Frigate Essex by Rafine - FINISHED - Model Shipways - Kitbashed

[rafine]

Thanks so much Mike. I noticed the same thing about the catalogue. Sadly, it probably means there are still problems.

 

Bob

[uss frolick]

You know, there was a Newbie who posted the question "Who makes the best model ships", over in another thread, and I almost answered "Rafine".

[Guest Tim I.]

Thanks so much Mike. I noticed the same thing about the catalogue. Sadly, it probably means there are still problems.

 

Bob

 

From the conversation I had to Model Expo (In respect to my back-order), they are unsure when they will be shipping the updated kits.

 

- Tim 

[rafine]

No surprise Tim in light of the catalogue.

 

I'm very flattered Frolick, but you can't be serious. I do appreciate the thought though.

 

Bob

[rafine]

Thanks so much John. Impressive is how I would describe your work on both the Duke of York and Royal William.

 

Bob

[rafine]

I've now done the channels and the remainder of the hull moldings on the port side. I had considered using the kit laser cut channel pieces, since I intended to paint them black, but found that the spacing for the chainplate notches didn't fit the spacing of my gun ports. It's hard to know at this point why that turned out to be the case. In any event, I ended up making them from boxwood strip, sanded to fit the hull. The channels were pinned and glued to the hull. I did use the kit laser cut pieces for the tiny support knees. The moldings, as with the prior pieces, are boxwood strip sanded to a simple half round shape, wet heat bent to fit the hull and painted black.

 

Next, I'll do this work again on the starboard side.

 

Bob

[gjdale]

Beautiful is the only word I can think of Bob. I just love seeing your update shots.

[KenW]

What a beautiful model!!  Other than that, I am speechless.

[historyguysteve]

In reply 886 above frolick mentioned the 'newbie' - I'm not the newbie but I agree with the sentiment - your work is awesome.

I think you mentioned in an earlier entry about replacing unuseable stock material with boxwood, where did you procure it??? Refresh my memory - I'm working on Young America right now and need some scale lumber in the worst way.

  thanks for the posts/tutorial/guidance/inspiration!!!

   Steve

[rafine]

Thanks so much Grant, Ken, Janos and Steve for your very generous comments. Thanks also to the "likes".

 

Steve, I get all of my wood from Hobbymill (link on MSW ).

 

Bob

[MEDDO]

I like what Janos said "extreme kitbashing". Sounds like a reality tv show As always your build is an inspiration.

[rafine]

Thanks so much Michael. I'm awaiting a new update on Halifax.

 

Bob

[rafine]

The starboard channels and moldings are now done. Everything was done identically to the previously completed port side and will not be repeated.

 

I think that I've about run out of excuses to not do the head work and may just have to start doing it now.

 

Bob

[augie]

Beautifully done.  Looking forward to the head.

 

And congrats on what appears to be her 1 year anniversary!

[Guest Tim I.]

Bob,

 

I always look forward to your next update. Beautiful work.

 

- Tim

[rafine]

Thanks so much Dirk, Augie and Tim.

 

Dirk, I wish that I had as much confidence as you do.

 

This is a big weekend Augie -- Essex turns 1 and I turn 75.

 

Bob

[Guest Tim I.]

Happy early Birthday Bob, to you and your Essex.

 

- Tim

[Sjors]

Very nice Bob !!!!

You 75 ??????

If you are saying 60 I believe it also.....

Have a nice birthday this weekend !

 

Sjors

[augie]

Gee, too many old guys around here.  I won't even be 70 until ....... November   

 

Many happy returns, Bob.

[rafine]

Thanks guys. Appreciated.

 

Bob

[gjdale]

Happy Birthday for this weekend Bob. May you receive an appropriate number of ship modelling related goodies! Oh, and have an adult beverage or two of your choice to celebrate. I'll be raising a glass to you from Downunda.

[NMBROOK]

Fabulous work Bob   I do really like the contrast between the box and the black channels  I shall wish you many Happy returns for both you and your model for this weekend just in case I don't get chance to pop in If I look half as good as you do mate,when I get to 75,I will be a happy man,I never would of guessed

 

Kind Regards

 

Nigel

[rafine]

Thanks so much Grant and Nigel.

 

Don't be fooled by appearances Nigel. I'm every bit of that age -- and very happy to still be here.

 

Bob

[Jack Panzeca]

Hello Bob,

 

Your work is truly inspiring.  Happy Anniversary and Happy Birthday.  This hobby sure has a lot of folks in the same demographic.  A few weeks from 70 myself.  Great work.

[rafine]

Thanks so much Jack. For me, and I hope for you, aging has meant more time available to pursue modeling.

 

Bob

[Jason]

Beautiful work Bob!

[rafine]

Thanks Jason and all of the "likes". Thanks also for all of the birthday good wishes. They are appreciated.

 

Bob

[Gahm]

Well, from the different comments I get a slight hint that somebody had birthday  My best wishes, and many years of happy modeling! You already heard it before, but your models and build logs are a real inspiration! 

 

Thomas

[Jack Panzeca]

Thanks so much Jack. For me, and I hope for you, aging has meant more time available to pursue modeling.

 

Bob

 

Yes I began modeling about 15 years ago but never got into a groove because of my job which required a lot of travel.  I gave up until I retired and now it is fun and gets better as my skills improve.  Your work is an inspiration, thanks.

[rafine]

Thanks so much Thomas and Jack. Your thoughts and comments are greatly appreciated.

 

Bob