits or assembled).
Skytrex (current models): Hermes, Aircraft Carrier 1982 Resource, Fleet Replenishment Ship
Vanguard, Battleship 1946 Invincible, Aircraft Carrier 1982 Argus, Helicopter Training Ship
Colossus, Light Fleet Carrier Ark Royal, Aircraft Carrier 1991 Fort Grange, Stores Support Ship
Ocean, Light Fleet Carrier Illustrious, Aircraft Carrier 1999 Engadine, Helicopter Training Ship
Bulwark, Commando Carrier, 1965 Triumph, Repair Ship Tidespring, Large Fleet Tanker
Albion, Commando Carrier, 1965 Fearless, Assault Ship Diligence, Forward Repair Ship
Victorious, Aircraft Carrier 1966 Sir Bedivere, Landing Ship Logistic Bayleaf, Support Tanker
Eagle, Aircraft Carrier 1970 Green Rover, Small Fleet Tanker Lyness, Stores Support ship
Ark Royal, Aircraft Carrier 1977 Olwen, Large Fleet Tanker
Skytrex originally offered ten different USN warship models including Kidd and Spruance class destroyers, the USS
Ticonderoga and back in 1983 the only known model of the nuclear powered cruiser USS Truxton. The largest kits in the
range are those of the American carriers John F. Kennedy, Nimitz and Enterprise of which the latter is perhaps the best
model, showing the ship as recently modified. The hulls of these large vessels are crisply cast in resin, with the flight deck
in metal and in two parts. It is not always easy to hide the join when assembling the flight deck and perhaps with this in
mind, Skytrex sell these three models either as kits, or assembled, or assembled and grey painted (no deck markings).
Most major Soviet types were represented such as the ‘battlecruiser’ Kirov, a very fine model, the Kiev, and the various
classes of missile cruiser from Kynda (1964) to Slava (1984). Models of the destroyers Sovremenny and Udaloy complete
the current soviet range of nine models. Various Dutch, West German, Canadian, Nigerian and Argentine
destroyers/frigates are also available, and a range of 1/1250 aircraft.
Warships of three other eras are also addressed in kit form, namely Napoleonic, American Civil War (20 models, intended
for wargamers), and lastly mid-19th century (typified by the French Gloire and HMS Warrior) to ironclad. Skytrex have
filled a huge gap in the UK market with their models and with a little time spent on assembly, paintwork and perhaps extra
detailing, some very fine models can result. In 1989 Skytrex moved into modern merchant ships for the first time and
unlike the warship models, the ‘Merchant Marine’ series of models (currently discontinued) were only available assembled
and painted; just five models were issued, as listed below. The quality of these models is akin to original Hansa and they
do not seem to have been a great success.
‘Merchant Marine’ Series Models TM 3 Columbialand (bulker, 1968)
TM 1 City of Liverpool (bulker, 1981) TM 4 Arundel (collier, 1956)
TM 2 Hakone Maru (container ship, 1968) TM 5 SD14 type merchant ship (1965)
Skytrex have also introduced the ‘Seascape’ series which offers harbour layouts, merchant and naval, again all fully
painted and ready for immediate use. The harbour pieces were originally sold as small sets but are now available as
individual items. The original quay sections were designed to be compatible with those formerly manufactured by Triang
and Hornby, although the latest versions are re-issues of Mercator pieces. A series of New York harbour piers can be
found in this series. Another Skytrex venture is pre-1918 warships with the Leviathan series of WW1 warships and
24
Mercator RN pre-dreadnoughts, all fully painted with most of the latter available in regular grey or more colourful
Victorian or tropical schemes. Catalogues did show 21 models in the Leviathan series but nothing came of this.
M201 HMS Majestic* M205 HMS Duncan*
M201A - in wartime grey - M205A - in wartime grey - New ‘Mercator’
M202 HMS Canopus* M206 HMS Queen* Pre-Dreadnoughts
M202A - in wartime grey - M207 HMS Swiftsure** (201 to 203A only
M203 HMS Formidable* M207A - in wartime grey - released to date)
M203A - in wartime grey - M208 HMS King Edward VIII
M204 HMS London* M209 HMS Lord Nelson * in Victorian colours
M204A - in wartime grey - ** in Far Eastern colours
Skytrex pre-dreadnoughts
In general the pre-dreadnoughts are fine models featuring, apart from the ‘basic’s, painted decks, but not yet to the quality
of the equivalent Navis-Neu.
LE1 HMS Lion LE12 HMS Canada
LE2 HMS Queen Elizabeth LE13 HMS Royal Sovereign
LE3 HMS Iron Duke LE14 HMS Bellerophon
LE4 HMS Indefatigable LE15 HMS Hood New ‘Mercator’
LE5 HMS Invincible LE16 HMS Colossus Dreadnoughts
LE6 HMS Ajax LE17 HMS Dreadnought Only LE1 – 3 ever released
LE7 HMS Tiger LE18 HMS Repulse (shame as the masters for the
LE8 HMS Agincourt LE19 HMS Neptune others looked pretty good)
LE9 HMS Orion LE20 HMS Glorious
LE10 HMS Erin LE21 HMS Furious
LE11 HMS St Vincent
Skytrex dreadnoughts
In 1993 Skytrex were able to take over the German Mercator name and moulds and have since been releasing various of
the original Mercator liners, plus some German flak ships, and with technical help from Germany did introduce new
models, such as the pre-dreadnoughts mentioned above and liners, for example White Star’s Georgic (1932) and Orient/P
& O’s Oriana (1960); the latter otherwise only found, with great difficulty, from Helvetia. Production has since ceased.
25
comprising the Santa Maria, Pinta and Nina. The warship series which numbers some 160 models primarily addressed
minor German types, but also included pre-dreadnoughts, flak ships, auxiliaries, light cruisers and WW2 submarines.
‘Foreign’ vessels were Japanese WW2 submarines, an impressive and colourful fleet of 22 Russian types from 1880 –
1906, the ironclads Hoche (French) and HMS Nile, and a model of the Spanish dreadnought battleship Jaime 1. The
Atlantics were mainly German vessels although AT12 Swedish containership. Atlantic Span is of interest to British
collectors through her connections with ACL. Over 200 merchant ships are available including freighters, aircraft tenders
(pre-war), passenger liners, AMCs, tankers, sailing vessels and even the occasional whaler. Almost impossible to select a
few for specific mention but how about the magnificent liners Vaterland, Normandie, Rex and France.
Mercator Tsesarevich
American ships covered are President Hoover (as in 1957, catalogue number M579a), Leviathan (1923, M402a) America
(1940, M563), United States (1952, M906) and Edmund Fitzgerald (1958); the latter was Mercator’s Special Model for
the 1992 Kassel event. All original British merchants are listed in the table below; with the exceptions of M7000, M414,
M900 and the Waverly, Skytrex have now re-issued them all; M495a Georgic had not been released prior to Skytrex taking
the helm and the supertanker Esso Mercia had been deleted for some time.
N/a Waverly paddle steamer M494 Queen Mary 1938 Cunard
M7000 Manxman 1955 Isle of Man SS Co. M495 Britannic 1932 White Star
M400 Great Eastern 1859 Great Steamship Co. M495a Georgic 1932 White Star
M404 Titanic 1912 White Star M548 Empress of Britain 1931 Canadian Pacific
M405 Mauretania 1907 Cunard M578 Shropshire 1926 Bibby
M405a Lusitania 1907 Cunard M900 Esso Mercia 1968 Esso
M406 Ivernia 1900 Cunard M915a Vistafjord 1983 Cunard
M414 Glennifer 1915 Glen Line M916a Sagafjord 1985 Cunard
M419a Empress of Australia 1922 Canadian Pacific M921 Queen Elizabeth II 1968 Cunard
M493 Queen Elizabeth 1939 Cunard
New Mercator models are listed below:
M418a Berengaria ( 1922) M935a Arcadia (1998)
M921a QE II (1994 – blue hull) M936 Stena Explorer (1996)
M921b QE II (1997 – black hull) M937 Sun Princess (1997)
M927 Oriana (1965) M937a Dawn Princess (1997)
M927a Oriana (1960) M940a Uganda (1982)
M928 Georgic (1932) M941 Grand Princess (1998)
M930 Canberra (1960) M942 Nedlloyd Southampton (1998)
M930a Canberra (Falklands/1982) M944 Orontes (1929)
M931 Baltic (1904) M945 Viceroy of India (1929)
M932 Comorin (1925) M946 Himalaya (1949)
M933 Oriana (1995) M947 Aurora (2000)
M935 Star Princess (1989) M948 Adonia (2003)
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SOLENT
‘Solent’s’ only model seen at Theale many years ago was HMS Centaur, circa 1970 as a fixed wing carrier with a solitary
Sea Vixen on deck, cast mainly in resin with metal for some of the finer detail. The model was only available in completed
form and may have been limited to a few prototypes rather than a production run.
The name Solent has now been adopted by a new endeavour – Solent Mini Ships – providing an assembly and painting
service for Len Jordan’s models (address is in Annex A).
TRIANG
Many collectors of waterline ship models were first introduced to the hobby through Triang Minic Ships and although long
out of production there is still great interest in the range and some debate as to what models were actually issued.
Production started in 1958 at Merton SW19, M709 Caronia being the first release. The models were die-cast in very hard
metal quite unlike most other 1/1200-1250 ships before or since, the only comparable make being the Italian firm Mercury,
whose models were produced in the 1960s (see Chapter 4). The Triang range was gradually increased until eventually a
very large selection was produced, including 20 liners, a substantial number of contemporary warships and a considerable
assortment of harbour parts and miscellaneous vessels, even down to a whale factory ship, whalers and plastic whales in
grey or white, the latter presumably for those who wished to emulate Moby Dick in miniature! Of the liners, the Cunard
ships were initially produced with plain red and black topped funnels, but after a comment from the shipping line, black
hoops were eventually heat printed on the plastic funnels. Ultimately transfers were used to depict the hoops, as on the re-
issued Hornby Minic ships (see other entry). Masts were made in soft plastic and were supplied on sprues, sometimes with
spares.
The only variations over the years were to the Antilles and Flandre which were produced both in overall white livery, but
also with white upperworks and black hull. The rarest models of all are the Carmania and Franconia which were released
just before production ceased. These were re-modelled from Saxonia and Ivernia respectively and used the same catalogue
numbers. They were issued in an overall green livery as on the Caronia, with green plastic masts and a completely
redesigned stern as in the actual ships. Only 1000 of these were manufactured with some 80% being exported to the USA,
so finding one today can be a real problem; they do appear at swapmeets but a three figure sum is likely. As a general
guide the liners become progressively rarer the further down the list you go (see Annex B) with the RMS Queen
Mary/Elizabeth and SS United States still relatively common.
Turning to the warships, these were initially produced in an overall blue colour scheme and ranged from the battleship
Vanguard, through aircraft carriers, cruisers, destroyers, frigates, minesweepers, submarines and tugs. Gun turrets were
trainable and cranes, in soft black plastic, were moveable but not detachable; incidentally the somewhat ungainly cranes
were also used on the liners Port Brisbane and Port Aukland. Masts on the Vanguard and carriers were loose, although
those on the destroyers and frigates were fixed; all were made from the same black plastic.
Triang Franconia
In 1960 production moved to Canterbury in Kent and the colour of all the warships was changed to grey. The County class
guided missile destroyers were only produced at Canterbury and so were never blue, a point worth noting if you are ever
offered a ‘rare’ blue one at an exorbitant price. If buying a County also check that the helicopter rotor blade is still
attached as these are often lost. Warships known to be rare include blue Vanguards, grey carriers, blue Darings, especially
HMS Dainty, and blue submarines. One model which does not seem to have been commercially issued is HMS Albion
with a printed paper helicopter deck glued on the flight deck. This model was however definitely produced, but certainly
very few were released. Perhaps they were especially commissioned when HMS Albion received her commando carrier
conversion in 1961. Another mystery possibly linked to the above is the helicopter which was produced but never listed.
This was in fact an unfortunate whale with a County class type rotor blade pinned through its head. Perhaps Greenpeace
forced its withdrawal...
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A very full range of harbour parts and miscellaneous vessels was produced, including the oil tanker SS Varicella, the
whaling fleet already mentioned, a pilot ship, lightships and so on, enabling the collector to build a very colourful harbour
layout on a realistic plastic sea, the latter available in two sizes. One item never listed separately was the pier shelter,
produced in dark green; this was only supplied with the pier entrance and centre sections, although supply seems to have
been somewhat haphazard. As for rarities, pilot boats, lifeboats (small blue plastic models), a factory ( a rather weird
model based on the pier building but with a tall chimney in place of the dome) and the tanker wharf seem hard to find, in
particular the black plastic oil lines for the latter. In order to put to rest a myth that has grown up over the years, it can be
stated that the train ferry St Germain, the cargo boat and the barge were never produced, this information coming directly
from Hornby Hobbies some years ago. These were the only models to be listed in the catalogue, but not actually produced.
In general the models were sold in bright yellow boxes with blue print, the model name and number being stamped on the
box ends; early boxes had a white panel on the ends but this was later discontinued. Larger models were individually
boxed but some smaller models were packed several to a box according to the size of the model. Some liners and the
Vanguard (see Annex B) were also sold in clear view presentation boxes, and a selection of presentation packs was also
produced. These were issued as boxed sets with lavish artwork, and the largest and incidentally rarest is the Nieuw
Amsterdam with the Varicella and a suitable harbour layout. Over the years a total of six catalogues was printed and a
wood/hardboard display case, with the models glued to narrow shelves, was available for use in shops. The case was
surmounted by a large Triang Minic sign, with a representation of the white cliffs of Dover along the base. Dimensions
excluding the sign were 24” by 27” and the case was painted light blue. With production lasting over a six year period, it
should still be possible to obtain a fair collection via small ads in the modelling press and at swapmeets. The models are
very attractive and the liners alone can form a very impressive display. Incidentally Triang seems to be less highly
regarded on the continent so there may yet be bargains around. When scouring the swapmeets do not be confused with the
re-issued Hornby Minic series (see separate entry) released in 1976. These were made in Hong Kong and featured a red
plastic waterline complete with ‘glidewheels’. Always check underneath, because even if the waterline section has been
removed, the casting will still bear a ‘Made in Hong Kong’ mark.
