Many older boat parts are no longer available, especially decorative and utilitarian parts. Most engine and rigging hardware is very standardized and easily replaceable, but many other items are impossible to locate once worn out or broken.
The Dorade bases for this 57-year-old boat, of which only 6 of 25 still exist, are not remotely available. The only way to replace them is to create them. Having them injection molded or built by a machine shop would have them cost $1000s of dollars if even possible. 3D printing is a perfect solution to this issue.
Original Dorade Mount
Stained, cracking and failing original Dorade Mount
Mount Detail
Detail view of the mount which also shows the embossed vessel logo added to it.
Dorade Mount Redesign
Redesigned Dorade mount to replace original failing parts no longer available.