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Maris Stella kits from China

Seatoland

Seatoland

Joined
Dec 7, 2024
Messages
21
Points
58

Location
Tulsa Oklahoma
My wife purchased a kit claiming to be Maris Stella from Crown Hobby in China off of EBay for my birthday. The seller claims the kit came from the factory authorized by Maris Stella for new manufacturing. The kit we received is in an unmarked box from some other model kit folded inside out and peeled. The walnut strips are a different color than any kit or completed walnut wood ship I’ve built, all cast is now very bad 3 printed parts still in their raw form that may not even be useable. All drawings and books are copied from original sources from a printer obviously running out of ink. Many parts are just missing.

I have Maris Stella kits in my stash so can do side by side comparisons and this is trash and not worth a 4th of what she paid.

Anyone know if they did in fact merge? The seller states this is the new standard….

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MarisStella is based in Croatia. Compare what's published on the official website.
China? Incredibly strange.

www.marisstella.hr

Ragusian Carrack - Nava 217 wagons- 77,5cm, 30.51'', 1:59 - Model Ship Kits, Ship Modelling, Accessories, Wood, Tools, Paints, Bases. MarisStella Ltd

Ragusian Carrack - Nava 217 wagons- 77,5cm, 30.51'', 1:59 - Carrack probably took her name from Arabic word karraka, which means light boat (Carrack, carraque, kraeck, Carraca). This is a big sailing ship in use from the 14th to the 17th century, designed for transporting goods...
www.marisstella.hr www.marisstella.hr

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kuba91nt said:
MarisStella is based in Croatia. Compare what's published on the official website.
China? Incredibly strange.

www.marisstella.hr

Ragusian Carrack - Nava 217 wagons- 77,5cm, 30.51'', 1:59 - Model Ship Kits, Ship Modelling, Accessories, Wood, Tools, Paints, Bases. MarisStella Ltd

Ragusian Carrack - Nava 217 wagons- 77,5cm, 30.51'', 1:59 - Carrack probably took her name from Arabic word karraka, which means light boat (Carrack, carraque, kraeck, Carraca). This is a big sailing ship in use from the 14th to the 17th century, designed for transporting goods...
www.marisstella.hr www.marisstella.hr

View attachment 581410
Click to expand...


It is not strange,the kits can be manufactured in China ,I emailed Zoran from Marisstelka ,lets see what he replies
 
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kuba91nt said:
MarisStella is based in Croatia. Compare what's published on the official website.
China? Incredibly strange.

www.marisstella.hr

Ragusian Carrack - Nava 217 wagons- 77,5cm, 30.51'', 1:59 - Model Ship Kits, Ship Modelling, Accessories, Wood, Tools, Paints, Bases. MarisStella Ltd

Ragusian Carrack - Nava 217 wagons- 77,5cm, 30.51'', 1:59 - Carrack probably took her name from Arabic word karraka, which means light boat (Carrack, carraque, kraeck, Carraca). This is a big sailing ship in use from the 14th to the 17th century, designed for transporting goods...
www.marisstella.hr www.marisstella.hr

View attachment 581410
Click to expand...
I have the Cog and know how it should be. To get a kit in an unmarked box with a bunch of junk was definitely a birthday surprise…
 
Subject: Replacement Shipment for Damaged Model Kit


Dear Valued Customer,


We sincerely apologize for the condition of the model kit you recently received. It has come to our attention that the product was distributed by Crown Hobby, a distributor in China, via eBay, and arrived in an entirely damaged and unsalable state. We deeply regret that this item was ever sent out for delivery, and we take full responsibility for this unfortunate oversight.


To make things right, we have arranged for a brand-new Ragusian Carrack Nava 217 wagon model kit to be shipped to you at no cost—completely free of charge, including all delivery fees. This replacement is our gift to you as a loyal customer. (shipped from China)


To provide full transparency:


  • Attached to this mail, (a bit later) you will find step-by-step kit box production assembly photos of the same product, taken during its preparation on our workbench.

  • Once the replacement kit is dispatched, we will share the DHL tracking documentation with you. Please note that for privacy reasons, all personal details (name and address) will be redacted from the provided documents.
We truly value your trust and patience, and we are committed to ensuring you receive a perfect product. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us directly.