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Hunt Class mine warfare vessels, Vanguard class SSBNs and Trafalgar class SSNs. The models will be released as a
limited edition of 2000 complete sets delivered in nine shipments over an 18 month period and commenced with the first
two sets in November 2003. The final shipment will be accompanied by a serial numbered Certificate of Ownership
counter-signed by the company’s auditors. The list below gives the planned delivery schedule and identifies all the models
to be produced. All the ships will be produced in a grey colour scheme with white deck markings as appropriate, black
pennant numbers, black highlights and black plastic masts. The submarines are described as being produced in a grey
colour scheme with black pennant numbers and black highlights so we will have to wait and see.
• Set 1 – Type 23 Frigates, October 2003: comprising N730 HMS Norfolk, N731 HMS Argyll, N732 HMS Lancaster
& N733 HMS Marlborough; (released Nov 03).
• Set 2 – Type 42 Batch III Destroyers, October 2003: comprising N751 HMS Manchester, N752 HMS Gloucester,
N753 HMS Edinburgh & N754 HMS York; (released Nov 03).
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The 11 RN ships are also being released individually as generic models (i.e. no pennant number) and there are also three
sets – S700 Carrier Strike Command Set, S710 Assault Task Force Set and S730 Naval Harbour Set.
Early 2006 releases are merchant ships SS President Buchanan, SS Volunteer Mariner, MV Table Bay and MV City of
Durban (all of which can be viewed at www.triangminicships.com) and coming soon various modern USN ships – Nimitz
(plus an alternative bridge for the Ronald Reagan), Spruance, Ticonderoga, Arleigh Burke, Oliver Hazard Perry, Avenger,
Agile, Ohio and Los Angeles
WASS-LINE
These are fully painted resin models with as far as is known just two releases to date – Cressida (Kirsten Line) and
Romanby (Ropner Shipping, 1928).
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CHAPTER 3 CONTINENTAL MANUFACTURERS
For convenience this chapter has been subdivided into three sections dealing respectively with the major volume
producers, the smaller yet still important sources, and finally ‘others’. This latter category includes manufacturers whose
output is minute, or of whom very little is known and availability correspondingly poor, with just a few words for each.
Recent issues of the Hamburger Rundbrief have included a host of new, probably one man, manufacturers whose models
are very unlikely to be seen outside Germany; however all those who produce British ships (as far as is known) are
mentioned below.
MAJOR MANUFACTURERS
ALBATROS
Albatros are perhaps the premier manufacturer for UK collectors with extensive ranges of British merchantmen from the
period 1890 to 1970, and modern Royal Navy warships & auxiliaries. The quality of production is uniformly high as is the
painting, the only drawback being that the warships are invariably a single shade of grey on both vertical and horizontal
surfaces. Over 100 merchant ships have been produced over the years with many unfortunately discontinued. It is
sometimes possible to find these models at swapmeets, although not too many collectors are prepared to part with them.
For warships the outlook is considerably better which is most fortunate because in addition to a substantial number of
Bundesmarine vessels and several Dutch ships, Albatros produce arguably what has become the definitive range of modern
RN warships. Albatros have one American merchantman currently available – liner Exeter, dating from 1931 (catalogue
number AL 165); others previously available are:
Annex B includes complete lists (to date) of British merchantmen, RN ships, British merchantmen in civilian guise and as
called up for military service. The web site is www.albatros-miniaturen.de .
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ARGONAUT
Argonaut are warship manufacturers in the Navis/Neptun mould, specialising in the period 1930 to 1945 and providing
interesting coverage of the Royal Navy, and increasingly the USN (24 models currently listed), French (15), Italian (36),
Dutch (44), Swedish (22), Finnish (9) and Spanish (34) Navies. At its peak the original range totalled some 300 models
and included many unusual vessels not readily available elsewhere, ‘foreign’ examples being USS Wisconsin (1954
appearance), French battleships Paris and Bretagne, and almost the entire pre-war Spanish Navy. Many of the original
models have been deleted and the current catalogue is somewhat reduced in size; the good news is that latest releases are to
a uniformly better standard; for British ships catalogue numbers prefixed 10 indicate an improved version of an earlier
model; in some instances model name has also been revised, often from a class to a particular ship. Latest releases include
an number of Argentine ships including the last two ‘unmodelled’ battleships Moreno and Rivadavia (although there was
an impossibly rare Star version of the latter). The quality of the original models was inconsistent if generally good,
although not to Neptun standard.
Argonaut’s recent ventures include the navies of Norway (14 models), Brazil (11) and Argentina (21) covering all types
from Battleships to patrol vessels. The current catalogue features just about two dozen each RN and USN ships, mostly
small types.
The RN selection includes nearly two dozen capital ships, some 40 cruisers and a substantial number of destroyers, frigates
and auxiliaries. Many of the latter are unique to Argonaut and are unlikely to be even considered for production by other
manufacturers. The older battleships have been given priority with 11 different models of the Queen Elizabeth, Royal
Sovereign and Nelson classes. Among the Qes were the Warspite in 1934 just prior to her final reconstruction and again in
1938 following that reconstruction. Of the Rs, Revenge and Resolution are unique to the range, as are, in terms of
availability, the battlecruiser Renown (Hood and Repulse are available from both Argonaut & Neptun although in the latter
case the two models differ in detail). Two other particularly interesting ex-battleships are the target ship Centurion and the
gunnery training ship Iron Duke. An area neglected by most manufacturers is fleet carriers but Argonaut more than make
amends with the following: Hermes, Eagle, Furious, Glorious, Courageous, Ark Royal, Illustrious, Formidable and
Indomitable plus the support carrier Unicorn. All but the last three have been released and the missing ship in the
sequence, HMS Argus, is available from Navis. The cruiser fleet includes the Hawkins class, seven different Counties,
including HMS London following modernisation and at least one representative of every class from the Cs of 1916 to the
Fijis and Didos built during WW2, including the two old Australian ships Brisbane and Adelaide. Only omission is the
Swiftsure class and for the time being it is necessary to search for the Triang Minic version. Of smaller warships there are
some 40 destroyers, 20 submarines, the latter including such 1920s/30s types as X1 and the O, P, R, Thames and Porpoise
classes. Depot and repair ships are a speciality of Argonaut with such ships as Medway, Maidstone and Vindictive.
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ARGOS
This range continues to expand and is the major source for ships of the moden USN. To accompany these there is a series
of accessories (the Z series) – aircraft, helicopters, helo rotor blades, amphibious vehicles plus for other Navies an AB 212
ASW helicopter (to go aboard the Turkish MEKO frigate Salih Reis); this particular model (catalogue AS-Z 40) is
available and is supplied fully painted, several to a box (3 in this instance), as are all of the Z series. Shown for future
release are Z 42a a Sea King CH-124 in Canadian colours and Z 42 which is a box of 3 RN Seakings, 2 HAS Mk 5 and an
AEW Mk 2; one can only wonder what ships Argos has in mind with the latter although they would look good on any of
the CVSs from Albatros. The S series (models 01-S to 12-S) are small warships from the period 1796 – 1865 with all but
three released; examples are the French privateer Le Fortune (1805) and the Prussian schooner Frauenlob (1856). The P
series are based on models cast for the shipyards in Germany and comprise only two: 01-P a 1997 MEKO A-200 frigate
and 02-P the 1998 Frigate 124 design for the German Navy; however beware of the latter because the scale is 1/1000.
Other models in the main AS series include German warships, auxiliaries and merchantmen of all eras, plus various
modern frigates such as the MEKOs operated by Australia, Portugal and Turkey (all of which are available) plus some
earlier Belgian & Portuguese types. British vessels comprise The Piercer (AS 9a, 1805 brig), HMS Campbeltown (AS
38), Fairmile B (AS 38a, 2 boats), MTB 74 & MGB 314 (AS 38b), Empire Mordred (AS 39, Empire ‘B’ freighter, 1942),
Orari (AS 40, reefer, NZ Shipping Company, 1931) and Salween (AS 41, passenger ship, British & Burmese Steam
Navigation Co., 1938). Of the British models, Ass 9a, 38, 38a and 38b have been released, with the latter three all
depicting the vessels concerned at the time of the raid on St Nazaire in 1942. There is also a developing Russian series
offering the submarines and ships of the Udaloy II, Krivak I and II classes.
33
ship. Carat also have the most superb model of Cunard’s Sylvania although representing the ship in 1994 after several
changes of ownership and under charter to a German company with the name Albatros. This range was originally known
as GM Carat.
CM KR Queen Mary II
There are also Italian, American and even soviet passenger ships, and all the models are to a high standard. American
merchant vessels comprise George Washington (as in 1930), CM 60a, Manhattan (1932), CM 220, Republic (1924) CM
221, United States (1952), CM KR 71 & American Challenger (1962), CM KR 74. CM Poseidon embraces a number of
unusual warships from the 1930s, the majority belonging to the Royal Thai Navy, and also a variety of sailing ships from
the Cutty Sark to the Sir Winston Churchill; also listed are the Japanese liner Hikawa Maru, in two guises, and a couple of
pre-war German tankers. CM 94 GM is a special model produce on behalf of the Galerie Maritim shop in Hamburg. CM
also produce under licence a number of ‘G’ models including 7 British liners from the period 1899 to 1931; full details can
be found in the entry for ‘G’.
CM KR Transvaal Castle
KR50 Edinburgh Castle 1947 Union Castle CM143 Californian 1902
KR51 Pendennis Castle 1957 Union Castle CM144 Olympic 1913 White Star
KR52 Windsor Castle 1960 Union Castle CM145 Oceanic 1899 White Star
KR53 Transvaal Castle 1961 Union Castle CM147 Georgic 1931 White Star
KR54 Southampton Castle 1965 Union Castle CM148 Titanic 1912 White Star
KR55 Reina del Mar 1955 Pacific Steam Nav Co. CM149 Homeric 1922 White Star
KR56 Bloemfontein Castle 1950 Union Castle CM150 Majestic 1922 White Star
KR57 Rhodesia Castle 1951 Union Castle CM151 Berengaria 1922 Cunard
KR58 City of Port Elizabeth 1952 Ellerman CM152 Mauretania 1939 Cunard
KR59 Centaur 1963 Blue Funnel CM152a Mauretania 1962 cruising colours
KR60 Caronia 1948 Cunard CM153 Queen Elizabeth 1946 Cunard
KR61 Queen Elizabeth II 1987 Cunard CM154 Queen Mary 1939 Cunard
KR61a lower hull for 61 1990 for use in dry dock CM155 Carpathia 1902 Cunard
KR61b Queen Elizabeth II 1994 (blue hull) CM156 Aquitania 1914 Cunard
KR62 Orsova 1954 P&O, Orient CM156a Aquitania 1915 Transport
KR63 Ocean Monarch 1951 Furness Withy & Co. CM156b Aquitania 1916 Hospital ship
KR64 Southern Cross 1954 Shaw Savill & Albion CM156c Aquitania 1948 Transport
35
KR65 Northern Star 1961 Shaw Savill CM209 Southwold Belle 1900
KR66 Orcades 1948 Orient CM210 City of Dunedin 1919 Ellerman
KR67 Canberra 1961 P&O CM211 City of Christchurch 1929 Ellerman
KR68 Star Princess 1990 P&O CM212 City of Boston 1922 Ellerman
KR69 Royal Princess 1999 CM-P30 Queen Mary 1945 troop ship
KR89a Dawn Princess 1988 CM-P31 Queen Elizabeth 1945 troop ship
KR323 Queen Mary II 2004 Cunard CM-P32 Mauretania 1945 troop ship
CM 94 GM Cap Polonio 1919 Union Castle
CM P Kuznetzov
DELPHIN
One of the cheaper ranges, no longer in production although some of the models were re-released by Hansa some years
ago. 162 ships and 9 aircraft were actually produced by Delphin before production finally ceased, the ships primarily
warships from World War 2, the 1950s and 1960s. Although not in the class of most of the other makes, certain original
Delphins have become quite collectable, simply because many of the ships covered are not readily available from other
sources. Examples of this are USS United States (projected CB 1920) and Gascogne (French BB 1940 uncompleted).
Delphin were unique in their coverage of post-war warships and auxiliaries so the first table lists models in this category,
with the exception of the German Federal Navy (Bundesmarine) which is best left to Albatros, and British &
Commonwealth ships which are included the second table. Apart from D63, D74 and D89, the latter are to a reasonable
standard.
36
D64 Moskva soviet helicopter carrier D143 D’Orves French missile corvette
D69 W class soviet missile submarine D144 Ropucha soviet landing ship
D73 De Grasse 1955 French light cruiser D148 Chikugo class JMSDF frigate
D76 USS Dealey 1958 frigate D149 O H Perry USN frigate
D94 Minegumo class JMSDF destroyer D150 D class soviet nuclear powered sub
D96 Takatsuki class JMSDF destroyer D153 Lupo class Italian missile frigate
D97 Oland Swedish destroyer D154 Dnjepr II class soviet repair ship
D99 Yamagumo class JMSDF destroyer D155 Jean Bart 1958 French battleship
D112 Kanin soviet missile destroyer D157 Aysberg soviet icebreaker
D113 Zdanov soviet command cruiser D158 Wodnik Polish training ship
D15 HMS Ashanti Tribal class frigate D89 HMS Delhi 1943 light cruiser (post US refit)
D43 HMS Milne 1941 destroyer D110 HMS Vanguard last RN battleship
D63 HMS Leander 1933 light cruiser D115 HMS Hermes 1924 aircraft carrier
D67 HMS Nelson 1944 battleship D121 HMS Amazon Type 21 frigate
D74 HMAS Sydney 1934 light cruiser D129 HMS Sheffield Type 42 destroyer
D83 HMS Undine 1960 frigate D134 RFA Sir Percival LSL
D135 HMCS Algonquin missile destroyer
Delphin British & Commonwealth Ship Models
“G” (THE MODELS OF GEORG GRZYBOWSKI)
A range of good quality merchantmen including many British ships; originally produced in limited quantities but currently
being reissued under licence by CM (as CM-G) and Rhenania (as RH Liz). Referring to the table, Shieldhall is a former
Glasgow Corporation sludge carrier now preserved at Southampton and a popular, if somewhat compact, venue for ship
swapmeets. Apart from the Loyalty which is depicted as a hospital ship, the other 1915/15 period models are troop
transports; the second version of Balmoral Castle shows her as a temporary Royal Yacht when, sailing under the White
Ensign, she took members of the Royal Family to the opening of the South African parliament in late 1910. A list of
known original models of British ships, with the catalogue numbers of re-issues to date, follows.
