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Antique Model Boat Beauty at its Best

2012-05-28 - 11:48 | Uncategorized | No comments

Those with love for sailing and an interest in history can appreciate the beauty of an antique model boat. Boats were initially used to ferry people from one place to another but then they also became a source of moving goods and increased trade. As the size of boats increased and technology improved, boat building companies started creating small models so a buyer could check out the beauty and functionality of the model before ordering for a full size boat. Boat and ship models were also found in the ancient Mesopotamian and Greek civilisations.

Why Buy an Antique Model Boat?
A romantic at heart knows how to appreciate the beauty of the past. Technological advancements have sky rocketed and there is practically no need for a model boat to build a sophisticated boat anymore.  However, building an antique model boat is an art that still catches the imagination of those fond of maritime engineering and sailing. A love for waters ensures that people collect antique model boats and adorn their drawing rooms with beauties of the past.

Blast from the Past

An antique model boat could be easily found in a museum. Thousands of people visit museums to catch a glimpse of their glorious past. Even lack of technology in those times did not deter people to make adventurous voyages into the dangerous seas. Antique model boats are a tribute to the bravery of our ancestors.

Decorative Items
Antique model boats are a rare item and can be used to decorate your house. Anyone with a little interest in ships and the seas can spend hours talking about an antique boat. The rich cultural history of these boats makes them an object of desire.

How to Choose an Antique Model Boat

Antique model boats can be a little expensive. So it is a nice idea to carefully pick one for your home. Several factors go into making a boat model and the craftsmanship of the modeller determines the quality and value of a model boat.

An online buyer gives you the advantage of browsing through a large collection of boats. This helps you decide the right model that you were looking for.

One of the most important points to remember while buying an antique model boat is to ensure that the quality of the boat is of the highest order. You cannot afford to shell out money for a phoney boat with no historical value. An art connoisseur understands the true value of an antique model boat and makes it a point to get into the finer details before placing an order. Moreover, you can also choose to customise your antique model boat in accordance with space requirements as well as the interiors of your house.

Keep these points in mind and you can set out on a journey to find out a beautiful antique model boat. And make sure you buy your vintage model from a reputable online retailer.


How to Record the Speed of Radio Controlled Boat Models

2012-01-17 - 07:41 | Uncategorized | No comments

During the 1898 exhibition at Madison Square Garden, Nikola Tesla had, for the first time, demonstrated the use of radio controls in small boats. Overtly, it seemed that the boat moved according to the vocal instruction shouted out by the audience. However, in reality, Tesla directed the boat using the radio signals. This experiment led Nikola Tesla to obtain the patent for radio control devices in the US on November 8, 1898. At that point of time, radio controlled boat models had not come into existence.

The first radio controlled boat model was built in the early 1950s. In the 1990’s, radio controlled miniatures were manufactured and marketed by incorporating the technology into toys. In 1962, gasoline radio controlled models came into existence, which led to a huge surge in demand for RC models. The International Model Power Boat Association (IMPBA) and also the North American Boat models Association (NAMBA) have specific guidelines for racing radio controlled boat models. This article will discuss the technique of recording the speed of RC model boats in order to ensure that they meet the set guidelines.

Technique of Recording the Speed of Radio Controlled Boat Models

Following is a simple six-step exercise which will help you record the speed of your radio controlled boat models:

  1. Turn on the engine of the boat through the “on/off” button and the remote control.
  2. Make sure that all the functions of the boat are working efficiently, according to the directions given by you.
  3. Turn on the radar gun and check that it is gauging the speed correctly. Test the radar gun and measure the speed on it by pointing it towards any moving object near you. For better usage, read the radar gun manual.
  4. Now place the boat in the water and stand 50 feet away from the boat so that the distance remains the same as the boat crosses you in full speed. Make sure that you can control all the boat functions via a remote from that distance.
  5. Point the radar at the boat while standing still and push the throttle to drive your boat at full speed. Record the speed gauge on the radar gun as it passes you.
  6. To ensure accuracy, you can repeat this exercise two to three times.

There are four ways in which you can make your models run faster. Some of the techniques of doing the same are:

  • Change the propeller with high strength and light quality propellers.
  • Install spoilers for better stability and down force.
  • Attach high-discharge lithium polymer battery for more current.
  • Install a larger battery, which is compatible to your boat engine, for better propulsion.

Furthermore, better air designed RC boat models will add to the speed and reduce air friction while moving at top speed. With Aquacraft and Slingshot models you can satisfy your need for great speed. These two models can move at a high speed because of their sleek design and higher maneuverability.

