Wow, that's amazing. Do you know where the boat is now? I know it has been restored a few times and was at Exeter Maritime Museum.
I think you'd be much happier building your own. It's on Billing's 'advanced beginner' list and I would say patience is much higher on the list than skill. If you have any model making experience/working with wood etc you should be fine. The model is quite straightforward, the trickier parts being the plank on frame hull (it's amazing what a bit of filler can do though) and probably the railings. Even those, it's just about patience, don't rush and one step at a time. I built mine in 3 stints over 3 and a half years
although that was largely due to being sidetracked by work, decorating and various other things.
You don't need any particularly special tools either, modelling knife, wood glue, super glue, small files, small drills, glasspaper, paint brushes, pliers etc. The most specialised tool I used was a small plane that uses a razor blade to taper the hull planking towards the bow and the stern. Also, a soldering iron can be used for the railings but these can also be superglued.
Anyway, if you do decide to have a go, don't hesitate to ask if you hit any problems.