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 huge order for 200 models of the Ponant Explorer Prototype, part of a fantastic fleet of luxury cruise ships designed and constructed by Compagnie du Ponant themselves. The organisation was established in April 1988 by Phillipe Videau and Jean-Emmanuel Sauvé, along with officers from the French Merchant Navy.
This was the second order of three, the first being completed last year, and the third underway now.
Each model was to be identical, measure 44 centimetres in length (equating to a scale of 1/200), and be complete with maximum detail through 3D printing. The models were however, without any internal mechanisms or illumination, and so were all static.
The client is Compaigne du Ponant, and they were absolutely delighted with the outcome of their models, as well as the speed and efficiency at which we delivered them, together with our clear and concise communication throughout.
The models were intended for 3D printing, each measuring 44 centimetres in length, excluding their bases.
As for materials, they were made exclusively from ABS resin, with timber used for the base and brass supports.
3D printing is a highly complex discipline that requires expertise in three fundamental areas:
• The material
• The printer
• The design process and the desired final outcome
The entire procedure is highly specialised. An external 3D-printing expert typically works across two main skill sets: designing and preparing the model for printing in digital form, and the separate process of refining the printed components to achieve a professional finish.
Before beginning work on the prototypes, we held several discussions with Ponant to fully understand their exact specifications and expectations. They generously provided us with detailed plans and layouts of the actual ship, allowing us to ensure our model replicas were as precise and true-to-life as possible.
The first step in preparing for 3D printing is developing an initial digital model using specialised software. This stage is relatively straightforward compared to later phases of the process.
To maximise efficiency, production is briefly paused at this point so the client can review and approve the digital render. Once they give the go-ahead, we move forward without delay to streamline the workflow and minimise wasted time and materials.
A crucial step involves converting the digital model into a format suitable for 3D printing, which requires additional specialised software. Before this can happen, the render is broken down into individual sections, each carefully labelled and saved. Another software tool is then used to confirm that the components are correctly scaled, structurally sound, and even water-resistant where necessary.
Once the digital model is finalised, laser-cutting and CNC machinery assist in the printing phase, setting the stage for assembly. The construction phase—often referred to as ‘finishing’—is a highly skilled process that involves manual craftsmanship. A traditional model’s hull is typically divided into three sections, which are securely joined and left to set before any further details are added. Before additional components are attached, the hull is painted to protect the adhesive and reinforce structural integrity.
Following this, our 3D modeller carefully organises and prepares the smaller elements, meticulously cleaning and painting each piece individually.
Throughout the project, we maintain open communication with the client, keeping them updated with progress photos and renders. In this case, Ponant’s feedback was actively incorporated at every stage to ensure the model met their expectations.
The client was delighted with the final outcome of the first prototype, paving the way for bulk production of the remaining 199 units.
Collaborating with a company as esteemed as Ponant was a true privilege. With their significant influence in the maritime industry—particularly in the luxury sector—we took great pride in delivering work of the highest standard.
We are extremely pleased with the finished product, but most importantly, we are thrilled that the client was highly satisfied with the result! Our focus now shifts to their third order!
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