Sixth rate frigate, originally the French Unité, captured by the British navy in the Mediterranean on April 20, 1796, when the name was changed to the HMS Surprise. Scale: 1:90 -  Dimensions 25" x 31" - Price $18,000

The ship is scratch built, double planked on the frame.  The woods are walnut, satinwood, cherry, fir, rosewood and moradillo.  The sails and flags are hand sewn by me, complete with bolt ropes. The brass fittings, anchors, wheels and boats are all hand made. The hull is sheathed in copper, the rigging is accurate, and the planking and decking are all secured with tree nails.

On the main top is the Jack's Dollond telescope, accidentally left there by Stephen in the book "The Hundred Days".  Jacks initials, J.A., are carved in the mizzen top cap.

The Surprise flies the Union Jack and Commodore Aubrey's pennant.

click on images below for larger view