G Altmarck
LINERS G151 Berengaria 1921 Cunard
G145 Oceanic 1889 White Star Arawa 1922 Aus. C’wealth Line
Liz 15 Teutonic 1890 White Star Laconia 1922 Cunard
Liz 8 Empress of India 1891 Canadian Pacific G149 Homeric 1922 White Star
Liz 8a Empress of Japan 1892 Canadian Pacific Liz 14a Adriatic 1923 White Star
Liz 10a Norman 1894 Union Line G150 Majestic 1923 White Star
Liz 2 Majestic 1902 White Star Rawalpindi 1925 P&O
Liz 5 Miltiades 1903 Aberdeen & C’wealth Duchess of Bedford 1928 Canadian Pacific
Liz 13 Carpathia 1903 Cunard Warwick Castle 1930 Union Castle
Liz 10 Norman 1904 Union Castle G146 Georgic 1931 White Star
Liz 16 Carmania 1905 G147 Britannic 1931 White Star
Liz 14 Adriatic 1907 White Star Empress of Britain 1931 Canadian Pacific
Liz 11 Balmoral Castle 1910 Union Castle Orion 1935 Orient Line
Liz 11a Balmoral Castle 1910 as royal yacht Warwick Castle 1938 Union Castle
Miltiades 1912 Aberdeen & C’wealth Circassia 1938 Anchor Line
G148 Titanic 1912 White Star FERRY
Ceramic 1913 White Star GLR18 Isle of Jersey 1930 18,18a,18b
Liz 10b Norman 1914 as a troop ship FREIGHTERS
Liz 11b Balmoral Castle 1914 as a troop ship Liz 9 Ulysses 1913 Holt Line (Blue Star)
Liz 8b Loyalty 1914 hospital ship Speybank 1926 Bank Line
Liz 16 Carmania 1905 Cunard Shropshire 1926 Bibby
GLR16b HMS Carmania 1914 as AMC Romanby 1927 Ropner
Liz 16c Caronia 1914 AMC Port Chalmers 1933 Port Line
Liz 13a Carpathia 1915 as a troop ship Rochester Castle 1937 Union Castle
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GLR19a Franconia 1915 as a troop ship Clan Forbes 1938 Clan Line
Liz 16a Caronia 1916 as a troop ship Glenroy 1938 Glen Line
GLR14a Adriatic 1917 In grey Adelaide Star 1940 Blue Star Line
Jervis Bay 1921 C’wealth G’ment Line Liz 7 Shieldhall 1955 Glasgow Corporation
HAI
The HAI range of some 400 warship models, although not to the quality of the best continental makes, does contain a host
of unusual and interesting ships. In addition to fleet units there are plenty of auxiliary types dating from the turn of the
century to the present day. Again many models are quite unique to the range and it is difficult to select just a few for
special mention. Let’s highlight the aircraft carrier USS Franklin D Roosevelt, RN ironclads Inflexible and Collingwood
and USN auxiliaries AB1, ex-USS Kearsage, and Utah. Hai also provide extensive coverage of pre-dreadnought era
torpedo boats and, to a lesser extent, cruisers of the RN, French, Italian, and American navies, ideal escorts for
Skytrex/Mercator or Navis pre-dreadnought battleships (see Navis review later). Also offered is a unique selection of
modern Chinese, Japanese and Italian warships and auxiliaries, which again illustrate the amazing scope of the range. All
listed models of British and American ships, with catalogue numbers, are given in the following two tables.
Surveying the original catalogue, Hansa warships included most of the Kriegsmarine and Bundesmarine, a few US cruisers
of WW2, and from the post war era the RNs Tiger, Blake (as converted) and Fearless, USSs Long Beach (3 versions)
Canberra and Leahy. Other NATO and soviet escorts from the 1950s could also be found, and uniquely to Hansa the
French strike carrier Clemenceau. The best elements of the range, however, were a huge variety of modern merchant
ships, of all nations, including freighters, RO-RO, LASH, container ships, reefers, super tankers, ferries and even some
massively impressive ocean-going crane ships. There was also had a good selection of harbour accessories and
WW2/modern aircraft to line the decks of carriers. A full list of British ships is below, although S199 HMS Hood was
never produced; also S276 was originally listed as Mauretania (1) although ultimately the later vessel, of the same name,
was issued. S171 is the former Empress of Japan, renamed in 1942. The only British ship produced under the scheme, but
currently unavailable, is S10426.
S73 USS Talladega WW2 attack transport S165 Fletcher class 1943
S81 Liberty ship civilian colours S166 Fletcher class with aircraft
S81/I Liberty ship wartime grey S167 Sumner class destroyer 1944
S88 USS Ashland WW2 dock landing ship S168 Sumner class after FRAM, 1963
S90 USS Worcester 1948 light cruiser S169 Sumner class destroyer-minelayer, 1944
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S101 Long Lines 1963 cablelayer S174 USS Monterey 1943 aircraft carrier
S109 USS Agile 1962 minesweeper S190 USS Wasp 1959 CV (angle-deck)
S113 USS Coontz missile destroyer S191/I USS Hornet 1959 CV (angle-deck)
S132 USS Boise WW2 cruiser S216 USS Long Beach missile cruiser, 1975
S133 USS Sanannah WW2 cruiser S231 USS Arlington 1966 command ship
S134 USS St Louis WW2 cruiser S231/2 USS Wright 1945 aircraft carrier
S135 USS Columbia WW2 cruiser S231/I USS Wright 1966 command ship
S136 USS Miami WW2 cruiser S388 Long Beach 1983 cruiser
S137 USS Fargo 1946 cruiser S390 Margaret Lykes 1963 containership
S138 USS Galveston guided missile cruiser, 1960 S394 Stark 1982 frigate
S139 USS Wichita WW2 heavy cruiser Delphin re-issues: (* new model)
S140 USS Independence WW2 light fleet carrier S405 Alabama 1942 battleship
S140/2 USS Bataan 1943 carrier S406 Lexington 1939 aircraft carrier
S161 USS Topeka ) guided missile S407 Saratoga 1942 aircraft carrier
S162 USS Little Rock ) cruiser conversions S411 Langley* 1922 aircraft carrier
S163 USS Providence ) (none released) S411/I Langley 1937 seaplane carrier
S164 Fletcher class destroyer 1942 S412 Ranger 1934 aircraft carrier
Hansa Benlady
NAVIS/NEPTUN (AND COPY)
Navis/Neptun are renowned for their high quality warship models, with Navis addressing ships built in the period 1890 to
about 1919 (and for the Reichmarine 1920 – 35), and Neptun following on as far as 1945. Neptun are in fact considerably
more detailed than Navis, although this latter part of the range is being slowly re-worked and reissued to Neptun standard.
Early versions of some of the Navis models are also still around and the larger ships at least can be identified by their
plastic turrets and also by the rather basic ships boats which were often moulded using Eaglewall boats as the masters.
Some models can also be found made entirely of plastic. Similarly many of the Neptun models have been re-issued to an
improved standard, the older versions often materialising on the second hand market.
From Navis then some 350 models are listed giving comprehensive coverage of the German, British, Japanese, American,
Russian and Austro-Hungarian Navies of the pre-dreadnought and dreadnought eras, with a good selection of French &
Italian and even a few Brazilian and a single Swedish vessel. With the exception of the Japanese battleship Nagato, which
was not completed until 1920, every single dreadnought battleship and battlecruiser class is represented, plus a huge
number of other types: pre-dreadnought battleships, armoured cruisers, cruisers, destroyers, submarines and more. It is
probably true to say that virtually every important class of World War 1 warship can be found.
For the re-issue programme, priority has been given to German ships although other there are now more a dozen British
warships. All re-issues use the original catalogue number suffixed with an ‘N’. Some models have also been produced in
Victorian or Tropical livery, no doubt in response to Skytrex’s ‘Mercator’ pre-dreadnoughts. Navis also feature about 20
merchantmen from the period 1890 to 1935; several of these are British and are listed below; those in italics are thought to
have not yet been released.
NM900 Royal George 1910 Canadian Northern NM904 Tairea 1924 British India
NM901 Isle of Jersey 1930 NM909 Miltiades 1903 Aberdeen &
Commonwealth
NM902 Campania 1893 Cunard NM910 Gloucester Castle 1911 Union Castle
Navis 7 Lord Salisbury 1911 Yorkshire Steam Fishing Co.
NAVIS WARSHIPS
Austro-Hungarian Navy
Twenty two models are listed for the Austro-Hungarian Navy, with all but 6 released. Those available comprise 6 pre-
dreadnought & dreadnought battleships, 2 armoured cruisers, 3 cruisers, 2 destroyers, 2 torpedo boats and 1 U-boat.
Typically for Navis most of the battleships are from different classes, namely Wien (1895), Habsburg (1902), Erzherzog
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Karl (1906), Radetzky (1911), to the first and only dreadnought class Tegetthoff (1912). For the latter, the fourth ship was
completed somewhat later and with a slightly different appearance so two models are available – Viribus Unitis (1912),
representing the first 3 ships & Szent Istvan (1916).
Brazilian Navy
Just 2 Brazilian ships have been issued by Navis, namely battleship Sao Paulo (NM801) and cruiser Bahia (NM802) (both
vessels completed 1910). Models of related interest, although long discontinued, are Sao Paulo’s sister-ship Minas Gerais
post modernisation circa 1938 (Star model catalogue no. R 75), HL’s Brasil (coast defence ship 1865) and the 1937
submarine Tupy (Star R 41). It would seem that no other models of Brazilian ships have been produced.
Royal Navy
Navis’ coverage of the Royal Navy is substantial with nearly 90 ships listed, only 3 of which have yet to be released. Most
main classes are represented and the table summarises what has been listed and what has been issued. Of course some
collectors are never satisfied and more than welcome from Navis would be the battlecruiser HMS Queen Mary which had a
circular centre funnel (rather than oval as in sister-ships Lion and Princess Royal), HMS Furious as first converted to an
aircraft carrier in 1918 and perhaps some of the larger protected cruisers such as HMSs Diadem and Challenger.
French Navy
Nineteen French ships are listed although only 8 have been released. These include the main battleship classes – Patrie,
Verite, Voltaire, Paris and Lorraine, the armoured cruiser Jules Ferry and 2 destroyers, one of which is an improved
version – Intrepide (NM461N).
Italian Navy
Twelve out of thirteen ships listed here have been released, namely 5 pre-dreadnought & dreadnought battleship classes, 3
armoured cruisers, 3 cruisers and 1 destroyer, with 1 destroyer still to come. The battleship models illustrate the evolution
of the type in the Italian Navy from Benedetto Brin (1905), via Regina Elena, Dante Alighieri, Guilio Cesare to Andrea
Doria (1916).
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Light Cruisers 5 5 from Arethusa class (1914) to Cardiff class (1917) (Centaur (1916)
and later Carlisle, Danae and Delhi classes omitted)
Destroyers 14 10 various classes from C class (1896) to Scott (1918), with following
omissions – D, E, H, L, mod R, S and Talisman classes
Submarines 9 9 all main classes from D (1910) to R (1918); no Nautilus or V class
Monitors 5 n/a HMSs Terror, Glatton, Humber, M29 & Sir John Moore
Aviation Vessels 4 n/a HMSs Argus, Ark Royal, Engadine & Campania
Others 5* n/a Hunt, Ascot & P class plus * 2 unreleased (Arabis & Celerol)
Navis – models of RN Ships
Imperial German Navy (& Reichmarine)
Unsurprisingly the Navis catalogue for their own country is the largest with over 100 models (all but 3 released)
representing some 80 ships from the battleship Bayern (NM1N) to the minelayer Nautilus (NM90), plus 11 (4 released)
from the period 1920 – 1935. For battlecruiser enthusiasts there are even models representing the uncompleted Mackensen
class and the class referred to as ersatz Yorck; the latter is the un-named class, the first vessel of which was intended to
replace (ersatz = replacement) the armoured cruiser Yorck on the navy’s strength. The table summarises what is listed and
what has been issued.
Russian Navy
Seventeen Russian ships are listed with 10 released: 6 battleship types, the protected cruiser Rurik, and 3 destroyers. Four
of the battleship models are improved versions with two of these – Borodino (NM612aN) & Slava (NM612N) – of the
same class. The others are Eustafi, Imperator Pavel I, Imperatriza Maria and Gangut.
Swedish Navy
Navis produce just one Swedish ship – the 1917 coastal defence battleship Sverige (NM811). Many years ago the German
firm Mercator produced models of various contemporaries of the Sverige – for example Oscar II (1907) and Fylgia (1907)
– but these will nowadays be almost impossible to find.
