I just feel like showing off...

[MTL]

It's remarkable.  How long did it take?

Depends on how much time you have at your hands. It's still not totally finished, since it also needs passion, especially for the small parts. Took me two years so far.

Ah, and here's a lifelong passion of mine. Vintage cars. My father was an engineer by profession. I grew up breathing petrol and never lost the fascination. I could name cars before I could read or write and distinguish them by their sounds. That of course was in the 60ies, when cars still were distinct individuals. That beauty I discovered on one of the squares of my hometown. Opel Rekord Caravan, 1960 built.

I can understand what you mean by " when cars still were distinct individuals "
...you're right, that's not the case, so much anymore, really.

My nephew will very likely head that way; he's 2.5 years old but can already identify and name all the major automotive company logos and has his favourite models, as toys.  He's fascinated by anything with wheels,
but growing up nowadays, I don't know what path it will take; like you said, it's different now.

I'm not really an automotive authority, myself, but I feel I should look for ways to nurture his interest.

I was thinking of getting him a book about the history of speed tests done on the Bonneville Salt Flats, or something, idk.  Something specialized, that will stand out to him, as he grows up in a world of planned automotive obsolescence.

I'm stunned to hear you've spent two years on that ship.  I figured it took you a few months, anyway, but that is dedication.  Ever build a ship in a jar?  Or maybe that's not your cup of tea?