This book brings to life the history of the very special International 12 Metre class, from the First International Rule to the America's Cup. Some of the world's greatest designers - William Fife, Charles Nicholson, Olin Stephens, and others - created these large, graceful yachts that played a significant role in the development of yachting in the 20th century. Illustrated with excellent historic and contemporary photos and original line plans of the boats, it also includes a complete register of every 12 Metre ever built.