Model-Ships.co.uk is a reputed company offering a wide range of RC boat models in different style, such as Aquacraft, Sling Shot and Thunder Tiger. For some of the best deals in model boast, you can visit http://www.model-ships.co.uk. The shop displays a number of images of boats. However, the clients claim that the products are much better than the images.


Vintage Model Yacht: What to Expect from an Online Deal

2011-10-18 - 09:34 | Uncategorized | No comments

The first instances of ship and boat modeling are almost as ancient as the concept of ship building. Therefore, crude boat models and replications of larger water vessels have been around since the time water transportation developed. Most of these ancient forms were found concentrated in the Mediterranean countries. However, these were a far cry from what we consider as boat models today. These were mostly rustic and basic in nature. The modern models are manifestations of fine artistry. We also have vintage model yachts and replicas of famous historic vessels, done to perfection.

If you have decided to spend on a vintage model yacht, there are several options to consider. You could choose to scour modeler outlets and studios, for the right choice. Alternatively, you could also consider buying one, online. The online way of shopping makes it easier to evaluate a wider range of options. In case you are considering bulk deals, value deals can also be availed of. Besides, the stuff is delivered right to your doorstep in protective packaging.

Buying Vintage Model Yachts Online—Key Deliverables

The advantages of buying vintage model yachts online are completely subject to the fact that you have been able to land a great choice. Some of the key deliverables you can hope to avail of would include:

  1. When you buy vintage model yachts online, a true assurance of quality would be mandatory. You can ask past customers or refer to testimonials for a fair idea. If you happen to come across an online vendor with an international presence, the models are likely to be of topmost quality.
  2. One of the primary advantages of online shopping is that you are able to access a wide range of options within a short time period. When you choose your yachts from a vendor online, make sure the range provided to you is wide enough. Attempting to choose from within a restricted range can lead to inadequate choices.
  3. When you buy vintage model yachts online, customer service should be top class. You should be offered special treatment right from the time you place the order. All your queries must be addressed immediately. Assistance should be provided through the entire purchase process, until the deal has been completed to satisfaction.  If you sense the lack of hand holding, it is better to look for your choice of products elsewhere.
  4. The shipping policies and delivery procedures must be able to ensure peace of mind. An invoice should be generated the moment you order your yacht. The same should be verified from your end before the order is dispatched. They should also have a tracking mechanism in place. You can use it to chart the course of your package, till it arrives. Also, yacht replicas could be delicate items. Therefore, protective packaging should be used for delivering them.
  5. Vintage model yachts can be expensive. Therefore, you should ideally expect a transparent pricing policy from your online vendor. Hidden costs can ruin the deal completely.

 


Restoration of model ships

2011-09-10 - 07:06 | Uncategorized | No comments

Ship model collection is an activity undertaken with passion and zeal. Model ships are collected by people who love nautical architecture and enjoy an ongoing love affair with maritime history.

Model ships are representations of real ships. Some of these are tiny enough to be held in the palm while others are large enough to carry people. Model ship building is almost as old as the craft of ship building itself. In fact, it has been recorded that many ships were first built as models and the models were then built to the same of full-sized, real ships. Ship models may be made in a variety of materials including wood, metal, plastic and even paper.

People who love to collect model ships and have a valuable collection often find the need to undertake restoration of model ships. This happens even when sufficient care has been taken to protect the ship from the vagaries of the elements and the attack of dust. There are two main difficulties that people encounter when preserving ship models:

  1. Model ships are built in a variety of materials and some materials deteriorate faster
  2. Model ships are generally very fragile and therefore hard to protect.

Restoration of model ships aims to make the model almost as good as new. Restoration of ship models seeks to accomplish a number of objectives. On the one hand, it aims to undo any damage and offer further protection for the model. On the other hand, it also seeks to preserve the historic authenticity and value of the model. Therefore, when it comes to restoration of model ships, it is necessary to choose the service provider with utmost care.

Some of the most important qualities to look out for in a service provider include:

  • Vast experience in restoration of model ships
  • Experience working in places like museums is a plus
  • Dedication and commitment to the job
  • Good awareness and knowledge in maritime history
  • Knowledge of nautical architecture

People who undertake restoration of ship models must have the ability to undertake research in books, documents and the like. This is done to determine the period in which the ship was built and understanding the intentions of the original builder. Without this crucial bit of background information, the restoration work will run into rough weather and the piece will lack authenticity after restoration.

Typically, the restoration of model ships is undertaken in the following manner:

  • The model ship is examined and details are documented
  • An assessment of the model is made to understand its historical value
  • The process for restoration and conservation is planned in advance

Before restoration of model ships is undertaken, the ship is categorized based on the extent of damage. The model is checked for all sorts of damage including structural damage, chemical deterioration, biological deterioration, accumulation of dust or oil and effects of substandard restoration treatments in the past. The actual restoration process is preceded by research work.


