This highly detailed builders dockyard model is not only one of the finest examples we have seen, but it also has an unbroken provenance directly from the ship's designer for whom this model would have been made.

Joe has had this model in his collection for more than 30 years. He purchased it directly from the family of J. Thompson, the yacht's architect and designer. Interestingly, this original builders dockyard model never left the wall of Thompson's home, even after his passing. It stayed there among other items from his personal collection, sold with his home, moving from owner to owner with the house until Joe purchased the model years ago.

Builders dockyard models can be made cheaply, with few details, or they can be made extravagantly, sparing no expense to make the model as beautiful and well outfitted as the ship itself. This model is an example of the most costly way- a 10 out of 10. Every detail is finely wrought, with outstanding quality of materials including gold, silver and copper plated fittings throughout. Also the width and the depth of the model and case is larger than most half models.

Note the unusual square mirrored portholes and the deck's railing made of tiny chain threaded through the eyes of small silver posts. There are landing ladders fore and aft, each with every detail in place and a full complement of instruments on deck. The bow, in particular, is worth a good look with the ship's anchor attached with a linked chain wrapped around the windlass, the forward deck gun all sitting above a well carved figurehead.

The model is in superb original condition and is mounted in its original and unusual curved fronted glazed ... Read More