Vanguard Models
Vanguard Models – high-quality historical ship model kits from England
Vanguard Models is synonymous with exceptionally detailed and precisely designed wooden model kits of historical ships. The British brand was founded in 2019 by the experienced ship model designer Chris Watton and combines historical research with modern manufacturing and classic wooden model-making.
According to Vanguard Models, Chris Watton has more than 25 years’ experience in the development of ship model kits. Before founding Vanguard Models, he worked for Amati, amongst others, where he developed well-known model ranges such as the ‘Victory Models’.
Today, Vanguard Models focuses on high-quality historical model ships, in which the design, choice of materials and level of detail are particularly closely coordinated.
Historical accuracy as the foundation of the models
A key feature of Vanguard Models is the extensive research carried out prior to the actual construction of a model.
According to the manufacturer, every new kit begins with the analysis of historical plans and sources. The aim is to reproduce the shape, structure and fittings of the respective prototype as accurately as possible.
This approach is particularly important for ships of the 18th and early 19th centuries, as hull shape, armament, rigging and deck fittings depend heavily on the era and type of ship.
As a result, Vanguard models are aimed specifically at model-makers who, in addition to the actual construction, also value historical plausibility and a high level of detail.
Modern manufacturing meets classic wooden model-making
Vanguard Models’ models are based on traditional techniques of wooden ship model-making, but are produced using modern manufacturing processes.
Wooden parts are cut precisely using lasers, whilst particularly fine components and accessories are partly produced using 3D printing. These include, for example, gun barrels, figures, dinghies and other small details.
Depending on the kit, the following components are used, amongst others:
laser-cut wooden components
wooden strips for the hull and deck
veneers and decorative wooden parts
metal and brass fittings
3D-printed detail parts
rigging material
pulleys and sheaves
plans and detailed instructions
The exact contents of the pack vary depending on the model.
Models for different levels of experience
Vanguard Models categorises its kits by level of difficulty. The manufacturer offers categories ranging from Novice through to Amateur and Experienced, right up to Advanced and Master.
This allows you to select models suited to your own level of experience.
Beginners will find relatively compact models that provide a good introduction to classic wooden model shipbuilding. Experienced model-makers, on the other hand, can choose highly complex projects featuring extensive rigging, numerous fittings and elaborate hull constructions.
The larger models in particular are long-term building projects and are aimed at model-makers who place particular value on attention to detail and craftsmanship.
Well-known Vanguard Models ship kits
The current range comprises a selection of historic ships from the 18th and early 19th centuries, as well as traditional British working and fishing vessels.
The range includes, for example:
HMS Speedy 1782
HMS Alert 1777
HMS Sphinx 1775
HM Armed Cutter Sherbourne 1763
HM Brig Harpy 1796
HM Gun Brig Adder 1797
HMS Indefatigable 1794
HMS Surprise
Royal Yacht Duchess of Kingston 1778
In addition, Vanguard Models also offers traditional British fishing and working boats such as Fifie Lady Eleanor, Zulu Lady Isabella, Erycina and Nisha.
This mix of well-known naval vessels and historical working boats, which are less commonly available as models, makes the range particularly varied.
HMS Speedy, HMS Sphinx and other historical warships
One of Vanguard Models’ main focuses is on historical ships of the British Royal Navy.
Models such as HMS Speedy, HMS Sphinx and HMS Indefatigable showcase the typical shapes and design features of 18th-century British warships.
With models such as these in particular, the challenge lies not only in building the hull, but also in the accurate reproduction of the armament, deck fittings and rigging.
The kits are therefore aimed particularly at model-makers who view historical ship models not merely as decorative objects, but as miniatures that are as accurate as possible to the original.
Cutters, brigs and smaller historical vessels
In addition to large frigates and warships, Vanguard Models offers numerous smaller historical ship types.
These include cutters, brigs, yachts and workboats.
Models such as the HM Armed Cutter Sherbourne, HM Trial Cutter, HM Brig Harpy and HM Gun Brig Adder represent vessel types that were frequently used for patrol, escort or transport duties.
Such models are particularly interesting because, despite their more compact dimensions, they allow for a very high level of detail.
Traditional British fishing boats
Another interesting section of the Vanguard range is traditional British fishing boats.
Models such as Fifie Lady Eleanor, Zulu Lady Isabella, Erycina – Plymouth Trawler or Nisha – Brixham Mumble Bee differ significantly from classic warships.
They represent typical working vessels from Britain’s coastal regions and offer model-makers an interesting alternative to military or ceremonial ships.
These models in particular combine traditional timber construction with a comparatively unusual historical prototype.
Vanguard Models Accessories and Fittings
In addition to complete model kits, Vanguard Models offers an extensive range of accessories and fittings.
These include, amongst others:
Cannons and gun carriages
Ship’s boats
Pulleys and sheaves made from pear wood
Sails
Paints
Tools
3D-printed accessories
Fittings and detail parts
The manufacturer now stocks more than 100 accessory items, thereby also offering components for customising or refining other model ships.
Of particular interest are the finely crafted accessories, which are suitable for replacing simplified kit parts or for use in your own projects.
High-quality materials and fine details
Vanguard Models positions its kits in the premium quality segment.
The combination of precisely cut wooden parts, fine fittings, 3D-printed components and detailed assembly instructions is designed to enable the most accurate and neat assembly possible.
At the same time, the character of classic wooden model-making is preserved: many components still need to be adjusted, sanded, glued and finished.
Experienced model-makers in particular can further refine the models and customise them even more using their own painting, weathering or detailing techniques.
Vanguard Models at Schiffsmodelle-Shop.de
At Schiffsmodelle-Shop.de you will find a selection of Vanguard Models ship model kits and accessories.
The range is aimed both at model-makers seeking a high-quality introduction to historical wooden model-making and at experienced model-makers wishing to undertake a particularly challenging and highly detailed project.
Vanguard Models combines historical research, modern manufacturing and traditional wooden model-making to produce high-quality ship models that meet exceptionally high standards of precision and attention to detail.
