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NAVIGATION
Use the navigation side bar on the left hand side to look up the various scales and the ranges in those scales we stock.
NEWS 22nd March 2023
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New Dapol GWR / BR Streamlined Railcar
Good new yesterday as we received the DCC & Sound fitted versions of the new Dapol streamlined railcar. We now have stocks of all liveries in analogue, DCC fitted and DCC or Sound fitted versions available for immediate despatch for anyone who didnt take advantage of our advance ordering system. A simple phone call can secure yours now.
NEWS 15th March 2023
Dapol 4575 / 55xx 2-6-2 Prairie Tanks
Following on from the very popular Dapol / Lionheart 45xx at Kettering show Dapol announced the production of the 4575 / 55xx series Small Prairie. They were a development of Churchward's 4500 Class with larger side tanks and increased water capacity. Development is at an early stage and the images released are for illustration only. The tentative release date for these is Spring 2024. Dapol have also indicated a few of the differences for me between some of the versions. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available.
We still have good stocks of the analogue and DCC Sound fitted versions of the original 45xx that was released last year for anyone who missed their release.
Following on from Dapol's popular range of signals they announced at Kettering show the production of both GWR and BR ground signals. Design work is at an early stage, hence the CAD drawings only at this stage but both single and twin disc variants are being produced. Target release date for these is Spring 2024. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available.
NEWS 7th March 2023
LKate on today the first of the Stroudley coaches have come into stock. So far we have had the basic and lit versions of the coaches turn up and the DCC and lit bar fitted versions are expected soon. Tomorrow will al be about calling people to arrange suitable days for delivery. We have made a start on these this afternoon but with them turning up so late in the day it was after the courier had made their collection. The first versions to be released both as suburban (close coupled stock without buffers between the individual coaches) and mainline stock (all coaches fitted with buffers) which will be the oil lit mahogony livery. This, the first batch of coaches in the LBSC mahogany livery, has been made in China but subsequent production should be here in the UK. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch now and have plenty of stock for anyone who did not take advantage of our advance ordering system.
NEWS 6th March 2023
Update at the weekend from Kettering show. The production of the LSWR / BR 0-4-0 B4 locomotive is almost completed and if not ready now, should be ready in the next few weeks to leave China. With a fair wind and good luck this means they should be in the country before the end of May or early June with the sound fitted and DCC fitted examples available a short time after the analogue version. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available.
NEWS 20th February 2023
The brand new Heljan Class 27's have been available a little while now and we still have stocks of all liveries available for immediate despatch for anyone who did not take advantage of out advance ordering system. The three later examples of the blue there has been a slight omission. These later examples should of had the outer sandboxes on the bogies but not the inner sandboxes as these had been removed in latter days. The test samples were like this but on the production models they have all been omitted. Today we have received the missing sandboxes and have made despatch to everyone who has bought a loco from us and requested a set of the sandpipes. If you have bought one of the effected liveries (HJ2773, HJ2774 and HJ2777) from us but have not requested the pipes then juust call us and we can get them in the post. Examples of the three blue locos that customers have requested numbering and weathering can now progress no we have received the parts.
At the same time today I have had updates from Heljan in regard to some of the expected release dates for 2023:
- Class 52 Western; Despatch from China expected end of March, hopefully with us here in the UK around the end of May
- Class 58; Despatch from China expected end of May, hopefully with us here in the UK around the end of July
- Class 73; Despatch from China expected end of July, hopefully with us here in the UK around the end of September
- Class 117; Decorated samples expected around the end of April, then a case of getting a production slot, hopefully despatch around the end of July or end of August for release in the UK in either September or October assuming the first decorated samples are approved.
- Mk2 coaches; Despatch from China expected end of October, we may see them here before Christmas but will have to wait and see.
NEWS 17th February 2023
We have received the latest production run of the Terriers including both the DCC fitted and sound fitted versions.. This re-run has been produced to coincide with the production of the Stroudley coaches that are due for release in March. All advance orders have now been despatched and we have stocks of all liveries available for immediate despatch for anyone who did not take advantage of our advance ordering system.
NEWS 14th February 2023
The brand new Dapol HAA MGR hoppers have been selling very well and all advance orders have been completed. We still have stocks of all livery options in stock available for immediate despatch for anyone who did not take advantage of our advance ordering system.
For the first time the canopy variant is being produced alongside the re-run of the standard versions. As part of this production run Tower Models are producing a limited edition number of the iconic Coal Sector livery with the yellow cradle. We have produced these as a perfect companion to our Limited Edition Heljan Class 60 in the matching Coal sector livery or the Heljan Class 56 in Coal Sector livery.
NEWS 31st January 2023
Update today from Heljan. After the recent release of the CCT's, Class 26's and Class 27's there is going to be a little break now before the release of any more locos in O gauge. It is looking like the Class 58 that was only announced in November will be the next new locomotive from Heljan around the middle of the year if everything goes to plan as the test samples for these have all been accepted.. A total of 9 liveries are being produced. Tower Models have been working with Heljan on these for the last four years and are producing two limited editions. The first is as shown above; Railfreight Coal Sector 58014 "Didcot Power Station" the second a Railfreight Red Stripe livery as 58042 "Ironbridge Power Station", both clean finish. There are also six standard production models, five of which are un-numbered and one numbered and weathered as 58034 "Bassetlaw". Gaugemaster have also announced a Limited Edition Mainline Blue example 58021 "Hither Green".
The limited editions of these are the same price as the un-numbered examples and represent excellent value for money as there is a lot of extra detail to add in both numbering and plates. Unless there is a specific example you want to model they are the better option and are expected to be the best sellers.
These are expected for release July 2023 and we are taking advance orders for them now.
This project is the final piece of the jigsaw and has been the motivation behind many of the recent Tower Models limited edition sets of wagons. Perfect companions for these are the Tower Models Limited edition sets of HEAs or VEAs in Railfreight red grey livery which are available now and also the HAA coal sector MGR wagons which are planned for release around March 2023. Stocks of the Tower Models Limited Edition Railfreight red grey HEA's and VEAs are running low but have not yet sold out.
