Frigate Diana Ship Building Kit 1:85

Spanish frigate Diana wooden kit from manufacturer Occre

History of the original:

The Diana was a Spanish frigate from the late 18th century, launched in 1792 at the Cartagena Arsenal. It belonged to the ‘Mahonesa’ frigates, a successful series of 34-gun frigates designed by Spanish shipbuilder Romero Landa. This class was considered particularly well-balanced: fast, manoeuvrable and at the same time heavily armed enough to be used effectively in overseas operations as well as in the Mediterranean.

The Diana carried 34 heavy medium-calibre guns, enabling it to take on enemy merchant ships and even equivalent warships. With a length of about 49 metres and a slender hull, she was known for her excellent sailing characteristics. The Spanish navy made extensive use of ships of this type to protect convoys, for reconnaissance missions and as escorts in the colonial territories.

The Diana played an active role during the wars against revolutionary France and later against Great Britain. In September 1796, she was severely damaged in the Battle of Cape St. Vincent, but was able to save herself. Later, in 1804, she was involved in skirmishes between Spain and Great Britain, which eventually led to the outbreak of war. She ultimately fell into British hands and was taken over by the Royal Navy, where she served temporarily as HMS Diana.

The Spanish frigate Diana is an example of the highly developed Spanish shipbuilding technology of the late 18th century. Its combination of speed, firepower and elegance made it one of the most successful frigate types of its time.

Description of the kit:

The kit contains all the materials needed for construction. Selected woods and precision-cut components enable accurate assembly. The model is constructed using frame construction, the hull is double planked, the underplanking is made of ramin, and the visible planking is made of precious wood. The fittings and attachments, mostly made of metal, are included in a small sorting box. The scope of delivery includes all the rigging material with all the necessary blocks, pulleys and rigging cord, as well as a ready-sewn set of sails. A model stand is not included in the scope of delivery. German assembly instructions for correctly assembling the 4542 individual components are included.

Who is this kit suitable for?

The kit is suitable for model builders with some experience in historical ship modelling.

What else is needed?

Paints, adhesives and tools are required and can be found in our product range.

What do the assembly instructions look like?

The instruction booklet consists of 91 pages of colourful, well-illustrated step-by-step instructions. Text descriptions and explanatory images. A construction plan and parts lists are included. The rigging is described in detail and in an easy-to-understand manner.

Languages: German, English, Italian, Spanish

The assembly instructions are available for download.

Technical data:

Scale: 1:85
Length: 850 mm
Width: 360 mm
Height: 635 mm
Construction time: 550 hours