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[ardarossan]

I'm posting this in 'Model Boats, as it's a bit more than just a straight 'Wanted' request.

I have an unbuilt Marinecraft Jura kit tucked away. From memory, I think it was made by Aerodrome Models in Birmingham.

It is supposed to represent a large Cabin-cruiser, but the design also looks a little like a version of an RAF launch. Unfortunately the example image on the box art was defaced when I originally got the kit, and I've never seen a finished one.

Internet searches have never provided any information of consequence, and the best images I found were for a partially assembled model which appeared on eBay around a month ago.

Example of Marinecraft 'Jura' model found on eBay.

I don't really know too much else about the kitt, but I'm guessing it's probably from the 1960's, and could quite easily imagine it being sailed alongside an Aerokits Sea Queen, or Veron Marlin, etc.

The difference with the aforementioned models is that the 'Jura' kit comprises of a (blue) fibreglass hull and precut wooden deck & superstructure. Maybe, it was an ideal alternative if you didn't trust your building abilities or were pushed for time - who knows.

So, what I would like help and opinions with is:
1) Does anyone have any information and/or images of this model please. I'd particularly like to see an image of the model from  the box artwok, but also wonder if it appeared in any old boat magazines as either a feature or amongst adverts?
 
2) I'm also interested in opinions in response to the question, What would you do with it?

Based on my current train of thought which is along the lines of - there can't be too may of these left in unbuilt condition. Of the ones that have been built, their hulls (if they still exist) might be in better condition than the woodwork.

Bearing in mind that vintage models seem to be gaining popularity, my kit might be ideal to use for a reproduction kit (and or/spares).
   
I'm not asking this as an 'earner' for myself, but wonder what the general opinion is of the model and the thoughts about preserving the type - assuming someone might want to do it.

Just to clarify, the images included in this post are from a model of a 'Jura' (fitted with a Taplin-Baker Hydro-Jet) that appeared on eBay. They are purely for illustration purposes.

My model is a boxed, unbuilt kit.

Andy

Above & below: More example images of the Marinecraft 'Jura' model found on eBay.

   

[ardarossan]

Doesn't anybody have any thoughts on this kit (See OP) - Either about it's 'history' or it's 'future'?

Andy

[Norseman]

Hi Andy

I suppose the question is whether you have the interest to build and sail it. If not then sell it on. I like some vintage boats but not others.

Dave

[ardarossan]

Hi Dave,

TBH, I would like to get around to it, but realistically, I can't see it happening in the immediate future. I would also like to get some feedback about it, especially what it looks like when it's finished - Unfortunately my box-art provides just the merest remains of the illustration.

Consequently, I asked for thoughts and opinions to gauge interest, as if enough 'vintage' modelers seemed keen, I'd risk letting someone take a mould from the hull so that those modelers had the opportunity to source a hull and build a present-day replica.

As I said in the OP, I wasn't looking to make anything out of it. I was just under the impression that as vintage boats were (supposedly) becoming popular, and whilst my kit was gathering dust, it was an idea which might put something into the hobby for the benefit of others.

The crazy thing is, the 'eBay' model (which is is only the second one I have ever seen) went for £127 - after it had 380+ views, with 4 seperate bidders placingd bids of £100+! (although I appreciate that the jet-drive would have been attractive in it's own right)

It would have been nice to see a couple of replies, even if they weren't entirely positive, but maybe the lack of interest actually tells it's own story...

s'funny really, normally you get opinions on here when you don't want them!   

Hey Ho!

Andy

[Norseman]

s'funny really, normally you get opinions on here when you don't want them!   

   oh that could be me 

I bought an old Hales Spraymaster (50's) and after a while I decided that I didn't like the configuration. I thought for a while that I should stay true to a fairly rare model, but in the end decided to reconfigure it to my liking (still need to sort a windshield) and all in all I really quite like it now. But was it the right thing to do - well I remain in two minds.

Dave

[ardarossan]

  oh that could be me 

I bought an old Hales Spraymaster (50's) and after a while I decided that I didn't like the configuration. I thought for a while that I should stay true to a fairly rare model, but in the end decided to reconfigure it to my liking (still need to sort a windshield) and all in all I really quite like it now. But was it the right thing to do - well I remain in two minds.

Dave

Nah, it wasn't you!    then again...

I can't see a problem with arranging a model into a configuration that you like, and I think that there are aspects of this 'Jura' that I'd like to a liitle different - but that goes for many models.

However, without seeing a finished model to make a better judgement, it might be best to build this one in it's intended 'original' configuration. However, as it's still in kit form - it could be built as anything and the original topsides replaced at a later date - but the question remains: is the type worth preserving as a model, or just as a photograhic or written record?

For reference, can I ask what you actually think of the styling of the 'Jura' anyway?
Personally, I think it looks a little 'odd', but it does have a quirkiness about it which I like.

I received an interesting PM earlier (Thank you, reply sent), which provided me with an image of an 18" Marinecraft 'RAF Crash Tender'. When I made a reference in the OP, I didn't even know such a beastie existed, but when compared with the 'Jura', the brand similarity is fairly apparent (below).

