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America's Cup Yacht Constellation from 1964

A few months ago I was finally able to get some time with "The Book" - America's Cup Yacht Designs, 1851 - 1986 by Francois Chevalier and Jacques Taglang.

In that book, the authors share extraordinary line drawings of the original designs. It has become the "go to" book for America's Cup enthusiasts. It has also become the go-to book for J-Class R/C (radio control) sailboat hobbyists. The lines shown in the book are among a very short list of acceptable design perimeters that the J Class people acknowledge. To make a qualifying J Class boat, you must stick to the measurements shown (with a slight addition to the draft allowed to account for water not scaling).

I was able to make many great scans for future modeling.

The J Class groups specifically sail 1/16 scale models of America's Cup yachts that were, duh, "J Class" boats - boats from the 1930's exclusively before the America's Cup switched to 12 meters after WWII.

The J boats are stunning. Ranger, Endevour, Shamrock, etc... are spectacular in their gorgeous lines.

However, I grew up watching 12 meters. In thumbing through the book I was captivated by some of the 1960's era 12's. For some reason, one that particularly stuck with me was Constellation from 1964. It was one of the last boats to have a classic full keel design.

NOTE: These images are not mine, and I make no claim to copyright. If you have copyright on any of these images and do not wish them to be posted here, please contact me and they will be removed. I have been unable to determine who owns the copyright to these images and they are posted here in good faith with no intention of theft or profit. If you know the copyright holder's information, please let me know and I will gladly give credit!




I am currently making a 3D model of the Constellation and perhaps someday might attempt a 1/16 RC model just for fun. It would be 45" LOA.

There would be no AMYA recognized class to race in, but it would still be fun to make regardless.



Aloha!





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