Model display Cases

2011-09-10 - 06:48 | Uncategorized | No comments

Whether you are collecting large scale models or matchbox sized models, model display cabinets are a must for every collector. Model display cabinets are not only meant to make models look more attractive; they also fulfill the essential function of protecting the model from the elements, dust, dirt, moisture and sunlight. To achieve this though, it is necessary to choose the display cabinet with care.

The following guide can help you choose the right model display cabinets.

The size and type of the model display cabinets: This is the first consideration for any collector. For instance, doll cases are required for antique dolls. However, the same is not viable in case of car collectibles. Matchbox sized collectible require small display cases while larger models require large cases. Display cases are made from different materials like acrylic, Lucite, glass and Plexiglas, among others. Glass display cases may seem like the perfect case for keeping collectibles. However, glass cases are heavy and quite unwieldy. There is also the added risk of tipping over the display case thereby shattering the case and damaging the collectible inside. In addition to this, display cases may also be categorized according to the collectible inside the case. Some examples are doll display cases and matchbox display cases.

DIY or readymade: Display cases may be bought readymade or they may be built from scratch. Building a display case is the best way of getting the display case of your choice. However, not everyone can build the display case from scratch. This work is best left to the experts. Novices can buy model display case kits. This does not require significant expertise. Instructions are laid out and these may be followed to get the display case up. The easiest option, though, is to buy a readymade display case.

The best display case is one in which the collectible is completely safe from dust, dirt, insects and moisture. The case must also protect the collectible from sunlight while providing a clear view of the collectible inside. The case must be lightweight so that it is easy to access the collectible for regular cleaning. Some people also insert clever lighting inside the display cases so that the collectible is given the best lighting. This adds to the allure of the collectible.

Display cases may be bought from brick and mortar stores that specialize in this kind of merchandise. These may also be bought online from stores that sell collectibles and display cases. Shopping online is perhaps a more convenient mode as this involves no traveling. Also, the number of choices tends to be more and it is easy for a customer to choose the exact size and make from an extensive collection. However, it is necessary to check out the reputation of the seller before buying online.


HMS Endeavour Ship Model

2011-08-17 - 10:34 | Uncategorized | No comments

There is nothing as enchanting as a model ship on the mantel or in the showcase. If displayed properly, even those who are without much nautical interest can be bowled over by a beautifully crafted ship model, particularly if the said ship has an illustrious place in the annals of history, as is the case with the HMS Endeavour Ship model.

The HMS Endeavour Model is built to resemble the HMS Endeavour ship, formerly also known as the ‘Earl of Pembroke’. She was also known as the HMS Bark Endeavour and she underwent a major revamp in 1768. She was initially commanded by Lieutenant James Cook.

The Endeavour was built in 1764 after which the Navy purchased her for a scientific mission on the Pacific. After this, she was renamed as ‘His Majesty’s Bark The Endeavour’ and set sail on largely uncharted waters of the South. In September 1969, she became the very first vessel to reach New Zealand after 127 years. She also became the first vessel to reach the Eastern Coast of Australia. Following her long journey, she underwent extensive repairs in the Dutch East Indies. However, her crew was sworn to secrecy so that they do not divulge details regarding the places they had visited.

Thus, the HMS Endeavour was instrumental in mapping much of the Southern continents. She was also immensely helpful in cataloguing the numerous and variegated wild life in the Australian coast. In the course of her journey, she made significant contributions to navigation, geography, biology and seamanship.

The HMS Endeavour boasts of a superb body design. She sports a flat-bottomed design with three masts. She also has a planked deck and large lifeboats. The model ship is totally handcrafted and made to look just like its real life design with three masts and lifeboats. Lifeboats even have oars! In fact, designers of the model ship take special care to build the ship to exact specifications as the real ship. Even those who do not know much about ships will find something to admire when they see this beautifully crafted vessel. High quality wood is used to make the model, often teak double plank boards are used for the frame. The authentic color of the HMS Endeavour ship models is one of the best ways of identifying high quality workmanship from cheap fakes.

The fully laminated deck is cut to show its intricate design. The decks are made of teak wood and are generally treated with wood varnish so that the deck has the rich, natural look of wood. Reputed makers of model ships pay attention to minute details so that they can craft vessels that are life-like. For this purpose, masts made of real wood are used for the ship model.

If you love collecting model ships, the HMS Endeavour model ship is a great addition to your collection.