Robbe
Robbe Modellbau – time-honoured RC technology and accessories
Robbe is one of the best-known, long-established brands in the German-speaking model-making world. For many decades, the Robbe name has been synonymous with aircraft, vehicle and, in particular, RC boat modelling. Model kits, electric motors, speed controllers, radio control technology and an extensive range of accessories have made Robbe a household name for generations of model-makers.
Even today, the Robbe brand remains a prominent presence in the model-making world with a wide range of technical components. At Schiffsmodelle-Shop.de, you’ll find, amongst other things, Robbe servos, electric motors, speed controllers, batteries, cables and drive components for building, repairing and upgrading RC models.
The history of Robbe Modellsport
Robbe’s roots date back to the year 1924. Robert Becker initially set up a woodworking business in the Vogelsberg region. The brand name ‘Robbe’ was derived from parts of his first name and surname.
After the Second World War, model-making grew increasingly important. In particular, the working of balsa wood and the development of model kits laid the foundations for the company’s subsequent expansion. With technical advances in electric motors, radio controls and electronic components, Robbe developed into a comprehensive supplier for RC model-making.
For decades, Robbe ranked among the best-known model-making manufacturers in Germany, alongside brands such as Graupner.
Robbe and model shipbuilding
Model shipbuilding played a particularly important role in Robbe’s history. The range included numerous well-known RC model ships – from small entry-level models through motor yachts and sailing boats to elaborate, fully functional vessels.
Many of these models are still being built, restored or technically upgraded today. Well-known former Robbe model boats include, for example, Katja, Dolly, Najade, San Diego, the Düsseldorf fireboat, Paula, Neptun, Happy Hunter and Comtesse.
These models have shaped the RC model boat industry for many years, and some can still be found on model waterways today.
From Robbe to romarin by krick
In 2015, the model boat division of what was then Robbe Modellsport was taken over by Krick Modelltechnik. Since 2016, numerous well-known former Robbe model boats and accessories have been redesigned, remanufactured and continued under the romarin by krick brand.
These include, for example, models such as Katja, Dolly, Najade, Düsseldorf, Paula, Neptun and Happy Hunter. Anyone looking specifically for a classic Robbe boat kit today will therefore no longer find many of these designs under the Robbe brand name, but in the current romarin-by-krick range.
Robbe itself is now primarily active in the fields of RC technology, model aircraft and technical model-making accessories.
Robbe motors and speed controllers for RC boats
An important part of the Robbe range is electric motors for RC models. Classic brushed motors remain particularly popular in functional and scale model boat building. They are characterised by simple control, good performance at low speeds and robust technology.
Motors from the well-known Power series can – depending on size and version – be used, for example, in motor yachts, workboats, tugs and other scale models. The range also includes modern Brushless Navy motors, which are suitable for more powerful boat propulsion systems.
Brushless motors operate without mechanical carbon brushes and thus achieve high efficiency whilst maintaining a compact design. Depending on the KV rating and motor size, they are suitable for a range of applications – from powerful scale propulsion systems to sportier model boats.
When selecting a motor, you should always take into account the boat’s size, weight, operating voltage, propeller and desired handling characteristics. The key is to ensure the motor, battery, speed controller and propeller are properly matched.
Robbe speed controllers also have a long tradition in model boat building. One example is the Navy Control 540 R, which can be used with classic brushed motors. A good speed controller should not only control forward movement but also enable controlled reverse operation. This is particularly important for realistic manoeuvring, especially with scale and functional models.
When operating a speed controller, particular attention must be paid to the maximum current capacity, battery voltage and motor type. Suitable brushless controllers are required for brushless motors.
Robbe servos for rudders and special functions
Another important product range is Robbe servos. In RC model boats, a servo is primarily used to control the rudder. Depending on the model, however, servos can also perform numerous other functions, such as sail adjustment, cranes, flaps, fire monitors, towing devices or movable superstructures.
Depending on the application, servos differ in terms of actuating force, speed, dimensions, gear ratio and operating voltage. A compact servo is often sufficient for a small model, whilst larger rudders or functional mechanisms require correspondingly greater actuating force.
Robbe batteries and power supply
RC technology also includes batteries and power supply components. Robbe offers, or has offered, batteries for receivers, servos and propulsion systems across various product ranges.
LiFe batteries, for example, are suitable for a variety of RC applications and are characterised by a comparatively stable cell voltage. When selecting a battery, capacity, voltage, permissible discharge current, connector type and available charging technology should all be coordinated.
In addition to the drive battery, a separate receiver power supply may also be useful for larger functional models.
Cables, connectors and electrical components
In an RC model boat, the electrical system consists of far more than just the motor and battery. Robbe offers various cables, connectors and accessories that can be used to set up and expand a model’s electrical system.
These include, for example, silicone cables, plugs and sockets, servo extension leads, heat-shrink tubing and connection accessories. Particularly with high-performance drives, a sufficiently large cable cross-section is important to reduce electrical losses and unnecessary heating.
Restoring and modernising classic Robbe models
Many classic Robbe model ships are several decades old yet still feature robust hulls and construction. Technical modernisation can therefore be worthwhile.
Typical measures include replacing old radio control systems, fitting modern servos, replacing older speed controllers, converting to modern battery technology, and replacing motors, cables and connectors.
This allows historic models to be brought up to current technical standards whilst retaining their original appearance. Classic Robbe model ships, in particular, thus combine the history of model-making with modern RC technology.
Robbe Model Making at Schiffsmodelle-Shop.de
At Schiffsmodelle-Shop.de, you’ll find an extensive selection of Robbe model-making products and RC accessories. Our range includes, amongst other things, servos, brushed and brushless motors, Navy speed controllers, batteries, cables, connectors and various accessories for RC models.
This means that both owners of classic Robbe model ships and model-makers working on current projects can find suitable components for assembly, repair and technical upgrades.
Most of the well-known older Robbe model ship kits are now produced under the brand romarin by krick.