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Monday 8:30am - 5:30pm Tuesday 8:30am - 5:30pm Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm Thursday 8:30am - 5:30pm Friday 8:30am - 5:30pm

G.L. Watson & Co. Ltd.

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G.L. Watson & Co. Ltd.

Design and Management of Classic Yachts and Superyachts. The first yacht design studio to be established, G.L. Watson & Co. Today G.L.

have a tradition of excellence & innovation. The firm's classic yacht designs have been recognised as pre-eminent and these are supported by a wide range of other yacht services. Recognised as experts in yacht design, superyacht management and the restoration of classic yachts, the firm has recently managed the world's largest maritime restoration project. Over time the parameters and challenges o

f yachting have changed, but our tradition of quality and our values remain. Building on experience and an extensive archive of classic yacht designs, the firm specialises in realising complex yachting projects without compromising authenticity or modern requirements. is retained by leading yacht owners to provide a comprehensive range of yachting services for both classic yachts and modern superyachts.

13/09/2025

The right yacht is the one that fits your life at sea.

A classic yacht is more than lines and fittings – she’s a commitment in time, crew, and care. That’s why we match each client’s ambitions, cruising plans, and preferences to the right vessel, whether she’s newly built, freshly restored, or awaiting her next chapter.

It’s the start of a long-term relationship between owner and yacht – one built on fit, trust, and shared vision.

Talk to us about finding your ideal classic.

11/09/2025

G. L. Watson & Co. Design No. 218 — Foros

In 1891, G.L. Watson designed the steam yacht Foros for Alexander Kuznetsov.

Launched on the Clyde, she was soon acquired by the Russian Imperial Family — proof that Watson’s reputation travelled as easily as his yachts.

Foros embodied what defined Watson design: innovation, elegance, and influence that crossed borders. She was more than a yacht — she was a statement of power and taste.

Explore more of our heritage. www.glwatson.com/our-story

22/07/2025

G. L. Watson & Co. Design No. 375 — Lysistrata

Commissioned by James Gordon Bennett Jr., publisher of the New York Herald and a pioneer of modern yachting, Lysistrata broke new ground as the first utility-style yacht.

Designed by G.L. Watson, she reflected a shift from pure leisure toward functional elegance — offering extended range, comfort, and versatility at sea.

In Lysistrata, performance met purpose — setting a standard for what the modern motor yacht could become.

Explore more icons from 150 years of design leadership: www.glwatson.com

24/06/2025

In 1908, G.L. Watson & Co. designed the first Watson Class Lifeboat for the RNLI. Over the years, 171 lifeboats were built — each reflecting our founders' commitment to seaworthiness and safety at sea.

A design that became a benchmark for lifesaving at sea, extending Watson’s name far beyond racing and leisure.

Follow us for more from 150 years of design leadership.

11/06/2025

G. L. Watson & Co. Design No. 105 — Mohican

Some yachts reflect an era. Others define its transition.

In 1885, G.L. Watson designed Mohican, a three-masted steam auxiliary yacht for John and William Clark.

Bringing together steam power and sail, Mohican marked a moment when technology and tradition worked in tandem — offering the strength to cross oceans and the grace to do it in style.

Still today, G.L. Watson restored and rebuilt yachts combine authentic classic lines with all Superyacht comforts.

Explore more from our 150-year legacy – www.glwatson.com

04/06/2025

When Yacht Design Entered the Scientific Age

In 1900, G.L. Watson conducted the world’s first tank test of a sailing yacht design — pioneering the use of hydrodynamic testing to perfect hull forms.

This breakthrough blended engineering with artistry, allowing performance to be measured and refined long before a keel touched water.

Explore more from our legacy of innovation. And see how authentic design, modern engineering and artistry have become our watchwords today – www.glwatson.com

01/06/2025

By 1999, the 96M Nahlin, once a global voyager and royal yacht, had become a neglected floating restaurant on the Danube. But her spirit endured.

For over two decades, G.L. Watson & Co. led the campaign to save and restore this extraordinary yacht. In 2010, Nahlin steamed into Dartmouth under her own power — for the first time in British waters since 1937.

The largest classic yacht restoration ever undertaken, the project brought together shipyards, engineers, and craftsmen from across Europe. A global effort to honour a Scottish-designed masterpiece.

🔗 Discover more from our 150-year legacy of restoration: www.glwatson.com/our-story

27/05/2025

G. L. Watson & Co. Design No. 19– Madge

In 1879, a British yacht crossed the Atlantic — and beat America at its own game.

Madge, designed by G.L. Watson for James Coats Jnr., defeated every U.S. yacht of her class, established Watson’s reputation on both sides of the ocean.

A victory not just for speed, but for design.

Discover more from our 150 year heritage: www.glwatson.com/our-story

24/05/2025

In 1886, G.L. Watson introduced an idea that would reshape the sport of sailing.

The world’s first One Design Class — a fleet of identical yachts built for fair competition.

A simple idea that changed our sport forever.

Explore more from our 150-year legacy – www.glwatson.com

21/05/2025

G. L. Watson & Co. Design No. 765 — Glenachulish

Designed by G.L. Watson & Co. in 1969, Glenachulish stands today as the world’s last operating turntable ferry.

Built to serve the rugged Scottish coastline, she reflects Watson’s enduring commitment to practical design, combining functionality, durability, and local heritage.

Still in service across the Kylerhea straits, Glenachulish continues to turn heads (and vehicles), a living testament to design that lasts.

Discover more icons from 150 years of innovation. www.glwatson.com

18/05/2025

In 1887, G.L. Watson & Co.’s almost one hundred year relationship with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) began with the design of Edith & Annie — the first lifeboat designed by Watson.

Built to serve in the most demanding conditions, Edith & Annie marked the start of a lifesaving legacy that would span generations.

From luxury yachts to lifeboats, Watson’s commitment to seaworthiness was always the same.

Follow us for more from our 150-year history of design leadership.

Address

20-23 Woodside Place
Glasgow
G37QL

Opening Hours

Monday	8:30am - 5:30pm
Tuesday	8:30am - 5:30pm
Wednesday	8:30am - 5:30pm
Thursday	8:30am - 5:30pm
Friday	8:30am - 5:30pm

Website

http://www.glwatson.com/

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