Elena
Classic Racing Schooner Model
Model Specifications
Scale: 1:36
Overall Length: 1527 mm
Width: 226 mm
Height: 1444 mm
Commissioned For
Private Collection
Client
Steve McLaren — Captain of the Yacht Elena
This bespoke commission was initiated by Steve McLaren — captain of the classic racing schooner Elena. His longstanding passion for the yacht and deep appreciation for craftsmanship made him a truly engaged collaborator.
Following his involvement in a previous scale model of the 2009 Elena replica — commissioned by the yacht’s owner — Captain McLaren returned to Polaris Models with a more personal request: to create a new model faithfully finished in the style of the original 1910 vessel. The result is a refined collector’s piece that captures the grace and legacy of one of the most elegant sailing yachts ever built.
With a wealth of reference material provided by Captain McLaren, the project began with extensive research and planning to ensure historical fidelity. To honour the vessel’s heritage, the hull was constructed using classic plank-on-frame techniques — preserving the spirit of traditional yacht building in scale.
All deck fittings were individually machined in metal and aged through controlled oxidation methods, giving the model a realistic patina and period-accurate finish. Particular attention was given to the intricate masting, which was carefully engineered to be fully detachable for safe transportation without compromising on authenticity or detail.
Every component — from fittings to rigging — was post-processed, installed, and polished entirely by hand. The hull was painted and finished to the highest standard, with a shimmering surface that accentuates the schooner’s graceful lines and timeless elegance.
This model of Elena stands as a true collector’s piece — where historical accuracy meets luxury craftsmanship.
The completed model of Elena exceeded expectations — delivering a faithful, high-precision replica of one of the most iconic racing schooners in maritime history. Every detail, from the rigging to the patinated fittings, was executed with meticulous care, reflecting both the elegance of the original yacht and the vision of the client.
Now part of a private collection, this bespoke scale model stands as a tribute to early 20th-century yacht design — and to the enduring legacy of Elena herself.