Heljan Class 117 Diesel Multiple Units
Previously we expected the Class 117 to be the next loco to be released from Heljan but they have confirmed that they have not yet had the decorated samples for these yet for approval. Heljan have confirmed to us that the decoarated samples should be available towards the end of April and assuming these samples are all okay release August or September 2023
NEWS 23rd January 2023
Yesterday we had the test sample images from Heljan of our un-numbered Limited Edition Class 73 in BR blue and are very happy with the appearance of it. At the same time we have also had test sample images of most of the standard production models that are also being produced. Production of the Class 73 is expected in around September 2023 and we are taking advance orders for these now.
NEWS 19th January 2023
This week Heljan have released the first test sample images for the forthcoming Class 02 shunter in O gauge. The example shown above will be one fo the factory weathered examples but at this stage we have no image of the weathering. A total of eight liveries are being produced and I will update the webpage for these as and when we get more details. Previously Heljan indicated a summer release for these but we suspect it is more likely to be late Autumn before they are released.
We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available and as always our numbering and weathering is available for anyone who wants to take advantage of this service.
NEWS 12th January 2023
We have now received al of the new Bachmann Scenecraft buildings and have despatched all advance orders for these now where we have been able to confirm a suitable day for delivery with customers. The fuel tanks and pump house have been very popular and Bachmann have themselves sold out but we still have a few of these available for immediate despatch.
NEWS 20th December 2022
Yesterday we had delivery on the new Dapol Bogie Bolster E wagons in the Pre-TOPS liveries. A total of six different numbers have been produced, three with BR numbers and three with Western region numbers. All advance orders have now been despatched via courier. We still have stocks of all types available for immediate despatch for anyone who had not taken advantage of our advance ordering system.
NEWS 6th December 2022
At Warley show Dapol announced the production of the Freightliner HIA Hoppers which are planned for release summer 2023. These are quite a modern wagon but has been produced to suit the expected Class 66 locomotives which are also coming out next year and are exceptional value for money. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available. We are also still taking advance orders for the Class 66's and expect a surge in orders for the matching Freightliner Powerhaul livery.
Custom weathering price increase
Sadly we are having a slight increase the custom weathering charges from the beginning of 2023. Here is a breakdown of the new charges:
- Custom weather a wagon £25.00
- Custom weather a tank engine £30.00
- Custom weather a coach / CCT / PMV £40.00
- Custom weather a tender engine or bogie diesel engine £50.00
NEWS 1st December 2022
We have now received the Class 26's and have been busy all week arranging suitable days for delivery for everyone who had an advance order with us. We have stocks of all liveries, including some of our Limited Edition livery available for immediate despatch. If you have not heard from us in regard to a delivery then just give us a call to arrange a suitable day for delivery.
The long awaited CCT is now in stock and have been busy all week arranging suitable days for delivery for everyone who had an advance order for these and matching them together with Class 26 orders where possible. We have stocks of all liveries of all liveries available for immediate despatch.
Tower Models Limited Edition Open Wagons
Yesterday we receive the latest Tower Models set of Coal Trader wagons covering the Oxfordshire area. As standard they come clean finish, the image above shows some of the custom weathered examples that have been completed through the workshop
In total we produced 4 sets of these during 2021 covering South Wales, London and the Home Counties, the Welsh Borders and the Midlands based on the Dapol / Lionheart 9 foot wheelbase Gloucester wagons to be produced at the Dapol factory here in the UK. Have to say putting them all in the cabinets they make an impressive series of wagons that we are proud of.
NEWS 5th November 2022
This week saw the release of re-runs of both the Catfish and Dogfish. We have now despatched all advance orders for these and those for custom weathering have gone through to the workshop and should be completed in the next 3 weeks or so. We still have stocks of all types in stock ready for immediate despatch for anyone who did not take advantage of our advance ordering system.
NEWS 21st October 2022
Dapol have announced this week a re-run of their Class 122 that is planned for release summer of 2023. This is a re-run of the most popular liveries and the addition of a Network South East livery that has now previously been done. We are taking advance ordres for these now for despatch as soon as they become available.
At the same time Dapol have also announced a re-run of the Class 121 which is also planned for release summer 2023. As with the Class 122 the most popular liveries are being re-run and the introduction of a NSE livery that has not been done before. We still have a limited number of the original batch available for immediate despatch and we are taking advance orders for these now.
NEWS 7th October 2022
Dapol have announced the second production run of their superb Mk1 coaches. This latest production is of vehicles that have the beaded window frames, so a different, later variant of the coaches than the first production run. As before four coach types are being produced; BSK (Brake Second Corridor, SO (Second Open), SK (Second Corridor) and CK (Corridor Composite). They will be available in BR Maroon, SR Green and BR Blue Grey. Both numbered and un-numbered versions of each coach will be available as well as the option of either analogue and DCC fitted options on all coaches. This makes a total of 96 variants and as before they will be released in batches. To save confusion we have listed these later Mk1 coaches separately from the current range of Mk1 coaches which are already available. Combining both types together with what is in now and what is expected in 2023 would be too chaotic given the quantity of coaches being produced. As before we have separated them out by both coach type and by colour.
The first batch of these is already in production in China and is expected the first quarter of 2023. This will be the first of the green or blue and grey livery; I am waiting on confirmation whether it will be 2 colours and two body types in this batch or all four body types in a single colour. With the last batch it was two body types and two colours at a time so we will have to wait and see.
This morning I have done a full stock take on the original Dapol Mk1 coaches that are currently available for immediate despatch and update the listing of these and removed all of the versions that have now sold out and will not be replaced.
NEWS 4th October 2022
Heljan Class 20 reruns announced
On display at Stafford show were two test sample bodies of the Class 20's, one with the disc headcodes and the second with the centre headcode box, both of which were undecorated. Heljan have now settled what livery options will be available and as a simple re-run these should be available in 2023 but no details as to whether that will be the first or second half as of yet but my guess would be after the summer. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available.
