Sergal 1/78 Scale Sovereign of the Seas Model Kit
Few 17th-century warships could rival Sovereign of the Seas for sheer extravagance. Mantua Models' magnificent 1/78 scale Sergal kit measures an impressive 1.1 metres long and features double wooden planking, 102 metal cannons and an extraordinary 675 individually cast bronze ornamental pieces recreating the elaborate decoration that made the original ship famous.
ABOUT THE KIT:
This highly detailed plank-on-frame kit recreates Sovereign of the Seas, the spectacular English first-rate warship launched in 1637. At 1/78 scale, the completed model measures 1100mm long, 435mm wide and 865mm high, making it an imposing centrepiece for any model ship collection.
The hull is double-planked using basswood and walnut, while the sheet plywood components are precision laser-cut for accuracy. Wooden masts and spars, pre-finished walnut blocks and deadeyes, rigging cord and a wide selection of brass, copper and cast metal fittings provide the materials needed to reproduce the ship's complex structure and extensive rigging.
One of the defining features of this kit is its extraordinary decoration. No fewer than 675 solid bronze ornamental pieces are supplied for the hull, decks and stern, with each produced using the lost-wax casting method. These intricate fittings recreate the lavish sculptural decoration for which Sovereign of the Seas became renowned.
The model is armed with 102 burnished metal cannons and includes detailed brass and walnut fittings together with etched detailing. Eight sheets of plans, comprehensive English instructions and a full-colour poster of the completed model are supplied to guide construction.
Mantua Models places Sovereign of the Seas within its Advanced range. Its large size, double-planked hull, extensive ornamentation and complex three-masted rig make this a substantial project best suited to experienced wooden ship modellers.
FEATURES:
- Highly detailed 1/78 scale wooden model of Sovereign of the Seas
- Impressive finished length of 1100mm
- Plank-on-frame construction
- Double-planked hull in basswood and walnut
- 675 individually cast solid bronze ornamental pieces
- Lost-wax cast detailing throughout the hull, decks and stern
- 102 burnished metal cannons
- Precision laser-cut plywood components
- Wooden masts and spars
- Pre-finished walnut blocks and deadeyes
- Brass, copper and cast metal fittings
- Etched detailing
- Rigging cord in several diameters
- Eight sheets of detailed plans
- Comprehensive English instruction book
- Full-colour poster of the completed model included
- Designed for advanced wooden ship modellers
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Scale: 1/78
- Overall Length: 1100mm
- Overall Width: 435mm
- Height: 865mm
- Hull Length: 960mm
- Hull Width: 180mm
- Hull Construction: Plank-on-Frame
- Planking: Double
- Armament: 102 Cannons
- Ornamental Pieces: 675
- Difficulty Level: Advanced
HISTORY:
Sovereign of the Seas was commissioned by King Charles I and built at Woolwich Dockyard under the direction of master shipwright Phineas Pett and his son Peter Pett. Launched in 1637, she was one of the largest and most heavily armed warships of her age.
The ship was conceived not only as a powerful fighting vessel but also as a spectacular demonstration of royal prestige. Her hull was covered with elaborate gilded carvings set against a dark background, creating an extraordinary display of royal emblems, figures and ornamentation from bow to stern.
This extravagance came at an enormous cost. Construction of the ship amounted to approximately £65,586, with the gilding alone reportedly costing £6,691 – an exceptional sum in the 17th century. The expense of Charles I's naval programme was closely associated with the controversial collection of Ship Money during the years leading up to the English Civil War.
Originally carrying 102 bronze guns, Sovereign of the Seas was among the most powerfully armed warships in the world when launched. Her three-deck arrangement and formidable broadside helped establish principles that would influence the development of large ships of the line for generations.
Following the restoration of the monarchy, she was renamed Royal Sovereign and continued to serve through the later 17th century, taking part in major naval conflicts against the Dutch and French.
After around six decades of service, Royal Sovereign was laid up at Chatham. Her career came to an end in 1697 when fire destroyed the ship while she was in dock, bringing an unfortunate end to one of the most celebrated English warships of the 17th century.
PLEASE NOTE:
Paint, glue and modelling tools are required to complete this kit and are not included.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS. NOT INCLUDED. AVAILABLE SEPARATELY:
Optional Pre-stitched Sail Set (34006)
Pre-made & stitched Sail set for the Sovereign of the Seas Kit 787. Scale 1:78
This sail set may fit other ships of the same design by different manufacturers if they are the same scale.
Starter Paint Pack for Sergal Sovereign of the Seas Model Kit (APS787)
18 x 18ml Admiralty model paints. Bespoke paints ideal for model boats. Historically accurate colours
Please note: The paints in the pack are only our suggestion from the box art and will not match directly with the instructions found within the kit.
Hobbies Rigging Tool Set (RTS) Contains:
- 1 x Amati Loom-A-Line tool.
- 1 x Rigging Tools set.
- 1 x Microsnips.
Model Makers Glue Pack (MMGP) Contains:
- Deluxe Materials Speed Bond 112g
- Deluxe Materials Roket Max Thick Cyano (Super glue)
Hobbies Planking Tool Set (HOB24) Contains:
- Plank Bending Tool with Blade.
- 2 x 50mm Nylon Grip Clamps.
- 2 x 75mm Nylon Grip Clamps.
- Pen Grip Pin Pusher.
- Brass Pins for Pin Pusher (Pack of 100).