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Oregon 1896 NM 317 317a (1911) Delaware 1910 NM 308
Iowa 1897 NM 316 316a (1911) Utah 1911 NM 307
Kentucky 1900 NM 315 315a (1911) Wyoming 1912 NM 306
Alabama 1900 NM 314 314a (1911) Texas 1913 NM 305
Maine 1902 NM 313 313a (1911) Arizona 1916 NM 303
Virginia 1906 NM 312 312a (1910) Nevada 1916 NM 304
Kansas 1907 NM 311 311a (1911) Idaho 1918 NM 302
Idaho 1908 NM 310 310a (1911) Tennessee 1920 NM 301
Colorado 1923 NM 300
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Neptun HMS Prince of Wales
No less than eleven more RN carriers are listed for the future and this approach of cataloguing models perhaps years before
release is interesting but also frustrating. For example does one buy the Argonaut HMS Furious or wait an undetermined
period of time for the Neptun version, which ultimately may or may not appear? - especially as Argonaut have issued
improved versions of their models of Furious and Courageous. This dilemma applies equally to some of the other Navies
covered by Neptun with possible substitutes mainly from the likes of Argonaut and Trident. The only planned omission
for the RN from Neptun seems to be submarines with not a single boat listed; here at least Argonaut can fill the gaps
although their re-issue programme has not yet featured any of the fourteen submarines originally produced.
Aircraft Models
Neptun produce a series of aircraft models, with over 50 listed, primarily intended for use with their ships models, but also
some flying boats and land based types. Very helpfully most of the carrier types are available in two versions – wings
extended or folded. RN types comprise Sunderland, Walrus, Swordfish, Fulmar and Skua (last three available wings
folded or extended), with Barracuda, Seafire, Firefly and Albacore listed for future release. Most of the American types
used by the RN can also be found.
A final word under the Navis/Neptun heading about the firm known as Copy; these were a few WW2 warships, thought to
be in effect copies of very early Neptuns. Presumably the masters were sold when the newer more detailed models were
produced. Copy’s version of the Italian heavy cruiser Trento was available until recently, although this particular ship is
now a Neptun release. Also within the Copy series could be found the 1929 British freighter Uskvalley. Note that there is
now a new (?) firm using the name Copy with various models of Russian warships circa 1900.
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Checklist – RN & USN capital ships
The following table provides a checklist of RN & USN battleships and some aircraft carriers of the WW2 era. Availability
from Neptun is shown by the inclusion of a catalogue number, with those in brackets not yet released. The date is that
when a ship is depicted. Where no Neptun model is available, an alternative (AR = Argonaut, D = Delphin) is suggested.
RN: USN:
Warspite 1931 AR 122 Arkansas Texas class 1944 N (1309)
Queen Elizabeth 1943 N 1104 Texas 1945 N 1308
Warspite 1943 N 1104b Nevada Nevada class AR 208 (1307a)
Valiant 1943 N 1104a Oklahoma 1941 N 1307
Malaya 1943 N 1105 Arizona Pennsylvania class 1940 N 1306
Barham 1941 N 1105a Pennsylvania N (1306a)
Royal Sovereign 1943 N 1103a Mississippi New Mexico class AR 215 (1305b)
Royal Oak 1939 N 1103 New Mexico 1945 N 1305a
Ramilles 1943 N 1103b Idaho 1945 N 1305
Resolution AR 47 (1103c) California California class D 39
Revenge N 1103d Tennessee 1945 N 1304
Nelson 1927 N 1102a Maryland Maryland class 1945 N 1303b
Rodney 1927 N 1102 Colorado 1945 N 1303a
King George V 1940 N 1101 West Virginia 1945 N 1303
Prince of Wales 1941 N 1101b North Carolina Washington class 1945 N 1302
Duke of York 1941 N 1101c Washington 1941 N 1302a
Anson 1944 N (1101a) South Dakota South Dakota class 1944 N 1301a
Howe 1942 N 1101d Indiana 1943 N 1301b
Battlecruisers Massachusetts 1944 N 1301c
Hood 1941 N 1110 Alabama 1943 N 1301
Repulse 1938 N 1106a Iowa Iowa class 1943 N 1300
Renown 1941 N 1106 New Jersey 1944 N 1300b
Aircraft Carriers Missouri 1945 N 1300a
Furious N 1117 Wisconsin 1945 N 1300c
Glorious N 1118 Alaska Alaska class 1945 N 1330
Courageous N 1119 Aircraft Carriers
Eagle 1942 N 1116 Lexington 1940 N 1316
Hermes 1938 N 1115 Saratoga 1945 N 1317
Ark Royal 1938 N 1114 Enterprise Yorktown class 1945 N 1314a
Victorious N 1112 Yorktown 1942 N 1314
Indomitable N 1112a Hornet 1942 N 1313
Wasp Wasp class 1942 N 1312
Essex Essex class 1943 N 1310
Franklin 1945 N 1310a
Ticonderoga 1945 N 1310b
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Ostrowski Spirit of Free Enterprise
SEXTANT
Sextant offer a number of unusual and interesting warships and merchant ships and have now passed catalogue number
200, with the emphasis in recent years on merchants. Quality is excellent, particularly for latest releases, and availability
better than most, although some of the earlier models are not in current production. Prominent in the early catalogue are
Austrian and Italian warships from the 1860s to 1880s. Other fascinating and unique models are various Danish coastal
defence battleships and submarines from the 1930s, and the occasional modern warship such as USSs Mitscher and
Bronstein (out of production), and the accommodation ships Mercer and Bennewah, plus the French guided weapons trials
ship Ile d’Oleron (a sort of French Girdleness).
Definite improvements in quality are evident from SX102 although when originally issued this particular model (a Sealink
ferry) was given a red, rather than blue, hull. More recently Sextant have concentrated on modern (post 1970) merchant
ships, and particular models that catch the eye are the immensely beamy tanker Nanny and Swedish RO-RO Stena
Searunner, a sistership of the Elk of Falklands fame. GB and US models are listed in the following table (with the
exception of Sextant’s Kassel ‘sonder modellen’, all catalogue numbers are prefixed SX).
18a Speybank 1926 Bank Line 174 Table Bay 1972 container ship
21 Grenadier 1941 sub-chaser 179 Sea Pioneer 1984 bulker
26 Reliant 1908 steam tug 205 Oriana 1995 P&O cruise ship
70 Andania 1913 Cunard liner 212 Norsea 1987 ferry
70a Andania 1915 as troop ship 218 Maersk Pacer 1991 OSV
73 Transylvania 1914 Cunard liner 226 Autoroute 1979 car carrier
75 Manchester Challenge 1970 Manchester Lines 227 Portgarth 1995 tug
102 St Anselm 1979 Sealink ferry 230 Jervis Bay 1992 container ship
143 British Explorer 1970 BP tanker 236 Afric Star 1975 reefer
144 British Skill 1983 BP tanker 242 Marinor 1992 tanker
145 Isomeria 1982 Shell tanker 249 BP Admiral 1990 tanker
146 Sealord Challenger 1968 Elder Dempster 263 Speybank 1995 Cargo ship
154 Norland 1982 ‘Falklands’ SM95 Pride of Burgundy 1993 P&O ferry
165 Doctor Lykes 1972 US LASH ship SM97 European Seaway 1991 Ro-Ro
Note: with the demise of Modell Pool the Sextant, Ostrowski (and Atlantis) ranges are now discontinued. Fortunately
elements of the Sextant range are being re-released by Optatus.
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TRIDENT ALPHA/TRIDENT
Trident Alpha and Trident were originally a single range but for several years now are two different manufacturers – hence
two separate entries in the guide Trident Alpha models are of the higher quality and originally had catalogue numbers T1
to about T400, whereas Tridents were T500 upwards. In current listings the Alphas are numbered as Ta10001 to Ta10360,
whereas ‘Tridents’ run from about T40 to T2100 and seem to be expanding in both directions. This may well cause some
confusion because the Alphas’ original numbers are often engraved underneath the models (as of 2003 both these ranges
are believed discontinued).
The ‘Alpha’ series is renowned for its coverage of modern warships, submarines and auxiliaries, in particular American
and Russian. Quality is high although because of the softer metal used, the finish is generally not as crisp as Neptun or
Albatros for example. With over 120 soviet and over 150 American late war/modern ships listed, suffice it to say a large
number of classes are covered from carriers to patrol boats and auxiliaries of all types. Of the latter, one of the largest is
the USS Sacramento, and equally impressive is the soviet equivalent Berezina (T237). Examples of other models are the
submarine USS San Francisco, missile hydrofoil Sarancha, frigate USS Ramsey, missile cruiser USS Virginia and super-
carrier USS America. Incidentally the large carriers are unusual in that they are moulded in plastic. A fuller list of
American ships can be found in Annex B. Ironically the only one to avoid is T1 USS Enterprise as the model is somewhat
underscale.
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WIKING
Wiking were the original producers of German naval recognition and collectors models who, before the war, had a huge
warship range, military aircraft and a fair number of merchantmen. All major warships were listed and very probably
released; an undated price list supplied by a collector in Germany puts battleships at DM4.50, cruisers at DM2.50 and
destroyers at DM1. A further list dated 1949 limits itself to merchant-ships, but by the 1960s there were wartime and post-
war warships and merchantmen. It is believed that Wiking finally ceased production in the late 1970s, succumbing mainly
to the influx of much higher quality models from other sources. A few of the models were re-issued during the late 1980s
but the prices reflected ‘collectability’ rather than quality. In terms of actually finding Wiking models today, perhaps the
best guideline is to indicate what was generally available in the 1970s. German mail order firm Wiedling’s final update of
Wiking stock was dated March 1976 and listed 97 models, virtually all warships, including 25 RN vessels, some of which
until very recently remain unique to Wiking. Quite a few of the models were cast in plastic, other examples being
Sverdlov, Boston (missile cruiser), Koln (WW2 cruiser) Illustrious and HM cruisers Dido and Fiji. The latter was available
in three and four turret versions.
Wiking Sverdlov
Not on Wiedling’s list and now very collectable was the super carrier USS Forrestal, also in plastic and once stocked by
Argyle Models at 25/-. Other foreign warships of special interest are the Norwegian minelayer Olav Tryggvason, Swedish
coastal defence ship Ilmarinen, US Wind class icebreaker, and soviet battleship Marat as modified between the wars. None
of these models are (were?) available from any other manufacturer. Civil types listed included a river steamer, a dredge,
fishing vessels, a tramp steamer and just two named vessels, Barentzee (Dutch) and Rio de Janeiro (Swedish), both of
1950s vintage. Based on a compilation of information from several listings published in the 1960s and 1970s, most
recently available British ships (all warships) were as follows: (P) means moulded in plastic; all the ships date from
1935/45 unless otherwise indicated.
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Somers class destroyer (P) * also issued in metal
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MINOR MANUFACTURERS
In general the manufacturers described under this heading are those with smaller catalogues, but who nevertheless include
interesting and often top quality models; availability is mixed.
Anker
A supplier of white metal kits, mainly projected warships from the 1930s and 40s, and no longer in production. Only 30
models were issued, highlights being the uncompleted soviet battleship of 1942, Japanese and Dutch WW2 battlecruisers,
and for GB collectors the freighter Port Alma (1928) and HMS Vindictive both as seaplane carrier and repair ship. A full
list follows.
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respectively, come Aconit, Zuiderkreis and San Marco (frigate, replenisher and assault ship); no RN ships seem likely and
the range has now been discontinued.
Atlantis Godavari
Bille
Originally a producer of coastal forts and harbour accessories, Bille have in the past also listed sailing ships from the
period 1500 to 1850 (including the Golden Hind, Bounty, Bellona and Victory), and primarily German merchantmen from
the 1950s. British vessels are the turret ship HMS Captain (1870), Craig Shipping’s 1983 coaster Craigavad and container
ships Alum Bay (1991) and Chesapeake Bay (1995) in P&O charter colours. Emphasis recently is modern German
merchant ships and to a lesser extent warships starting with various MEKO frigates, plus Bundesmarine ships and from an
earlier era the seaplane Walter Holzapfel.
Colonia Canberra
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Degen (Hein Muck)
A large range of medium priced resin merchant ships, troopships and hospital ships; also some naval auxiliaries. The
tables below contains a full list of British ships released to date; only pending items are the Shaw Savill & Albion liners
Southern Cross and Northern Star although given that both these are CM KRs, they may be deleted. An example of a
recent model is HM 420E, the cruise ship Princess Danae, 1996 (ex-Port Melbourne). Sadly the maker of this range died
in 2002.
Helvetia Caroline
HL
No longer in production but some ships still available, HL are unusual in that they generally offer their models either as
kits or completed. Again warships and merchantmen, but concentrating on the period 1880 to 1910 with particular
attention to Austrian vessels. Also covered are Spain, Italy, Brazil and the USA. British Empire (GB and Canada)
representation is slight so it is possible to provide a list. Of these just the Nonsuch is thought to be still commercially
available – HL168 in kit form. Personal favourites from HL are the Italian ironclad monsters Lepanto and Duilio.
Creole 1906 passenger Canadian, line Empress of Russia 1913 liner Canadian Pacific
unknown
Princess Royal 1907 ferry Canadian Pacific Trunkby 1898 freighter Ropner
Empress of China 1909 liner Canadian Pacific Nonsuch 1906 freighter Bowles Bros
Princess Alice 1911 ferry Canadian Pacific San Sebastian 1914 tanker Sebastian DM Boat
Co.
Franconia 1911 liner Cunard Novocastrian 1915 freighter Tyne-Tees SS Co.
Ceramic 1913 liner White Star HMS Humber 1913 monitor
HL Lepanto
Holsatia
A small range of high quality merchantmen from 1960 to the present day. The majority are ferries and passenger ships of
German origin, examples being Nordfriesland (1987) and Prinz Hamlet (1973). ‘Foreigners’ include the Song of Norway
(1978), Royal Viking Sky (1982), Royal Viking Queen (1992), Song of America (1982) and just one British ship, the
Townsend Thoresen ferry Spirit of Free Enterprise. For sea-borne visitors to the model shops of Hamburg, a model of
Scandinavian Seaways’ Hamburg might be a nice souvenir. Availability of Holsatia is limited.
K USS Monrovia
Kyle
A small high quality range produced in Hamburg and concentrating on German merchant ships from 1960 to the present
day. In the past KYLE have also offered some spectacular dioramas showing German naval barracks, an AA emplacement
and fire control bunker. Solitary model of UK interest is the floating crane Tog Mor - perhaps a model of the remains of
the Mary Rose will be next.