NEWS 3rd October 2022
New Heljan Class 37 Split Headcode
Last week we have had the colour layour image from Heljan for Tower Models Limited Edition Dutch Transrail all new Class 37/0 with the post 1970's cut away buffer beam cowlings,and then over the weekend Heljan released the colour layout images for the rest of the planned releases. Models are being produced with either the steam heating boiler or later high intensity headlight. A total of eight standard production models are being produced and Tower Models are producing a Limited Edition un-numbered Transrail Dutch livery. Gaugemaster have now also announce their Limited Edition as the BR Blue 37043 "Loch Lomond" with the Scottie Dog motif and white body stripe. I have also today had confirmation from Heljan as to which liveries will have either the fabricated or cast bogies and have updated the list of the variants with this detail. We are taking advance orders now for all types for despatch as soon as they become available. The expected release date for these is 2023.
NEWS 27th September 2022
We have now receive the re-run of the 0-6-0 Jinty that was announced and have despatched all advance orders where we have been able to contact the customers to arrange a suitable day for delivery. This is initially just the analogue version and I imagine there will be a delay on the sound fitted versions given the delays to the sound fitted 45xx Small Prairies. We have plenty of spares available for anyone who did not take advantage of our advance ordering system.
The O gauge market has been screaming out for someone to produce a ready to run GWR / BR 4 wheel Toad Brake van and Dapol have delivered. A total of three different diagram numbers are being produced in both BR and Great Western liveries. Initially five GWR liveried examples and five BR liveried examples have been announced but we are in discussion already to do a few limited edition examples which will be announced in the New Year. The estimated release date for these is winter 2023. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available. As and when we get pre-production same images I will upload them to the website
At the same time Dapol have also announced the production of the distinctive SR elliptical roof van in both SR and BR(Southern) liveries and the iconic GWR /. BR MOGO van. Both of these are expected summer 2023 and we are taking advance orders for these now.
NEWS 24th September 2022
We have now received all liveries and versions of the HBA / HEA hoppers and these have been selling very fast. We have produced a Limited Edition set of six of the HEA in Railfreight Red Grey livery, all with different running numbers to compliment the two standard Railfreight red grey models that Dapol are producing and will make a nice rake of eight if required. Over half of the Limited Edition set of Railfreight HEA's are already sold but we still some sets available. We also have a very small number of the previous sets of six Railfreight VEA vans availlable if anyone wishes to pick these up at the same time.
We have now also bought all remaining stocks of the recently released railfreight red grey 20ton brake van from Dapol which are a perfect companion for these or the set of VEA vans in railfreight that was released a few months ago. We are still taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available.
NEWS 16th September 2022
Dapol Lynton & Barnstaple signals
Today Dapol have finally announce the production of a Lynton & Barnstaple Square Post Home Semaphore Signal whioch should become available Spring 2023. This follows on from their very popular range of signals. We are still hopeful that we should get the announced Southern range of signal before Christmas. We are taking advance orders for both the SR and LB signals for despatch as soon as they become available. We also have good stocks of the GWR bracket signals which are available for immediate despatch.
At the same time Dapol have announced a re-run of the 48xx / 14xx / 58xx which should become available in the first quarter of 2023. At this stage Dapol have only announced the standard analogue and DCC chip fitted examples. The plan is to offer a sound fitted version but they are awaiting confirmation of the supply and cost of the sound chips from Zimo. We are taking advance orders for these now and also noting if customers would like to upgrade to a DCC sound fitted version if and when it is announced. These have always been a very popular loco and all liveries of both the 48xx and 14xx from the previous production run sold out very quickly. We still have a small number of the 58xx's available from stock but have noted the new livery planned on the list of 58xx's
NEWS 10th September 2022
2023 Gauge O Guild Show Dates.
Very well organised as always the Gauge O Guild had the new flyers and show dates for 2023 already printed. It is always good to have these in advance and we have started including these in with all of our despatches. I have updated the exhibition calendar section of the website with the 2023 dates. The only show we have now left in 2022 is the Guildford show on the 26th of November at Spectrum Leisure Complex, Guildford GU1 1UP.
NEWS 2nd September 2022
The following new items are being announced this weekend at the Guildex show at Stafford:
Heljan Class 52 Western re-run
Due to popular demand Heljan have announce a re-run of the Class 52 Western which is due for release in the first half of 2023. One un-numbered example is being produced in BR Blue and then five numbered and named examples. We are taking advance orders for these for despatch as soon as they become available. Delivery is expected around the end of May 2023
At the same time Heljan have announced the production of the later refurbished Class 45/0 and 45/1. Fully revised and updated the new Class 45 ‘Peak’ has sealed beam nose ends. The models will be available as steam heat Class 45/0 and Electric Heat Class 45/1 variants, the latter with the option of high intensity headlights. A total of eight standard liveries are being produced which we are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available. We have received the first test sample images for the Class 45/1 so work is progressing nicely on this, we should see decorated samples before the end of the year and expected release date is in the second half of 2023.
Following on from the success of the CCT, which is due for release later this year, Heljan have announced the production of the SR / BR PLV / PMV. As the prototype was built across numerous batches with even planked bodies and doors, uneven planked bodies and doors and plywood body panels, the model is being designed to depict a wide range of variations across the fleet. It will appeal to Southern and BR era modellers with a timespan reaching from the 1920s to the 2000s. Tower Models producing a limited edition numbered example of the BR crimson PMV to compliment the un-numbered example of the PMV in this livery.
.We hope to see the first test sample images late spring 2023 and expected release is towards the end of 2023 if everything goes to plan. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available.
NEWS 17th August 2022.
The long awaited re-run of Dapol Turbot wagons are due with us later this week. This re-run gives additional number options on both the Dutch and EWS liveries produced two years ago. We still have stocks of the original EWS numbers options from the first batch available for anyone who did not pick these up in 2020 giving a total of six number options in the EWS livery.