Thank you for your understanding.


Warm regards,


MS Model Ship KIts
 
Subject: Update on MS Model Ship Kits Production and Global Distribution


Dear Valued Customers and Partners,


We are writing to inform you about recent developments regarding the production of our MS Model Ship Kits line. As part of our ongoing commitment to quality and accessibility, we have established a dedicated production chain in China. This step was taken to ensure precision, scalability, and consistency in the craftsmanship of our historically accurate model ship kits.


We are pleased to share that this production chain is now fully operational and optimized. With the foundation firmly in place, we have begun the process of transferring finished items to our distribution centers in the European Union, the United States, and other key regions worldwide. This expansion will allow us to serve our global community of enthusiasts and collectors more efficiently, with reduced shipping times and enhanced logistical reliability.


Our mission remains unchanged: to deliver meticulously researched, authentically detailed model ship kits that honor maritime history. This strategic move enables us to maintain the high standards you expect from us, while also growing our reach to share these unique products with a broader audience.


We extend our sincere gratitude for your continued support and patience during this transition. As we embark on this new chapter, we are excited to bring the legacy of historic ships into your hands, no matter where you are in the world.


Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.


Fair winds and smooth sailing ahead,


The MS Model Ship Kits Team
 
Subject: Replacement Shipment for Damaged Model Kit

Dear Valued Customer,

We sincerely apologize for the condition of the model kit you recently received. It has come to our attention that the product was distributed by Crown Hobby, a distributor in China, via eBay, and arrived in an entirely damaged and unsalable state. We deeply regret that this item was ever sent out for delivery, and we take full responsibility for this unfortunate oversight.

To make things right, we have arranged for a brand-new Ragusian Carrack Nava 217 wagon model kit to be shipped to you at no cost—completely free of charge, including all delivery fees. This replacement is our gift to you as a loyal customer. (shipped from China)

To provide full transparency:

  • Attached to this mail, you will find step-by-step kit box production assembly photos of the same product, taken during its preparation on our workbench.

  • Once the replacement kit is dispatched, we will share the DHL tracking documentation with you. Please note that for privacy reasons, all personal details (name and address) will be redacted from the provided documents.

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Introducing a New Era in Model Crafting: MS Model Ship Kits

We are proud to announce that our new production center, located in the heart of China, is now fully operational. This strategic advancement brings unprecedented value to the global scale modeling community and our distribution partners worldwide.

Unmatched Quality & Precision

Our manufacturing technology has achieved a generational leap forward. Products from our new facility exceed previous EU-based benchmarks by a significant margin, offering superior detail, fit, and finish that places us at the forefront of the industry.

Exceptional Value, Redefined

Through optimized production and supply chain efficiency, we have substantially reduced costs. We are passing these savings directly to the market, with a reduction in product pricing of approximately one-third.

A Clear & Rewarding Partnership

We have established a transparent, two-tier distribution structure, with a target margin of around 30% at each stage. Registered partners will also qualify for an additional cooperative discount, ensuring a healthy and profitable business model.

Global Brand Integrity

To ensure fair competition and protect the investment of all our partners, MS Model Ship Kits will be marketed under a globally unified suggested retail price. Adherence to this policy is essential for maintaining a stable and prosperous market for everyone.

Innovative Support: The MS Financing Program

We are introducing a proprietary and copyrighted support system: the MS Partner Financing Program. This flexible discount and credit scheme is designed to help partners manage inventory. Complete details will be provided in a separate partnership agreement.

Powerful Marketing, Delivered Daily

When you partner with MS, you gain more than a product line—you gain a full marketing arsenal. We are committed to providing daily, high-quality promotional materials, including professional video commercials, dynamic image sets, and digital content to drive customer engagement and sales.

Join Us.


This is more than a product launch; it is an invitation to build the future of scale modeling together. We provide the excellence, the value, and the tools. You provide the passion and the reach.

Stock the brand that crafts mastery. Become an MS Model Ship Kits Partner today.

For full partnership details and our complete product catalog, please contact us to get started.

