Defender 1895 Model Ship

In 1894, William K. Vanderbilt came for the second time to see Nathanael Herreshoff to commission a new defender to race the America's Cup against Valkyrie III the next year.

Vanderbilt was believing in Herreshoff's genious and gave ''carte blanche'' to the 'Wizard of Bristol' to build the New-York Yacht Club's next challenger.

Herreshoff reminded his previous bad experience when Vigilant's sliding centerboard had jammed and hindered his boat: he decided to build Defender with a fin keel.

The yacht was designed in the utmost secrecy and her construction was shrouded in mystery. Nobody was allowed to enter the yard and Captain Nat certainly did not appreciate the press and photograhers.

In building Defender, the Hereshoff brothers' special innovation was the use of aluminium. But as from the first tests, the boat suffered from a phenomenon about which little was known at that time: corrosion due to electrolysis appeared after she was launched on June 23rd, 1895. America's Cup 1895: at the 9th challenge, Defender beated Valkyrie III and won the Cup.

Model measures: 76 cm L x 69 cm Hgh. Add excitement and exhilaration to any nautical home decor. Packaging is extemely secure to allow for a safe passage.

This line of model ships is made by highly skilled craftsmen who work with remarkable precision using only the finest materials. These craftsmen have been trained for years to become Master Artisans. Hundreds of hours go into making each model, from the original lofting of plans to the finishing touches. Hull construction is either hand laid-up resin or plank on bulkhead with a selection of precious wood. Deck details are reproduced with custom-made brass and chromed brass castings. Hand sanded hulls are finished with marine varnishes and polyurethane paint.

No rating yet... Be the first to rate this product!