This is my CVN-65, after a long process of building, upgrading and conversion to an a/b waterline presentation. Initially, I built the model as is, out of the box, without any add-ons or corrections, other than adding a partial hangar deck, in 2003. Years later ('05), while improving my skills and background in ship modeling I came across some web sites relate to this subject (including this one) and this fact was source of inspiration  (I was green of envy!, but of the good one!) to emulate the work of so many superb ship modelers that have contributed to these sites. Then came some photo etch (WEM airwing PE, ship PE form different makers). In 2007 I participated in my first ship model contest (Local IPMS Event) and what impressed me more were the weathering effects. I accepted the challenge and started weathering some of my ships. I did not like the result of my efforts initially; that's something that requires a lot of trial and error. After one year and several attempts in this field I felt that I was ripe for my CVN-65. Although I'm not fully satisfied with the result, at least I think it can be shown to more experienced carrier model builders like you.

Finally, as I like my ships in their element, i.e. on the water, I decided to convert my full hull enterprise to waterline. Neither this finished model was in a condition to suffer form that tedious and risky surgical process that cuts its hull at waterline level, nor I could accept the burden of such a mutilation. What about the so many interesting details below the waterline? (Bulbous or ram bow, propellers, rudders, incrustations, barnacles....etc)... They will be gone or absent,.. forever. Additionally, I really don't like the result of many ship models represented in a waterline fashion because of the unrealistic flatness of the surface that support them and the strict verticality in which the model is displayed. No, no, not even in a frozen lake! So, I came up with this above/below waterline representation (thanks to a notorious ship modeler, Jim Baumann, for suggesting that terminology). I am claiming neither any credit nor any special recognition for this idea (my motto is that all the glory in this world fits into a grain of rice), but I swear that I have not seen it anywhere before.  I think that the same thing might have happened to many of you reading this note now and it may be a good idea to share it with all the community of ship modelers.