hollowneck

Whoa Gentlemen! This is all going to my head😂.......(keep it coming!🤪)

Sincere thanks. I'll contribute more "updates" as I move along in lieu of a formal Build Log. There are so many great things about this kit, there's plenty more insights to come.

For example: just in today's build session, I've noted that it's very important to tell prospective Sphinx builders that the decision to build her as a "reveal" (open viewing through the top decks) means that one needs to seriously consider NOT Masting or RIGGING (stub masts would be o.k. simulating a "Dockyard/Admiralty" style model). I've anticipated that when I reach the masting/rigging stage that the view into these openings will be quite obscured and one will need to get perilously close to the model to actually peer into the below deck(s) goodies. One needs to consider just how much an effort should be expended with the superb interior details if they're going to rig this beauty.

I should note that I am building the HMS Sphinx kit as HMS Camilla, a sister ship of nearly identical dockyard specs. I also need to mention that my model is being built also as a waterline/diorama model wherein, 80% below the waterline won't be seen. This should explain why there is no finished planking running to the keel/garboard area.

Enuff for now!

Ron

Yikes! Gives new meaning to "flyspecs in the pepper"!

Now, we've seen 1/200, and 1/350. What about 1/700?....any takers?

Ron

HMS SPHINX Build Comments & Observations

Note:

This post is not specifically a “What’s In The Box” Kit Review. The photos and comments have been prepared by ship modeler, Ron Neilson, in lieu of a full Build Log.

A Quick Summary by one modeler:

Although I am only about halfway through my build of the latest Vanguard Models kit, HMS Sphinx, and while I have made some of my own modifications (as any builder does), the process thus far has been excellent, thanks to the high-quality of this kit.

Many precisely cut pieces of mostly MDF and decent quality Swiss Pear have been provided. As I was building up the basic and extensive hull forms, I constantly referenced my calipers to double-check the fitting of parts. At first, I couldn’t believe the precision of these elements. In many cases, I measured +/- .005 – which is quite extraordinary. The construction in some areas is “Lego-like,” that is, “plug ‘n’ play.” This aspect of the fundamental hull “skeleton” also helps maintain precision tolerances across the entire length and breadth of the 1/64 ( 3/16” = 1 foot) model. The kit’s provided building jigs - which you assemble separately - are also very useful.

As witness to the unique design innovations embodied in the kit, what is shown in these photos was completed in less than forty-five days. I’d estimate that in the recent past, a model of similar complexity and scale would have taken me nearly twice the time. Vanguard has created a stunningly high-quality kit that can be crafted by any journeyman ship modeler with a moderate level of perseverance.

Precise, laser cut pear wood is employed throughout the build. The delicate “rails” along the hull are provided as pre-cut patterns which is a very interesting approach to creating these necessary elements. All gunports (22 including the bridle ports) align nicely with the layered approach to building up the bulwarks to faithful thickness. A single piece gundeck is delicately and precision-etched to indicate the tapered planking, trunnels included. The deck furniture pieces are all in pear and because they are lasered from similar stock, all match, beautifully. Although slightly tricky to align properly, the design of the amidships chain pump handle mechanism is brilliant. The same applies to the über-detailed hand pumps. Both are P.E mini-masterpieces that will be fun to build.

There is nice detail on the ironwork components. The deck coamings, hatches, bitts and various support stanchions lend themselves to nice extra detailing. The quarter galleries are always a challenge to fabricate, but the design in this kit is the best I’ve encountered thus far in years of building this era of sailing ships. The detail of the tiered P/E roof tiling is especially nice.

The severe stern tuck was worth the effort, the built-up rudder and cleverly-designed ironwork for the gudgeons and pintles is evident on close inspection.

The headworks are exquisitely designed and detailed with a combination of precision laser-etched pear pieces. I was impressed once more at the close tolerances of all these items that fit together like a glove. The single-piece upper stern cabin resin cast decoration is very clever and a definite showpiece of the model.

The extensive, decorative elements of this model are what will draw many modelers to make the investment in both time and treasure to build it. The sweep of the ship’s lines is very appealing; I can imagine that in real life, this was a gorgeous ship to behold, indeed. The clever design engineering, the fastidious manufacturing, excellent materials and comprehensive guidance provided in this high-calorie kit (the build manual and extensive, full-size plans) is exemplary; cleverness and ingenuity abounds throughout.  Did I mention the large, full-color, clearly photographed, 144-page Build Manual accompanied by twenty-three (count ’em!) extensive, full-size, actual scale (1:64) large plans? It boggles the mind initially when one opens the heavy (insert weight in pounds- 15lbs?) and sturdy box of goodies. The manual and plans alone must weigh 3 pounds. What kit manufacturer does this? Vanguard Models does. And there will be countless builders who want, need and can afford the exemplary challenges this kit provides. Regarding money, this kit’s ultimate value is that it can potentially deliver a museum-quality model and thus, in my world, it’s a bargain at twice the price.

