SeaWatch Books Podcast

Mike Ellison | SeaWatch Books
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The SeaWatch Books Podcast explores the art, craftsmanship, and history of ship modeling through conversations with expert modelers, historians, and industry leaders. Hosted by Mike Ellison, publisher of SeaWatch Books, the series dives into legendary restorations, maritime history, and the people shaping the world of scale ship modeling today.

Episodes

  1. Sep 2

    From Chemical Plants to Clipper Ships: An Engineer?s Journey with Ed Tosti

    Join us for a conversation with Ed Tosti, the SeaWatch Books author of the two-volume Naiad Frigate and the three-volume Young America series. Those books were written while the models were underway. Ed is a graduate mechanical engineer who spent his working years as a project engineer in the chemical industry. He did not build ship models then. In this episode, you’ll hear about: How an uncle’s 1920s modeling, the whaling bark Wanderer in his grandfather’s workshop, and tools his father gave him at about five pulled him toward shipsHMS Victory, started in 1976 and finished around 2009, seven or eight years after retirement: thirty-some years, mostly Christmas vacation until a couple of years full-time at the endNaiad, one of three frigates at Trafalgar: a 1:60 framed model drafted in CAD from period methods, and a two-volume SeaWatch book written during the buildYoung America, an American extreme clipper in 1:72, a series that grew to three volumes, and homemade ropeDrafting as the part he likes most, and his advice that you do not have to start simple and level up The Young America model is at Mystic Seaport, on display about two years; Ed has not seen it there yet. Naiad is upstairs at home, in a case. Learn more about Ed’s books at https://seawatchbooks.com/collections/edward-j-tosti Subscribe to the SeaWatch Books Podcast for more interviews with the leading voices in ship modeling and maritime history.

  2. 09/20/2025

    Inside the World of Dutch Ship Models with Ab & Emiel Hoving

    Join us for a fascinating conversation with Ab Hoving, one of the most respected names in ship modeling, along with his son Emil Hoving. Ab shares his remarkable journey from being a schoolteacher to becoming head of the ship model collection at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, where he restored and cared for some of the world’s most important maritime treasures. In this episode, you’ll hear about: How Ab turned his lifelong passion for modeling into a career at the Rijksmuseum.The challenges and joys of restoring centuries-old ship models, including the legendary William Rex.His groundbreaking work reconstructing Dutch shipbuilding methods from the 17th century.Emil’s role in bringing these models to life through photography, graphic design, and digital art.Reflections on the future of ship modeling and advice for those looking to make the leap into scratch building.From historical insights to personal stories (including why Ab once set fire to one of his own models!), this interview is packed with wisdom, humor, and inspiration for modelers, maritime historians, and anyone passionate about preserving the past. 🔗 Learn more about Ab’s books and projects at https://seawatchbooks.com/collections.... 📌 Subscribe to The SeaWatch Podcast for more interviews with the leading voices in ship modeling and maritime history.

  3. 08/15/2025

    The “Rum” Line: From Angostora Executive to Master Ship Modeler - Kevin Kenny’s Story

    Join host Michael Ellison for a fascinating conversation with master model shipbuilder Kevin Kenny, creator of the long-running YouTube series documenting his build of HMS Thorn. Kevin shares how a bold promise at work led him back into modeling, the challenges of building in a tropical climate, and the unique Caribbean hardwoods he uses. We explore his research process, tips for new modelers, and his philosophy on learning through mistakes. From the Thorn to his upcoming build of HMS Ulysses, Kevin’s passion for preserving maritime history shines through. 📌 Highlights: The “dare” that reignited Kevin’s passion for model buildingBuilding museum-quality models in TrinidadProtecting ships from termites and tropical pestsUnique woods for ship modeling – and where he finds themThe patience and honesty behind his YouTube videosAdvice for beginners in ship modelingWatch Kevin’s HMS Thorn build series here: https://www.youtube.com/@kevinkenny5122 Learn more about SeaWatch Books: http://www.seawatchbooks.com

  4. 06/29/2025

    Tom Lauria’s Journey: A Life in Models and the Legacy of Alice S. Wentworth

    In this episode, we welcome master model maker Tom Lauria to the bridge. From his early days building models in the Bronx to becoming a renowned ship modeler on Cape Cod, Tom shares the winding journey that led him to the world of scratch-built maritime masterpieces. We dive into his lifelong passion for storytelling through models, the mentors and moments that shaped his craft, and the philosophy behind his work — including his signature approach to bringing vessels to life through authentic weathering and detail. The conversation then turns to Tom’s latest and perhaps most personal project: The Coasting Schooner Alice S. Wentworth. We explore the fascinating story of Alice and her legendary captain, Zeb, and how Tom painstakingly researched and recreated this iconic schooner in miniature. Whether you're a model maker, maritime enthusiast, or simply love a story of dedication and history coming alive, this episode is full of insight, inspiration, and salty charm. 👉 Watch Tom's videos on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@shipmodelguy 👉 Get the book: The Coasting Schooner Alice S. Wentworth on SeaWatch Books: https://seawatchbooks.com/products/the-coasting-schooner-alice-s-wentworh-by-thomas-j-lauria