NEWS 4th August 2022
Dapol 14ton Anchor mounted tankers
Good news today in that we have received the brand new Dapol anchor mounted tank wagons from Dapol. The full set of images can be seen on the page for these through the left hand side bar or alternatively through the quick link of the above title. This afternoon we will begin contacting people to arrange the delivery of all advance orders for these and we still have stock of all liveries available for anyone who did not take advantage of our advance ordering system.
NEWS 2nd August 2022
New Heljan Class 37 Centre Headcode
Last year Heljan have announced the introduction of the split box Class 37/0 with the post 1970's cut away buffer beam cowlings with models being produced with either the steam heating boiler or later high intensity headlight. The expected release date for these is 2023. To compliment this Heljan have also been working on the centre headcode variant which will be released in 2024 with a wide range of versions and liveries covering the 1970s through to the present day. Livery details and options for the cnetre headcode varaint have not yet been finalised and Heljan do not want to compete with the split headcode version due next year but it is good to see further progress. As and when we get more details I will update the website with these.
NEWS 27th July 2022
Dapol 20ton BR Brake Van re-run
The new Dapol Brake Vans have been incredibly popular and we are now running low on the the most popular types.. This re-run uses new tooling and covers the later diagram option compared to the earlier production run with the option of the later roller bearing axle boxes. This later diagram of the brake van allows some of the later liveries for Dutch and Railfreight red grey liveries. Dapol have now sold out of most liveries and we have bought the remaining stocks on several versions of these as I expect it will be a while before we see a re-run.
NEWS 15th July 2022
We have this week bought all of Heljan's remaining stock of the popular Class 33 locomotive in all of the liveries that they had left. There is not a great number of any individual livery, with no more than ten in any one colour. Once these have gone I very much doubt we will see a re-run of these any time soon. A simple call can secure one of the last few remaining whilst they are still available.
NEWS 13th July 2022
Dapol bracket junction signals
We have now received all four versions of the new GWR bracket signals with the release of the right hand junction signal today. We will be despatching all advance outstanding advance orders for these today and still have plent of stock of these available for anyone who did not take advantage of our advance ordering system.
NEWS 1st July 2022
New range of Dapol O gauge building kits
At Doncaster show Dapol had pre-production samples of a brand new O gauge buildings which are due for release before the end of the year. Initially four buildings have been announced and subject to the success of these they intend going on to expand this range in 2023. The kits will be laser cut from the finest self-coloured card and will include all the necessary injection moulded or 3D printed accessory parts (including glazing) to complete the model. Where appropriate the models will be supplied with printed interior decoration. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available.
Heljan have this week supplied colour layout images for the forthcoming Class 55 Deltic that is expected in 2023. At the same time Heljan have also amended the planned name and number on two originally announced models. In standard blue without the white window surrounds they are now doing "Pinza" instead of "Meld" and the weathered example in the same livery is now "The Northumberland Fusiliers" instead of the "Argyll and Sutherland Highlander"
This all new Class 55 Deltic covers the later body modifications and therefore suitable for the BR Blue Finsbury Park white window surrounds for locomotives stabled there. A total of five factory numbered and named "in service" examples are being produced as well as two un-numbered blue examples both with and without the white window surrounds. As well as this Heljan are producing an "as preserved" body featuring the high intensity headlight; with two factory named and numbered examples being produce as well as an un-numbered blue example. Again these are expected in 2023 and we are taking advance orders for these now. Anyone with an advance already with us who wishes to amend their order taking these name changes into account are welcome to call us.
NEWS 17th June 2022
Also this week Heljan have release the CAD images for the LMS / BR inspection saloon for release in 2023. Used for engineers’ inspections, VIPs, meetings and district managers’ tours of network, these classic LMS vehicles had seated saloons at each end with large windows to give a good all round view of the line. This is an ideal one-coach train for O gauge layouts of all sizes, from depots to large exhibition layouts.We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch when they become available. Prices have not been confirmed yet but Heljan should update us soon with the cost and further detail are expected as work progresses on this model.
NEWS 14th June 2022
At the same time we have now updated the website with the colour layout images for the planned re-run of Class B tankers. A total of 15 examples are being produced and I have updated the information with the details for the running numbers. The expected release date for these is winter 2022, we hope before Christmas but it may slip slightly given the quantity of releases around the end of the year. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available.
NEWS 12th May 2022
Lionheart / Dapol British Railways 3MT 2-6-2T
Dapol have now sent us the finalised details of the British Railways 3MT which is planned for released summer 2023. A total of seven liveries are being produced but also with an un-numbered option on the two most popular liveries for a total of nine models. As usual there will also be the option of DCC fitted and DCC and sound fitted on all liveries. This is done here in the UK so will follow on shortly after the main launch of the analogue versions. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available and is highly recommended as demand is bound to be high on this Lionheart project. As and when we get more details and pictures of the pre-production samples I will update the webpage for these.
.NEWS 7th May 2022
Dapol have announced the production of some new liveries for the ever popular Class 08's. There are both numbered and un-numbered examples of the green livery both with and without chevrons then a re-run of the Blue livery and the Railway Support Services as shown above. There are DC, DCC fitted and DCC Sound options on all liveries and I have split these across both the early and late 08 web pages for now. I have asked Dapol which body types they will all be but have not yet had any official confirmation. For now I have assumed the BR green examples are the early body type and the BR Blue and RSS livery the later body type. Dapol have indicated a late 2022 / early 2023 release date but I would guess they will be a 2023 release at the earliest. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available
.NEWS 5th May 2022
Tower Models Limited edition Class 56
We received all versions of the Class 56 yesterday and have been working solidly through them since then. Most immediate despatchs have now been made where we have been able to get in touch with customers and otherwise waiting on return calls to arrange suitable days for delivery.
I have today starting confirming details on customer'ss locomotives which are going through the workshop for custom numbering, naming, weathering or sound fitting. We are still waiting on some custom name plates being delivered but the majority are here having been specially ordered before Christmas.
