As its almost impossible for us to list models covering all the many different air forces that use this type of aircraft we are offering to make a scale replica model of what you see in the first image above of the real aircraft and in the dimensions shown in the listing.

To give you confidence in what you will receive the below image is of a similar type of model (aircraft type or air force) that we have made before which shows you the detail and quality of finish that we achieve.

"You never really own a PlaneArts - you merely look after it for the next generation"


The dimensions of the model we will make of the aircraft depicted in the image at the top of this page (first image in the thumbnail section) will be as follows: 


WINGSPAN: 15.50 INCHES (39.40 CM), LENGTH: 11.10 INCHES (28.30 CM), SCALE: 1:72 (1/72)

eBay does not allow us to offer variations of size or scale in one listing but if you would like to see an example of the next smaller size or scale model you can do so by clicking on the link below.

Short S.8 Rangoon Mahogany Desktop Wood Airplane New Model Smaller Scale 1/100

Other sizes and scales apart from the two above (or other model types) available upon request - just message us for more info.

 

This model replica is painstakingly hand carved and then hand painted out of solid kiln dried mahogany wood(from renewable sources) by our highly experienced and talented craftsmen at our Filipino owned factory near the original Clark Air Base in Pampanga and takes about 9-10 weeks to manufacture. Production in our factory is supervised by our own resident British Pilot who ensures that exact blueprints are used for these meticulously detailed scale models custom manufactured and precisely engineered to your exact specifications and that will be cherished by all.

The model will be exactly as you see in the above image of the real aircraft and not the example we show below of a similar model we have made before. In terms of detailing (doors, windows, lights, control surface markings, antennas etc.) and livery or markings will follow the real aircraft image so we would kindly ask you to study the images very carefully (if you require higher resolution images please ask) to make sure that the model as you see is the 100% the same version you require or expect. We request your understanding on this matter due to the fact that these handmade models are traveling in many cases halfway around the world and any misunderstandings or mistaken expectations must be addressed at this as point of time as we cannot be held responsible for the costs involved in returning and replacing the model. The model will be shipped with the stand you see in the images although you may request if you like to change to either 1, 6 or 7 as in the attached image examples (just message us if a change is required).

It is our aim to continue to be a "sustainable" manufacturer avoiding the use of man-made materials wherever possible such as plastics, resins or metal in an attempt to reduce our Carbon Footprint and to protect our environment for generations to come. Our models are "works of art" and not to be confused with mass made plastic kits or diecast (die cast) look-alikes. We are proud Filipino's exporting to all parts of the globe and creating employment opportunities in an impoverished part of our country.

100% handmade models naturally come at a higher price than off the shelf, plastic or diecast (die cast) models but it may interest you to know that an average regular size fixed wing or helicopter model takes on average a total of 26 dedicated Man Hours of work to produce. During this time the model transitions through over 40 different manufacturing stages and processes. The 26 hours are not consecutive and require in-between many days (and in some cases weeks) of drying and curing time as they pass from one department to another making the overall production time from an outsiders point of view appear rather lengthy. Given these facts the time period we quote for production alone is very standard for our type of industry and among our close competitors. If you are interested in what goes into making these models, there follows a summary process schedule and video. Please click on the image below to start the video which will open in a separate page in your browser (the tab on in your browser for this page will still stay open so you can go back to the eBay listing):-

 

PlaneArts Manufacturing Process

Production video will open in a new window


The fully assembled model comes with a stained solid mahogany (or mahogany with steel arm) stand and is ready to display on your desk, bookcase or wherever you desire. The photographs you see have not been manipulated or digitally edited - they are exactly as the model looks in real life, but unfortunately even digital photography cannot do full justice to the look and feel of the model once you receive it!

PlaneArts have been producing models for over 20 years which are honed to perfection by the dexterity of our Skilled Master Craftsmen and carefully checked at all stages of manufacture by our dedicated Quality Assurance Team. We promote internationally on eBay to ensure our products get the best exposure worldwide. Due to a high level of demand and the huge diversity of aircraft types and liveries most models are made to order and take about 9-10 weeks to produce (excluding National and Public Holidays). You will also notice that we offer models often way below the price of other companies advertising on the eBay. We are able do this because of the direct manufacturing and selling basis of our business - models direct from the factory and not from an intermediary or trading / marketing company. All models are shipped internationally through FedEx, UPS or DHL Express Courier (Door to Door worldwide within about 3 business days). Fully traceable and insured against damage or loss).

