Lockheed TriStar model aircraft set to fly in sale

A fine example of a scale model of the Lockheed TriStar aircraft has been discovered by Cotswold Auctioneers, Kinghams. The piece is a star lot in the Moreton-in-Marsh saleroom’s upcoming specialist Silver & Objects of Vertu sale on November 24. 

The piece was commissioned by a British Airways pilot in the 1970s, to commemorate his involvement in introducing the TriStar to British Airways. 

According to Kinghams Associate Director, Matthew Lafite: “Scale models of this size and level of detail are always sought-after and we were delighted when it was uncovered in a fine Cotswolds home. The quality of this piece just shines through and with it being crafted from sterling silver, we expect it will generate a lot of interest.”

Measuring over 37cm in length, and with a wingspan of 32cm, the model aircraft was made in 1/72 scale and is complete with a wooden stand. The detail is such that the plane’s wings depict the stabilizers, ailerons, rudders and elevators. The cargo and passenger doors, radar nose cone, cabin and cock pit windows are also represented in fine detail. The piece is fully hallmarked to the underside of the fuselage, confirming that it was made by the Nayler Brothers in London in 1976. 

Matthew explained: “In 1973, the vendor travelled to Lockheed in Palmdale, California, as part of a team of six experts tasked to ensure the TriStar’s smooth introduction into British Airways’ routes. Interestingly, his career with BA culminated with control of its worldwide fleet of 250 aircraft. This model was a special memento of a distinguished career.” 

The sterling silver model TriStar aircraft is to be offered with a pre-sale estimate of £600-£800.