.NEWS 22nd April 2022
2023 production of Heljan Class 47's
Work has already begun on second production run of Class 47's for release early 2023. This production run will include two Tower Models Limited Editions covering the early version as Stratford engines with the grey roof and also featuring the Dominoe headcodes. The first option is a fully finished example of 47170 "County of Norfolk" in BR blue with the black window surround and then secondly the standard BR blue with grey roof un-numbered which the customer could complete as any of the other Stratford engines. Both of these will feature the black dominoe headcodes. The details for these has been agreed for months now and we were waiting on confirmation from Heljan of the standard production models which are being produced at the same time. Yesterday though Gaugemaster announced the production of their limited edition 47500 in heritage Great Western lined green so we thought we would go public with our two limited editions now. Hopefully we should have the colour layouts for both of these in the next few weeks along with the details of what other standard models are being produced by Heljan at the same time. We are taking advance orders for these now and will update the website as soon as we have further details.
We currently have availability on most liveries of the 2022 production run still in stock although numbers are getting low on these now.
NEWS 20th April 2022
Tower Models Limited Edition Vanwide & VEA's
In January we produced sets of six of the most popular liveries of these all with different running numbers to add to enable customers to extend the rakes of these without repeating wagon numbers. We made a set of the earliest liveried vanwide in BR bauxite with the simple number and no white outline box and then secondly a set of six of the VEA in Railfreight red grey livery as per the colour layouts shown above. Only 100 sets of each are being produced. Stocks of these are now running very low with very few of either the standard VEA in Railfreight red grey or the Limited Editions sets of six in this livery.
It is also worth mentioning that in the past we have also done Limited Editions sets of six of the Dapol planked vans, plywood vans, Air Ministry tankers in both Shell BP and Esso liveries along with four sets of the BR conflats in both British Railways and Door 2 Door liveries and ICI Soda Ash 16 ton minerals. All of these are also still currently available but stocks are beginning to run very low on these.
NEWS 14th March 2022
At Kettering show Dapol announced the production of the LNER / BR Austerity J94. A total of ten liveries are being produced with analogue, DCC fitted and DCC and sound fitted models options available. Production is scheduled for mid 2023 and we are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available .Dapol have now clarified which versions will have the earlier hopper style bunker and which wil have the standard coal bunker and I have updated the webpage for these with the details.. As always we will be offering our weathering service on all liveries options if desired.
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On Wednesday we also received the latest production run of the ever popular Class 50's. This includes a re-run of some of the popular models from the last batch and the introduction of several new liveries, the prettiest of which is the Hanson and Hall livery as shown above.
We still have limited stocks of some of both the 2020 and 2021 production run of Class 50's which are available for immediate despatch; details of which can be found on the page for the Class 50s which can be linked through to with the title above although numbers are getting low on these earlier production runs
As always our custom numbering, naming and weathering service is still operating as normal to complete the Class 50's with the customers choice of name and number or we have a good selection available off the shelf that have already been completed.
NEWS 11th February 2022
Fully finished locos available off the shelf
The workshop have just completed a few Class 60's for stock as we start to prepare for Kettering Show, hopefully we will also have a few more Class 47's fully finished in time for the show as well. Shown here is a customer's Transrail Class 37 we have just completed and we thought it would be good to complete one of the un-branded Triple grey Class 60's to match. At the same time we have also done a triple grey "Mainline" Class 60 and one of our Limited Edition Coal sector Class 60 in the one-off Coal Sector / Transrail livery. All three are available now for immediate despatch but will be at Kettering Show if they have not sold before then.
The latest production run of the ever popular Dapol Autocoaches have nonw arrived and we have contacted everyone in regard to their advance orders. All versions of the basic models are in stock and we are getting both the light bar fitted and DCC and light bar fitted versions in to order. A simple call and we can arrange despatch for you.
NEWS 1st February 2022
Secondhand Items
We have had a number of secondhand items come in that are in very good condition that we have put through the workshop for weathering:
Dapol 64xx
We have had one of the Dapol (ex Lionheart) 64xx's in BR Early Crest black come in second hand that we have weathered through the workshop. This is as new and has only been test run @ £300.00
Dapol Autocoach
One of the Dapol Autocoaches in Great Western chocolate and cream shirtbutton livery that has been weathered and has had little if any use @ £200.00
Dapol 4 car suburban sets
We have also had come in part exchange two of the 4 coach suburban B sets, one is LHT620 Birmingham Division #50 in GWR chocolate and cream and the other is LHT623 Birmingham Division #52 in BR crimson livery. Both of these have never been used and we are selling both at just £500.00 each for the four car sets
First come first served on these items.
Heljan have also this week confirmed that the production run of the new Mk2 coaches should arrive close to Christmas 2022.
Four different Mk2 coaches are being produced, BSO (Brake Second Open) TSO (Tourist Second Open) and BFK (Brake Corridor First) and the new addition to the initial announcement with the production of the FK (First Corridor) which can be completed as Mk2's or Mk2a's depending on whether the sliding gangway doors or GRP gangway doors are fitted.
Tower Models are producing the BR maroon livery of the FK as a Limited Edition of just 75 units and advance ordering is highly recommended. Initially the BR Mk 2 maroon F.K.'s were allocated to the Eastern (18 units) and Midland regions (29 units) in 1964 with a total of 70 MK2's being built.
As a separate there will be an option to install interior lighting will also be extremely simple thanks to Heljan's new battery-powered LED lighting bar which will simply drop into the locating slots provided on the interior unit. Featuring a built-in motion sensor, the lights switch on when any movement is detected and remain illuminated for two minutes when your train is stationary.
These lighting units are now available and should easily be adapted to other coaching stock.
We are taking order for these and the separate lighting units now for despatch as soon as they become available in 2022.
NEWS 4th December 2021
New Heljan Items.
Today Heljan have announced a series of new items for release in 2022 and 2023 which I have summarised below:
Heljan BR General Utility Vehicle
Early this year Heljan re-ran some of their popular GUV's and these proved incredibly popular. These are going to be re-run again hopefully to be released late 2022 with a repeat of the most popular liveries and the introduction of some new liveries that have not been done before, most important of all being the production of Rail Express Services (RES) as well as the Royal Mail livery being re-run to compliment the recent production of the Class 47 in Royal Mail livery. We still have stocks of some of the liveries produced earlier this year and are taking advance orders for the new liveries for despatch as soon as they become available.