Apart from those models you see in our eBay store - using your photos or images, we will make you a personalized replica model of your aircraft with your own individual paint scheme, logos, registration number, antennas and all the details that make your airplane special. You can even upgrade and personalize your model with a fully customized transparent interior to match your seats, colors, instrument panel and all other important interior details. Alternatively, we can copy any current or historic commercial or military airplane or helicopter that has ever flown just by giving us images or photos. Each meticulously detailed scale model is custom manufactured and precisely engineered to your exact specifications. We will build you a model that will not only meet your expectations but will go far beyond and with detail that will amaze you!

If you do not see the model you require in our eBay Store please message us on eBay with a description and images of what you require including the size or scale of the desired model and we will then do a dedicated listing for you on eBay. Our Customer Service Team will then help you with questions you may have and upon request update you on the status of your order. Our Production Team will work with you personally during construction until your model is ready to taxi on its journey to your own door in its foam fitted heavy duty export packaging.

To watch a video of the professional protective packing of PlaneArts models destined for all parts of the globe, please also click on the image below to start the video which will open in a separate page in your browser (the tab on in your browser for this page will still stay open so you can go back to the eBay listing)

 

Packing Process

Production video will open in a new window



 

Short S.8 Rangoon: Britain’s Interwar Maritime Patrol Flying Boat

The Short S.8 Rangoon was a British three-engine maritime patrol flying boat developed in the late 1920s by Short Brothers. Designed primarily for long-range operations in Britain’s overseas territories, the Rangoon served as a militarized derivative of the successful Short S.8 Calcutta passenger flying boat. With its durable all-metal hull, excellent water-handling characteristics and long-endurance capability, the Rangoon became an important component of the Royal Air Force’s interwar coastal and imperial defense strategy.

Origins and Development

In the mid-1920s, the British Empire relied heavily on flying boats to maintain communications across vast stretches of sea between imperial territories. Short Brothers, already a leading flying boat manufacturer, developed the civilian Short Calcutta to serve commercial routes operated by Imperial Airways. The aircraft’s robust metal hull and reliable three-engine configuration impressed both civilian and military observers.

Design Characteristics

Like the Calcutta, the Rangoon followed a three-engine biplane configuration, with its engines mounted between the upper and lower wings. The hull was constructed entirely of metal—an advanced feature for its era—providing better durability in saltwater operations than wooden seaplanes of earlier decades. The aircraft’s hull design reflected Shorts’ increasing expertise in marine aerodynamics, giving it excellent performance during takeoff and landing on open water.

Notable design elements included:

Performance and Handling

The Rangoon was not built for high speed, but for long-range endurance, stability and seaworthiness. Its three engines provided redundancy—critical for long maritime flights—and produced respectable performance for the late 1920s.

Pilots valued the aircraft’s steady handling both in the air and on water. The hull design allowed it to operate effectively in open-sea conditions, though heavy swell could still challenge its large frame. The biplane wing structure delivered excellent lift at low speeds, contributing to safe takeoff and landing even with substantial payloads. Its reliability on long missions made it well suited for patrol work in remote regions where maintenance support was limited.

Operational Service

The Short S.8 Rangoon served primarily with No. 203 Squadron RAF, stationed in the Middle East. Based in Aden—a strategic base guarding the approaches to the Red Sea and Suez Canal—the Rangoon played a key role in Britain’s imperial air and maritime surveillance network.

Its duties included:

Legacy

Although produced in small numbers, the Short S.8 Rangoon occupies a significant place in RAF maritime aviation history. It represented a pivotal transition between early wooden flying boats and the all-metal designs that would dominate the 1930s and World War II. Its service in the Red Sea region highlighted the strategic importance of maritime airpower in maintaining imperial communications and surveillance.