What Are Waterline Ships?
A waterline model omits the underwater hull, allowing the ship to sit naturally on a sea surface. This makes them compact, easy to handle, and perfectly suited to naval scenarios on a tabletop or display.
Scales in Use
1 : 1250 - The traditional European collector's scale, offering exceptional surface detail and a wide choice of vessels.
1 / 3000 - Favoured by many wargamers for its small footprint and ability to represent whole fleets economically.
1 / 2400 - Less popular in Europe but widely used in North America for modern and Cold War gaming.
1 / 600 - Used mostly in Age of Sail games.
1 / 300 - Used in coastal naval skirmishes.
Our scale: At Waterline Admirals we use 1 : 1250 ships for our wargaming. The 1 / 3000 scale is also suitable for larger fleet actions or compact tables. The 1 / 2400 scale is less common in Europe but used by some groups elsewhere.
A Short History
The waterline model format developed from the 1930s onward with British firms such as Bassett-Lowke and Tri-ang, and German pioneers like Wiking. After the war, continental makers expanded the concept into large metal and resin ranges, setting 1 : 1250 as a standard for collectors and naval enthusiasts. Today, new creators produce finely detailed resin and 3D-printed models, continuing the waterline tradition with modern methods and materials.
Collecting & Wargaming
Waterline ships combine historical accuracy with practicality. The scales provide instantly recognisable silhouettes and allow realistic fleet manoeuvres within a manageable space. 1 : 1250 is excellent for individual task groups or convoy actions; smaller scales like 1 / 3000 or 1 / 2400 enable full-fleet or theatre-level engagements.
Starting a Fleet
- Choose a navy or period (e.g., WWII, Cold War, Modern).
- Begin with 8-12 ships - a carrier or capital ship, several escorts, and auxiliaries.
- Keep ships unbased so they sit naturally on the sea surface.
- Store securely in trays or boxes for transport.