Classic American Boat Builders: Chris Craft, Hinckley, and Boston Whaler Model Collection

Classic American boat builders Chris Craft (founded 1874), Hinckley (1928), and Boston Whaler (1958) represent distinct traditions—mahogany runabouts, premium sailing yachts, and unsinkable utility boats respectively. Custom models of these iconic brands range from $800-$6,000 depending on scale and detail, commemorating American boating heritage through museum-quality replicas.

Chris Craft: The American Runabout Legend

Company History and Heritage

Chris Craft’s story begins in 1874 when 13-year-old Christopher Columbus Smith built his first wooden boat in Algonac, Michigan. What started as a teenager’s simple skiff evolved into America’s largest producer of mahogany powerboats, defining an entire era of recreational boating.

Early development (1874-1922):

Chris Smith and his brother Henry formed Smith Ryan Boat and Engine Company in 1910, focusing on fast, economically-priced runabouts for mass-market distribution. Their products debuted at New York and Chicago Boat Shows that year, launching the Smith name into national prominence.​

By 1922, the operation became Chris Smith & Sons Boat Company, with son Jay assuming presidency in 1927. Under Jay’s leadership, Chris Craft dominated the mahogany powerboat market for three decades, producing everything from small runabouts to large express cruisers.​

Golden era (1922-1971):

The period from the 1920s through 1960s represents Chris Craft’s golden age. Mahogany runabouts with gleaming varnished hulls, chrome hardware, and powerful engines epitomized style and performance. Models like the Racing Runabout, Barrel Back, and Triple Cockpit became cultural icons appearing in movies, advertising, and popular imagination.​

Design characteristics:

• Multiple cockpit configurations (single, double, triple)

• Rich mahogany planking with multiple varnish coats

• Chrome-plated hardware and fittings

• Distinctive tumblehome (inward-curving topsides)

• Powerful inline-six and V8 engines

• Elegant proportions balancing speed and beauty

During the Depression (1935-1939), Chris Craft refocused on their runabout roots, sustaining the company through economic challenges. World War II saw the company pivot to military production, building 12,000 vessels for U.S. Navy and Army including patrol boats, utility launches, and rescue craft.​

Modern era (1953-present):

Chris Craft introduced its first fiberglass boat in 1953, recognizing changing market demands. The last mahogany boat, a 57-foot Constellation, rolled off production in 1971, ending the wooden era.

Through ownership changes and strategic pivots, Chris Craft survived into the 21st century. A 2001 investment group purchase revitalized the brand, introducing Heritage models celebrating classic designs with modern construction and technology.​

Today’s Chris Craft boats honor their mahogany heritage through styling cues while utilizing contemporary materials, systems, and performance.

Iconic Chris Craft Models

Runabout models:

19-foot Barrel Back (1930s-1940s):

• Distinctive barrel-back deck design

• Double cockpit configuration

• 16-foot waterline, 6-foot beam

• Straight-six or V8 power

• Top speeds 35-45 mph

• Quintessential Chris Craft aesthetic​

22-foot Custom Runabout (1920s-1930s):

• Single or double cockpit layouts

• Racing pedigree with competition success

• Sleek lines and powerful engines

• Status symbols of the Jazz Age

26-foot Triple Cockpit (1930s):

• Forward, center, and aft cockpit arrangement

• Social boat for entertaining

• Elegant proportions and luxurious appointments

• Rare and highly collectible today​

Cruiser models:

Commander series (1940s-1960s):

• Express cruisers 30-50 feet

• Sleeping accommodations for extended cruising

• Flying bridge configurations

• Evolved from runabouts to family cruisers

Constellation series (1950s-1970s):

• Large cruisers 40-60+ feet

• Luxury accommodations and amenities

• Final mahogany models built in this series

• Bridge to modern fiberglass era

Chris Craft Model Collection

Abordage offers custom Chris Craft models capturing the elegance of these American classics:

Available formats:

Half hull models:

• Showcase beautiful hull lines and tumblehome

• Mounted on quality hardwood backboards

• Scale 1:16 to 1:24 typical for runabouts

• Gleaming varnish finishes replicating multiple-coat mahogany

• Chrome hardware accurately detailed

• Investment: $1,200-$3,500

Desk models:

• Complete 360° representation

• Cockpit interiors with upholstery details

• Deck hardware, windshields, and fittings

• Chrome engine details visible

• Display cases available

• Investment: $2,500-$6,000

Custom commissions:

• Specific Chris Craft models from owner photographs

• Original color schemes and configurations

• Personalized details and modifications

• Name and registration graphics

• Investment: Quote basis

The motor boats collection includes ready-made Chris Craft models, while custom options accommodate specific vessels.​

Hinckley: Maine’s Premium Yacht Builder

Company Heritage and Philosophy

The Hinckley Company’s roots anchor deep in Maine boatbuilding tradition. Benjamin B. Hinckley founded the company in 1928 after purchasing a small boatyard in Southwest Harbor, Maine. From these humble beginnings emerged America’s premier luxury yacht builder.

Early period (1928-1960):

Hinckley initially focused on wooden workboats and small craft for local lobstermen and seasonal residents. In 1938, Hinckley launched its first sailing vessel—a 28-foot Sparkman & Stephens sloop. Twenty units of this design made it Hinckley’s first production line.​

The company expanded beyond boatbuilding in 1940 with Manset Marine Supply Company, designing fuel tank fittings, stanchions, deck plates, and hardware still utilized industry-wide today.​

Significant models:

Sou’wester (1945):

• 62 original boats built

• Largest fleet of single-design cruising boats of its era

• Established Hinckley’s cruising yacht reputation

• Wooden construction with traditional aesthetics​

Bermuda 40 (1959-1991):
The boat that defined modern Hinckley. Designed by William H. Tripp Jr., the B-40 launched in 1959 as Hinckley’s first fiberglass yacht—a radical departure from wooden tradition.​

B-40 characteristics:

• 40-foot LOA, elegant traditional lines

• Fiberglass hull and deck (revolutionary for quality builders)

• Exceptional finish quality and attention to detail

• Proven offshore capable cruiser

• 203 units built over 32-year production run

• Established Hinckley as premier American yacht builder​

The Bermuda 40’s success proved that modern materials and traditional aesthetics could coexist, setting Hinckley’s course for decades.

Modern innovations:

Jet boat technology (1990s-present):
Hinckley revolutionized yacht propulsion with jet drive systems replacing traditional propellers. Benefits include:​

• Elimination of exposed running gear

• Shallow draft capability

• Joystick control for precise maneuvering

• Reduced maintenance requirements

• Enhanced safety (no exposed propellers)

Picnic Boat series (1994-present):
The Hinckley Picnic Boat redefined the daysailer/tender category:

• 28-43 foot range with various iterations

• Jet propulsion standard

• Classic mahogany interior joinery

• Modern systems and performance

• Iconic status among luxury daysailers

Current production:

Today’s Hinckley lineup includes sailing yachts 34-70 feet and power yachts 29-55 feet. Every boat reflects “the Hinckley Difference”—exceptional craftsmanship, innovative technology, and timeless design. The company maintains facilities in Maine, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Florida, and beyond, offering comprehensive yacht services.​

Hinckley Design Philosophy

Hinckley yachts embody specific values:

Traditional aesthetics:

• Classic sheer lines and proportions

• Thoughtful design evolution, not fashion trends

• Timeless appearance aging gracefully

• Recognizable Hinckley “look”

Construction quality:

• Premium materials throughout

• Hand-finished joinery and bright work

• Meticulous lamination and engineering

• Rigorous quality control

Innovation with purpose:

• Jet drives improving functionality

• Carbon fiber reducing weight

• Advanced systems enhancing usability

• Technology serving owners, not novelty

Comprehensive service:

• Hinckley Yacht Services maintaining all brands

• Transportation and winter storage programs

• Complete yacht management offerings

• Long-term customer relationships

Custom Hinckley Models

Hinckley yachts translate beautifully into custom models:

Popular Hinckley models for replication:

Bermuda 40:

• Most requested Hinckley model

• Classic lines showcase beautifully

• Scale 1:24 produces 20-inch model

• Half hull or full model options

Picnic Boat series:

• Modern daysailer icon

• Various sizes (28, 34, 37, 40, 43-foot)

• Sleek lines and distinctive appearance

• Scale 1:32 typical

Sou’wester yawl:

• Classic wooden yacht heritage

• Traditional rig with mizzen

• Nostalgic appeal to sailing purists

• Scale 1:24 to 1:32

Sailing yacht models (various):

• SW 42, SW 50, SW 59

• Sloop and ketch configurations

• Modern performance cruisers

• Traditional Hinckley aesthetic

Model formats:

Browse the Hinckley manufacturer page for available options, or commission custom Hinckley models matching your specific yacht.

​

Boston Whaler: The Unsinkable Legend

Company History and Innovation

Boston Whaler’s origin story centers on a revolutionary hull construction method creating genuinely unsinkable boats:​

Founding (1958):

Richard “Dick” Fisher and C. Raymond Hunt collaborated on a radical boat design using foam flotation technology. Hunt’s deep-V hull combined with Fisher’s foam-sandwich construction created boats that literally couldn’t sink—even when cut in half, each section remained afloat.

The company name derived from the New England whaling heritage, though these modern boats pursued fish, not whales. Early models targeted fishing and utility applications where reliability and safety were paramount.

Core technology:

Unibond construction:

• Fiberglass skins bonded to closed-cell foam core

• Foam provides flotation, structure, and insulation

• Entire hull cavity filled (no hollow spaces)

• Unsinkable even with catastrophic damage

• Exceptionally rigid and quiet ride

Deep-V hull (Hunt design):

• Sharp entry softening rough water

• Progressive deadrise through sections

• Excellent handling in varied conditions

• Stable platform for fishing and diving

Product evolution:

Classic models (1960s-1980s):

• 13-foot Sport: Iconic small boat, car-toppable

• 17-foot Montauk: Legendary center console, still in production

• 21-foot Outrage: Offshore capable fishing machine

• Various utility and commercial models

Expansion (1990s-2000s):

• Larger offshore models (24-42 feet)

• Dual console and cabin configurations

• Premium finishes and appointments

• Maintained unsinkable construction throughout

Current lineup:

Boston Whaler now offers boats 11-42 feet across multiple categories:

• Small boats and tenders

• Center console fishing boats

• Dual console family boats

• Cabin boats for cruising

• Commercial and professional models

Every model maintains the unsinkable promise and legendary Boston Whaler durability. The brand’s reputation ensures strong resale values and multi-generational ownership.

Cultural Impact

Boston Whaler achieved iconic status beyond mere boats:​

Safety reputation:

• Coast Guard and military adoption

• Commercial and professional use worldwide

• Family-friendly confidence

• “Legend of unsinkability” marketing

Viral demonstrations:

• Videos showing boats sawed in half yet remaining afloat

• Dramatic sea trials in challenging conditions

• Celebrity endorsements and media features

Owner loyalty:

• Multi-generational ownership common

• Strong online communities and clubs

• Boston Whaler Owners Group active worldwide

• “First boat, last boat” sentiment

Boston Whaler Model Replicas

Custom Boston Whaler models commemorate these iconic American boats:​

Popular models for replication:

13-foot Sport:

• Classic small boat, timeless design

• Car-topping and trailering ease

• Fishing, diving, tender applications

• Scale 1:12 produces 13-inch model

17-foot Montauk:

• Most iconic Boston Whaler ever produced

• Continuously manufactured since 1960s

• Center console fishing layout

• Offshore capability in compact package

• Scale 1:16 produces 12.75-inch model

Outrage series (various sizes):

