Ranger Painted Model – The Last J-Class America's Cup Champion The Ranger, launched in 1937, was the last J-Class yacht ever built for the America’s Cup. Designed by Starling Burgess and Olin Stephens, it was commissioned by Harold Vanderbilt to compete against the British challenger Endeavour II. Ranger dominated the race, securing a resounding victory and cementing its status as one of the greatest racing yachts of all time. This model is meticulously handcrafted from cedar wood, mahogany, teak, and various other exotic woods. Each model is 100% handmade, built using the plank-on-frame construction method—similar to actual shipbuilding. Craftsmen spend hundreds of hours ensuring precision and historical accuracy. Details: - Hull Design: The Ranger features a sleek, streamlined hull, painted in a striking white and deep red finish, faithfully capturing the elegance and power of the original racing yacht. The finely crafted keel reflects the yacht’s legendary speed and stability. - Masts & Rigging: The single tall mast, painted in warm mahogany tones, is secured with precisely hand-tied rigging. The large hand-stitched linen sails mirror the sail plan of the original Ranger, enhancing its authentic racing look. - Deck Accessories: The detailed wooden deck is beautifully crafted with handmade hatches, winches, cleats, and wooden benches. The realistic helm and rope coils add a touch of authenticity. - Display Stand: This fully assembled model is mounted on a sturdy wooden base with a brass nameplate, making it a perfect display piece for homes, offices, or yacht clubs. Note: Model arrives with the mast and sails folded down for easy shipping; all riggings are done, just need to raise the mast up and make some adjustments to straighten out the sails, assembly in minutes. Please take a look at the assembly youtube video here . Embrace the little challenge of bringing your model to life, just as sailors prepared their vessels for the open sea. This museum-quality model is ideal for classic yacht enthusiasts, America’s Cup fans, and collectors of historic sailing vessels. Celebrate the golden era of sailing and bring home the legendary Ranger today!
History
The Ranger is an iconic America’s Cup contender that became one of the most celebrated racing yachts in history. Built in 1937 by the Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company in Virginia, the Ranger was designed by Olin Stephens of the Sparkman & Stephens firm, renowned for crafting yachts that combined elegance with top-tier performance. The Ranger was created specifically to compete in the America’s Cup and was part of the intense rivalry between the United States and Great Britain. It was designed to be fast, sleek, and able to withstand the challenging conditions of the race. The yacht's clean lines, deep keel, and powerful rigging system made it a formidable competitor. Ranger's most notable achievement came in 1937 when it successfully defended the America's Cup for the United States, beating the British challenger Endeavour II in a series of dramatic races. This victory solidified the Ranger’s place in sailing history, contributing to its reputation as one of the most well-designed and competitive yachts ever built. After its success in the America’s Cup, Ranger continued to be admired for its stunning craftsmanship, performance, and design. In modern times, the yacht has been lovingly restored and serves as a symbol of American yacht racing and maritime heritage. It remains a testament to the golden era of yacht design and the history of the America’s Cup.