  5. 05/17/2025

    The Art (and Sport!) of Ship Modeling with Olha and Kroum Batchvarov

    In this episode of the SeaWatch Podcast, we sit down with Olha and Kroum Batchvarov—two remarkable individuals united by a love of ships, history, and precision craftsmanship. Olha shares her inspiring journey from discovering ship modeling in Ukraine to building a successful YouTube channel and full-time career as a model builder in the U.S.—including her surprising experience competing in ship modeling as a recognized sport. Kroum, a leading maritime archeologist, takes us inside the world of shipwreck excavation, including his work on the famed Vasa and Black Sea Maritime Archeology Project. He explains how archeology and modeling intersect—and the stories ancient wrecks still have to tell. We explore the challenges and joys of building historical ship models, restoring old kits, working from archeological data, and inspiring the next generation of modelers—including more women in the craft. Whether you're into modeling, maritime history, or just love a good story, this conversation has something for you. Check out Olha's YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/@OlhaBatchvarov Check out Kroum's YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/@kroumbatchvarov-archaeologist

  6. 03/29/2025

    Inside the World’s Largest Ship Model Collection with Simon Stephens

    🚢 Inside the World's Largest Ship Model Collection – with Curator Simon Stephens 🌍 Join us for a fascinating conversation with Simon Stephens, longtime curator at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, London, as we explore the hidden world of historic ship models—some dating back to 1800 BCE! From naval masterpieces to Shackleton’s legendary lifeboat, Simon shares stories from his 47-year career, including high-tech methods for peering inside models using medical endoscopes and CT scans, uncovering long-lost details and even surprise artifacts. 💡 Topics covered include: The scale and scope of the museum’s 4,500+ model collectionThe mysterious Navy Board modelsCutting-edge conservation techniquesSimon’s favorite finds—including hidden paintings and a “dead body” (sort of!)The remarkable story of the James Caird and Shackleton’s Antarctic rescueBehind-the-scenes access to the museum’s model storage and public toursWhether you're a ship modeler, maritime historian, or just curious about the craft and care behind preserving these miniature marvels, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and inspiration. 📍 Learn more or plan your visit: https://www.rmg.co.uk 🔔 Subscribe for more interviews with experts, historians, and modelers from around the world!

  7. 03/14/2025

    The Hidden Treasures of the Rogers Collection: A Conversation with Grant Walker

    Join us for a fascinating deep dive into the world of historic ship models with Grant Walker, curator and author of The Rogers Collection of Dockyard Models. In this episode, Grant shares the incredible story of how the Naval Academy acquired one of the world’s finest collections of 17th- and 18th-century ship models, the meticulous research and restoration efforts behind them, and the surprising discoveries revealed through fiber optics and CT scans. We also discuss his upcoming Volume 4 and what it will add to the rich history of the collection. This episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

  8. 02/15/2025

    A Model Life: David Antscherl’s Journey in Ship Modeling

    ⛵Welcome to the SeaWatch Podcast! ⛵ In this episode, we dive deep into the world of ship modeling with David Antscherl, one of the most accomplished and prolific model shipbuilders and authors in the field. From his early fascination with miniatures and maritime museums in Greenwich to becoming a master modeler and historian, David shares his incredible journey, insights, and expertise. 🔹 Topics Covered in This Episode: ✔️ How David’s passion for ship modeling began in childhood ✔️ His transition from health sciences and theater design to professional model making ✔️ The research and craftsmanship behind his renowned ship models ✔️ His groundbreaking work on the Swan Class series and the Stuart Royal Yacht Fubbs ✔️ The future of ship modeling and how to inspire the next generation David’s work has not only preserved maritime history but also educated and inspired countless ship modelers worldwide. Whether you're a hobbyist, historian, or just fascinated by maritime craftsmanship, this episode is packed with valuable insights. ⚓ Subscribe for More ⚓ If you love ship modeling, maritime history, and deep dives into craftsmanship, be sure to subscribe and hit the 🔔 notification bell so you don’t miss future episodes! 📚 Get David’s Books & Plans at SeaWatch Books: https://seawatchbooks.com/collections/david-antscherl 📜 Read His Article in Mariner’s Mirror: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/00253359.2021.1898206?needAccess=true 📩 Follow SeaWatch Books for Updates: https://www.facebook.com/SeaWatchBooks #ShipModeling #MaritimeHistory #SeaWatchPodcast #DavidAntscherl #WoodenShipModels #HistoricShips #ModelShipBuilding #NavalHistory

  9. 02/02/2025

    Inside the Workshop: A Professional Ship Modeler’s Journey with Rob Napier

    🚢 Welcome to the First Ever SeaWatch Books Podcast! ⚓ In this debut episode, host Mike Ellison sits down with renowned ship modeler and historian Rob Napier for a fascinating deep dive into his decades-long career. From his early days building plastic kits to restoring priceless museum pieces, Rob shares incredible stories about his journey in the world of ship modeling. 🔹 How did he get started in the hobby? 🔹 What makes a truly great ship model? 🔹 Behind-the-scenes details on restoring Valkenisse and Princess Royal 🔹 His thoughts on the future of the craft and upcoming projects If you're passionate about ship modeling this episode is for you! 🛠️ Got a name suggestion for the podcast? Drop it in the comments! 📚 Like and subscribe for more interviews with top experts in ship modeling and maritime history! #SeaWatchBooks #ShipModeling #MaritimeHistory #Podcast #Woodworking #ScaleModels #NauticalCraftsmanship

    Inside the Workshop: A Professional Ship Modeler’s Journey with Rob Napier
  • 9 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

The SeaWatch Books Podcast explores the art, craftsmanship, and history of ship modeling through conversations with expert modelers, historians, and industry leaders. Hosted by Mike Ellison, publisher of SeaWatch Books, the series dives into legendary restorations, maritime history, and the people shaping the world of scale ship modeling today.

Information

  • Creator
    Mike Ellison | SeaWatch Books
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    9
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 SeaWatch Books Podcast
  • Show Website
    SeaWatch Books Podcast