The Most Original Chris – Craft Rocket On The Planet
Yellow Bottom, Green Bilge – Photos Bob Kays
Okay, maybe Rockets should be heading to another planet, but this one is here and a time capsule. Okay it’s not here, here, it’s in New Jersey at Katzs Marina. Okay, okay it’s on the water on Lake Hopatcong and Bob Kays was able to capture it while it ran around and soaked up some water.
Rockets are part of a series of Hull designs that Chris Craft had that ride like nothing else. The Rocket was the hot rod version.
Very simple, and fast
Drive by shooting by Bob Kays
You may recall our Plaid Series. Some of these came with Plain interiors
And green bilges
She is smiling again
Her Plaid interior was replaced very very early in her life. So that part of the original story is tough, but one cushion was saved. And is very very cool.
This is the one plaid cushion. ORIGINAL that was with the boat – I imagine there is a reason the plaid interiors were only on a small number of these. People didnt like it, and would change to red at the dealer. And forget trying to get it replaced. YIKES. We are still trying to get this.
This is how it would look. I personally LOVE IT! Its iconic and just wacky enough to make it fun.
The Rocket Model is hands down Seth’s favorite boat Chris Craft made. He loves them and has many, and restored many. But this one is special because its 100% original. Okay, her plaid interior was replaced so lets say 90% original. Okay, there is some new varnish on it, so let’s say 89.9.9% original. And the gas in it is new. REALLY? Were gonna start splitting hairs. Either way, here she is in all her glory. Thanks Mr Kays and Mr Katz and Mr Mackin for providing us with a story today.
As found
Nice boat for sure, but I’m not a fan of the aqua green bilge and yellow bottom. I guess I’m just too conservative!
I imagine the dealers squawked as well. And explains why 99% of the cars sold are silver, white and black. But thats the part that makes this a fun universe. Funny how something as simple as color can effect emotions
I agree, but I do drive a blue truck!
“Hello grandma, what kind of shoes are you wearing on my boat?” If CC had pulled the darker green in the plaid to use on bottom and bilge, maybe it would have been more popular? Nah.
Original boats are rare and desirable, I sold a boat to John Feola that is probably the most original 21ft. Cobra!
That was one of my favorites last year. And the one I spent the most time looking at.
Having an original Chris Craft is getting more uncommon as boats keep getting restored. I am fortunate to have seen many original boats over my 40 years involved in the industry. The older the boat the Rarer that they are still original and drivable. Please check out my 1930 Chris Craft model 100 20 foot triple videos on Hemmingsauctions.com
Of the subject i know, but i noticed the suspension on that trailer. single spring on two axles, wow.not seen that before on a boat trailer.
I’d love to hear more about why the experts love this hull. I believe it’s the same as my ‘59 Sportsman. I would not say it’s a smooth ride. It pounds in the chop, but fast, yes.
Matt,
Sorry, but wasn’t there a decal of a “rocket” in flight on both sides?
Maybe 85%?
Big B from Tennessee