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Home2026-02-20T20:25:40+00:00

From the Captains Log

+Hi and hello from CN Collectables.

We  had a good break and have had some quality leisure time, thinking time and sorting out and listing a wide range of model ships, some aircraft, magazines, catalogues, kits and diecasts with model railways and more music to follow. 

  •  Welcome to our world of model ships and collectable toys both new and second hand. We are the largest retailer in the world of Triang Minic Ships Modern Series (3) and we have a diminishing amount of stock of many items in the range made between 2002 and 2014. Please dont hesitate to ask about any item you are searching for.
  • We have commissioned and made our own extensive range of CN Collectables ships, submarines, ferries, aircraft and dockyards in 1250 scale, (CNC) and have established a busy programme of new and remastered models. All our recent production is in new tooling and has been remastered or updated in many ways. Our ethos is to constantly make the best models we can and at affordable prices, despite the huge increases in cost of raw materials. At present the process is in limbo and this means our well advanced eflexer ferry project is delayed.  We have masters and have done test castings but there is a steep learning curve since our designer/manufacturer  passed away last year.
  • In 2022 we began our Triang Minic Series 4 in 1200 scale with life extended versions of the Type 23 frigates and some classic accessories such as the Lifeboat Station, Pier Shelters, lock gates and Ocean Terminals. All of these are designed and manufactured in the UK. In July 2022 our 1200 scale metal Triang Astute Class docked.
  • In  September  2025 we listed some more  Type 23 models,  There were a limited number of each one and at the moment we dont know whether we shall be able to make any more. They include the three ships sold to Chile by the Royal Navy  and which are still in service in an upgraded format.
  • We use recycled packaging where possible. 
  • We bought the Mountford range a few years ago so there are some railway, aircraft, vehicle and boat items under the TM code. ALL the tooling for this range was thrown away as life expired.  There were some ships which we were able to build such as Leander frigates and these are clearly marked and cheaper.
  • CN Collectables on eBay is now into its 26th year and continues because it is so easy to use and we can be found all across the World. However you will find that a number of items are cheaper here than on eBay because of their high charges to sellers. They even take a cut of the postage paid which is so unfair.  There are also far more items on this website which is now into its 10th year.  (About 1000)
  • We usually post on Tuesdays and Fridays. 
  • We send a newsletter out several times a year when we have some news to share.  The Ship shows and other Toy shows that we plan to attend this year is included in newsletters and on the site.
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  • #Computer Caroline is responsible for our site for which we are indebted; respect.

Thanks for your interest, support and friendships. 

Almost all overseas parcels are sent by Royal Mail Tracked services and we do add the tracking numbers to your order once known.

We always post the orders as fast as we can and in date order.   Sad to hear that HMS Lancaster F229 has been retired in Bahrain where she will be scrapped.  The thinking is that the hull is too worn to be sailed back to the UK having served for 34 years despite being planned for a life  of 18. Yes two refits but I recall when so many people lobbied for HMS Illustrious to be saved as a museum her steel was wafer thin in parts and an extraordinary cost would be involved even in Portsmouth harbour.    Fareham Creek has now 4 type 23s at anchor awaiting disposal and there are good photos on the internet.  RFA Argus is also being condemned with little chance of sailing once more.

Type 26 and 31 ships are making steady progress in Scotland. HMS Newcastle is just about to be started. Thank you. Because our creative genius Dave has died it is very likely that many of our recent production models will not be made again in the next few years or ever.  So if a model is important to you and yours please be advised that batches are usually short (10) and once gone they are gone .eg three versions of USS Midway.

Clive and Dave. CN Collectables 20th February 2026

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