Circa 1940s/50s Royal Navy T-Class Submarine Cast Metal Waterline Display Model

A substantial vintage cast-metal waterline display model, believed to represent a Royal Navy T-Class / Triton-Class submarine, mounted on a hardwood display plinth.

The model measures approximately 44 cm (17.3”) in length, with the plinth measuring approximately 48 cm (18.9”).

The main body is constructed from a heavy non-ferrous cast metal. It is non-magnetic and appears most likely to be a zinc alloy / spelter-type material rather than aluminium. The three upright fittings to the conning tower are magnetic and are believed to represent steel masts / periscopes.

The model has a pleasingly simple, almost recognition-model style, with the long waterline hull and compact stepped conning tower strongly suggesting an early Royal Navy T-Class submarine. These boats were designed during the 1930s and became an important Royal Navy submarine class during the Second World War and immediate post-war period.

No maker’s marks, ship name or identifying inscriptions have been found, therefore the exact vessel and date of manufacture cannot be confirmed. Based on the construction, materials, patina and style, we believe it is most likely a mid-20th-century piece, circa 1940s–1950s.

The submarine is fixed to the wooden plinth with old countersunk slotted screws. Overall condition is good, with expected age-related patina, surface wear and marks to both the cast metal and wooden base.

A particularly impressive and substantial display piece with excellent visual appeal for a collection of Royal Navy, submarine, maritime or Second World War memorabilia.

Dimensions:
Submarine length: approx. 44 cm (17.3”)
Plinth length: approx. 48 cm (18.9”)

Weight: approx. 1.77 kg

Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.