It’s all in the details

In common with other magazines, we have not always focused enough on the minutiae of boatbuilding. This oak instrument console with carbon fibre elements for the latest Dale Classic 37 motor yacht is coming together only after weeks of discussion and designs between yar and owner. The challenge was to come up with an ergonomic, attractive console in solid wood that could accommodate a large set of screens, combined with oldfashioned analogue dials, a magnetic compass – and even a timber cup-holder. The console has to work in all weathers, and when standing at the wheel or sitting in the helm seat. Even the height of the owner’s fingertips above wheelhouse sole is taken into consideration so that we ensure he can comfortably reach and operate the instruments and engine controls – and all this while ensuring that the console design does not impinge on maintaining full visibility. The design process was carried out with the aid of 3-D modelling and these CAD files were then used to CNC-cut the oak panels. The CNC cutting machine also cut out the apertures including predrilling of any fastening holes. After being built by the furniture-making department, the console will receive 12 coats of varnish.