1895 Americas Cup Yacht Valkyrie III Ship Model Display Case

1895 America's Cup Challenger "Valkyrie III" Ship Model & Display Case

This exceptional and highly detailed model of the 1895 America's Cup Yacht, "Valkyrie III," represents a masterpiece of maritime historical reproduction. A striking centerpiece for any collector, this two-piece ship model (ship with case and a separate stand, totaling two main pieces as seen, is presented within a custom wooden-framed glass display case, highlighting its intricate design against a vibrant blue backdrop.

Detailed Craftsmanship & Specifications

The model (a gaff-rigged cutter) features a solid hull with a dark blue painted top-side, a dark red bottom, and a distinct copper waterline and cove stripe. The deck is expertly planked in mahogany and includes extensive, precise fittings: cleats, a windlass, companionways, skylights, winches, turning blocks, deck eyes, mainsheet traveler, and a tiller. The model is rigged with a complete suit of finely crafted cotton sails, making it a comprehensive recreation of the yacht in its prime.

Historical Plaque Details

Elegantly preserved at the base of the model is a dark plaque with engraved specifications from the original vessel, which challenged the defender, Defender, in 1895:

• Designer: George L. Watson

• Builder: D & W. Henderson

• Launched: Patrick on the Clyde

• Owner: Earl of Dunraven

• Original Length: 129 ft

• Original Draft: 20 ft

• Original Beam: 26.2 ft

• Original Tonnage: 167

• Original Sail Area: 13,028 Square Feet

Verified Provenance & Auction History

This exact model is documented in the Christie's New York Auction Catalog for the Maritime Sale held on July 30, 2002 (please refer to the verified catalog documentation in Screenshot_20260712-223024.jpg for visual reference).

• Catalog Lot Number: 38

• Auction Listing: "A MODEL OF THE AMERICA'S CUP CHALLENGER VALKYRIE III"

• Original Attribution: "Anonymous; American, 20th century"

• Original Auction Estimate: $2,000–$4,000

• Historical Context from Catalog: The catalog entry confirms Lord Dunraven’s order for a high-performance challenger, designed by George L. Watson, and details the final yacht’s dimensions and "composite construction."

Product Specifications & Dimensions

• Measured Components:

• Ship Model (Standalone): Approx. 33" H x 33" L

• Display Case: 15" Deep x 43 ½" W x 40" L

• Stand: 31" L x 44" W x 165" D

• Shipping & Handling: This is a delicate, large-scale item that requires professional crating and insured freight handling. Please contact us for a detailed shipping quote.