At the same time Heljan have complimented the GUV production run by announcing a re-run of the Mk1 BG Full Brake with re-runs of ever popular BR Maroon and BR Blue Newspaper liveries. A further eight new liveries are also being produced again with the most important of these being the RES liveried example. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available. No firm date as of yet other than the indication of release early 2023.
NEWS 20th November 2021
Train of the week is a new feature that started in August 2018 and we hope to feature every week subject to how manic it gets with new product launches. Of course it is subject to how succesful the concept is and on going sales from it but it is not just about that it is also about showing ideas and putting together locos, coaches and wagons from various manufacturers together into a realistic train. Most featured items are standard stock items and we can always recreate it again to customer's own specifications with either more or less items of rolling stock or even different liveries as required. Full details can be found by clicking on the title which is the link to the specific webpage for this feature.
As such even when completed and sold we will leave them on the webpage as inspiration for short, simple trains that you may want to tackle yourself or leave us to do for you subject to items still being available and a new "Train of the Week" should be added every Thursday and we intend changing the era and type of train to keep it fresh and different but is subject to how busy we may be with launches. Of late we have been extremely busy and sadly not had much spare time to focus on this feature.
NEWS 17th November 2021
We have now received all versions of the Class 60's and have despatched as many of the advance orders as we can and put all examples through to the workshop for numbering naming and weathering
There are five standard liveries being produced and we are now doing a limited edition run of just 75 pieces of the coal sector railfreight triple grey livery and the two Colas Limited Editions. We will also be stocking the four Gaugemaster limited edition models which now includes the two British Steel blue liveries. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available.
Dapol have today confirmed the details of the 45ton TTA tankers which is planned for release in 2023. These are extremely long lived vehicles initially built in the 1960's and survived up until the early 2000's. Tower Models are producing sets of three of these with alternate running numbers in a total of four liveries; Shell BP, Shell, BP and finally BP in green livery. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they become available.
NEWS 29th October 2021
Tower Models Limited Edition BR Conflats
We have now received all twelve of the Tower Models Limited Edition BR Conflats. All of these have different numbers for both the conflat wagon and containers compared to the standard production run that Dapol produced enabling you to create a descent rake of these. There are still a number of these available for immediate despatch for anyone who did not take advantage of out advance ordering system.
NEWS 18th August 2021
Heljan Class 40 - Centre Headcode
The Heljan Class 40's have arrived this morning and we are busy arranging despatches for customer advance orders to clear the decks as much as possible for the Class 122 delivery which is expected tomorrow.
Five liveries will be available covering the entire BR career of the class. The models will feature a ‘DCC Friendly’ chassis, LED lighting, a heavy duty chassis with twin motors and flywheels and fine detail specific to these later-built EE Type 4s.
These are proving extremely popular and as with several recent Heljan releases we expect the most popular liveries to sell out almost immediately. We are taking advance orders for these now and is advisable to secure your locomotive for despatch as soon as they become available.
NEWS 4th August 2021
Tower Models Limited Edition Salt Vans
We have now completely sold out of the Leith General Warehouse wagons that we commissioned with Dapol to compliment the Heljan Class 17 Clayton to create the iconic Scottish trains.
We are also down to last clean set of the A Cant & Sons London Salt vans and one weathered set with replacement planks as shown here.
Stocks of our extensive range of Limited Edition ICI wagons remain good at present.
It is good to see some of these sell out given the new wagons expected later in the year.
NEWS 3rd August 2021
We have today received the brand new Heljan Class 31/1 and 31/4 models and have been busy all day calling people to arrange suitable days for delivery for their advance orders. We have now broken the back of the work and have now also prepared all the the models for custom numbering, naming and sound fitting through the workshop to customer's requirements over the coming weeks.
We still have examples of all liveries available for immediate despatch for anyone who did not take advantage of our advance ordering system. A simple call on 01253 623797 in the morning and we can arrange everything for you.
NEWS 27th June 2021
The workshop have this week completed two more example of our Limited Edition Class 37/4 in Transrail livery. The latest examples we have completed we have left as clean examples but we could always weather them with the customer's choice of the degree of weathering if required. Details of the fully finished Class 37/4's that are available can be found under the "Locos Available off the shelf section"
NEWS 19th June 2021
European Export changes
After the 1st July 2021 on exports to Europe there is a new system coming into effect on small orders where the local European VAT is to be collected by the shipper and subsequently we have to submit a European VAT report and payment every month. This only counts on small orders under £150.00 and we do very few of these through the year so from the 1st of July our minimum order size for Europe will be £150.00 so that we avoid this paperwork.
With orders over £150.00 the system remains the same and we are deducting the VAT component of the prices on orders for the EU, with the local VAT being collected by local customs in the destination country. This basically works out about the same price as before but with some handling changes for the local VAT charges by the courier company.
Low value orders for Europe a rare and it isn't difficult to reach the £150.00 figure when dealing in O gauge and simply put the paperwork involved is not worth the hassle for the low volume of orders we receive through the year that are below the £150.00 figure.
This comes into effect on the 1st of July so our European customers basically have just over a week if there are any small orders they have been considering.
NEWS 19th May 2021
Tower Models exclusive Bachmann Platforms
Folllowing on from the successful launch of the latest building from Bachmann in O gauge we have commissioned Bachmann to produce both platform straights and ramps in O gauge exclusively for Tower Models and they have today confirmed that we should receive them late on tomorrow. The basic set as shown here makes a good representation of a station halt and the additional straight sections can be added to make a decent length of platform. Each set of additional straights is three pieces which is approximately the length of two coaches. More images are available through the above title link or via the Bachamnn Scenecraft O gauge section of the website. We still have stock available of these for immediate despatch
Covid Restrictions
The shop is now open to the public. We are however operating a closed door policy with just one group allowed in at a time to ensure social distancing requirements can be maintained at all times.
