Supermarine S-6 Craftsman Made Model Aircraft

The Supermarine S.6 was designed in the 1920's by R. J. Mitchell as a single-seat racing seaplane for the RAF High Speed Flight and was built by Supermarine specifically for the Schneider Trophy races. In its first event in 1929 Flying Officer H. R. D. Waghorn flew N247 at a speed of 328.63 mph came first, in a course record time. By 1931 the British team set a new world speed record 380 mph and with a third straight win the trophy was won outright and in perpetuity. R J Mitchell used much of the knowledge gained with the S.6 in developing the Supermarine Spitfire and the rest, as they say, is history!

Our model is small but beautifully formed. It is quite clear this is a one off handmade model, probably produced in a workshop at the time utilising scrap aluminium and mounted on a display stand possibly made from Paxolin. The float struts are riveted through the wings and whilst the starboard one has a slight wobble it is absolutely fine on display The fuselage detail and open cockpit are all correct with distinctive engine nacelles designed to house the 1,900 hp Rolls-Royce R engine. The underside of the fuselage confirms the wings have been made from a separate section of metal and is bolted to the fuselage. The polished aluminium of the airframe and the stand support show some age related staining but generally it has survived in excellent original condition and the propeller still turns.

Many of these S.6 models were commercially produced as car bonnet radiator mascots. We do not believe this applies here as it is clearly handmade, as described above. It makes a very fine decorative display model today, despite being in the region of 90 years old, and representing a design that paved the way for the most iconic fighter of all time. Wingspan measures 5.75" (14.5 cm) and the model stands 4" (10.5 cm) high from base to top of the fin.