Entirely hand-built, our models are created in our workshops by craftsmen specialized in woodworking and resin, and by jewelers who design the fittings. Their work is guided solely by a concern for quality and precision finishes.
Plans
To ensure that our scale models are as faithful to reality as possible, we work from precise, original plans and numerous photos. Templates are made to develop a prototype, which undergoes meticulous checks. As an Official Licensee of the shipyards with which we develop our partnerships, we work from all the data and official plans supplied by them.
Sanding and varnishing or painting
Then comes the long process of sanding and varnishing and/or painting, according to a unique procedure. To obtain a perfectly smooth hull and deck, 8 to 10 coats of varnish are applied (for varnished wood models) or 4 coats of paint and 2 coats of finishing varnish (for painted models), interspersed with increasingly fine sanding. The final phase consists of applying several coats of gloss varnish to achieve a "mirror effect" for mahogany boats.
Base
As for the bases, they meet the same quality criteria as our models. They are made of varnished wood for wooden models and painted wood for other models, and undergo the same varnishing and sanding processes.
Packaging
Finally, we take particular care in packaging our models.
Each model is specially packaged to protect it during transport.
The yachts are protected in a wooden crate, which is then strapped to a shrink-wrapped pallet.
Each stage of production is subject to rigorous controls. A final quality check is carried out before each product is dispatched.
Anumbered"KIADE Maquettes Certificate of Authenticity" is then issued, guaranteeing the model's conformity.
Structure
WOOD: Made from noble woods, our model boats are built with planking for the hull, and batten for the deck. In order to guarantee the long-term stability of our models, a special technique ensures an excellent grip on the wood, avoiding the risk of cracking. What's more, since wood is a living material, special care is taken in selecting and drying it, which is essential for its long-term stability.
RESIN: Made from polyester and fiberglass, our models are built using the same process as real boats. A silicone imprint is taken on a master made from the original 3D plans, enabling production of the hulls. A long sanding process is then carried out to reproduce every detail as faithfully as possible.
Fittings and saddlery
A selection of detailed photos is used to create fittings in brass or chrome-plated brass, manufactured to the exacting standards of genuine jewelry. To achieve this, our jewelers design each piece to create specific molds. The result is true-to-life pieces. All upholstery and sail components are shaped and sewn by hand, using original materials where possible, or substitutes if the original material cannot be used for our models.