We have just completed a custom build for a highly-detailed and ultra realistic scale model of the famous USS Constitution. Also known as Old Ironsides, the USS Constitution is a three-masted heavy frigate belonging to the US Navy, and holds the title of being the oldest commissioned warship that is still afloat today!
Launched in 1797, she is one of six original frigates authorised for construction by the Naval Act of 1794. ‘Constitution’ was among ten names provided to President George Washington by the then Secretary of War, Timothy Pickering.
She cost around $300,000 to build, which equates to about $10 million today! The USS Constitution measures 304 feet in length, and can consistently travel at a speed of about 13 knots.
The Constitution is most known for her actions during the War of 1812 against the United Kingdom, in which she captured a plethora of merchant ships, as well as defeating five British warships: HMS Guerriere, Java, Pictou, Cyane and Levant. It was in the battle with Guerriere that she was given the nickname Old Ironsides, and ever since, public affection has rebutted any attempts at scrapping her.
She was retired from active service in 1881, but still plays a key role in the US Navy today. The Constitution promotes understanding of the Navy’s role in war and peacekeeping via educational outreach, historical demonstration and participation in public events. Since she is a fully commissioned vessel, her crew of 75 partake in ceremonies and other events whilst also being open to visitors year-round. Every officer and crew member are all active-duty Navy personnel, and this specific assignment is a great honour to those selected. The Constitution is more often than not stationed at Pier 1 of the former Charlestown Navy Yard at one end of Boston’s Freedom Trail.
Our model equivalent was to be handcrafted and second-to-none in terms of intricacy and detail. It would measure 92 centimetres in length, 27.5 in width and 67.5 in height. The vessel would have a high-quality deck with smaller parts made entirely from teak wood, rolled-up sails and a painted hull and copper bottom.
This project was completed on behalf of a private client, and so, as always, we cannot say much here.
They were extremely pleased with the final result of their USS Constitution model, as well as our transparency throughout and the timeliness of the delivery itself.
Handcrafted using timber, copper, teak wood and other materials for finer details like chrome, the model was to measure 92 centimetres in length, 27.5 in width and 67.5 in height, as stated in the overview. It was to be of incredible detail, and of great accuracy.
The projected construction time was set at six months from start to finish, with payments structured as follows: a 50% deposit upfront, 30% upon nearing completion, and the final 20% due on the delivery date. The cost also covered a robust wooden packing case, designed to safeguard the model during transit, ensuring it arrived without damage.
Our handcrafted model of the USS Constitution was made entirely from timber and teak, featuring chrome details and a copper base. Before construction commenced, we ensured all agreements with the client were fully established to guarantee clarity on every aspect. This included confirming dimensions, design specifications, aesthetic preferences, and, of course, financial terms and the timeline.
We always start with the hull, as it forms the foundation of any ship model. The hull was meticulously measured to meet the specified requirements. Once completed, we constructed the framework for the upper deck, fitting smaller wooden planks along the sides of the ship. These were later used to cover the top, concealing the internal supports. Additional elements such as the masts, initial rigging, and portholes were then installed.
The next stage involved painting the hull, deck, and finer details, as well as adding some of the small chrome features. The hull was polished to highlight the stunning wood finish, while the wooden deck was painted a light brown. Small portholes were positioned along the ship’s black sides, bordered by a painted white stripe. The white lifeboats were carefully attached and then polished again.
As the project neared completion, the model was tidied and cleaned, with the sails rolled up and the rigging tightened. To conclude the final stage, the base and supports were polished for a pristine finish.
The client was overjoyed with the final product and thoroughly impressed by the intricate detail we were able to achieve. The shipping and delivery process went smoothly, and they can now proudly display their model!
It was a pleasure to work on another custom-built historic warship model, and we now look forward with excitement to our upcoming projects!
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