How to Define Original
07th June 2011
By Tim Du Vernet
A few days ago, while shooting a very original little rowboat, the discussion came to how “original” is defined in the vintage boating world. The ravages of time and the natural breakdown of the materials used in the boats is forcing this discussion to the surface. As our boats (and many of their owners) get older, just about every boat (and their owners) will need parts replaced.
In Muskoka, boat owners generally enjoy using their boats as much as they do their appearance and the security and safety of the artifact depends on a tight bottom and reliable engine. But just how much of a boat can be replaced before it ceases to be authentic?
The decal and serial plate aren’t necessarily any indication of the accuracy of the builder and date since replica versions are easily manufactured or bought. This year’s ACBS show will be a judged event where even more attention is brought to the process of restoration.
It is a sensitive topic and one that has many genuine points of view. If an owner discovers a boat in derelict condition, that is used as a starting point for a reconstruction, is it fair to label the finished boat with the decals of the original?
There may be tremendous historical value in the reconstruction, but can it equal the authenticity of a boat that hasn’t been reconstructed and yet looks in rough shape? The newer the boat, the more original wood should still be in the boat, that part is easy.
With a 100 year old boat, that has had its bottom replaced once or twice, been refinished two or three times, new planks replaced here and there, new upholstery, modern engine, etc., where do you draw the line?
Rick Terry, an experienced judge and owner of a vintage boat, has a pretty clear list of requirements and suggestions. Some suggestions are easier to work with than others. Terry notes that owners will not be penalized for the installation of required safety equipment.
Murray Walker, who has several fine vintage boats, is also quite specific in his perspective. The older the boat, the more tolerance there should be for replaced wood. He also feels that reconstructions should be in a different category.
When many wooden boats in Muskoka were moving from their first owner’s care to that of a new generation, some forty years ago, Vic Carpenter was one of the first builders to restore and build new and he created some of the most dramatic boats on the lakes today. Once again, there is the opportunity to celebrate contemporary builders and enjoy a customized boat that renews a legacy.
A few days ago, while shooting a very original little rowboat, the discussion came to how “original” is defined in the vintage boating world. The ravages of time and the natural breakdown of the materials used in the boats is forcing this discussion to the surface. As our boats (and many of their owners) get older, just about every boat (and their owners) will need parts replaced.
In Muskoka, boat owners generally enjoy using their boats as much as they do their appearance and the security and safety of the artifact depends on a tight bottom and reliable engine. But just how much of a boat can be replaced before it ceases to be authentic?
The decal and serial plate aren’t necessarily any indication of the accuracy of the builder and date since replica versions are easily manufactured or bought. This year’s ACBS show will be a judged event where even more attention is brought to the process of restoration.
It is a sensitive topic and one that has many genuine points of view. If an owner discovers a boat in derelict condition, that is used as a starting point for a reconstruction, is it fair to label the finished boat with the decals of the original?
There may be tremendous historical value in the reconstruction, but can it equal the authenticity of a boat that hasn’t been reconstructed and yet looks in rough shape? The newer the boat, the more original wood should still be in the boat, that part is easy.
With a 100 year old boat, that has had its bottom replaced once or twice, been refinished two or three times, new planks replaced here and there, new upholstery, modern engine, etc., where do you draw the line?
Rick Terry, an experienced judge and owner of a vintage boat, has a pretty clear list of requirements and suggestions. Some suggestions are easier to work with than others. Terry notes that owners will not be penalized for the installation of required safety equipment.
Murray Walker, who has several fine vintage boats, is also quite specific in his perspective. The older the boat, the more tolerance there should be for replaced wood. He also feels that reconstructions should be in a different category.
When many wooden boats in Muskoka were moving from their first owner’s care to that of a new generation, some forty years ago, Vic Carpenter was one of the first builders to restore and build new and he created some of the most dramatic boats on the lakes today. Once again, there is the opportunity to celebrate contemporary builders and enjoy a customized boat that renews a legacy.