This model of the four-masted barque BIDSTON HILL, currently listed on Ebay (24th May, 2009) was recently brought to my attention by a friend. Click this link to view:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Model-Sailing-Ship-in-Glass-Case_W0QQitemZ270395330553QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK
It is of great interest to me, because it was one of the first miniatures that I built sometime before October 1972 – 37, years ago! I have been able to pinpoint a “built before” date, because it was subject of an article written by me that appeared in MODEL BOATS, October 1972.

So far, the bidding has gone up to £21 and I will be interested to see what it finally sells for in a few days.

Bob

BIDSTON HILL 32’=1”.   Built 1972.

This model sold on Ebay at about 1530gmt on the 27^th May, 2009 for £206!

Bidding became brisk during the last  minute of the sale with a leap of over £100 in the closing few seconds.

When I built the model in 1972, £206 was more than a month’s wages for me!   

Apart from anything else, it shows that the models have a good life expectancy as the ship and sea seem to be OK and the case damage is superficial and can be easily restored.   

Bob