Long before the Covid restrictions the mainstay of the business has been mail order and for the time being we will be maintaining the reduced shop hours of 9.30am until 4.45pm six days per week to enable us to ensure the mail order can be completed every day.
NEWS 24th April 2021
Tower Models Limited Edition 16ton minerals
Yesterday we unexpectedly received the Dapol re-run of the standard rivetted and welded 16ton mineral wagons along with the Tower Models Limited Edition blue ICI Soda Ash wagons. This has made for a busy week along with the launch of the Heljan Mk1 coaches. All despatches for these have made and we still have stocks available for immediate despatch.
HMRS Transfers.
Yesterday I was chasing up our outstanding order for O gauge transfers with the HMRS as the order had been in with them since Christmas. We knew they were very low on stocks of the popular sheets and were awaiting restocks themselves from the printers. The Pressfix and Methfix printing process is very labour intensive and the printers have now informed the HMRS that they no longer will be producing the sheets for them. Until such time that the HMRS are able to locate a printer to do the specialised printing that is required they have taken the descision to stop supply the trade with the sheets that are still available and now to sell the remaining sheets direct via their website. When they do source a printer to re-start production they will begin again to supply the trade. We still have stocks of over half the sheets available for immediate despatch but once these half gone we will have to wait until the situation improves.
NEWS 24th March 2021
One of the workshops has today completed a good selection of the Tower Brass / San Cheng Brass locomotives and coaches for the shelf rather than just completing customers commissions which has given us a good supply of Gauge 1 coaches available for immediate despatch and a very nice selection of Gauge 1 Terriers in some very pretty liveries.
NEWS 2nd September 2020
Tower Models Limited Edition London Salt Vans
Just over a month ago now we received the brand new Tower Models Limited Edition A Cant & Sons set of six different numbered London Salt Vans. We have now had chance to complete some weathered examples for sale off the shelf with a full set of the six available with custom weathering for immediate despatch. At the same time we also decided to have a play with a few example of the London Salt vans as shown above with a few replacement planks as part of the weathering and the wood finish really nicely contrasts against the blue and makes each one very much unique. This can also be done as part of the standard weathering service if required.
These have been a lockdown project that was only started the begining of June which was the first day the studio at Dapol returned to work after lockdown and have been made here in the UK . This Salt Merchant bought it's salt from the Stafford salt works and were maintained in Stoke on Trent so is a very useful company wagon as it can be used on layouts based either around London or the Midlands.
NEWS 18th August 2020
Good new today from Dapol. This afternoon we should finally receive the long awaited 57xx / 8750 restock. This includes the introduction of a new riveted tank variant that has not been done before. Details of these liveries can be found on the webpages for these through the title link. All advance orders should be despatched today and we still have stock available off the shelf for people who have not taken advantage of our advance ordering system. The GNSR lined Caramel (Railway Children) livery should be popular along with the Great Western Liveried version of the 8750 class.
NEWS 26th June 2020
We have now received restocks of the popular Heljan O gauge diesel depot and extensions. These have also been very popular during isolation as it is a sizeable modelling project and relatively cheap and can keep you occupied for a good week and gives plenty of oppurtunity for super detailing and turning into a little diorama in it's own right. At the same time people have also been picking up the Bachmann Scenecraft Diesel Refueling Point to complement the shed.
NEWS 27th April 2020
Springside restocks
We have finally had restocks from Springside of their BR and GWR head and tail lights along with the fire iron sets. Hopefully in a couple of weeks we should also have restocks of both the LMS and LNER head and tail lamps. All advance orders have now ben despatched and we have good stocks of the items which have just come back into stock.
NEWS 18th April 2020
Dapol Good news
Both the Dapol Banana vans and Tower Models Limited Editions came into stock yesterday as well as the re-runs of some of the standard BR 10ft wagons. They arrived nice and early in the day so we were able to get most of the large orders for the courier off yesterday. We have today completed the smaller orders which are going via the post and these will be despatched on Monday. One change to the advertised production on the Banana vans is that there are 3 number options for the Fyffes livery and only one number of the Geest livery. Fyffes has been by far the most popular livery anyway so works out better for most people.
Tower Models Limited Edition Dapol Vans
All advance orders for these limited edition sets of six planked or plywood vans have been despatched where we have been able to contact customers. There are still a number of both sets still available for immediate despatch.
At the same time we have also received the brand new Dapol Banana Vans. Initially four will be available; one in "Geest" and three different numbers in "Fyffes" livery. All advance orders have now been despatched.
At the same time we have also received the four standard re-run of both the BR vans and opens in the 2020 liveries.
NEWS 30th March 2020
We have just received restocks from DJH of the O gauge kits, we now have all four of the popular kits K300-K303 in stock and can get any of the others from the range as required. We also have both the the Tower Collection O gauge starter kits in stock. A simple call can arrange immediate despatch.
NEWS 19th February 2020
The blue versions of the Class 03 are in transit and should be with us in a few days, we will begin to conatct people with advance orders over the next few days to arrange suitable days for delivery.
Heljan have rationalisation the liveries for the Class 03 with four near identical versions being dropped which are virtually duplicated by other versions in the range. Taking this into account, if customers wish to amend their order a simple call can amend the advance order.
Heljan did forget to pack the instructions in with the green locos. A copy of the instructions can now be found on the page for the Class 03 to download and print off.
Those which are being numbered, weathered and sound equipped will be going through to the workshop and should hopefully be completed in about 2-3 weeks.
As part of our preparations for the upcoming Larger Scales show the workshop have just completed a large number of Gauge 1 items including two fully finished Halls, 2 Black Fives, a rake of 7 BR chocolate and cream coaches and a good selection of 45xx's. Details of these can be found through the title link or in the Gauge 1 section of the website as we hope to put on a good display of out Gauge 1 at the show in May which is at at the Riversmead Leisure Centre in Reading. Details of the show can be found through the link of the shows we are attending this year but all of these items are availablenow for immediate despatch.
