Model Shipways Prince de Neufchatel 1:64 1812 kit

Information about the model

Private ships also significantly contributed to the success of the United States in the War of 1812, fighting against the strong British fleet. Privateers were private owners of armed ships who, based on a special permit from the state – the so-called letter of marque – could attack enemy merchant ships, seize their cargo and capture their crews. Unlike pirates, they acted legally in the service of their country and represented an important part of the naval warfare of the early 19th century.

Among the most famous American privateer ships was the fast brigantine PRINCE DE NEUFCHATEL under the command of Captain J. Ordronaux from New York. Although the American privateer ships could not compete with the regular British navy in terms of strength, they caused significant losses to the enemy and significantly disrupted commercial traffic. Thanks to their speed, agility and powerful armament, they became a symbol of the courageous naval actions of the War of 1812.

The brigantine PRINCE DE NEUFCHATEL was one of the most famous American privateers of the War of 1812. It was built in 1812–1813 by shipbuilder Christian Bergh in New York and was named after Marshal Berthier, one of Napoleon's commanders. The ship, with a displacement of approximately 310 tons, was armed with eighteen guns and originally had a crew of about 150 men. It measured about 32.8 meters at the waterline and was distinguished by its extraordinary speed, which even rivaled some clippers built forty years later. Thanks to its slender hull, powerful rigging and powerful armament, PRINCE DE NEUFCHATEL became a model for later fast merchant and opium clippers. The typical armament of privateer ships of this period included sixteen 12-pounder carronades and two long 18-pounder cannons in the bow. The guns were placed on carriages allowing for quick movement around the deck and better use of the higher sides that were characteristic of corsair ships.

Shipways Models

Model Shipways' non-floating ship model kits are among the best that can be found in the field of historical ship modeling. This American brand has a long tradition dating back to 1946 and is known for its emphasis on historical accuracy, quality materials and precise workmanship.

The models are designed as faithful replicas of real ships, both warships and merchant ships, from the 17th to the 19th centuries. The kits contain laser-cut parts made of high-quality wood, brass and metal accessories, handmade pulleys, anchors, detailed decoration, etc., depending on the type of ship. The kits are suitable for modelers who are looking for a challenge, authenticity and the joy of precise handwork. They include building materials and documentation. Building a model requires patience, manual dexterity and a certain level of experience working with wood, glues, varnishes and paints.

Building difficulty 3

Advanced ship model kits require previous experience in model building and mastery of the techniques of individual technological steps, such as gluing, bending, dyeing, sewing sails, etc. It is necessary to familiarize yourself with the drawing documentation, plan out the individual steps and the entire procedure. Any details must be studied and it is necessary to take into account that the construction requires a certain degree of creativity and independence, because the instructions do not have to deal with the production of every detail.

The models are extensive and detailed, their completion takes a long time and requires a lot of finishing work on the parts.

Modeling tools and a pad

Suitable tools are required for building ship models. We recommend the excellent Modelcraft set of tools for ship modelers (set of 12), or Modelcraft tools for modelers (set of 18). We also recommend purchasing nylon clamps and indispensable modeling pins. For adjustment, precise cutting, gluing of parts and also as a table protection, we recommend a modeler's mat.

Glue and paints

For gluing, we recommend universal dispersion glue and Robitronic instant glue medium 20ml. For coloring, we recommend acrylic enamel paints. Apply paints with quality brushes (flat brushes for surfaces, round brushes for details).