Kyle Columbia
Lloyd (& Binnen-Lloyd)
Linked with Hai and a total of 46 merchant models released, of various nationalities, and most still available. The range is
quite diverse defying a brief summary and to illustrate this, how about the following – Abercraig (1937 ferry, Trustees of
Dundee Harbour), Bima (1980 bucket dredger) and Fedor Litke (1909 icebreaker). There is just one other GB vessel in
addition to the Abercraig, namely the 1914 ferry Riviera (South Eastern & Chatham Railway); the latter (Catalogue Hai
Lloyd 26) is thought to be still available. Binnen-Lloyd is a small range of old Austrian and German river and lake
steamers bringing back holiday memories perhaps!
Luna
Not much is known of Luna, in spite of a listing of in excess of 100 models. The first half of the range, all thought to be
out of production, is composed almost entirely of German merchantmen and naval auxiliaries from the 1920s to 1940s; the
second half of the range is mostly sailing ships, each model being offered in three versions which, subject to my translation
ability, are ‘sails set’, ‘sails furled’ or ‘masts only’. Some examples are – Horst Wessel, Amerigo Vespucci and Cutty
Sark. Later models such as Pamir (German, 1905) are reworked to an improved standard. Most recent models are Soviet
training ship Sedov from 1922 plus some floating accommodation/offices.
Nautilus
A range of some 30 WW2 era warship models, mainly German and including many uncompleted types such as
schlachtkreuzer O/P/Q, panzerschiffe 1 to 12, leicht kreuzer M/N and various spahkreuzer (scouts). The only ‘foreign’
ships are a soviet Ognyevoi class destroyer, and from the RN a heavy cruiser design that was abandoned in 1940. Some
55
years ago at Theale someone in touch with the manufacturer stated that three RN types were produced – a 15350 ton 6”
gunned light cruiser (possibly the cancelled Neptune class of 1944), a 1940 Lion class battleship and a heavy cruiser
design that was abandoned in 1940; only the latter is listed (NT 11) and does indeed exist; unfortunately it cannot be
confirmed if the others were ever issued. Availability of Nautilus has been poor although there are occasional rumours that
some of the range, including the RN ship, may be re-released.
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Nordzee Dempo
RG
A range of primarily merchant ships, mostly from the period 1890 to 1940; several British ships are included, as listed
below, those asterisked are thought to be available at the time of writing. China and Haverford both appeared second-hand
at a recent swapmeet – it is always worth looking.
Rhenania
High quality models, with a wide selection of early merchant ships, the occasional modern vessel including, recently,
Swedish warships and various other warships, mainly German WW1 plus Swedish and Dutch 1930s/40s. Unusual
offerings are the French armoured cruiser Pothau, Greenpeace ship Sirius and a 1997 release, the Swedish cruiser Gotland
(1940). Just a few British vessels are/have been listed – Yorkshire (1919 liner), Velinheli (1892 coastal steamer), freighters
Saint Dunstan (1919), War Buckler (1918), War Melody (1918), War Arrow (1918) and Elder Dempster’s New Georgia (2
versions 1919 and 1921 when with ‘British & Africa’), Humber ferry Wingfield Castle, HMSs Acorn & Cameleon (circa
1909), Stanhope (1937) and finally the Cutty Sark. Of these just the Stanhope is thought to be currently available,
certainly as RH 116b. 1942 appearance. American ships are the monitors Casco and Dictator (both 1864). Warships in the
RH-RS series include destroyers Acorn (1910) & Vidette (1918) and 1944 landing ship Isle of Guernsey. G models re-
issued by Rhenania/Klabautermann are shown in the G list. Rhenania also produce a ‘junior’ series designed for younger
collectors.
Risawoleska
A substantial range of some 60 models with a similar number earmarked for future release. Originally producers of Danish
ferries, there are now Norwegian and Swedish vessels and even a few British (Solomon Browne; Scillonion (II), 1952;
Commodore Queen, 1961; Scillonion (III) 1982) and American (Sir John Franklin, 1947; Flying Enterprise in three
versions, 1948, 1951 and sinking in 1951.
Schlingelhof (HDS)
Medium quality white metal kits, also at one stage available from German Mail Order shops assembled and painted. The
kits are also marketed by Model Figures and Hobbies (MFH) of Northern Ireland under the name HDS-Ensign and the
major features of the range are described under the Ensign entry in the survey. Some years ago I bought some modern
French Agosta class submarines directly from Herr Schlingelhof, these particular models having been released during a
lengthy period of inactivity by Ensign, but they were considerably more expensive than equivalent models produced by
MFH. More recently ‘Schlingelhof’ seem to have been fairly inactive.
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Star
Good quality white metal kits, now out of production, with limited stocks perhaps still held by the sole distributor L.
Wiedling of Germany. At its peak Star produced 171 models ranging from the American Civil War era to the present day.
ACW vessels consume nearly a quarter of the catalogue with both Union and Confederate ships (see list below). The
remainder of the range is quite extensive in its scope, covering submarines, destroyers, cruisers and battleships from a
dozen nations or more, and including many ships not available elsewhere; to list a few examples all worth looking for, how
about – SSN USS Triton, cruiser Ping Hai, soviet destroyers Tashkent (WW2) and Novik (1954, one off predecessor of
the Kotlin class), Brazilian Battleship Minas Geraes (WW2 appearance), polish destroyer Blyskawica (1937), modern
Dutch destroyer Holland, WW2 AMC Coronel, and the same ship when converted to a radar direction ship and re-named
Togo; and WW2 Italian colonial sloop Eritrea. This brief list illustrates the scope of the Star range, which although quite
sought after in the UK does not seem to have been that popular on the continent, possibly because they were mainly sold as
kits. Lists of British & Commonwealth ships and American ships follow.
R3 HMS Deadnought 1960 nuclear sub R108 Albatross 1928 seaplane carrier
R4 O class sub 1959, RN R111 Juno 1962 RN Leander class
R11 LST 2 1943 R115 Upright 1941 RN submarine
R11a LST 2 modified, 1943 R116 United 1940 RN submarine
R13 HMS Terror 1916 monitor R119 Viking 1944 RN submarine
R24 HMS Roberts 1941 monitor R122 Blackwood class 1957, RN frigate
R49 HMS Thule 1942 RN submarine R129 Deerhound 1860 British yacht
R50 HMS Turpin 1942 RN submarine R142 Ladybird 1915 RN patrol boat
R84 Leander class 1961, RN frigate R149 Swale 1944 RN frigate
R86 Hunt IV class 1942 RN escort destroyer R156 HMS Exeter 1929 heavy cruiser
R86a Hunt IV modified version, 1942 R160 Loch class 1944, RN frigate
R105 Leith 1933 RN sloop R163 Thunderbolt 1943 RN submarine
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R123 Attrappe 1863 USA R151 Indianola 1862 USA
R124 Mars 1863 CSA R152 Chickasaw 1863 USA
R125 Chicora 1863 USA R153 Bridgeport 1861 USA
R126 Colonel Lamb 1864 CSA R154 Ozark 1863 USA
R127 Choctaw 1863 USA R155 Lafayette 1864 USA
R128 Palmetto State 1863 CSA R164 Flamingo 1864 CSA
R130 Custis 1863 USA R165 Shenandoah 1864 CSA
R131 Tallahassee 1863 CSA R166 General Price 1863 USA ram
Star ACW ships
Welfia
A large (circa 200) and fascinating range of merchant ships, yachts, small warships, harbour accessories, buildings,
vehicles and naval fortifications. The ship models are almost entirely German and date from the 1890s to 1945, with the
majority from the latter half of the period. All sorts of merchant ship are produced including liners freighters, tankers, and
even fishing vessels and cable-layers; the naval side is represented by a variety of minor warships, such as frigates, patrol
boats, motor minesweepers and MTBs. There are just a few British ships, namely the 1922 tanker British Corporal, the
freighters Inchcolm dating from 1909 and John Ericsson from 1896; RN warships are three types of motor minesweeper
(MMS) and Fairmile B motor launches in standard configuration and serving as an ambulance launch. In addition there are
half a dozen items relating to the Normandy Mulberries (also see Trident), and perhaps of most interest two listings given
as ‘coastal battery, Plymouth 1910’ and merely ‘naval fort, 1939’. New releases are still being reported in the Hamburger
Rundbrief.
Westfalia
Only a very small range, but worthy of a special mention in any UK biased survey by virtue of their models of the fleet
carriers Eagle and Ark Royal, as completed in the 1950s. The models are resin castings of superb quality.
Yorck
Another little known but large (circa 100) range specialising initially in German warships dating from the 1850s. This
particular subject consumes the first 40 releases and thereafter early 20th century German merchantmen and WW2
auxiliaries, particularly minelayers, are addressed. In addition a few minor IJN war and landing ships, the repair vessel
Komahashi, soviet and Italian WW2 destroyers and submarines are covered. Final listings are mainly Turkish warships
(cruisers, destroyers and submarines) from the 1930s. An interesting early release is the Russian protected cruiser ‘General
Admiral’, while the only British ships are a ‘Z’ class oiler (two different models showing the class in 1918 and 1940) and
the WW2 oiler Chant 69.
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Aegir: Brocklebank Line freighter Marwarri of 1935, SS Clement in grey circa 1939 and Silverfir (1924) released in 1998
– later releases, all British ships are 1928 freighter Burdwan, Beaverford (1928 & 1940) and Watarana (1919). New for
2003 are Ripley Castle in 1919 and Devon City in 1933 & 1940 guises (catalogue nos. AE579a & b).
Albert: sailing warships from the period 1750 to 1820; availability unknown.
Aquarius: men o’ war from the 17th and 18th centuries from the British, French, Dutch and Spanish Navies; over 30 models
are listed but only half a dozen priced eg Sovereign of the Seas (1637); others presumably not yet produced; also ACW
warships.
Baltica: a few German merchantmen mainly from the late 1970s; one Dutch ship Super Servant 1 (1979); availability and
quality not known.
BESCH: parts to help build a container port; available.
Binkowski: of interest to British collectors if only for superb models of the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary as wartime
troopships.
BM: various German merchant and auxiliary warships over the period 1857 to 1960; about 20 models produced including
one UK vessel, the 1950 passenger ship Moreton Bay.
BS: mainly modern German merchants available only from Galerie Maritim (see Annex A); first two releases were the
containerships Carolina (1991) and Contship Lavagne (1995); BS 4 is the containership Trave Trader (1994).
B/V: German post-war merchantmen; about 30 different; nothing further known.
Collecta: these models seem to be mainly ‘modern’ (1980s/90s) sailing ships although COLL 01 is a 1993 Indonesian
passenger vessel, the Ceremai and 05 the 1994 containership Hamburg Express; also includes the ‘Sottpuster’ series: 19th
century merchantmen such as the British freighters Dryden and Gulf of Ancud.
Copy: this new series using the old Copy name features mainly Russian warships from the late 1800s/early 1900s, with six
models released so far.
Dedo: originally only German modern tugs but more recently the 1994 Ro-Ro Fichtelberg (ex Spirit of Dublin).
DH: German WW2 minor warships.
DOESEMA (aka Seagate) : first three releases are the drilling rig Galaxy I in various configurations, fourth is the 1978
crane ship Balder. The models are hand built in brass and aluminium and not likely to be widely available.
EH: just over a dozen ships listed of various European nations, including five 19th century Austrian auxiliaries; amongst
the most modern is the soviet icebreaker Kapitan Sorokin.
Eneris: medium quality resin models including a couple of merchants and a number of RN warships and auxiliaries from
the 1960s and 1970s, as follows – Invincible, Fearless, Lion, Bristol, Lynx, Leander, Amazon, Ton class, Torrent,
Eddyfirth, Reclaim; these particular models are probably available second-hand only, although Eneris are still active;
current models are of a higher quality. More recently Eneris have been producing models in metal especially on behalf of
Waterline International (nee Italia), e.g. tanker Olterra.
Eneris Olterra
Foerde: German naval auxiliaries of WW2, the majority converted merchant ships, and Sperrbrecher (blockade runners).
Many are camouflage painted and the overall standard has been assessed as ‘Hansa plus’.
Fuchs: modern German merchantmen, FU 15 is the Anita, 1952; most recent is the tug Oceanic, 1968 (FU 27).
Galerie Maritim S: a small series of early German merchantmen produced especially for the shop of the same name.
GEM: new in 1995 with their first release being the Cutty Sark, 1870; second model is the Thermopylae, another tea
clipper, followed by the Sagres, a Portugese training ship dating from 1961. Currently listed are 8 German vessels with the
American Thomas S. Lawson (1902) due next.
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Granat: a fairly random selection, probably ships of particular interest to the manufacturer; GB collectors might like the
1983 tug Maersk Cutter and OCL’s container ship Encounter Bay; the latter has been released in two versions with
different funnels.
Herpa Europa
HF: mainly Japanese, Italian and American submarines of WW2.
Hydra: Baltic coastal ferries and new in 1997/98 British ferries Halladale (1950), Shepperton Ferry (1935) and
Twickenham Ferry (1935). This range is believed to be out of production.
Intug: modern Belgian tugs.
Iskra: mainly resin cast models of modern USN amphibious warfare types, ships and aircraft, also 1987 Dutch oil
platforms Smit Semi 1 and 2, quality medium but readily available.
JB: 1930s and 40s German patrol craft.
JK: Japanese merchantmen circa early 1940s.
Klabauterman: Danish ferry Djursland and a couple of German liners, all from the 1950s; recent releases have been
modern Swedish and Finnish merchants and ferries with P & O’s St Clair (ex Peter Pan) available in three versions/colour
schemes showing the ship’s appearance in 1975, 1980 and 1987. For British enthusiasts Kla 013 is the 1997 ferry Stena
Explorer (now listed as Stena HSS 1), Kla 16 is the Pride of Balbao and 26/26a the European Highway. Their X series
covers modern French warships, e.g. Floreal and Georges Leygues with the battleship Jean Bart, circa 1949 listed as X 4
and CVN Charles De Gaulle, which is now available, as X 5.
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Klabauterman Georges Leygues
KM: various Kriegsmarine seagoing torpedo boats, minesweepers and the auxiliary Togo as a supply ship, raider (re-
named Coronel) and radar ship; also the raider Pinguin.