The HMS Sphinx kit stands as the current pinnacle of Vanguard Models’ superb and innovative work over the last many years by the U.K.’s dedicated and well-regarded ship model kit designer, Chris Watton.

———-

The photos aren't in a chronological sequence, only random shots I've taken during my build to the date of this post. There will be more commentary and photos to come as I make more progress with my fun build. And why spend many solitary hours at this challenging hobby if it isn’t fun?

A Warm Welcome Adam.

You've found the "sweet spot." You's  soon discover there are a good number of modelers here who are into string theory (i.e. rigging).

Ron

I would be interested in this model. I built WoodyJoe's Higaki Kaisen last year and placed it in a diorama. A superb kit with many new challenges... not the least of which was a build document in Japanese. But with thanks to Clare Hess and his advice along the way, it got completed and is now displayed as "It Takes A Village." For those who can read Japanese, the Clan ensign reads: "Ongakuka" (maru): which translated means "Musician(ship)." Pun totally intended!

Ron

PS Sorry, kids: I have no idea why these photos uploaded in crazy orientations. A suggestion: just grab your screen and rotate it.

4 minutes ago, BobG said:

I hope you will make a build log, Ron, I'd love to see your build with the changes that you're considering and the construction of the diorama. Do you have any photos of your builds and dioramas available anywhere?

Bob, I have a large number of photos in the MSW Kit galleries; search on my handle/avatar or enter "HMS Swan" or "LeTigre." Also, the 2021 MSW  Calendar had my LeTigre privateer pictured for March.

I have no plans at this time to do a full-on Build Log (per se) of HMS Camilla, however, I am thinking about showing how I'll make sails (with added sail rigging) and how I create my "open water" dioramas. By background, I am a photographer and writer and in tackling a detailed Build Log it would easily add another several months onto my project: I like to keep all my models to under a year in the workshop.

Thanks for your interest and encouragement.

Ron

FYI: For my Sphynx-interested, kit-watching colleagues, here is a rendition the HMS Camilla. The artist is John Thomas Serres, (Mad) King George III's official Maritime Painter.

Studying this painting, there are neither quarterdeck nor foc'sle built-up bulwarks apparent (and the absence of related weaponry); also, the quarter galleries are suspect since I believe Chris' reference drawings would indicate his design to be more accurate.

Ron

2 minutes ago, glbarlow said:

At least there is no VAT premium 

In California it's called the "CAT" (California Added Tax).😂...if the kit wood has too much residual resin, it could combust in UPS trucks.

Ron

PS I'm "From" California, so I know the ropes.

My Sphynx (nee' "Sphinx") arrived this week in good condition and very quickly indeed (I'm on the East Coast, US). I've been poring over the plans and the myriad of goodies in Chris' 13+ pound box: there's very nice laser cut pear throughout; the PE brass looks excellent as does the resin cast stern decoration form and a kool figurehead.

It'll be no surprise to Chris that I'm making/bashing his lovely Sphinx as HMS Camilla, essentially a sister ship. Camilla had an astonishing 45 year active service life with a long list of prizes under several distinguished captains. I intend to paint her name on the stern over a new piece of shaped pear.

Related to the above conversation (jasseji), I am also considering building-up the bulwarks and adding carronades as Camilla's later life had her very active post British/American war and well into the French Revolutionary era. I may copper her, however not much of this addition will be seen since I also will place her in a diorama with set sails. As I have also done on all my recent models, I'll likely give her a (minimal) crew. I'm presently thinking the diorama's "place setting" will be off the Brittany coast, in the Channel - and in hot pursuit of a naughty French corsair...

The lovely box with keel and bulkheads await me.

In today's vernacular, this is an awesome kit.

I'm pumped!

Ron

These items have been sold.

SOLD

Selling various kits from my stash. Too many models, not enough time!

This Bismarck kit is new, and in the original box: $300.00

In addition, I am selling the two (2) aftermarket Pontos Bismarck "Detail up sets" as follows: 23001F2 Version 2: $224;  & 21001F1 "Advanced Add-On: $150.

The Pontos aftermarket kits are mainly P/E & machined brass, but also a stained wooden deck, brass propellors.

If you have the space for this HUGE model (52.00"LOA), this package is regarded as the ultimate build of this model.

I'll make a *deal* if all three items are purchased together.

PM me if interested.

Ron

Unfinished oak. Good quality, light sanding required. Routed profile base with vertical and top rails. Includes all hardware (wood screws, rubber feet).

New. Requires 1/8" glass (not included). New = $350.

Shipping, add $20. U.S. only.

If interested, please private message me here.

Ron

LOWERED PRICE! $350 - Master Shipwright Kit (Limited Edition #1 of 20). Boxwood. Building sister ship HMS Flirt and don't need two. Shelf new.

