CHRIS CRAFT 1952 RIVIERA Speedboat Model Boat
1952 CHRIS CRAFT
18′ RIVIERA SPEED BOAT MODEL
A Quintessential Custom Runabout!
DIMENSIONS:
24″ L x 8 1/4″ W x 8 3/4 H” H
WEIGHT 2 lbs 14 oz
PRESENTED is a “collector”
size model of a 1950 -1954 Chris Craft, semi-custom 18 foot Riviera.
This design was made in the
three lengths, 16, 18 and 20 feet, but the 18 footer was by far the most popular. Today it is recognized
as the quintessential 1950s runabout with its blond decks, graceful proportions and excellent performance when powered by
higher horsepower “K” engines. 1,210, 18 foot, V, when they were discontinued making them much sought after in the vintage boating community.
Just like the original, it is finished in bright lacquer over her blond accent
and Mahogany hull and deck with copper/bronze bottom paint. The deck is further detailed in hand laid planking with alternating
colored hardwoods to look like teak and holly. The seats are upholstered in real red leatherette with white upholstered dash
and side panels. All the deck fittings are custom cast, and exactly duplicates what was used on the real boats of that era.
Comes complete with it’s own display stand.
The model features a beautifully shaped hull with plumb bow, glistening
decks, plush upholstery and spade rudder. Her bottom glistens with a white boot top, and copper/bronze bottom paint. Everything about this model is exceptional. This is a near museum quality model, at a realistically moderate price.
Mounted on a varnished wood stand she makes an incomparable model. A perfect addition
to your home, den or office
Cockpit Detail
Removable engine hatch cover
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Aft deck hardware
HISTORY: The legend of Chris-Craft began in 1884, when
Christopher Columbus Smith began the Smith Boat House on the St Clair River in Algonac, Michigan, to manufacture small duck
boats and power launches. Later, the company was extended to Chris Smith and Sons Boat Co. Many of his larger runabouts were
used as taxis; transporting passengers on the river front to resorts, or to various sightseeing attractions. In the twenty’s,
mostly runabouts were produced, but with the introduction of his speed boats, Chris Smith’s fame took off.
Chris-Craft was the largest producer of mahogany boats in the country. In one year alone, one million
feet of mahogany was delivered. Truck load after truck of Philippine Mahogany would arrive at the factory daily. No wood was
ever wasted either. First, the lumber was air dried; then various hull parts were laid out using templates and patterns, were
cut into plugs to be cemented into the counter sunk holes of the screws. All scraps were burned in the furnace for fuel. The decade of the thirties showed a tremendous growth in the company despites the market
crash of 1929. However, in 1939, Chris Smith succumbed to an illness which had begun to affect him years before. The death
of Chris Smith did not deter the growth of the company. During the Forties, especially the war years of ’42 to ’45, Chris
Craft produced over 12,000 LCPR (Landing Craft Personnel Raft) for the Army. 98 other pleasure craft were also produced. During
this time, the “Barrel-Back” style was introduced. With its pointed bow, and curved transom, created a sleek look that took
the market by storm. The post-war economic boom at Chris-Craft was felt in increasing sales and the new product lines.
Even with a management change that took place in the early eighties, Chris-Craft bounced back with sleeker
designs and a greater market share. Chris Smith would have been proud.