Kreis: inexpensive range of harbour accessories, mainly buoys as used in German harbours and waterways during different
eras; available.
Laiva: a new range specialising in polar exploration vessels, namely (to date) Fram, Groenland and Gauss.
LH: a small range of merchantmen available either as kits or assembled and painted; GB ships produced are the coastal
freighter Cornish Trader (1920) and the Britannia dating from 1840.
MaRu: as the name implies, primarily Japanese merchant ships from WW2, but also British and German types; smaller
models are metal, others are resin.
MK: a minute range of just a dozen modern merchant ships (none British), plus a single ‘special’ model 1960 paddle
steamer Kaiser Wilhelm; quality excellent.
Mowe: new in 1994; first model is the German tug/tender Retter (Norddeutschen Lloyd, Bremen 1885), second/third two
incarnations of the German 1902 freighter Andree Rickmers.
Nautik: a new series devoted mainly to modern tugs and harbour craft, first four releases are all German vessels.
Navalis Moguntia: Catalogue number GG44 is a superb model of Finnish icebreaker Fennica (1993); later models are
modern Finnish ferries such as the Mariella, 1996
Nordica: 1989 Norwegian ferry Konprinz Harald in either Color or Jahre Line colours, Silja Line ferries Svea (1985) and
Wellam (1986) with more of the same planned.
Nord-Ostsee: (also known as Nordsee-Ostsee Kanal or NOK) small eastern bloc merchant ships to be seen in the Kiel
Canal; reportedly some of the vessels also find their way to GB east coast ports.
Omega: minor warships spanning the period 1910 to 1945, with the following British vessels – Grey Goose, LCT4,
MGB75, MTB205, destroyer HMS Whitehall (all WW2); also British tugs HS 15 type (1917), Manchester (1920, ex HS
15), Sturdy (1912) and Joffre (1916 with the Lawson Steam Tugboat Co. Ltd & as in 1949 owned by Batey Tugs Ltd);
believed to be available.
Optatus: mostly French and British ironclads; also Japanese destroyers from WW2. British ships are HMS Warrior (1861),
HMS Ocean (1865), HMS Royal Oak (1863), HMS Shannon (1887), SS Great Britain (1845) and the Britannic both as a
liner (1874) and a transport (1899). Some recent specials, to Neptun standard, are the IJN carriers Taiho and Katsuragi. In
1999 Optatus, in parallel with Argos, released USS Truxton and are intending to cover at least 20 more modern USN ships.
All four Virginia class CGNs are available. Also listed at one stage were the cruisers Texas, South Carolina, Belknap,
Bainbridge and Little Rock, all of which have been produced in the past by the likes of Trident Alpha, Delphin and Hansa
but are increasingly difficult to find and will not be the quality of these later releases.
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Optatus re-issue of Sextant Oriana
Padermodelle: Various OSVs and icebreakers, also 1986 Boeing jetfoil in the livery of different owners and America’s
Cup yachts including Camper & Nicholson’s Endeavour (1989).
Pharos: a range of German and Danish light ships and lighthouses plus a model of the Needles, both rocks and lighthouse;
available.
Pontos: German ships Lagune (out of production) and Antuco (not yet released); nothing more known.
Poseidon: a medium size range, unfortunately out of production, but which did include several British merchant ships;
quality not known:
Antenor 1924 Blue Funnel liner Franconia 1937 Cunard liner (white hull)
Glenberg 1936 Glen Line freighter Carinthia 1938 Cunard liner (black hull)
Port Fairy 1937 Port Line freighter Denbighshire 1939 Glen Line freighter
Quadrant: Resin models made in France; very detailed, well painted. Initially French warships, mainly destroyers, from
the period 1955 to date; nearly 40 listed but only 13 released to date and all variations of the T47. The destroyers seem to
have been abandoned in favour of a few larger vessels e.g. USS Franklin D Roosevelt (1960s appearance) and TCD
Foudre, the former complete with a full deck load of aircraft and vehicles. Also produced USS Lafayette (1942), USS
Shangri-La (CVA 38), USS Newport News (CA 148), the CVN Charles de Gaulle and 38 various post-war USN
submarines.
Quadrant Foudre
RA: a mixture that includes British ferry Forde (1928) and a Russian monitor from 1865, also Swedish 19th century
monitors. About a dozen models are currently catalogued, including a ‘Gibel Tarik’ listed as a British ferry circa 1919.
Red Tape: French ships of the line 1790 – 1810 period; latest is #3 Redoutable, 1805.
Remo: U boat bunkers – Elbe II at Hamburg, also Trondheim, Lorient, Kiel and La Rochelle.
RFR: modern merchants – Reefers, Ferries and RO-Ros; including the 1985 British OSV Cam Guardian and the St Helena
(1990), a small freighter/passenger ship which operates between the UK and the island St. Helena, via Tenerife and
Ascension; also to be released shortly a series of British ferries – Free Enterprise VI, 1985 (RFR6), Pride of Sandwich,
1989 (RFR6A), Viking Venturer, 1974 (RFR7), Viking Valiant, 1986 (RFR7A), Pride of Le Havre, 1989 (RFR7B) and
Pride of Cherbourg 1989 (RFR7C).
Rostocker Schiffsminiaturen: a newish series from the former DDR; to date some 20 sailing vessels from the Herzogin
Cecilie (1902) to the Greif (ex Wilhelm Pieck) (1991), also some modern merchants to a very high standard.
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Sailing Maritime: sailing ships, for example – Sea Cloud (1982), Sovereign of the Sea (1852) and Padua (1926).
Schiff & Schiene: modern Swedish ferries, for example Frans Suell and Diana II (both 1992).
Sedina: various German merchant ships dating from the Siegfried (1904) to the Marienburg (1944); also the latter in
Russian hands circa 1948 as the Lensowjet; available.
Seestern: catalogue no. SEE 14 is the royal yacht Victoria & Albert in 1901; available, but nothing else known.
Sirene: highly priced, extremely limited availability series of resin models produced in Belgium – modern warships and
auxiliaries, icebreakers and more recently merchantmen (nothing British); quality excellent.
Sirene Durance
Smaers: small range of resin merchant-ship models, including at least one British – Harbledown 1933 owned by J & C
Harrison.
Stauffenberg: a small range of models normally only available at collectors meetings in Germany; solitary examples seen
are the old protected cruiser HMS Imperieuse and the 1995 release HMS Alexandra (1887). SM20 is the armoured cruiser
Rurik.
UVM: various modern Norwegian and Swedish merchantmen including at one point Fred Olsen’s Black Prince (1992
appearance).
Vagel Grip: mainly East German merchant ships; 32 catalogued and seemingly all available. A typical release is the 1994
ferry Neustrelitz, a former East german vessel.
Vindebona: a range of 27 modern European merchant ships; just one British ship – 1967 bulk freighter Pacific Bridge.
Originally only available at meetings in Germany, and very probably only those local to the producer. Now being issued
by Optatus including the Pacific Bridge.
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Klabautermann Charles de Gaulle
65
CHAPTER 4 OTHER OVERSEAS MANUFACTURERS
INTRODUCTION
Although the bulk of overseas model manufacturing occurs on the continent, there are a few producers further afield.
Having established this division, several firms in this chapter are clearly European, but have been included because, like
most of the other distant overseas manufacturers, the models are intended for a wargaming/modelling rather than collecting
market. A brief history of the hobby in the USA follows, based on information provided by Paul Jacobs.
Waterline 1/1200 model production in the USA probably commenced in the early 1940s when various ‘tool and die’
companies started to manufacture Naval Recognition Models. The best known of these companies were Comet, South
Salem, Bessarabis and Framburg. Comet issued a large line although many of their early models were quite crude. For
example their first ‘Nachi’ was poorly detailed and incorrectly scaled but interestingly did show the cruiser in her 1932
configuration; their later version was much improved and survives today as a Superior model. Comet’s models varied
widely in quality with some being obvious copies of Wikings or Tremos. Following Comet’s take-over of South Salem
some of the former’s models were issued with the South Salem name on their boxes. South Salem or Bessarabis, or
possibly both, made a number of USN auxiliaries; these are popular with collectors but are now virtually impossible to
find. Known examples are Pyro, Holland, Medusa and Henderson with the latter at least being copied by Superior. Comet
continued production for both official and domestic customers until about 1961, although the name Authenticast was used
for the last few years. Model boxes sometimes had both names and were also very colourful with a printed picture of the
ship modelled within. When production ceased all remaining stock was offered up for sale with a lengthy list dominated
by 1/500s but also including the following:
• 1942 Japanese Merchant Fleet, 1 complete set representing all merchant ships of Japan
• 1-1200 waterline, 50 ships all different, in 2 cases - $500
• 1959 Russian ships and satellites (hand made)
• 1-1200 waterline, 35 ships, all different - $350
Around 1963/64 a group of collectors acquired the Comet-Authenticast and Framburg moulds and launched Superior with
an ambitious programme of re-worked originals and brand new models. Many of the models were cleared aimed at
collectors with many esoteric types such as Japanese minelayers. In the 1970s Superior were taken over by Alnavco and
the emphasis of the models changed to wargaming.
Returning to Framburg, their models were of uniform quality, very accurately scaled and of a very hard metal akin to
Triangs. Paint finish was unimpressive. Production probably ceased in the mid-1950s although unlike Comet no post-war
ships were modelled. Ship collecting in the USA today is mainly for wargaming and 1/2400 has become the preferred
scale with a wide variety of excellent models available. Thus domestic production of 1/1200s is in decline although at the
time of writing Superior, as described below, are still in production.
GRIFO (ITALY)
White metal kits (not many parts) of WW2 warships, which apart from a few indifferent submarines, are all Italian. The
models are 1/1200 scale and to a wargaming standard but, when available, were priced accordingly. Best of the range are
Italian heavy and light cruisers; also produced were destroyers, sea-going torpedo boats and a single battleship, the Vittorio
Veneto. Production seems to have long since ceased.
Grifo Trento
KIWI (NEW ZEALAND)
A large range of British Empire/Commonwealth merchant ships and warships from the 20th century. 1988 prices were from
£12.50 to £25 including air mail postage. The models are cast in polyester resin and to quote the catalogue ‘ it is often
difficult to get the plastic to run into the intricate parts of the mould’ – this would perhaps account for the quality of the
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models as those which have been seen in the UK to date are singularly unimpressive and poor value. Kiwi need to invest in
a vacuum chamber. In recent years Kiwi seem to have faded away and their models rarely if ever emerge at swapmeets.
KONISHI (JAPAN)
The current Konishi catalogue lists over 70 models including WW2 IJN warships, submarines & aircraft, passenger ships
from the period 1898 to 1991, modern merchants and Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) destroyers. It is
understood that a commemorative Battle of Tsushima set is also being produced, initially for display, but thereafter as retail
items. The IJN selection covers all five classes of battleship – Yamato, Mutsu, Kongo, Fuso (listed but possible not yet
released) with the Ise class shown both before and after conversion to battleship/carrier; eight aircraft carriers – Shokaku,
Zuikaku (same class), Hiryu, Soryu, Shinano, Junyo, Kaiyo and Akagi. Mutsu and Yamato both set records for main gun
calibre on completion with, respectively, the first 16” (in 1920) and the first full outfit of 18”, in three triple turrets (1940).
Shinano was converted during construction from a Yamato class battleship and was one of only two Japanese carriers, the
other being the Taiho, to have an armoured flight deck. Earmarked for future release is the fleet carrier Kaga.
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MERCURY (ITALY)
Die-cast ‘Triang’ style range composed mainly of post-war Italian liners and a solitary warship, the 1930s light cruiser
Montecuccoli; now only available second-hand (models are 1/1200). The full story of Mercury including details of each
model is documented in a 1994 booklet written by Michele Morciano.
Mercury Fulvia
MINISHIP (SPAIN)
Some Spanish warships and merchantmen produced by a firm called Anguplas in 1/1200; in the style of Triang but of
inferior quality; also produced essentially Triang harbour parts; only now available on the second hand market.
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Great Lakes Models
Great Lakes models have (had?) a small series of 1/1200 models – each available hand painted or in a decorative gold
finish including Edmund Fitzgerald, Milwaukee Clipper, 600’ Bulk Freighter, a Diesel Tug and a Steam Tug
Motion Technologies had a series of ornamental models (seemingly now produced now by Great Lakes Models). The
original models were cast in pewter or bronze, some were hand painted, others were given an antique finish.
No longer available are Louis Girard Models (aka Chicago Models, aka Paperweight Models); presumably these are now
quite collectable.
450’ Great Lakes Bulk Freighter Great Lakes Crane Ship – 2 Cranes
550’ Great Lakes Bulk Freighter Edmund Fitzgerald
600’ Great Lakes Bulk Freighter – 2 Deck Fwd Cabins John Ericsson – Whaleback Bulk Freighter
600’ Great Lakes Bulk Freighter – 3 Deck Fwd Cabins Milwaukee Clipper – Great Lakes Passenger
600’ Great Lakes Self-Unloader – 2 Deck Fwd Cabins Roger Blough = Great Lakes Modern Freighter
600’ Great Lakes Self-Unloader – 3 Deck Fwd Cabins South American – Great Lakes Passenger Cruise Ship
Amoco Great Lakes Tanker Diesel Tug
City of Grand Rapids Excursion and Freight Steamer Steam Tug
City of Milwaukee - Cross Lake R.R. Car ferry Viking – Great Lakes Cross-Lake R.R. Car ferry
Coast Guard Icebreaker
Metal Miniatures
Basically wargamers models covering most major navies of the 20th century; indifferent and inconsistent quality, and
difficult to obtain (no credit card payment). Main interest is that some of the range are copies of early Comet and
Framburg models. What became of Metal Miniatures?
Midway Models
A small range of WW2 USN auxiliaries and submarines cast in resin; production is believed to have ceased although the
masters may have been passed to Clydeside.
Pyro
A small number of plastic kits, including some Eagle re-issues; see Chapter 5 for full details.
