WWII USS Haddock SS-231 Submarine Launch Desk Model Portsmouth Navy Yard Chrome For Sale

USS Haddock launch models are authentic piece of naval memorabilia traditionally given to dignitaries and shipyard VIPs during a submarine's launching ceremony. Depending on the specific historic vessel you are tracking down, these models generally refer to two different eras:
1. USS Haddock (SS-231) — WWII Era
The Model: A chromed alloy metal desktop model measuring roughly 7.25 inches in length.
The Base: Mounted to a circular metal base explicitly inscribed with "PORTSMOUTH N.H. U.S.S. HADDOCK".
Historical Context: This Gato-class submarine was built at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine / Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and launched on October 20, 1941.
2. USS Haddock (SSN-621) — Cold War Era
The Model: Though less common in pure chrome than the WWII editions, small pewter, chrome, or cast metal presentation desk models were also produced for early nuclear fleet launchings.
Historical Context: This Thresher/Permit-class nuclear attack submarine was launched on May 21, 1966, by the Ingalls Shipbuilding Corp in Pascagoula, Mississippi.NavSource
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Are you looking to appraise or purchase an original metal launch model, or are you trying to identify the exact submarine class dimensions to build a replica?
Here is a ready-to-use description layout tailored for your listing. It uses high-converting keywords and historical facts from Stewart's Military Antiques and Flying Tiger Antiques to help your item get found and sell.
Suggested Title Options
Option 1 (Max Keywords): Vintage WWII USS Haddock SS-231 Chrome Submarine Launch Model Portsmouth NH
Option 2: WWII US Navy USS Haddock Submarine Desktop Presentation Launch Model Metal
Item Specifics (Fill these out in the fields)
Type: Desk Model / Launching Souvenir
Conflict: WWII (1939-1945)
Branch: US Navy (USN)
Vessel: USS Haddock (SS-231)
Material: Nickel-plated Brass / Chromed Alloy
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States
Item Description
Vintage WWII USS Haddock (SS-231) Chrome Submarine Launch Model - Portsmouth, NH
Up for sale/sale is a highly collectible, original World War II era presentation desktop launch model of the Gato-class submarine USS Haddock (SS-231). These premium heavy metal models were traditionally cast and distributed exclusively to yard VIPs, military dignitaries, and shipyard workers during the submarine's launching ceremony.
Design & Construction Details:
Material: High-quality chromed alloy / nickel-plated brass with a bright vintage finish.
Dimensions: The submarine itself measures approximately 7.25 inches in length. Total height on its base is roughly 2-1/16 inches.
Base Inscription: Features a circular metal tiered base clearly stamped/inscribed: "PORTSMOUTH N.H. U.S.S. HADDOCK".
Features: Detailed hull representation including the conning tower/periscope.
Historical Significance:
The USS Haddock (SS-231) was laid down at the historic Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, ME / Portsmouth, NH. She was officially launched on October 20, 1941, just weeks before the attack on Pearl Harbor. Notably, she was the first US submarine equipped with the advanced SJ surface radar. She completed 12 highly successful War Patrols in the Pacific theater, earning 11 Battle Stars and the Presidential Unit Citation for sinking 8 enemy vessels totaling over 33,000 tons.
Condition:
[Insert your specific condition notes here. Example: Excellent vintage condition for its age. Shows minor surface tarnish/abrasions consistent with age as shown in photos, but retains a brilliant chrome reflection. Base is completely intact with no cracks or loose parts. Please inspect photos closely as they form part of the description.]
A fantastic, heavy piece of authentic WWII naval history perfect for military collectors, submarine vets, or maritime enthusiasts!
Shipping & Handling:
Will be packed securely in a sturdy box with ample padding to prevent any damage during transit. We ship quickly with tracking numbers provided.