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A light-up 1/4-scale submersible Cab One submarine model miniature from James Cameron's sci-fi adventure The Abyss. After Lieutenant Hiram Coffey (Michael Biehn) escaped in the mini-sub Flatbed with a primed warhead, Virgil "Bud" (Ed Harris) and Dr. Lindsey Brigman (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio) chased after him in Cab One, damaging both submersibles.

Reputed for its intense filming conditions, Cameron's Academy Award®-winning movie became a cult classic after the release of a 1993 special edition that tightened its pacing.

This radio-controlled, 1/4-scale Cab One miniature is the only one created by visual effects supervisor Walt Conti for the chase sequence and resulting submarine crash. The sequence was achieved using both the quarter-scale functional submarine model and smaller scale models which were shot dry-for-wet and not submerged. Designed to withstand pressure exerted by up to 50 feet of water as well as effects used in action sequences, it is cast from fiberglass with an acrylic dome and foam, wiring, and various tube frame copper components filling the interior. A radio-controlled Dr. Brigman model miniature sits in the cockpit.

During production, five kilowatts of working lights wired to and powered by internal nicad batteries were attached to the hull and frame. The lights have since been converted to modern LEDs. Due to its size and shape, the batteries allowed Conti's team to generate about 10 minutes of movement at full throttle, using re-engineered electric trolling motors to produce the required thrust.

This model is hand-marked "Port 1" and "P 2" in black marker and intentionally distressed by production to appear well-used underwater. It exhibits discoloration, a buildup of grime, chipping, and notable adhesive residue, as well as missing components and fragility to the foam from age and exposure. Dimensions: 56" x 23" x 26" (142.25 cm x 58.5 cm x 66 cm)

Contains electronics; see electronics notice in the Buyer's Guide.

Special shipping required; see notice in the Buyer's Guide.

Estimate: $75,000 - 150,000



View all lots from ABYSS, THE (1989)