Saratoga Model Shipyard
A now well established manufacturer whose first model was the 1931 tug Magaud, a French naval type which also saw
service in the British, German and Italian Navies during WW2 – a utility vessel if ever there was. The model is nicely cast
in resin, fully painted with fine wire mast and davits. The range is now up to #37 (USS Chaumont, AP 5) and is just about
equally divided between American and French vessels. Some examples illustrating the scope of SMS are USS Nitro
(AE2, as in 1938), FNS Chateaurenault (1902 cruiser) and USS New York (CA2, 1898). The range is available via
Wiedling whose website (see Annex A) has the latest information.
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Shangri-La Ironworks Italian Project 770 Pocket Battleship with a US K class sub
Scherbak
These are 1/1250 resin models of contemporary cruise ships available fully painted and in display cases. Of interest to
British collectors would be Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria (seen below in company with CM-KR’s QE2),
plus P&O’s Ventura.
.
Scherbak & CM-KR cruise liners
South Salem Copies
The best way to describe this make is to quote the manufacturers own words ‘ Below is the list of 1/1200 Scale Resin
Waterline Ship Models I make. I got started when a friend showed me his boxed set of South Salem merchant ship
models. I found that these models were very difficult to find (never mind the price for originals) so he let me copy them to
make resin models for my own collection. I decided to offer those that were not re-made by Comet or Superior to anyone
else who might want a copy. I tell people that these aren’t the best ship models I can make, but are the best copies of the
original South Salem models I can make.
Number 1 Cruiser USS Olympia. This model of Admiral Dewey’s Flagship at Manila Bay is a true 1/1200 scale. It is
fully assembled, painted white, buff, wood, and gray as the ship is now displayed in Philadelphia, and mounted on a base.
Overall gray “Manila Bay” versions available by special order.
Resin Reproductions of Rare WWII ID Models NOTE: prices are given as “Finished/Raw castings”. Finished models
have wire masts similar to WW II ID models and have been cleaned up, primed, sanded, painted gray and are mounted on
a blue plastic base as per the photo. “Raw Castings” are just that—A complete set of castings, with minimal cleanup, no
wire masts, and no base. Prices vary because in some cases it takes three pourings to make a full set of parts.
Number 2 “Modern Freighter-Split Bridge”. This is a model of the standard British and Canadian-built “Fort” and “Park”
type freighter. Unique to 1200 Models.
Number 3 “Passenger, New (2 Stacks)”. Based on the rare South Salem ID Model #1, this ship has been identified as the
famous Japanese liner “Asama Maru.”
Number 4 Cruiser USS Portland, CA-33. An exact reproduction of the South Salem ID model, this historic cruiser is not
available from any other source in 1/1200 scale.
Number 5 “Passenger, New (1 Stack”)” Based on South Salem ID Model #2, this ship represents the Japanese Passenger
ship Argentina Maru launched in 1939 or her sister Brazil Maru. This ship is not available from any other source.
Number 6 “Passenger, Old” This model, based on South Salem #3, has not yet been positively identified, but may
represent a smaller English liner. This model is not available from any other source.
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Number 7 “Standard Freighter, Old” Developed from South Salem #6, this model is an American tramp steamer of the
“Lake” type.
Number 8 “Combination Passenger/Cargo, New” Based on South Salem #11, now identified as Goyo Maru.
Number 9 “Whaler” The South Salem Merchant ID model #16 represented the prewar whaler Nisshin Maru #2.
Number 10 “Passenger, Coastal” This small passenger steamer is the well-known Peking Maru.
Number 11 “Engine Aft Cargo Ship”(S.S. #9) Reproduction of South Salem ID model of the Nagisan Maru.
Number 13 “Tanker, Old” Another South Salem ID model (#13) identified as San Diego Maru.
Number 14 “Trawler” South Salem’s smallest model (#15), this little jewel is the ubiquitous Japanese trawler.
Number 15 USS Medusa, AR-1. This model is based on the extremely rare Bessarabis ID model of the Medusa, probably
as she was about 1939. Fore and aft masts/booms on finished model are based on photos of Medusa, not the model.
Number 16 “Ols Three-Island Freighter”. Originally thought to be “Biyo Maru” but now believed to represent the British
Standard “A” or “B Type” freighter.
Models to Come: CVE-1 USS Long Island, CV-1 Langley (the “Covered Wagon” with open hangar deck), “Tanker,
Modern” Based on South Salem #12, now identified as Teiyo Maru and “Combination Passenger/Cargo, Old” (S.S. #10),
the Kashima Maru.
Superior
Perhaps the original wargamers series encompassing all the major navies of WW2 and to a very limited extent the Royal
and Imperial German Navies of WW1; produced in a chunky 1/1200 originally assembled and grey painted but now as
kits. Address of the manufacturer and other suppliers are given in Annex A.
71
USA Model HMS Lion
72
CHAPTER 5 PLASTIC KITS
INTRODUCTION
Although primarily a guide to cast metal or resin ships, the plastic construction kit has an important place in the history of
the hobby, if only because many collectors started with this sort of model. In the early days 1/600 was the most common
scale with Airfix the most likely source. The huge variety of 1/700s, mainly from Japan, gave a boost to plastic ship
modelling, although as with 1/600s space for storage of the finished item is often at a premium. Thus for building fleets,
either for display or perhaps wargaming, the smaller 1/1200 or so-called ‘international recognition’ scale, has no equal. As
regards kits, the scale was first addressed by Eagle and as befits this founding company they have their own section in this
chapter. Eagle were complemented by a few releases from the American firm Pyro who eventually bought the Eagle
moulds and released 8 of the models under their own name. Pyro seem to have been taken over by Lifelike, who continued
to produce the various original models but, as far as is known, never re-issued any of the Eagles. The second section of
this chapter, imaginatively entitled ‘Other Makes’ encompasses Pyro/Lifelike, Airfix, Heller, Nichimo, Bachmann and
Casadio, the latter’s masters having been used from time to time by Almark, Revell, ESCI, Modelpower and MPC.
Recent developments have included several new liners from Revell and the impressive Hobbyboss series of USN models.
EAGLE
Produced in the early to mid-1960s, Eagle were 1/1200 scale plastic kits and although designed as waterline models, lower
hull sections were provided giving many possibilities for dry dock dioramas. The models were marketed in a number of
‘Battle Series’, each dealing with a particular naval battle of WW2; thus Series 1 covered the Battle of the River Plate and
comprised models of the German pocket battleship Graf Spee and the cruiser Exeter, Ajax and Achilles. These last two
were both light cruisers of the Leander class and Eagle in fact provided the same kit in two different boxes, with different
sets of instructions. This was quite common with the net result that Eagle succeeded in issuing 42 kits from a total of only
30 moulds. Some of the smaller kits were also sold several to a box. Eagle adopted the approach, albeit only very
occasionally, of providing extra parts to enable a particular kit to be converted to other similar ships – an example of this is
the H class destroyer which included the additional parts to make F and I class ships. Some of the model masters were also
re-worked with improved detail, one example of this being the King George V class battleship.
Series 4, which was released in about 1963, was the first example of multiple kits being provided in a single box and
comprised 5 releases associated with the Battle of the Atlantic. This series was also the first example of a kit being listed
for release but never actually issued – in this case the escort carrier HMS Campania. German vessels in the series consisted
of five U-boats – Types XXI, Ixc, IX, VII and II – in a single box, and the submarine depot ship Saar and tender (ex-
minesweeper) Acheron, again in a single box. Allied participants were the Altmark/Nordmark masquerading as a British
oil tanker, which in fact the latter did become in 1945 when she transferred to the white ensign as HMS Bulawayo, and two
boxes containing HMS Balfour (Captain class DE) plus HMS Allington Castle (corvette), and HMS Peacock (Black Swan
class sloop) plus HMS Lilac (Tree class trawler). Incidentally the Bulawayo survived until 1956 and was one of the few
fleet replenishment ships to be operated by the RN rather than the RFA.
73
The next series, number 5, was the most ambitious so far, and addressed the sinking of the German battleship Bismarck in
1941. The series was listed to include eventually a total of 15 ships, two German and the remainder British although
ultimately only seven were issued. Both German ships, namely the Bismarck and the heavy cruiser Prinz Eugen were
produced, as were HMSs Victorious (aircraft carrier), Prince of Wales and King George V (battleships – same kit) and
Dorsetshire and Norfolk (County class heavy cruiser – same kit). Listed but not released were HMSs Ark Royal, battleship
Rodney, battlecruiser Hood, the cruiser Suffolk (which incorrectly would probably have employed the existing County
class kit) and finally four Tribal class which would have been repeats of the Series 2 kit. The Polish manned N class
destroyer Poirun which took part in the actual battle was omitted. In the end it was necessary to wait until the mid-1970s
to complete the Bismarck episode when Airfix filled most of the gaps and HMS Nelson was available from ‘Superior’ (see
Chapter 4).
Series 6 which was planned to cover the sinking of the Scharnhorst must have been researched to represent the scene of the
battle on 27 December 1943, because the German battlecruiser and her escorting destroyers were nowhere to be seen. In
fact the only release was HMS Duke of York and this was a simple re-packaging of the King George V class battleship
from the Bismarck set. Had it been completed Series 6 would have provided both Belfast and Sheffield class cruisers and
S class ‘war emergency’ destroyers. At the time these were major omissions from the fleets of most collectors and would
have been more than welcome. Series 7 was a bit of a ‘catch-all’ concentrating on German ships associated with
commerce raiding, namely Tirpitz, Hipper, Nordmark, Admiral Scheer and Lutzow. The first three of these were
duplicates of earlier kits (Bismarck, Prinz Eugen and Altmark respectively) although some examples appeared different in
that the moulds were beginning to show signs of wear by this time. The two pocket battleships, however, were completely
new kits and each featured a unique bridge arrangement, different again from the Series 1 Graf Spee. Series 7 was called
‘Fighting Merchantmen’.
Series 8 was entitled ‘the Battle of Matapan’ and for the first time was to include ships other than British and German. The
Italian ships listed, namely the battleship Vittorio Veneto and heavy cruisers Zara, Fiume and Pola, which were just part of
the force at sea when the battle took place, were sadly never produced and British Empire ships were also few in number,
comprising HMSs Valiant (same kit as Warspite), Formidable (same kit as Victorious) and the light cruisers HMS Orion
and HMAS Perth. For these two the original Ajax/Achilles kit was resurrected and whereas this was acceptable for the
Orion, the Australian ship, although a derivative of the Leander class, had a markedly different appearance – two funnels
instead of one. Listed but not produced were the battleships Barham and Warspite, and the cruisers Ajax and Suffolk. Had
they been released these models would most likely have been re-boxed versions of earlier kits although the three old
battleships, in spite of being from the same class, were all different, and significantly so, by WW2. Series 8 was the final
battle series issued by Eagle and thereafter just one kit was produced, the German battlecruiser Gneisenau. This was
released in a plastic bag and marketed under the name ‘Eaglewall Tabletop Navy’.
Series 1 Battle of the River Plate set of ( HMS Balfour escort destroyer
Admiral Graf Spee pocket battleship 2( HMS Allington Castle corvette
HMS Exeter heavy cruiser Series 5 Sinking of the Bismarck
HMS Ajax light cruiser Bismarck battleship
HMS Achilles light cruiser Prinz Eugen heavy cruiser
Series 2 Capture of the Altmark HMS Dorsetshire heavy cruiser
HMS Cossack destroyer HMS Norfolk heavy cruiser
Altmark tanker HMS King George V battleship
Series 3 Battle of Narvik Fjord HMS Prince of Wales battleship
HMS Warspite battleship HMS Victorious aircraft carrier
H class RN destroyer Series 6 Sinking of the Scharnhorst
HMS Hardy destroyer leader HMS Duke of York battleship
HMS Kimberly destroyer Series 7 Fighting Merchantmen
Von Roeder class destroyer Admiral Scheer pocket battleship
Maass class destroyer Lutzow pocket battleship
Series 4 Battle of the Atlantic Nordmark tanker
( U2529 Type XXI Admiral Hipper heavy cruiser
( U1231 Type Ixc Tirpitz battleship
set of 5 U38 Type IX Series 8 The Battle of Cape Matapan
(
( U27 Type VII HMS Valiant battleship
( U59 Type II HMS Formidable aircraft carrier
set of ( Saar sub depot ship HMS Orion light cruiser
2( Acheron submarine tender HMAS Perth light cruiser*
Oil Tanker British Eaglewall Tabletop Navy
set of ( HMS Lilac trawler Gneisenau battlecruiser
2( HMS Peacock sloop *model actually RN Leander
What can be said in summary of the Eagle range? They were directed at the schoolboy end of the market and in their time
were virtually the only small scale waterline models of WW2 warships readily available in the UK. Typical prices were
74
1/11 (about 10p) and 2/11 (about 15p) and at the time they were much more affordable than the relatively expensive
Triangs. Some of the kits were not overly accurate in detail but then there was nothing like the volume of published
reference information that we take for granted today. Perhaps Eagle’s finest hour was the RN H class destroyer and the
Illustrious class fleet carrier; one other point that must be made is that as plastic 1/1200 (or 1/1250) scale kits, the scope of
the range has never been equalled, nor is likely to be. All Eagle releases are catalogued below.
OTHER MAKES
Pyro/Lifelike
Pyro issued a variety of models with different ships names but in the final analysis only four different kits of WW2 vessels
were produced – IJNSs Yamato and Shokaku, USSs Essex and South Dakota/North Carolina. The Essex class carrier was
by far the best of these; Yamato had a triple 6.1” turret to starboard and multiple AA guns to port, an unlikely
configuration (half way through her refit perhaps); the Shokaku, well at least she looked Japanese and was quite sought
after at the time; the American battleship possessed the funnel arrangement of the North Carolina class and the length of
the South Dakotas. Nevertheless the models were acceptable to the wargaming community, and could also provide the
basis of modelling and conversion projects. The following table lists the models concerned by ship name, with the original
Pyro and subsequent Lifelike catalogue numbers; the former were issued in plastic bags and the latter in boxes. It is not
known whether Lifelike covered all the original named Pyros.
