Batavia

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 custom order for a model ship based off of our ready-made Premier Range Batavia, which can be found here: https://premiershipmodels.co.uk/product/batavia-model-ship-premier-range/

This particular model was to measure in at 90 centimetres in length, 34 in width and 79 in height.

The real-life Batavia was a Dutch East India Company ship built in Amsterdam in 1628, armed with 24 cast-iron cannons and several bronze guns. It set sail on 27th October 1628 from Texel, tasked with acquiring spices. While Captain Adriaen Jacobsz commanded the vessel, Fleet President Francisco Pelsaert oversaw the expedition.

Accompanied by seven other ships—including the warship Buren, three retour ships (Dordrecht, Galiasse, s’-Gravenhage), two storeships (Assendelft, Sardaam), and the yacht Kleine David—the Batavia is best known for its tragic shipwreck near Beacon Island, Western Australia, on 4th June 1629.

Of the 322 on board, most reached land, though 40 drowned. With limited food and water, chaos ensued. A mutiny led by Jeronimus Cornelisz resulted in the murder of over 100 survivors, including 12 women and seven children. As the rescue ship Sardam approached, a warning reached Pelsaert that Cornelisz planned to seize it and escape.

The wreck was discovered in April 1840 by Captain Stokes, who identified remnants of the vessel. Between 1970 and 1974, maritime archaeologist Jeremy Green and the Western Australian Museum salvaged cannons, an anchor, artefacts, and parts of the ship’s stern.

This project was commissioned by a private client in France, with limited details allowed to be shared.

The client was highly satisfied with the Batavia model, praising the clear and consistent communication and the prompt delivery, especially given the challenges of an international transaction.

The model was expertly handcrafted using timber, acrylic, and fibreglass, with refined chrome detailing, and measured 90 centimetres in length. Built with exceptional precision and craftsmanship, it does not include moving parts, internal mechanisms, or lighting.

Whilst CNC machinery was employed for intricate components such as cannons, windows, and fine details, the majority of the construction was completed by hand.

The project spanned approximately four months. Payment was structured in three stages: an initial 50% deposit, followed by 30% upon near completion, and the remaining 20% upon delivery. The total cost covered a bespoke wooden packing case, meticulously designed to protect the model in transit and ensure its safe arrival.

Our Batavia model was primarily handcrafted from timber, acrylic, fibreglass, and chrome accents, demonstrating exceptional artistry and meticulous attention to detail.

Before construction began, all aspects were clearly defined with the client, including dimensions, design elements, aesthetics, financial terms, and the project timeline. This ensured full transparency and prevented misunderstandings.

The process started with the hull—the foundation of the model. It was carefully measured and assembled to exact specifications. Once completed, work progressed to the upper deck, where individual wooden planks were painstakingly affixed along the ship’s sides, gradually concealing the internal framework. Structural supports for the masts and sails were then installed.

Next came the painting phase. The hull, deck, and intricate features were finished with precision, showcasing a crisp white lower hull accented with soft yellow and teal detailing. A small wooden lifeboat was added for enhanced realism, while the rest of the ship retained a rich oaky wood finish.

In the final stages, the model underwent thorough cleaning and polishing. Cannons were touched up, rigging was adjusted, and sails were tightened. The project was completed by mounting the model on a custom wooden base, providing an elegant and professional display.

The client was thrilled with the final model, especially admiring its exceptional craftsmanship and intricate detailing. Shipping and delivery were seamless, ensuring the model arrived in perfect condition, ready for display.

It was an honour to craft another bespoke replica of a historic vessel, and we look forward to bringing future projects to life!

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If you would like to have your own bespoke model built, please complete the contact form below.