Premier Ship Models have recently completed a build for a custom RMS Canton ship model. The real-life equivalent was part of P&Os fleet, and she was launched down in April 1938, before being decommissioned in 1962.
The vessel served as a mail and cargo transportation vehicle, largely operating between the United Kingdom and the Far East, along with other ships in the fleet. She was slightly smaller than the others, with a single funnel on the deck.
Throughout the Second World War, RMS Canton was requisitioned by the Admiralty, and subsequently repurposed for combat. She was fitted with eight six-inch guns (four on either side), as well as a rangefinder and a fairly primitive gun control system above the bridge.
Between May 1940 and early 1941, she partook in several patrol duties, mainly in the South Atlantic, but she never saw combat. The RMS Canton did however store a seaplane in what had been the ship’s swimming pool prior to the war. The ship’s funnel was also shortened to make extra room for the guns, and give them a wider line of sight.
Various other upgrades and weaponry were added to the ship up until 1945, including extra six-inch guns as well as Oerlikon 20-millimetre cannons; effective against low-flying enemy aircraft.
After the war, she was returned to P&O, and the guns were removed before the funnel’s height was completely restored.
On August 28th 1962, RMS Canton was fully retired from all service duties. She was dismantled on the 3rd of October in Hong Kong, after arriving from Southampton having set sail on August 31st.
Our model equivalent is a faithful reincarnation of the extravagant RMS Canton, complete with a stunning red hull, white topsides and an elegant wooden deck. This is neatly paired with a subtle yellow paint for the funnel and masts, as well as intricate and detailed lifeboats adorning the sides. The level of complexity we managed to incorporate into this model is stunning, and it is a wonderful reproduction of the ever-impressive RMS Canton.
This project was carried out for a private client, and as is customary, we are unable to share many details here.
The client was highly satisfied with the completed RMS Canton model, along with our clear communication throughout the process and the prompt delivery, particularly so given it was an international sale.
The model was predominantly handcrafted using timber, fibreglass, and chrome accents, with dimensions set at 122 centimetres in length, 20 centimetres in width, and 37 centimetres in height. It was intended to be highly detailed and exceptionally accurate. Furthermore, it was to be without any moving pieces, internal mechanisms or lighting.
We utilised CNC machinery for certain smaller components, such as the masts and other minor elements, but the vast majority of the work was done by hand.
The estimated construction time was seven months from start to finish, with the payment schedule as follows: a 50% deposit upfront, 30% upon nearing completion, and the final 20% due upon delivery. The cost also included a sturdy wooden packing case, designed to protect the model during transit, ensuring its safe arrival.
Our model of the RMS Canton was, as mentioned, predominantly handcrafted, using timber, chrome detailing, acrylic, and fibreglass.
Before any construction began, we made sure all agreements between ourselves and the client were in place to ensure clarity on all fronts. We established the dimensions, specific details, aesthetics, financial arrangements, and of course, a timeline.
We always begin with the hull, as it forms the foundation of any ship. This is generally the case for most models, so we meticulously measured the hull to meet the precise specifications. Once the hull was complete, the groundwork for the upper deck was laid. Smaller wooden planks were applied along the sides of the ship and eventually covered the top, concealing the interior reinforcements. Following this, the base for the stack and bridge were constructed.
The next stages involved painting the hull, deck, and finer details, followed by fitting the chrome accents. The hull’s lower section was painted a sleek and rich red, while the upper portion was finished in crisp white, and the deck was fitted with light brown wood. Blue was added to represent the small swimming pool, and a bold yellow was used for the stack.
To enhance realism, small white lifeboats were attached to the bulwarks, featuring detailed black accents and canvas covers.
As the build neared completion, the model was cleaned and refined, with windows painted and the rigging tidied up to finalise the project.
The client was absolutely delighted with the finished product and particularly impressed by the intricate detail we were able to achieve. The shipping and delivery process went smoothly, allowing them to proudly showcase their model.
It was a pleasure to create another bespoke historical cruise ship model, and we are now excitedly anticipating our upcoming projects!
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