Advantage center for distributor calling:


A Commitment to Authenticity: Our Research Journey

In 2022, we faced significant challenges regarding the perceived quality of the historical research underpinning our ship models. This vulnerability was exploited by competitors in attempts to discredit our products. In response, we embarked on a comprehensive initiative to solidify our foundation. We meticulously gathered primary source materials from relevant domestic museums, including manuscripts, contracts, books, professional studies, and high-resolution photographs of historical artifacts. Through dedicated study and analysis, we have since developed our own authoritative works and reference materials.

A major undertaking currently in production is a definitive book focused on the fleet of the Republic of Ragusa. This volume, spanning approximately 1,500 A4 pages, will integrate photographs of artifacts, our technical drawing designs, original research papers, and archival scripts, serving as an exhaustive scholarly resource.


Our research publication series began with the work “Navicello: Truth or Myth!?”

Furthermore, we have completed expanded research dossiers on the Ragusian Carrack, Cog, and Galleon. This deepened research directly informs a new series of promotional films for our ship model kit line, enhanced with professionally produced content that highlights historical precision and craftsmanship.

An Expert Analysis of Ragusan Naval Architecture: The Carrack, Nava, and Galleon (14th-17th Centuries)
https://youtu.be/B2t2HpFRl8w

Ragusian Nava,
The Forgotten Workhorse of the Adriatic
https://youtu.be/R7rNaH7QEfg

MS Model Ship Kits Ragusian Nava 215 Ragusian Wagons
https://youtu.be/S_jGEc70RD8

The Shallow-Draft Hulls of 16th Century
https://youtu.be/l9Q5jtAVSrs

MS Model Ship Kits

MS groups of the products
https://youtu.be/v-j1Vpzj1-8

MS innovative construction video
https://youtu.be/JEmJ4Ab_9CA

MS Ragusian Nava 215 wagons KIT and BUILD
Unboxing, Elements, and Build Log
https://youtu.be/qWvTTg61aD0
https://youtu.be/mL9PClP96Os
https://youtu.be/vhSw-sdwASg

HMS Ontario and HMS Speed works

This video was created as a result of MS Model Ship Kits research work. Refers to the 3D printed figures of Ragusian Cog, Carrack and Galleon ship models.
https://youtu.be/albX3qygzV4

MS Model ship kits, an innovation in making scale model sails from the Age of Sail period
https://youtu.be/a_VC0pCcwzQ

HMS Speedy boat reconstruction and MS Innovative boat making method
https://youtu.be/z4I2x_Uadig

HMS Speedy anchor reconstruction and MS Innovative anchor making method
https://youtu.be/ZQzp2T0ux2Q

HMS Ontario and HMS Speedy guns reconstruction
https://youtu.be/AYsnNxmk5UY


MS groups of the products
https://youtu.be/v-j1Vpzj1-8


Our Evolving Content Lineup:

Let us begin the presentation of our models, supported by this research:

Ragusian Cog
Ragusian Carrack
Ragusian Galleon
Brazzera
Trabaccolo
Štilac
Trajta
Pasara
Batelina
Barque Stefano

...and the remainder of the fleet.

This expanding library of top-tier research materials and films is designed to cover the complete historical and technical integrity of each vessel. We are committed to presenting maritime history with unwavering authenticity, bridging the legacy of the past with the precision of our present-day recreations.

MS Model Ship Kits
 
MarisStella said:
Subject: Replacement Shipment for Damaged Model Kit


Dear Valued Customer,


We sincerely apologize for the condition of the model kit you recently received. It has come to our attention that the product was distributed by Crown Hobby, a distributor in China, via eBay, and arrived in an entirely damaged and unsalable state. We deeply regret that this item was ever sent out for delivery, and we take full responsibility for this unfortunate oversight.


To make things right, we have arranged for a brand-new Ragusian Carrack Nava 217 wagon model kit to be shipped to you at no cost—completely free of charge, including all delivery fees. This replacement is our gift to you as a loyal customer. (shipped from China)


To provide full transparency:


  • Attached to this mail, (a bit later) you will find step-by-step kit box production assembly photos of the same product, taken during its preparation on our workbench.

  • Once the replacement kit is dispatched, we will share the DHL tracking documentation with you. Please note that for privacy reasons, all personal details (name and address) will be redacted from the provided documents.
We truly value your trust and patience, and we are committed to ensuring you receive a perfect product. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us directly.


