A Rare Group of Three Early 20th Century Kelvin-engined Motor Boat Models, Presumably Made for Bergius and Co of Glasgow c.1920

A rare group of three early 20th Century Kelvin-engined motor boat Models, presumably made for Bergius and Co of Glasgow c.1920 These three models, all made from mahogany and boxwood with brass fittings, contained in their original walnut and glazed display cases, have labels indicating that they are models of the Kelvin Standard Motor Launch, Kelvin Pleasure Launch and Kelvin Speed Launch respectively. The Kelvin engine was created by Bergius and Company. Originally founded as a car engine company, the firm quickly changed direction and began to specialise in marine engines, renaming itself the Bergius Launch and Engine Company in 1908. From this point forward it concentrated on producing a high quality and reliable range of marine engines and the company, now named Kelvin Diesels, continues to manufacture engines in Glasgow to this day. Our research in the newspapers has identified a large number of adverts for the firm’s launches. In 1915 they advertised in the Graphic newspaper in London The range of Kelvin launches at this stage already being quite extensive with 24 models, ranging in size from 20 to 50 feet, being available. By the time that the firm placed an advert in The Sketch in 1921, that range had been extended to 40 models, indicative of the success of the firm and its products. These models are beautifully made and the cases are particularly noteworthy with their egg and dart mouldings and high quality fixtures and fittings. These pieces were clearly used as a sales tool by the company, helping potential customers to choose the right launch for their needs. Pleasure Launch: Height 18.25 Inches Width 32.75 Inches Depth 13.25 Inches Speed Launch: Height 18.25 Inches Width 31.75, Inches Depth 12.25 Inches Motor Launch: Height 14.5 Inches Width 33.25 Inches Depth 7 Inches