O Gauge (1/43) O16.5 / 7mm Seaside Charity Mine and telescopes

This is  a replica of a maritime charity sea mine and telescopes that you find on many seaside promenades.It comes as an unpainted kit, although to be fair there is no assembly required. 

This is a really unique model and not something that is generally available and would be very complicated to scratch build. 

FAQ – Product FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is this model?

This is an unpainted replica of a maritime charity sea mine and promenade telescopes, like the ones you see on many seaside promenades. It is supplied as a kit, but there is no assembly required.

Is this model ready to use straight out of the box?

The model is cleaned, cured and has all supports removed, so it is ready for you to prime and paint. It is not painted or primed, so you will need to finish it before placing it on your layout or display.

What material is the model made from?

The model is produced in resin. Resin allows for fine detail but can be quite delicate, so it should be handled with care and not dropped.

Is this a common item for model railways?

No, this is a very unique model and not something that is generally available. The real-life subject would be quite complicated to scratch build, which is why this ready-made replica is so handy.

Does the kit include multiple pieces or parts?

All pieces and parts are supplied unprimed and unpainted, with supports removed. Although it is described as a kit, there is no assembly required by you.

Is this suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is suitable for anyone comfortable with basic priming and painting. There is no assembly to worry about, so you can focus entirely on the paint finish.

My model arrived with a small defect or breakage. What should I do?

If the piece appears to have been broken in the post, please take clear photos of the damage and get in touch. Images help us see what we can do to help. We cannot be responsible for breakages after safe delivery, so please handle the model carefully once it has arrived.

Why are there faint marks or lines on the surface?

All items are cleaned and cured by hand and we do our very best to remove support marks. However, some fine sanding may still be required to achieve a perfectly smooth finish before priming and painting.

What if a part looks slightly warped or uneven?

Minor surface irregularities can usually be corrected with gentle sanding and careful priming. Because resin is delicate, avoid forcing or bending any area; instead, work slowly and lightly with fine abrasives.

The model feels fragile. Is that normal?

Yes, resin can be quite delicate, especially on finer details. This is normal for detailed resin models. Always handle the piece by its sturdier sections and avoid dropping it or putting it under pressure.

Can I return the model if I accidentally break it?

We cannot be held responsible for breakages once the item has arrived safely. If damage occurs in transit, please provide images so we can review the situation. Accidental damage after delivery is not covered.

How should I prepare the surface before painting?

Before painting, inspect the model for any remaining support marks and gently sand them if needed. Then:

• Lightly sand any rough areas with fine-grit paper.
• Ensure the model is free from dust and handling residue.
• Apply a suitable primer before your main colours.

What paints can I use on this model?

You can paint this kit with either car paints or acrylic paints. Both work well on resin when used over a suitable primer.

Do I need to use a primer?

Yes, a primer is strongly recommended. It helps paint adhere to the resin, reveals any remaining surface imperfections, and gives you a more durable finish.

Any tips for painting the sea mine and telescopes?

Because this is a seaside charity-style piece, you might want to use bold, clean colours and good contrast. Many modellers find it helpful to:

• Paint the main body first, then pick out smaller details afterwards.
• Build up colour in thin coats rather than one thick layer.
• Use a clear varnish at the end to protect the finish.

Can I use spray paints like automotive aerosols?

Yes, car paints are specifically mentioned as suitable. Apply them in light coats, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly. Always follow the safety instructions on the paint can and test on a hidden area if possible.

How can I protect the painted model on my layout?

Once you are happy with the paintwork, you can seal it with a clear matte, satin or gloss varnish, depending on the look you want. This helps protect the finish from handling and dust, especially as resin details can be delicate.