Thank you for your understanding.


Warm regards,


MS Model Ship KIts
Click to expand...
Thank you. My wife purchased so I will have her check her emails .
 
MarisStella said:
Subject: Replacement Shipment for Damaged Model Kit


Dear Valued Customer,


We sincerely apologize for the condition of the model kit you recently received. It has come to our attention that the product was distributed by Crown Hobby, a distributor in China, via eBay, and arrived in an entirely damaged and unsalable state. We deeply regret that this item was ever sent out for delivery, and we take full responsibility for this unfortunate oversight.


To make things right, we have arranged for a brand-new Ragusian Carrack Nava 217 wagon model kit to be shipped to you at no cost—completely free of charge, including all delivery fees. This replacement is our gift to you as a loyal customer. (shipped from China)


To provide full transparency:


  • Attached to this mail, (a bit later) you will find step-by-step kit box production assembly photos of the same product, taken during its preparation on our workbench.

  • Once the replacement kit is dispatched, we will share the DHL tracking documentation with you. Please note that for privacy reasons, all personal details (name and address) will be redacted from the provided documents.
We truly value your trust and patience, and we are committed to ensuring you receive a perfect product. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us directly.


Thank you for your understanding.


Warm regards,


MS Model Ship KIts
Click to expand...
She said she has not seen an email and Crowne does not seem to know anything about this.
 
I've built the MS Ragusian Carrack, and generally found it excellent. As to size of box, I will say that the kit box I received some years ago was much larger than necessary, with only the middle 40% or so of the width used, and the outer 30% on each side empty, resulting in a really large box. I'm sure that complicated shipping and cost much more, so it makes sense to reduce the size of the box. I won't try to rationalize the OPs kit that was received, although I will say that it is common to leave the supports on 3D parts, as that makes them much less prone to breakage during shipment. (My kit did not have any 3D printed parts.) The walnut shown in the laser-cut portion as well as the strips does, to me, look like walnut.

I have found Zoran to be extremely responsive and helpful. BTW, some of the videos of documents and studies shown above are no doubt due to Olha Batchvarov's husband stating that the Carrack could never float, while MS had made many investigations and studies indicated that it can. Videos are a peculiar way to present a document, though; a link to a PDF might make more sense.
 
Signet said:
I've built the MS Ragusian Carrack, and generally found it excellent. As to size of box, I will say that the kit box I received some years ago was much larger than necessary, with only the middle 40% or so of the width used, and the outer 30% on each side empty, resulting in a really large box. I'm sure that complicated shipping and cost much more, so it makes sense to reduce the size of the box. I won't try to rationalize the OPs kit that was received, although I will say that it is common to leave the supports on 3D parts, as that makes them much less prone to breakage during shipment. (My kit did not have any 3D printed parts.) The walnut shown in the laser-cut portion as well as the strips does, to me, look like walnut.

I have found Zoran to be extremely responsive and helpful. BTW, some of the videos of documents and studies shown above are no doubt due to Olha Batchvarov's husband stating that the Carrack could never float, while MS had made many investigations and studies indicated that it can. Videos are a peculiar way to present a document, though; a link to a PDF might make more sense.
Click to expand...
Thanks for the input. I have the Cog and it was the same way with packaging. It is also night and day in quality compared to what was received and at a much higher price that she paid. Was indeed a surprise birthday gift when I opened it. I am happy to see they will make it right and to start the build.
 
Subject: Follow-up on Your Order and Delivery Details


Dear Seatoland,

Thank you for your message.

To ensure smooth communication and a timely delivery, could you please:
  1. Send all further correspondence regarding this order directly to my email: marisstellamarisstella@gmail.com. This will help us avoid communication delays.

  2. Provide your full delivery address (street, city, postal code, and country).

  3. Share a contact phone number for the courier (DHL) to reach you if needed during shipment.
Once I receive this information, I’ll proceed immediately to arrange the shipment. Please let me know if you have any questions or need assistance. (The kit box has been sent to the delivery center and waits the shipping address.)

I look forward to your prompt reply.

Best regards,

MS Model Ship Kits
 
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