Hotel, SSBN, 1:700 scale model
Hotel, SSBN, 1:700 scale model
Hotel, SSBN, 1:700 scale model
Hotel, SSBN, 1:700 scale model

More images posted by Aleksey Ivanov on: https://karopka.ru/community/user/10999/?MODEL=225109

While browsing through some model galleries, I stumbled upon Aleksey Ivanov’s 1:700 scale build of the HMS Royal Sovereign, crafted from an Eastern Express kit. Right off the bat, what caught my eye was the cleanliness and accuracy of the build. The paint job looks great, with sharp lines and realistic colors that bring the ship to life without overwhelming it with excessive detailing. It’s like looking at a well-preserved historical photograph — everything feels just right.

The real HMS Royal Sovereign had quite a history, having served during both World Wars. It’s interesting to think about how it was part of that pivotal shift in naval warfare. I can’t help but wonder if Aleksey tried to capture a specific period from its service.

Checking out the subtle weathering, you notice how it adds a nice touch without being overdone. It gives the impression of a ship that’s seen its fair share of sea breezes and salty air, but still stands proud and formidable. The deck details are particularly impressive, with care taken to highlight the gun turrets and superstructure.

Aleksey’s work shows a lot of skill, especially in assembling something that’s both intricate and easy to mishandle. I really like how the whole model seems cohesive; there are no glaring gaps or misalignments. It makes me think about the challenges of balancing patience and precision in the crafting process.

Did you know that during its time, the Royal Sovereign was one of the last battleships to be produced by the Royal Navy before the shift to more modern naval vessels? That’s a neat little historical nugget that makes this model even more fascinating.

What I love most about this build is its simplicity and accuracy. It’s a reminder of how sometimes, less really is more, capturing the essence of such a storied vessel without drowning in unnecessary complexity.