Andy

I've reduced and flipped the Jura image for easier...

[Norseman]

Erm - sorry but it wouldn't be my choice at all. It just looks oddly dimensioned to me but I am no expert Andy.

Dave

[ardarossan]

Erm - sorry but it wouldn't be my choice at all. It just looks oddly dimensioned to me but I am no expert Andy.

Dave

No apology necessary, and your opinion is much appreciated. 

That's all I want really, just some honest personal thoughts on the model. I hardly going to be offended by someone's own personal opinion as supposedly, 'beauty is in the eyes of the beholder' - and it's not as if I designed the model.

At least some input would provide an basis for deciding whether it remains a dust-collector or not.

Andy

[eddiesolo]

Looks too good to be a dust collector, strip back and then re-varnish, would look really sweet as a cabin cruiser.
 
Si:)

[ardarossan]

Looks too good to be a dust collector, strip back and then re-varnish, would look really sweet as a cabin cruiser.
 
Si:)

HI Si,

Thanks for the input, although what I have is the same model in comlete kit orm - The image is of a semi-built model I found on eBay.

What I want to know (apart from any information about the kit), is what Mayhemers thoughts are about the model.

If there is enough interest, I would consider letting my kit be used as a pattern to create the basis for replicas (if someone was willing to do it).

Regardless of the slight misunderstanding, I'll take it that you think it's a goodie then - or are you only saying that cos it would be too big to turn into an undersea diorama?! 

Andy

[eddiesolo]

It looks rather good for a fleaybay find. I think there could be some interest in using your unmade model as a template-just draw around on thick card and then transfer to a A1 sheet with all the templates drawn on.


or are you only saying that cos it would be too big to turn into an undersea diorama?! [/size]

[size=78%]If I had the space I would wreck it and sink it...[/size]






Si:)

[ardarossan]

I've dug out my kit and taken a few photos of the kit and the remains of the box art - Why do people put sticky tape across pictures (and then pull it off)? 

Anyway, it's been good to re-familiarise myself with the kit, and might have been useful for anyone trying to identify other (Marinecraft) models.

Looking at the thick card box, I would assume that it was used as common packaging for any one of the four models shown on the label (2 x Sail and 2 x Powered).

The details given for the manufacturer and location on the box label are:
"Marinecraft" Kits
Model Aerodrome Ltd.
131, Stratford Road,
Birmingham, 11. 

The instruction page provides a little bit more information;
"Marinecraft"
Model Power Boats
Designed by E.J. Pollard and produced by
Model Aerodrome Ltd.
131, Stratford Road, Sparkhill, Birmingham 11.

The instructions also give the basic specs for two models with 'Fibreglass Hulls';
The 'Oban', Fishing Cruiser. 27" OAL, Beam 7½"; and The 'Jura', Ocean Cruiser. 38" OAL, Beam 11½".
 
Details of the kit hull (which aren't apparent in the photo of the eBay example - see OP), are that the transom is trapezoidal, being wider across the botton than the top, and that the top and bottom edges are parallel and straight (No Vee).

The deck line is not straight (as it may appear in the posted image), it actually curves upwards towards the bow.

I also found that I had the original decals (with the name 'Jura') although I'll assume they will be brittle by now, although should be okay for scanning.

Images of (my) 'Jura Kit', Box artwork and other kits reference below...


Box Art Showing Manufacturers details plus 'Jura' and (presumably) 'Oban'


Instruction showing name of designer and full address.


Unbuilt Marinecraft 'Jura' Ocean Cruiser kit, in original (very tired) box.


Box Art (Left): FIONA MK II. Fibre Glass Hull. 36" length. 9" Beam. Ready made sails. Braine Type Steering Gear. Lead Keel and all rigging.


Box Art (Centre-Left): JURA. Fibre Glass Hull. 38" length. 11" Beam. Die Cut Ply Super Stucture, suitable for 3½ to 10c.c. Diesel or Electric. Suitable for Radio Control. Full detailed plan & instructions. Note: Image appears to indicate a cabin door and 'double' bow-rail, and hints at paint scheme.


Box Art (Centre-Right): (Presumably) OBAN. Fibre Glass Hull. 27" length. 7½" Beam. Die cut ply Super Stucture. Beginners Model  1½ to 3½c.c. Diesel or Electric.


Box Art, (Right): IONA MKII. Fibre Glass Hull. 24" length. 5½" Beam. Beginners Model. Easy to build.

Finally to clarify, I have an unbuilt 'Jura' kit, for which I would like to find futher information - See previous posts. The partially built 'Jura' is an example image, used for illustration purposes.

The information provided for the 'IONA MKII', 'FIONA MKII' and the 'OBAN' is provided as a record to assist anyone who may have, or acquire, one of these models because reference for 'Marinecraft Kits' is rarer than Rocking-Horse droppings.

Andy

[ardarossan]

In an attempt to find or jog someone's memory in relation to the MArinecraft 'Jura' I'm asking about, I've learned that there was one (possibly two) models shop(s) in Birmingham called 'Model Aerodrome' that supplied their own brands of kits.