Shipping from the East Coast. (plus shipping).

Link for model details:https://vanguardmodels.co.uk/product/hms-speedy-master-shipwright-version/

If interested, private message me here.

Chris,

I just noticed that this model has spirketting on the bulwarks; am I correct that this is a first for your kit designs (Vanguard)?

One other question: is there a reason to NOT include properly spiled, laser cut hull planking?

Your progress is impressive. Many are going to be interested in building this model!

Ron

Ekis,

Are those solar panels on your recent group of buildings?

Ron

PS Great project. Excellent execution with miniature stone as well as wood!

19 hours ago, Cathead said:

February; the steamboat Arabia (see my signature for link). It would actually be really cool for someone in the know to post links here to the build logs or galleries (if they exist) for all of these models.

Thanks Eric and PJG. Good suggestion for builders here on MSW to indicate a link to their builds or gallery photos.

Here's mine

Ron

5 hours ago, Cathead said:

I am really honored to have a model chosen for this. What a great-looking product overal; can't wait to see the photos in full print glory. I hope these sell really well.

Eric, which model is yours? and..."PJG", which is yours? The entire calendar is very nice. Reasonably priced too!

Ron

On 8/28/2020 at 5:58 PM, BobG said:

Hello Ron, that's a beautiful model you built!

 

I found the photos on this website which has full views and detailed views: https://www.modelships.de/Schebecke-Le-Requin/Le-Requin_eng.htm

 

Amati and Occre both still have models of this type of ship. I think they are incredibly beautiful and my previous post has certainly generated quite a it of interest. I think it would be a very popular model for either Chris or Chuck if one of them decided to create a new chebec kit.

Many thanks, Bob. Thanks for that link to modelships.de. I'd forgotten about that site. There are superb models exhibited there, the Xebec just one of many. The photos are all pro-level. Big sensors, studio lighting...and last, but not least, museum-quality models! Like Glenn, I also believe that Chris (Vanguard) should "stick to the ( U.K.) knitting," for now; clearly, his wheelhouse.

Bob,

That "Chebec model" is an extremely nice example of this class of period Middle Eastern warships. If I may ask, from where did you retrieve these photos?

This model was my second build - years ago - and it is an Amati kit that I modified (Xebec-1/64). I believe it is still offered by them. 

This class of vessel is a radical departure from Western European ship designs. The hull designs are quite different but the dramatic visual impact comes from the multiple lateen-rigged sails(especially when they are bright red!).

I've built numerous models since the one shown here but many people have commented to me over the years that this is one of their favorites.

I christened my "Xebec" model with a unique name: SyfAllah: The Sword of God. This is a historic deep dive into the conflict on the Barbary Coast with the U.S., circa late 18th, early 19-C, a fascinating history.

Chris could easily design a superb version of this ship and it would likely be very popular. I'd even build it again if it was on offer!

Ron

I'm very impressed. This is a superb build log, you did a very nice job, indeed.

The quality of all the kit's components looks very good too.

Two Thumbs up, Egor!

Ron

20 hours ago, mnewsholme said:

cant help but laugh at those guys on SOS. They realised they weren't getting anywhere trying to cast doubts on whether kit would be released or quality of design so they've shifted tack to slating it because Framework is MDF and it might warp if it gets wet, ( sounds like they play with their models in the bath 🙂 ), and the cutting edge superior Chinese kits use plywood 🙂

 

... and play with themselves on the internet. That "other" forum is disgusting; a minority cult.

Italy: High-quality. UK: Excellent engineering. U.S.: Marketing (MSW/NRG).

The perfect combo...

😁

Ron

I have always used the superbly drawn plans that accompany Chris's models, even the "old school" drafted ones that come with the Caldercraft kits. His more recent plans with Amati/Victory are CAD and excellent. I've noted only a few minor errors over the past few years in these drawings. I agree with Glenn that plans (in logical reference scales- like in the Vanguard Alert/Speedy kits) are sufficient for me; a caveat however: there are many modelers who do not have technical/engineering backgrounds, so "instruction manuals" (with explanations and photos) are an important component to building a model without creating undue anxiety.

I applaud Chris's efforts to keep EXPANDING his (and our unique hobby) customer base by investing considerable effort to make very good "Building Manuals."

Ron

43 minutes ago, chris watton said:

Today I completed the manual and box label art (no small thanks to Jim Hatch), and here is the box label art.

 

I shall have this ready for release a week Friday (8th May), with the Zulu being ready to go this Friday!

 

Right, back to the larger stuff....

 

Nice-looking box art, Chris. Couldn't agree more with Bob. Jim is not only a good builder, he has good design chops!!!

21 hours ago, glbarlow said:

Send me your bottle of Macallan 25, I’ll burn some boxwood and let you know...

Glenn. No Problemo. Empty bottle on its way.