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.
Premier Ship Models have recently completed a model of the amazing Hinckley Sou’wester 42/43, an American sailboat built by Hinckley Yachts in 1982. Production lasted until 2006, and now the vessel is no longer being built.
Our model equivalent was to measure 56 centimetres in length, and it was estimated to take around 6 months to build from scratch, seeing as it was almost completely handcrafted.
This project was undertaken for a private client located in Belgium, which means we’re only able to share limited information.
The client was extremely pleased with their Hinckley Sou’wester model, praising the clear and consistent communication throughout, as well as the efficient and punctual delivery—especially given the complexities of managing an international transaction.
The model was meticulously handcrafted using timber, acrylic, and fibreglass, featuring elegant chrome accents and measuring 56 centimetres in length. Created with remarkable precision and craftsmanship, it includes no moving parts, internal mechanisms, or integrated lighting.
While CNC machinery was used to achieve some of the finer details—such as the intricately made hatches and steering wheel—the majority of the build was completed entirely by hand.
The project took approximately six months from start to finish. Payment was structured across three stages: an initial 50% deposit to begin the work, a further 30% as it approached completion, and the final 20% upon delivery. The total price also covered a custom-made wooden packing case, carefully designed to protect the model in transit and ensure it arrived in perfect condition.
Our Hinckley Sou’wester model was primarily handcrafted using timber, acrylic, fibreglass, and finished with chrome detailing—highlighting outstanding craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail.
Prior to the build, every element was thoroughly discussed and agreed upon with the client. This included the model’s dimensions, design features, visual styling, payment terms, and project schedule—ensuring full transparency and reducing the potential for any miscommunication.
Construction began with the hull, forming the core structure of the model. It was precisely measured and assembled to exacting standards. Once the hull was completed, work progressed to the upper deck, where individual wooden planks were carefully laid along the sides of the vessel, gradually obscuring the internal framework. Supports for the masts and sails were then fitted.
The next phase involved painting. The hull, deck, and finer components were finished with great care—a deep navy-blue lower hull set against soft brown and white detailing. The sails were crafted in a refined white, and the name Sou’wester was added to the stern in an elegant gold decal.
In the final stages, the model received a full clean and polish. Hatches and railings were finely tuned, the rigging was adjusted with precision, and the sails were carefully tensioned. The completed model was then mounted on a custom wooden base, ensuring a refined and professional presentation.
The client was thrilled with the completed model, especially praising the exceptional craftsmanship and fine attention to detail. Delivery was handled smoothly and efficiently, with the model arriving in immaculate condition, ready to be displayed.
It was a pleasure to craft another bespoke sailing boat replica, and we look forward to bringing more unique projects to life in the future!
Commission your own model
If you would like to have your own bespoke model built, please complete the contact form below.
