A Christmas Gift Rediscovered
Back in 1989, I received a model fishing boat kit from MODELA as a Christmas gift. MODELA was a company known for producing kits and supplies for modelers at the time, but it no longer exists today. I built the boat and named it OLAF, but like many childhood projects, it eventually ended up in a box, forgotten for decades.
Fast forward 34 years—my father stumbled upon it and handed it back to me. Seeing it again brought back memories, but the boat was in rough shape: just a hull with broken parts, faded paint, and no functional system. I knew right away that it deserved a second chance.
The Restoration Begins
Bringing OLAF back to life was no small task. Originally, it was propelled by a CO2 motor with a heavy flywheel, a setup that was quite fascinating but outdated by today’s standards. The restoration process involved:
- Repainting: I used acrylic paint for durability and finished with a UV protective varnish to ensure long-term resistance against sunlight and water exposure.
- Fabricating New Parts: Some missing components were 3D printed for precise replication, while others were milled from plywood using a CNC machine for added strength and authenticity.
- Upgrading the Power System: Instead of the original CO2 motor, I chose a modern electric motor with a gearbox, powered by lithium-polymer batteries, offering smooth and efficient propulsion.
- Installing Lights: To enhance realism, I added working navigation and deck lights, making OLAF look even more authentic, especially in low-light conditions.
A New Chapter on the Water
The true reward came when I took OLAF to an annual model boat meeting at my club. Seeing it back in action, maneuvering on the water after more than three decades, was a surreal moment. What was once a childhood memory tucked away in a box was now a fully functional model, ready for many more years of sailing.
This project reminded me why I love model building—not just for the technical challenge but for the stories and nostalgia each model carries. Restoring a kit from a company that no longer exists made it even more special—a tribute to the craftsmanship and dedication of modelers from that era.
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