Nikolay Golovanov
Custom Container Ship Scale Model
Model Specifications
Scale: 1:150
Length Overall: 1132 mm
Commissioned For
A Private Collection to Commemorate Years of Service Aboard the Vessel
Client
Private Collector
Having served aboard the Nikolay Golovanov for many years, our client wished to preserve the memory of a vessel that had played an important role in his maritime career. Rather than simply owning a model, he envisioned a museum quality custom ship model that would faithfully capture the character, proportions and distinctive features of the original vessel.
Created exclusively for his private collection, the finished model serves as a lasting tribute to both the ship and the memories made during years at sea.
The project began with a simplified general arrangement drawing, accompanied by a small collection of reference photographs supplied by the client. While these provided the vessel’s principal dimensions and overall layout, many important structural details were either unavailable or insufficiently documented.
Drawing upon the client’s first-hand knowledge of the ship, we worked closely together to identify numerous features that could not be confirmed through the available reference material. Once the research phase was complete, we established the most appropriate scale, display base and presentation, ensuring the finished bespoke container ship model would accurately reflect both the vessel and the client’s vision.
With only limited documentation available, the project required an extensive research phase before any manufacturing could begin. Our team at Polaris Models carefully analysed historic photographs, technical references and the client’s own recollections to build an accurate understanding of the vessel. This research formed the foundation for a fully detailed 3D CAD model, allowing every major structure and fine detail to be recreated with confidence.
Throughout the design process, the client visited our workshop on several occasions, helping to verify details that could not be identified from photographs alone. His experience aboard the ship proved invaluable, while the arrangement of the containers was carefully recreated from one of the original reference photographs.
The custom ship model was manufactured using a combination of advanced technologies and traditional craftsmanship. Most structural components were produced using high-resolution 3D printing, while the railings and many intricate details were precision photo-etched in brass. Every component was individually cleaned, refined and hand-finished before final assembly, painting and detailing.
The completed model was mounted on a bespoke wooden display base and enclosed beneath a custom-made acrylic display case, ensuring both elegant presentation and long-term protection.
The completed scale model exceeded the client’s expectations, faithfully recreating a vessel that had been such an important part of his life. As he examined the finished piece, he began sharing memories from his years aboard, even identifying the cabins he had occupied throughout different stages of his career.
For our team, this represented the true success of the project. Beyond creating a museum quality scale model with exceptional historical accuracy, we had helped preserve a deeply personal chapter of the client’s maritime journey. Today, the model stands as a lasting tribute to both the vessel and the experiences of those who served aboard her.