That's a truly (pardon the word choice) superb model.
I just wish the builder had told us a bit more about how he did it - and how he corrected the mistakes in the kit. It's clear that he scribed the planking joints on the hull, thereby getting rid of the weird "one gigantic log" effect the Heller artisans put on it. And what about all the extra details? Did he make his own blocks and deadeyes, or use aftermarket ones? And what about all those nice crew figures? Did he make them himself, or does he have some source of aftermarket ones? If so, I'd sure like to hear about it.
I was especially motivated by his comment on his weakening eyesight. I have that problem, and it's a real modeling challenge. I've got several optical aids (magnifying lamp, visor, clip-on magnifiers, prescription closeup lenses, non-prescription reading glasses), but there's just no real substitute for good, nearsighted eyes. But if a model like that can be built with aging eyeballs, there's hope for all of us.
Youth, talent, hard work, and enthusiasm are no match for old age and treachery.