Apparently the shop on Stratford Road was somewhere near Vale Onslow motorcycle shop, and seems to have moved from number 131 to 141 (or Vice Versa), and there is reference to a small 'Factory at the rear where they produced their own branded products, under the name 'Drome' and presumably 'Marinecraft'.

I believe that the other store may have been within the city centre - possibly on the corner of Cherry Street.

I also believe that it/they were general Model Shops (not a factory outlet) as I found indications of people buying other brands of goods, e,g, Keil Kraft, Airfix, Dope, etc...

I found some 'Drome' information online, in the form of 'Drome' Aero plans, and a 'Drome' engine advert from a the 1946 issue of 'Aeromodeller, and found a 'Marinecraft' advert relating to their range of static kits, and also a price list showing the names of some other static and motorised model boats (images below).

I also found an image and reference to a Tethered Hydro on the OTW site at http://www.onthewire.co.uk/hpitbox5.htm (Also posted further down).

I believe that The Model Aerodrome Shop(s) 'disappeared' in the early 1970's - possibly becoming a flower shop.








The Drome Hydro (above) found on he OTW website is accompanied by the following description;

"Supplied as a kit by the Model Aerodrome Company of Stratford Road Birmingham the 'Drome' hydro cost all of £1-9-6, or £1.50 all bar 2.5p. At 2ft long by 8" beam the adverts claim that this hydroplane was 'designed for speed and water driven'. It was also claimed to be suitable for diesel, electric and petrol engines. This example has an original 5cc DC Wildcat dating from the late 1940s."

I hope some of this information may be of use to other boat modelers somewher, and if anyone has any thoughts or knowledge on the 'Jura; (good, bad or indifferent), it would be nice to hear it.

Andy

Keywords - The Model Aerodome  Marinecraft Kits  131 &/or 141 Stratford Road  Birmingham 11. FIONA IONA YACHT OBAN JURA SILVER DAWN WHITE CLOUD

[chas]

here you are, a copy of the advert for the model from December 1966. I build one of these with an ED Racer back then, and soon changed it for a Swordsman.
 Just my opinion, but the model can look good as designed, with the addition of good fittings and choice of finish.
 I hope this helps.
 Chas

[chas]

  OH flipping heck, I have no idea what I have done there, sorry everyone. Paul, can you help and edit out all that crud please.
 Regards, Chas

[chas]

I've just noticed, the maker has put Union flags on each model. I have done this myself and been taken to task for it. Although I have seen full size craft do it in Spain.
Chas

[ardarossan]

here you are, a copy of the advert for the model from December 1966. I build one of these with an ED Racer back then, and soon changed it for a Swordsman.
 Just my opinion, but the model can look good as designed, with the addition of good fittings and choice of finish.
 I hope this helps.
 Chas

Oh Wow! Chas, you are a Star! - Thanks very much. Well I don't know what anybody else may think, but personally, I reckon the 'Jura' looks a whole lot better than I expected it to. I am genuinely chuffed to bits.

As I said originally, If anyone would care to add their thoughts and/or suggestions as to whether the kit (or hull) may be worth replicating in some form, please add a comments whether Good, Bad or Ugly.

Chas, thanks again. I'm really grateful.

Andy   

[chas]

No problem Andy, it was quite a reasonable looking design 'tho my skills in those days were poor so mine wouldn't have won any awards.
  I'm not convinced it's worth replicating, the design is similar to some in the Model Boats / x list plans.  That said, it would be a shame not to record the lines etc for posterity, we can't know what may be of interest in the future.
Chas

[tt1]

Hi Andy, scuse me for nipping in, but was interested in Chas's comment about the union flags as shown on the Jura and Oban pics. As you know I've put the same on my Wavemaster and was corrected by Geoff that it should be the ensign, Is this bad protocol or something?  don't want to be tutt tutted too often - may be prone to tutt back!     Regards, Tony.

[ardarossan]

Hi Andy, scuse me for nipping in, but was interested in Chas's comment about the union flags as shown on the Jura and Oban pics. As you know I've put the same on my Wavemaster and was corrected by Geoff that it should be the ensign, Is this bad protocol or something?  don't want to be tutt tutted too often - may be prone to tutt back!     Regards, Tony.

I've sent you a PM, but have just found a .pdf file of the Merchant Shipping Act of 1995. It's 362 pages long, but the first 4 pages seem to cover the 'Flaggy' bit sufficiently: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1995/21/data.pdf

Andy

[chas]

All technicaly correct and legal. But, .....these are models, often not scale models at that. Whats more they are our models so surely if we want to put a union flag on them that's our choice, and one we should be able to make without someone else forcing an opinion upon us, sometimes rudely so.
  If we go down the route of scale corectness, then look in a foreign marina as I did. That's where I saw a couple of large sports / fishing boats proudly showing the flag. Whether it was legal or not I don't know or care but it was nice to see.
 regards,
 Chas

[tt1]

Thanks guys, appreciate it