Vickers Ltd. Submarine Builders Model

Vickers Ltd: a unique 1915 builder’s design model of His Majesty’s ‘K’ Class Submarine, with ebonized hardwood hull with keel conning tower and torpedo tube outlines, fore and aft decking, finely detailed with rudder and propeller, the conning tower marked ‘K-X’ (‘X’ denoting ‘experimental’).

The model rests upon a display plinth of Honduras mahogany, bearing engraved ivorine plaque, reading: ‘H. M. Submarine ‘K-X’ High Speed Fleet Submarine ‘K’ Class Prototype Model Constructed For British Admiralty By Messrs. Vickers. Barrow – In – Furness September 1915’. English, 1915.

Notes: A brave but unfulfilled concept, the ‘K’ Class submarine was first promoted shortly after the start of the Great War, in late 1914. Regarded as ‘state of the art’ at the time, the primitive technology available failed to match the Royal Navy’s requirements and the ‘K’ Class suffered several disasters in its 9-year lifespan. This spectacular model, presented in expertly restored condition, is a unique survivor representing naval architecture of a century ago.

Length of plinth: 80 inches (203 cms)
Depth of plinth: 11 inches (28 cms)
Overall Length: 102 inches (259 cms).

All images and text copyright © Pullman Gallery Ltd. 2024