Gauge 1 (1/32) Seaside Charity Mine and telescopes

This is  a replica of a maritime charity sea mine and telescopes for gauge 1 (1/32) 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 a gauge 1 (1/32) replica of a maritime charity sea mine and telescopes, like the ones you often see on seaside promenades. It comes as an unpainted kit, ready for you to prime and paint.

Is any assembly required?

No assembly is required. The parts are supplied unassembled in the sense that they are separate from paint and finishing, but there is nothing you need to glue or build before painting and placing them on your layout or display.

What scale is this model suitable for?

The model is designed for gauge 1 (1/32 scale). It will look at home on gauge 1 layouts and in 1/32 dioramas, especially seaside or harbour scenes.

What material is the model made from?

The parts are produced in resin, cleaned and cured by hand. Resin allows for fine detail but should be handled with care as it can be delicate.

Is this a common item or a special piece?

This is a very unique model that is not generally available commercially and would be quite complicated to scratch build. It is intended as a distinctive feature piece for your layout or display.

Do the items come painted or primed?

No, all pieces come unprimed and unpainted. They are supplied fully cleaned, cured and with supports removed, ready for you to prime and paint in your preferred colours.

What kind of paint should I use?

You can use either car paints (automotive sprays) or acrylic paints. Both work well on this resin model as long as the surface is clean and you apply a suitable primer first.

Do I need to prime the model before painting?

Yes, priming is strongly recommended. A good primer helps paint adhere better, gives a more even finish and makes it easier to spot any small areas that might need extra sanding.

How should I prepare the surface before painting?

The parts are supplied cleaned and cured, with all supports removed. However, some fine sanding may be required to smooth any remaining marks. After sanding, gently dust off or wash the model and let it dry fully before priming.

Can I use brushes instead of spray paints?

Yes, you can brush-paint with acrylics if you prefer. Just build up the colour in thin coats over a suitable primer to avoid obscuring the fine details of the model.

Do I need any special tools for finishing?

You do not need specialist tools. The most useful items are:

• Fine sanding sticks or fine-grit sandpaper
• A suitable primer (spray or brush-on)
• Acrylic or car paints in your chosen colours
• A soft brush or cloth to remove dust before painting

Can I weather the model to look used or aged?

Yes, once the main colours are dry you can add gentle weathering with washes, dry-brushing or powders to give the sea mine and telescopes a more realistic, well-used seaside appearance.

What should I do if my model arrives broken?

If your item appears to have been damaged in the post, please take clear photos of the damage and contact the seller. They will review the images and see what can be done to help.

Are you responsible for damage after delivery?

Because resin can be quite delicate, the seller cannot be held responsible for breakages once the item has arrived safely. Please handle the model carefully to avoid drops or knocks.

My model has small marks where supports were removed. Is this normal?

All support structures are removed by hand, and the model is cleaned and cured before shipping. Very small marks can sometimes remain; this is normal for resin printing and can usually be removed with a little fine sanding before priming.

The surface feels slightly rough in places. How can I fix that?

Use fine-grit sandpaper or sanding sticks to gently smooth any rough or uneven areas. Work slowly and lightly so you do not remove detail, then clean off the dust and apply primer.

Paint is not sticking well in some spots. What should I check?

Make sure the model is:

• Free from dust, fingerprints and sanding residue
• Properly primed with a compatible primer
• Painted in thin coats, allowing each coat to dry fully

If needed, lightly sand the affected area, re-prime and repaint.

What if a small piece snaps while I am handling it?

If a part breaks after delivery, you can usually repair it with a suitable resin or cyanoacrylate (super) glue. Hold the parts together firmly until the glue sets, then touch up the join with primer and paint.

How should I handle the model during painting?

Handle the model gently and avoid gripping delicate areas. It can help to mount the piece on a temporary base or holder while painting, so you touch the model itself as little as possible.

How do I start if I have never painted a resin model before?

Take it step by step:

• Inspect the model and lightly sand any visible support marks
• Clean off dust and let it dry thoroughly
• Apply a thin, even coat of primer
• Build up your main colours with thin coats of acrylic or car paint
• Add details and weathering once the base colours are dry

Can I paint the sea mine and telescopes different colours?

Yes, they can be painted in any colour scheme you like. Many modellers choose bright, eye-catching colours for the charity sea mine and more muted or metallic tones for the telescopes to match real seaside examples.

How long should I wait between coats of paint?

Drying times depend on the paint you use, but it is best to allow each coat to dry fully before adding the next. For most acrylics and car paints, leaving at least 20–30 minutes between thin coats is a good starting point, or follow the paint manufacturer’s guidance.

Do I need a clear coat after painting?

A clear coat is optional but recommended if the model will be handled frequently. A matt, satin or gloss varnish can help protect the paintwork and give the finish the look you prefer.