NEWS 13th December 2019
Dapol 'O' gauge Y1 / Y3 Sentinel
The basic version of the long awaited Sentinels are now in stock and we should also received the DCC fitted versions later on this afternoon. The DCC and sound fitting is being done here in the UK so these will be available approximately a month after the basic DC version but given the Christmas period it may take a little longer for them to complete the sound fitted versions.
There has also been two changes on the lead up to the launch that it is worth mentioning. 7S-005-002 is now BR Early Crest Dept 39 and not as previously advertised 68183 in LNER livery and now there is only one number of the LMS livery being produced instead of the planned two number options.
At the same time we have also received the EWS livery for the Class 08 that was missing from the shipment last month.
NEWS 26th November 2019
At the show at the weekend Dapol announced the production of a Class 66 deisel. Dapol have now confirmed a few details and I have now created the web page for this. Dapol hope to have the first test sample bodies in about six months time and if everything goes to plan the loco should be available in approximately 16-18 months, so late 2021 or 2022 if everything goes to plan. Initially six liveries have been announced and the loco will be available as either analog or DCC fitted. We are taking advance orders for these now and also offering our custom weathering service as well if required.
NEWS 5th September 2019
Over a year ago now Helmsman retired and their superb controllers have not been available ever since. Good news from Peco this week, they are to take over the range. No indication from Peco as tor the new price of the units but have said they hope to have the range availabe during 2020. The Helmsman 5amp controller has always been popular, especially for Heljan deisels. As and when we get more details I will update the website. Several people have already had advance orders in place for their eventual return and we are taking orders now for when they do reappear..
NEWS 22nd August 2019
Dapol 9ft wheelbase Salt and Lime Vans
As well as the Snowdrift Salt Van that was released last week we have now also received the George Brown Lime wagon in clean finish, hopefully we will also be receiving the weathered example soon. We have good stocks of all liveries of both the Salt and Lime wagons that have been released so far available for immediate despatch. Stocks of some liveries are now starting to run low and we are awaiting restocks on some liveries.
NEWS 2nd August 2019
Both the Tower Models Limited Edition sets of tankers and standard Air Ministry tankers came into stock yesterday and we have made despatch of all advance orders where customers have confirmed delivery. We still have stocks of all versions for those people have not taken advantage of our advance ordering system.
Both Shell BP and Esso have always been the most popular of the liveries of the Class B ex-Air Ministry tankers. As such we thought people might appreciate the chance to buy sets of 6 of these all with different running numbers that have not been done before by Dapol. We will also be offering our custom weathering service on any of the Dapol tankers for those people who want to take advantage of it.
NEWS 26th June 2019
Peco have just released the long awaited O gauge signal box interior that is suitable for either LK709, platform mounted signal box or LK715, the brick based free standing signal box. These are now in transite to us and should hopefully be with us either on Friday or Monday next week. We are taking advance orders for these now for despatch as soon as they come into stock.
Peco have just released a new addition to their O gauge range of trackside kits with a signal box, representing a generic style of box with a brick base and wooden cabin structure on top, plus the necessary steps leading up from the ground. This is a "mixed-media" kit, meaning that the top half is produced as a plastic injection moulding, and the brick base of laser-cut wooden parts, all coming together to create this wonderfully characterful structure. Provision has also been made to include a brick chimney breast at the back of the box. These are now in stock and are available for immediate despatch.
At the same time Peco have decided to repackage their O gauge telegraph from the original pack of 4 to packs of 6 but with a price change from the original £6.50 per pack to £9.50 per pack. We still have a handful of the old packs of 4 but once the last few we have in stock have gone all future stocks will be at the higher size and price.
NEWS 8th May 2017
We bought all of Bachmann's remaining stock of 45xx and 4575 Prairie Tanks in Gauge 1 several years ago. We can now confirm that we have now sold out of the 4575's and are down to the last one 4575 and we have sold out of the 45xx flat top Prairies. These can be supplied "as is" in plain green, no number or insignia or, alternatively they can be supplied fully finished in either any GWR or BR livery for an additional charge. We have two fully finished Gauge 1 45xx's available off the shelf; 4512 in BR late crest un-lined green and clean finish at £1035.00 and 4555 in BR lined green early crest clean finish at £1090.00. Once these have sold there will be no more as the factory that made them has closed.
NEWS 30th March 2017
Most people think of Tower Models only as the UK's largest stockist of 'O' gauge. Apart from this we are also a major supplier of Gauge 1 locomotives, coaches and track. Shown here is a Tower Brass Terrier in Gauge 1 recently completed for a customer. This locomotive was hand lettered and lined in our workshops. We currently can offer a range of locomotives and coaches both off the shelf or completed to order.
NEWS 19th January 2017
We have now received the brand new Heljan modern depot.. It has been designed to be modular and very adaptable to a number of situations and locations. Add-on packs are also available to extend the main kit either adding extra roads or additonal depth. Photo shows the first sample which has been painted; kit will be moulded in single colour plastic. Please note that the side bay 'bars' will also be duplicated on the lower panels on production examples.
If you have not already advance ordered one of these we are still taking orders for this for immediate despatch once they have arrived and full details can be found on the relevant pages of the website.
A REALITY CHECK ON CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONS
We offer a wide range of kits and ready-to-run items from a number of sources. our aim is to offer a quality product at an affordable price. This seems to satisfy 99% of our customers. However, there appears to be a growing number of people in the model railway fraternity who expect perfection for a pitance of a price. Let me make it clear that the perfect model does not exist. It is utterly unreasonable to expect full working inside motion on any of the models we sell or any other complex working details that can barely be seen, especially at the price and no, the cab gauges don't really work! All our items are for standard 'O' gauge finescale. They are made from plastic, resin, white metal, pewter and brass. They are powered by electric motors. Real locomotives are made from iron, steel, brass and copper. they are powered by steam, diesel or electricity. If anyone wants to duplicate all the features of a real locomotive may I suggest he buys a real one. They are much bigger than ours and cost many times more than the ones we sell. At the end of the day model railways are big boys toys and meant to be fun, let's not forget it.