A Little About Us
Premier Scale Models is a Corporate Professional Ship Model building company based in London. Successfully delivered over 300 Customised Ship Models to a global clientele spanning 50 countries during the last 17 years. Collaborative working with our clientele and technical staff has enabled Customised Ship Models to be built using a range of ‘Collective Services;’ Scale Ship Models to Desktop Ship Models, 3D Printing, Virtual Reality, Restoration, Rebranding and Refitting, Display Cases & Valuation Services. Our skilled colleagues use a variety of different techniques, modern methods and the latest technology to create that inspirational customised ship model.
Premier Scale Models have recently completed a rather complex order of two model ships, one being the Chacabuco, and the other being the Stinnes Passat, both vessels for Hansa Gateway UG, a German shipping company specialising in overseeing bulk carriers for cargo and freight transportation.
The Chacabuco model was to measure 80 centimetres in length, and was to be complete without any internal lightning or mechanisms. The Stinnes Passat was to be the same length, and also without any moving parts, however, this particular model was also finished with closed decks, steel tubing and a large dismantled crane for further realism.
This model was created for Hansa Gateway UG themselves, and it was a pleasure working with them. They were extremely cordial, and it was an honour to assist them with this project, and provide them with two models of their brilliant vessels.
The models were initially created using state-of-the-art 3D printing techniques, before being meticulously hand-finished to achieve a refined, high-end look. They were made entirely from ABS resin, wood and fibreglass, with selected chrome detailing incorporated to elevate their overall appearance.
3D printing is a highly specialised discipline that relies on a thorough understanding of three core elements:
- the behaviour and compatibility of different materials
- the capabilities and limitations of the printing equipment
- the intended design concept and final visual outcome
Producing work of this nature demands a high level of technical skill. Our 3D-printing specialist oversees two essential phases: preparing and optimising the digital files for production, followed by the careful refinement and finishing of each printed part to ensure a smooth, professional-standard finish.
These custom-built models were produced mainly through advanced 3D-printing methods, supported by fibreglass and acrylic elements and finished with chrome detailing, showcasing a high degree of technical expertise, creativity and precision.
Prior to the start of fabrication, every aspect of the project was thoroughly planned in collaboration with the client. This included confirming the precise scale, design specifications, stylistic direction, payment terms and agreed delivery schedule. Establishing these details at an early stage helped ensure a seamless production process and prevented misunderstandings.
Construction began with the individual hulls, which provide the primary structural foundation of each model. This phase demanded accurate measurement and skilled craftsmanship to faithfully reproduce the proportions of the full-size vessels. Once the hulls were complete, work progressed to the upper sections, including the decks, bridges and, in the case of the Stinnes Passat, the disassembled crane.
The painting stage was carried out with great attention to detail to achieve a flawless, high-end finish. The lower hull of the Chacabuco was painted a deep red, with a navy-blue finish for the majority of the model, providing a stark contrast. Hansa Gateway decals were added for further realism, and individual containers were given colour to brighten the model up. On the stern, ‘Hansa Veracruz’ was emblazoned, above the IMO.
For the Stinnes Passat, the model was given a more subtle paint job, with most of it being either a red wine tint, alongside black and white accents. Hansa Gateway decals were also added, along with the dismantled crane, and the stern bore ‘Hansa Plauen,’ above its own respective IMO.
This project actually started out with the request for four small models of each ship, but after some revision, the client decided they would prefer one large model of each, and so adjustments were swiftly made.
Unfortunately, the Chacabuco sustained a little bit of damage during delivery, but after some repairs by us, it was returned to the client in pristine shape, and they were delighted with the results.
It was an honour to work on these models, and now we eagerly look forward to our other ongoing and upcoming projects!
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