• Serious offshore fishing boats

• Distinctive Boston Whaler styling

• Center console configurations

• Modern electronics and systems

• Scale 1:24 to 1:32 typical

Model construction considerations:

Boston Whalers present unique modeling challenges:

• Simple, clean lines (easier than complex boats)

• Center console and minimalist decks

• Non-skid deck surfaces accurately textured

• Hardware: rod holders, cleats, console details

• Hull graphics and registration accurately scaled

• Outboard motors adding authenticity

Investment ranges:

Contact Abordage for custom Boston Whaler models replicating your specific boat.​

Collecting Classic American Boat Models

Building a Heritage Collection

Collections documenting American boatbuilding heritage offer multiple approaches:

Single-builder focus:

• All Chris Craft models showing design evolution

• Hinckley collection spanning wooden to modern

• Boston Whaler fleet representing various eras

• Deep documentation of specific builder

Era-based collection:

• Golden Age mahogany (1920s-1960s)

• Fiberglass revolution (1950s-1970s)

• Modern classics (1980s-present)

• Chronological design evolution

Type-focused collection:

• Runabouts from multiple builders

• Center console fishing boats

• Classic sailing yachts

• Regional boatbuilding styles

Regional collection:

• New England builders (Hinckley, Boston Whaler, others)

• Great Lakes builders (Chris Craft, others)

• Florida builders (powerboat focus)

• Pacific Northwest tradition

Display and Presentation

Home displays:

• Den or home office with maritime theme

• Boat house or waterfront property décor

• Living room gallery wall

• Basement bar or recreation room

Professional settings:

• Marine industry office reception areas

• Yacht club member lounges

• Marina and boatyard offices

• Naval architecture firm portfolios

Exhibition quality:

• Museum-quality cases with UV protection

• Consistent lighting (LED recommended)

• Professional labels with historical information

• Climate-controlled environments

The display cases collection provides protection befitting valuable classic boat models.

Documentation and Research

Serious collectors document their models:

Historical research:

• Builder history and heritage

• Specific model production years and quantities

• Design evolution and technical specifications

• Cultural significance and notable examples

Model documentation:

• Photographs from multiple angles

• Builder certificates of authenticity

• Scale and construction details

• Acquisition dates and provenance

Resources:

• Builder historical societies and foundations

• Maritime museums with archival materials

• Owner clubs and enthusiast communities

• Books and publications on specific builders

This documentation enhances collection value and provides context for viewers appreciating the models.

Commissioning Classic American Boat Models

The Custom Process

Creating custom models of classic American boats involves collaboration:

Information gathering:

• Specific model and year identification

• Photographs showing details and colors

• Original builder specifications if available

• Owner modifications or personalization

• Historical research for period accuracy

Scale selection:

• Display space available

• Detail level desired

• Budget considerations

• Other collection pieces (consistency)

Detail decisions:

• Hull finish (varnish for mahogany, gelcoat for fiberglass)

• Deck details and hardware

• Upholstery colors and patterns

• Graphics, names, registrations

• Outboard motors or drive systems

Timeline expectations:

• Standard production: 12-14 weeks

• Complex details: 14-18 weeks

• Rush orders: Available with premium when scheduling allows

Begin your classic American boat model project through the custom model request page providing vessel details and preferences.​

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you model a Chris Craft if I don’t have the original boat anymore?
Yes. With photographs and model identification, Abordage can research specifications and create accurate models of Chris Crafts from any era.

What scale works best for a 17-foot Boston Whaler?
Scale 1:12 produces a 17-inch model, while 1:16 creates a more manageable 12.75-inch model. Both show excellent detail for this simple, clean design.​

Can Hinckley models show both sailing and power yachts?
Absolutely. Hinckley’s diverse lineup from Sou’wester sailing yachts to Picnic Boat jet boats can all be modeled. Specify which Hinckley model interests you.​

How accurate are models of vintage boats where documentation is limited?
Abordage researches builder archives, historical societies, and similar vessels ensuring period-correct accuracy even when specific boat documentation is unavailable.​