Maritime Antiques

Collecting Antique Model Ships ~ Ship Models Are Considered An “Art Form”. We can tell you why.

Antique Model Ship Collectable

The art of ship modeling is almost as old as shipbuilding, going as far back as when we first began traveling by water. Archaeologists have even found ship and boat models from ancient times that depicted that particular culture — from Greece, Europe, Scandinavia, and the Far East.  And, of course, the Americas. From replicas of schooners, gun boats, gondolas, canoes, steam ships, clippers, tug boats, warships, ocean liners and paddle boats, you’ll find the best collectible models are built to scale. Hulls and planking are made from the same materials as their originals—whether it’s wood, plastic, fiberglass or metal. And just as the original ships and boats that carried passengers and cargo are intricate and complex, so too, are the model ships that are found in galleries, museums, and in the homes of model ship collectors.

While many people are interested in antique ship models just for fun or as a hobby, remember that model ship artisans have usually spent an untold number of hours — researching and then actually producing the model. So while collecting those that are vintage hand-made replicas can be lucrative, their condition will determine how much they appreciate in value.

To determine value, check to ensure that the hull is solid, and note the outer detail, such as paint, sails and rigging (if it’s a sailing vessel) and fittings. Common hardware may include nails, small metal hinges, grommets and cotter pins. Always check for the type of paint used, varnish, if applicable, and authenticity of design. You can determine the authenticity of a model by having it appraised at a gallery or specialty shop, many of which are located on the Eastern seaboard, as well as coastal regions in Europe.

One of the wonders of collecting antique ship models is that they’re universal — models from all over the world. Typically mounted on wooden plaques as table or mantle art items, many are also placed in glass cases, which helps keep them intact and in good condition. The ship in a bottle is a fun choice and is well protected inside the bottle.

Classic Ship In A Bottle

But some collectors just want to have fun. And for those enthusiasts, the most “fun” models are wooden pond sailboats, classic racing sloop replicas from the 1920s and 1930s. They actually were used as toys and sailed in the water, usually racing against another model. Just like their original counterparts, if taken out on the water they must be cleaned and dried, and sails and rigging maintained and/or repaired. Ship models are considered an “art form,” so as with any work of art, long-term care is necessary.