75
Casadio/ USS Enterprise aircraft carrier Bismarck German battleship
Revell USS Yorktown aircraft carrier Tirpitz German battleship
USS Hornet aircraft carrier Scharnhorst German battlecruiser
USS Missouri battleship Gneisenau German battlecruiser
USS Iowa battleship HMS King George V battleship
USS Wisconsin battleship HMS Prince of Wales battleship
USS New Jersey battleship HMS Duke of York battleship
IJNS Yamato battleship Littorio Italian battleship
IJNS Musashi battleship Impero Italian battleship
IJNS Shinano aircraft carrier Vittorio Veneto Italian battleship
Roma Italian battleship
Revell Titanic liner (rel 1999)
Aida 1996 cruise liner
Queen Elizabeth II liner (rel 2003) Queen Mary liner (rel 2008)
Heller et al
There is also a Chinese made plastic kit of the CVN USS Enterprise in 1/1200 scale. Reportedly with a little work it can be
as good as any of the Trident Alpha carriers, and much better than the TA version (model T1) which is underscale. As of
early 1999, the kit is available through the Floating Drydock.
76
To complete this brief 1/1200 plastic model survey, mention must also be made of the modern French warships Jeanne
d’Arc, Colbert and Suffren (nearly 1/1200) from Heller, USS Enterprise (CVAN) from Nichimo in their 30cm series, and
finally the US-produced ‘Bachmann Miniship’ USS Arizona which was a clip together battleship model that included a
detachable lower hull section, ideal for dry dock dioramas. The Heller models were available until fairly recently and it
may still be possible to find the Enterprise on the back shelves of a model shop; Nichimo also produced several models of
Nimitz class CVNs but these are about 1/1100 scale & unlike the Suffren the difference is very noticeable.
Series #1 Series #2
Destroyer Barry Heavy Cruiser Canberra
Battleship Washington Attack Cargo Rankin
Missile Submarine Patrick Henry Attack Transport Navarro
Series #3 Series #4
Destroyer Sullivans Frigate Dewey
Aircraft Carrier Hornet Light Cruiser Galveston
Destroyer Escort Wm. T. Powell Tank Landing Ship Eddy County
Apparently they were also sold as mixed TASK FORCE kits too: US Navy Task Force “A” model kit (#6300) includes 6
ships: USS Canberra, USS Navarro, USS Washington, USS Eddy County, USS Barry and USS Rankin.
Hobby Boss
An impressive new series of 1/1250 models which may be built waterline or full hull. Models released at the time of
writing are listed below.
Scratch Building
Many people complete their collections, or indeed base their entire collections, using scratch built models and in the
introduction several books covering this were mentioned. With enthusiasm and skill, plus a variety of objects from the
77
spares box just about anything is possible. All to be done here is illustrate few examples; the rig uses a tower by Hansa
and a BP decal from a model car shop, the Kuznetzov hull is from a Revell kit; this plus the completely scratchbuilt RFA
Resource prove the 1st law of scratchbuilding – spend hours building something and a model will be issued commercially.
Scratchbuilt Kuznetzov
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ANNEX A: USEFUL ADDRESSES
UK:
Len Jordan: Sunny Home, Whitchurch Hill, Pangbourne, Berks RG8 7PG
Clydeside: 7, Dalbeth Road, Glasgow G32 8PY
Cruise Line Models 16, Winston Rd, Barry CF62 9SW ( www.cruiselinemodels.com )
Dreadnought Models: 26, Gilkicker Rd, Gosport, Hants
(dealer, handles Skytrex, Superior, Ensign, Clydeside, Carat; also secondhand stocks)
Ensign: Robinson Imports, Agincourt, 15 Orchardville, Bangor, County Down BT19
(last known address - believe gone!) 1LP, Northern Ireland.
Mountford Metal Miniatures: 14 Cherry Tree Drive, Duckmanton, Chesterfield S44 5JL
Noble Miniatures UK: 2 Canterbury Close, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG22 4PW
(UK dealer for CAP AERO/Figurehead) ([email protected])
Skytrex: Unit 3, Canal Bank, Loughborough, Leics LE11 0HF
Solent Mini Ships: 2 Glencarron Way, Bassett, Southampton SO16 7EF
(assembly/painting service for LJ models)
Martin Brown: 5 Highworth Close, High Wycombe, Bucks HP13 7PJ (www.waterline-
ships.co.uk)
(dealer, handles MBM, SMS, Mountfield, Hai (kits & assembled), ‘new’ Triang (can help with all Triang – models &
info)
Antics 49 High Street, Stroud, Gloucs GL5 1AN
(suppliers of Navis/Neptun/Albatros) (www.shipmodels.co.uk)
Wirral Miniature Ships: 24 Broadland Road, Great Sutton, Ellesmere Port CH66 2JS (0151 3552125)
Overseas:
The Collectors’ Site www.steelnavy.com/1250home With Links everywhere!
Alnavco: Box 9, Belle Haven, Virginia 23306, USA (www.alnavco.com )
(distributor for ‘Superior’)
Erich Breustedt: Inh. Dipl.-Ing. U. Muller, Schilfkampweg 13, 31311 Uetze-Hanigsen,
(dealer) Germany ( www.ships1-1250scale.de )
Collectio Navalis: Goethestr. 78 10623 Berlin Germany (www.collnav.de)
(dealer)
CSC: Postfach 150309, 23525 Travemunde, Germany (www.classic-ship.de)
(manufacturer/also mail order)
Galerie Maritim: Martin Luther Strasse 21, 20459 Hamburg, Germany (www.galerie-
(dealer, new & secondhand) maritim.de) (this site has many useful links)
Hamburger Rundbrief: Hamburger Rundbrief GbR, c/o Bernd Schwarz, Kattunbleiche 6, 22041
(collectors magazine, German language) Hamburg, Germany
Quadrant: Alain Picouet, 31 Avenue Colombo ‘Villa Vega’, 06000 Nice, France
Christian Schmidt: Sauerbruchstrasse 10, 81377 Munich, Germany ( www.christian-
(dealer) schmidt.com )
Sea Vee Models: Sean Pritchard, 41 Route De Moissun, 87200 Saint Junien, France
(www.seaveemodels.com).
Snyder and Short Enterprises: 9175, Kiefer Blvd #224, Sacramento CA 95826, USA
(for warships paint chips)
South Salem Copies: Wayne E. Moyer, 3261 Lantz Rd., Beavercreek, OH 45432, USA
([email protected])
L. Wiedling: Dr Max Strasse 29, 82031 Grunwald, Germany (www.wiedling.de)
(dealer)
Waterline Italia: C/o Francesco de Grenet, Case Franchi, 53010 Ville di Corsano, Siena, Italy
([email protected])
(collectors’ society, with journal ‘Waterline International’)
A-1
Mountford HMS Kent (CA)
A-2
ANNEX B: MODEL LISTINGS
Note: details of most current models are available in manufacturers’ listings and dealers’ catalogues, particularly those
produced by L. Wiedling; this Annex is therefore limited to Len Jordan’s fine models, Triang (of course) plus British ships
from Albatros; many of the latter have been deleted and they must be the definitive source of metal models of British
ships.
Triang
Ocean Liners
M701 RMS Caronia M710 RMS Sylvania
M702 RMS Queen Elizabeth M711 RMS Carinthia
M702S RMS Queen Elizabeth (special clear view display) M712 NS Savannah
M703 RMS Queen Mary Carmania (modified M708)
M703S RMS Queen Mary (special clear view display) Franconia (modified M709)
M704 SS United States M713 SS Antilles
M704S SS United States (special clear view display) M714 SS Flandre
B-2
M705 RMS Aquitania M715 RMS Canberra
M705S RMS Aquitania (special clear view display) M716 MS Port Brisbane
M706 SS Nieuw Amsterdam M717 MS Port Aukland
M707 SS France M718 RMS Amazon
M707S SS France (special clear view display) M719 RMS Arlanza
M708 RMS Saxonia M720 RMS Aragon
M709 RMS Ivernia
Miscellaneous Ships and Vessels
M721 HM Yacht Britannia M732 SS Varicella (oil tanker)
M721H HM Yacht Britannia hospital ship M733 TSS Vikingen (whale factory ship)
M722 SS Isle of Jersey M734 Whale chaser
M723 SS Isle of Guernsey M735 Light Vessel Sunk
M724 SS Isle of Sark M736 Light Vessel Shambles
M726 Pilot Ship M737 Light Vessel Cork
M727 Life Boat M738 Light Vessel Varne
M728 PS Britannia M739 Light Vessel St. Gowan
M729 PS Bristol Queen M740 Barge (for use with M731 Tug) – not produced
M730 PS Cardiff Queen M743 St. Germain (train ferry) – not produced
M731 Tug
RN Warships
Battleship Guided Missile Destroyers
M741 HMS Vanguard M783 HMS Hampshire
M741S HMS Vanguard (special clear view display) M784 HMS Kent
M785 HMS Devonshire
Aircraft Carriers M786 HMS London
M751 HMS Bulwark
M752 HMS Centaur Frigates
M753 HMS Albion M787 HMS Vigilant
-- HMS Albion, commando carrier M788 HMS Venus
M789 HMS Virago
Cruisers M790 HMS Volage
M761 HMS Swiftsure M791 HMS Whitby
M762 HMS Superb M792 HMS Torquay
M793 HMS Blackpool
M794 HMS Tenby
Fleet Escorts Minesweepers
M771 HMS Daring M799 HMS Repton
M772 HMS Diana M800 HMS Dufton
M773 HMS Dainty M801 HMS Ashton
M774 HMS Decoy M802 HMS Calton
M803 HMS Picton
Destroyers M804 HMS Sefton
M779 HMS Alamein M805 HMS Upton
M780 HMS Jutland M806 HMS Wiston
M781 HMAS Anzac
M782 HMAS Tobruk Miscellaneous Ships
M810 HM tug Turmoil
M817 HM submarine A class
M818 HM submarine A class reconstructed
B-3
M844 Lock gates (pair) M884 Statue of Liberty
M846 Lifting bridge, complete M885 Floating Dock
B-4
Albatros (British Ships)
Merchantmen (catalogue numbers prefixed AL); unlike the warships which tend to be maintained in production these are
only produced for a limited period. Check www.albatros-miniaturen.de for the current state of play. N after the catalogue
number signifies that a new version has been released.
B-6
203 Port Montreal 1937 Freighter Port Line
204 Magnetic 1891 Tug
205 City of Bombay 1937 Liner Ellerman
207 Norwave 1965 Ferry North Sea Ferries
208 City of Johannesburg 1947 freighter Ellerman
209 Orontes 1929 Liner Orient Line
209a Orama 1938 Liner Orient Line
209b Orama 1924 Liner Orient Line
210 Devonia 1962 liner British India
221 Kenya 1955 liner British India
221a Kenya Liner Black hull
223 Nevasa 1956 Troop ship British India
223a Nevasa School ship British India
234 Viceroy of India 1929 Liner
239 Empress of India 1931 Liner
240 TS Sarpedon 1923 Ferry
241 Magdalena 1949 Liner
244 Empress of England 1957 Liner Canadian Pacific
244a Empress of Britain 1956 Liner have seen this listed as Carnivale
245 Asturias 1934 Liner Royal Mail Line (two funnels)
245a Alcantara 1948 Liner Royal Mail Line
AL30a Comorin 1939 AMC ALK117 Windsor Castle 1940 troop ship
ALK108 Windsor Castle 1940 troop ship ALK120 Cilicia 1943 AMC
ALK109 Lady Rodney 1941 troop ship ALK121 Carnarvon Castle 1943 AMC
ALK111 Philante 1940 armed yacht ? Arundel Castle 1921 transport
ALK113 Aquitania 1916 hospital ship
B-7
ALK114 Lady Nelson 1940 hospital ship
ALK115 Prince Albert 1941 landing ship ALB12A Euroman 1972 tug
ALK116 Atlantis 1940 hospital ship ALB16A Statesman 1969 tug
B-8
Trident Alpha (American Ships)
All major warship and auxiliary models are listed below with their original T catalogue numbers; * signifies in production
up until the line ceased in 2002, those in italics are believed to be not yet released and certainly not available (at the time of
writing). The date is the year at which the ship is depicted. The classifications given are a combination of those in the Ta
catalogue and from Silverstone (US Warships since 1945) and should allow the ship being modelled clearly to be
identified.
Continues over
B-9
272* Porpoise SS 1938 315* America CVA 1965
273 Tarpon SS 1943 322 Dealey DDE 1958
274* Narwhal SS 1939 323* Krishna AR 1958
275* Dwight D Eisenhower CVA 1982 324 Butte AE 1968
281* Plymouth Rock LSD 1955 325* John F Kennedy CVA 1968
282 Portland LSD 1970 326 Wabash AOR 1971
283 Trenton LPD-14 1980 330 Iowa BB 1986
284* Lofberg Sumner FRAM 1970 331 Bear CG cutter 1983
285 Mississinewa AO 1956 332* Reliance CG cutter 1964
293 Ticonderoga CG-47 1983 335* Constellation CVA 1961
294* Ohio SSBN 1983 336 Canisteo AOR 1969
295* Sample FF1048 1980 346* Cachalot SS 1942
298 Austin LPD-4 1983 347* Salerno Bay CVE 1945
299 Genessee AOG-8 1944 348* Wilkinson DD 1956
300* Carl Vinson CVAN 1982 349* Manitou Patrol boat 1986
301* Sealift Pacific T-AO 1975 351* Willis A Lee DD 1966
303* Halibut SSN 1960 352* Manila Bay CVE 1944
304* San Francisco SSN 1981 359* Active Patrol boat 1995
310* New Jersey BB 1983 360 Oriskany CV 1950
311 Polar Star ice breaker 1976 Z18 YMS II type
312 Mackinaw ice breaker 1945 Z32* LCT5
314 Sylvania AFS 1964 Z50 Lafayette SSBN
(Z18, 32 and 50 are full hull models intended for use with Ta202)
B-10