A Little About Us
Premier Ship 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 customise ship model.
We have recently completed a custom build of the magnificent Cigarette Racing Thunder 52; a sleek and powerful luxury day boat with an array of impressive features. These include an aft summer kitchen, a hardtop roof with skylights, seven forward-facing seats, an entertainment lounge, RGB ambient lighting, a carbon fibre hardtop, a brilliantly advanced helm, and even a fantastic audio system, thanks to a partnership with JL Audio Marine.
Our model equivalent attempts to replicate some of the grandeur of this magnificent vessel, just to a much smaller scale! It measures in at 39 inches in length, and is a complete full colour, completely static model. It was built utilising 3D printing technology, with materials including ABS, resin, acrylic and timber.
Cigarette Racing themselves were the client, a reputable and highly distinguished marine racing team based in Florida, USA. Since 1969, they have been producing some of the most innovative and ground-breaking vessels to grace the water. They are notorious for the speed, and their boats have all been handcrafted in America for over 50 years, now.
They continue to operate at the highest possible level in the maritime world, and continue to build some of the best powerboats around the globe.
The model was expertly assembled using a combination of wood, acrylic, and fibreglass, with polished chrome accents enhancing its sophisticated appearance. Measuring 39 inches in length, it showcases exceptional craftsmanship and an impressive level of detail, though it lacks any functional parts or internal mechanisms.
While smaller elements, such as the windscreen, helm controls and chairs were manufactured with CNC technology, the majority of the construction was done by hand to ensure a bespoke finish.
The estimated timeframe for completion was approximately two months. Payments were divided into three stages: an initial 50% deposit, a further 30% instalment as the project reached its final stages, and the remaining 20% upon delivery. Included in the overall cost was a tailored wooden packing case, specifically designed to safeguard the model during transport and guarantee its secure delivery.
The bespoke Thunder 52 model was primarily crafted by hand using timber, fibreglass, acrylic, and chrome detailing, showcasing exceptional artistry and painstaking attention to detail.
Prior to beginning the build, all agreements with the client were thoroughly outlined. These covered dimensions, design features, aesthetic preferences, financial terms, and the project timeline. This proactive approach ensured complete transparency and significantly reduced the likelihood of misunderstandings.
The construction process began with the hull, which serves as the foundation for any ship model. This stage involved precise measurements and careful crafting to meet exacting specifications. Once the hull was finished, focus shifted to the upper deck, where slender wooden planks were meticulously affixed to the vessel’s sides, gradually concealing its internal framework. Structural supports for the hardtop and helm were added next.
Painting came next, with careful attention given to the hull, deck, and finer details. The lower hull was painted a sophisticated gold, featuring a diagonal white stripe and black decals for enhanced authenticity, along with the iconic ‘World Champion’ emblem.
The final stages involved an extensive cleaning and polishing routine. The windscreen was touched up, railings were buffed to a shine, and aerials were straightened and tidied. The finished model was mounted on a bespoke wooden base, creating a polished and professional display to complete the project.
The client was thrilled with the final model, commending its exceptional craftsmanship and the meticulous attention given to even the smallest details. The shipping and delivery process went smoothly, with the model arriving in pristine condition, perfectly prepared for immediate display.
This project was an exciting and fulfilling endeavour, allowing us to replicate a stunning powerboat with remarkable precision. We’re eager to embrace future opportunities to design bespoke models, whether they capture memories of real-world vessels or pay homage to iconic fictional ones. It’s always a privilege to bring people’s visions to life, preserving them in miniature form for years to come!
Commission your own model
If you would like to have your own bespoke model built, please complete the contact form below.
