1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT

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1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT

  • SKU: SHPP-S32CCCNTL-NS
  • MPN: SB0024P


Description

1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT

FULLY BUILT AND READY TO DISPLAY BOAT MODEL 

  • Dimension approx.: 38″ (long) x 12″ (beam)
  • The model is already built.  THIS IS NOT A MODEL SHIP KIT

Introduced in 1955, the Chris‑Craft Continental marked a turning point in the company’s evolution. After years of producing traditional utilities and postwar runabouts, Chris‑Craft unveiled the Continental line as its new flagship utility—sleek, modern, and unmistakably mid‑century in its styling. These boats were designed to blend the practicality of an open utility with the elegance of a premium runabout, creating a versatile craft that appealed to families, weekend cruisers, and enthusiasts who wanted both beauty and function.

The first Continentals were low, streamlined bullnose runabouts, instantly recognizable by their sloping chrome‑framed windshields and blond deck highlights. Ranging from 18 to 26 feet, they occupied a sweet spot in Chris‑Craft’s lineup: more refined than the 17–20‑foot Sportsmans, yet more accessible than the company’s largest models. For a time, the familiar Holiday name was even repurposed as a simplified Continental variant, offering buyers a mid‑priced option that carried the same hull DNA.

The 18‑foot Continental became the most iconic of the series. Early models from 1955–1958 featured mahogany hull sides and transoms, with windshields evolving from a single vee design to a graceful two‑piece curved form. In 1959, Chris‑Craft introduced a redesigned clipper bow, giving the boat a sharper, more modern profile. Power options expanded as well, with the Chris‑Craft 283 V‑8 becoming available—and eventually standard—bringing strong performance to a hull known for its stability and smooth handling.

Production reflected the Continental’s popularity. The bullnose Holiday variant saw 808 units built, while the clipper‑bow Continental produced 578 more between 1959 and 1961. In 1961, the hull was stretched to 19 feet, white panel detailing was added, and the 283 V‑8 became standard equipment. These refinements marked the final chapter of the Continental era.

By the end of 1961, Chris‑Craft was undergoing major changes. The company shifted operations to Pompano Beach, Florida, was sold to NAFI, and began phasing out the Continental and Holiday lines in favor of a new generation of “sports boats.” Yet the Continental’s legacy endured. It represented a moment when Chris‑Craft embraced modern styling without abandoning the craftsmanship that had defined its earlier wooden boats. The Continental bridged the gap between wartime utility craft and the open, stylish runabouts of the postwar leisure boom.

Today, the 18‑foot Continental remains a favorite among collectors. Its combination of bullnose charm, clipper‑bow refinement, and mid‑century design makes it one of the most distinctive Chris‑Craft models of its era—an elegant reminder of a company in transition, and a boat built for those who wanted both practicality and style on the water.

 
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT
1959 CHRIS CRAFT CONTINENTAL RUNABOUT

 

 

PRODUCTS CRAFTED WITHOUT COMPROMISE, ANCHORED IN TRADITION

 

Elevate your collection with an exquisite display or RC‑compatible model, handcrafted with uncompromising precision by SavyBoat master artisans.   Built with traditional plank‑on‑frame construction, each model is built entirely from scratch using historical photographs, archival drawings, and original ship, yacht, or boat plans, ensuring a level of authenticity and craftsmanship worthy of the world’s finest collectors.

 

This same dedication to excellence extends beyond our models and into every SavyBoat product we sell—from apparel to accessories to home décor. Whether it’s a handcrafted model or a piece from our lifestyle collection, every item is designed with the same maritime heritage, premium materials, and timeless maritime style that define the SavyBoat name.

 

UNMATCHED AUTHENTICITY IN EVERY MODEL

Our models feature an extraordinary level of detail throughout, faithfully capturing the character of the real ship, yacht, or boat. Depending on the model, these features include:

 --- The finest woods throughout the model, such as Ebony, Rosewood, Blackwood, Mahogany, and Teak
 --- High‑quality fittings, trimmings, steering wheels, and propellers made of sculpted or cast metals
 --- Pre‑installed LED lighting on illuminated models (power supply not included) 
 --- Open die‑cut side hull windows—never painted, like found on other companies’ models 
 --- Precision true open die‑cut windows, doors, and portholes throughout ship superstructures
 --- Detailed lifeboats hung from launching davits

 --- Delicate railings on the forecastle, aft castle, and upper decks

 --- Complete rigging and stay‑lines on all masts and smokestacks
 --- Detailed interiors, complete with a realistic steering wheel, switches, and gauges
 --- Hand‑stitched plush seats made of genuine leather
 --  High‑gloss finishes with multi‑layered, micro‑sanded surfaces
 --- A specially developed multi‑layered paint system replicating the vessel’s true colors with remarkable depth

 --- RC‑compatible construction with epoxy‑lined hulls, pre-installed propeller shafts, and rubber assemblies.  ----  Due to the many ways our customers power their RC models, our models do not come with propellers. 

--- Hatches open for easy RC equipment installation (motor and electronics not included).

Please note, as each model is hand built, slight detail and color variations may exist between each model.

 

CRAFTSMANSHIP BEYOND THE MODELS — APPAREL & LIFESTYLE GOODS

SavyBoat’s commitment to authenticity and craftsmanship extends into our apparel and lifestyle collections, designed for those who want to enjoy maritime heritage every day.

 

Premium Apparel

Every garment is crafted with the same philosophy that guides our shipbuilding:

 --- Ultra‑soft, long‑staple cotton and performance wicking Poly-Blend fabrics
 --- Embroidery and prints inspired by historic ship insignias, pennants, navel, and other markings
 --- Precision‑stitched detailing mirroring the rigging and linework found on our models 
 --- Premium hats and outerwear featuring maritime textures, patterns, and ship‑inspired designs

 

Accessories & Collectibles

Our accessories are designed with the same level of refinement:

 --- Hand‑finished display cases to protect and highlight model beauty s
 --- Brass and stainless‑steel accents echoing the metals used in our model fittings
 --- Nautical‑themed décor pieces, including stands, plaques, and maritime desk accessories

 

CRAFTSMANSHIP YOU CAN SEE

Unlike other companies’ mass‑produced models carved from blocks, every SavyBoat hull is individually built plank by plank—an approach reserved for the finest bespoke replicas—ensuring accuracy, strength, and beauty. Models arrive assembled on a hand-polished solid‑wood base with pedestals and a nameplate.  Each model is assigned a unique serial number for added assurance that the model you purchased is a true SavyBoat model. 

 

Our apparel and lifestyle collection and accessories follow the same philosophy: premium fabrics, precision stitching, maritime‑inspired design, quality materials, and fittings that honor nautical heritage.

 

A TIMELESS GIFT FOR COLLECTORS & ENTHUSIASTS

A SavyBoat model is a striking centerpiece for any home, office, or gallery. It is an exceptional gift for maritime enthusiasts, interior decorators, and collectors who appreciate true craftsmanship at the highest level. Paired with SavyBoat apparel or lifestyle accessories, it becomes part of a complete heritage‑inspired collection—one that celebrates the art, history, and romance of the sea.

 

 


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