Introduction
Masterpiece Models is committed to building 0 gauge fine scale, limited edition state-of-the-art UK outline locomotives to museum standards. No compromises. No short cuts. Just meticulous research backed by state-of-the-art technology. These are not just collectors items but fully working models with astonishing levels of accuracy and detail.
Based on official drawings and thorough research, our model engineering plans are prepared by SJ Models of Incheon for careful assessment by a team of UK professional locomotive engineers and model railway specialists. The first pre-production locomotive is constructed for inspection and evaluation by the team. Because our standards are extremely high, a second pre-production model is then built by SJ Models incorporating all modifications recommended, for further careful scrutiny by our experts and clients. This model is also fully painted and lined, again for careful scrutiny. We have to be completely satisfied with accuracy and performance of the second pre-production model before full production starts. Nothing is left to chance, rushed or hurried. We are determined to produce exceptionally accurate ready-to-run fine scale model locomotives to museum standard without compromise.
To summarise; all Masterpiece models combine :-
- official drawings as primary source material
- extensive and comprehensive research
- access to the finest photographic collections
- advice from professional locomotive engineers
- expertise of leading model railway specialists
- state-of-the-art model railway technology
- constant appraisal of all aspects of the build
- final evaluation by experts before production
Masterpiece Models are built to a standard rather than a price. So we build strictly limited editions, announcing the quantity to be built well in advance. As far as possible, each model is unique - by name, number and/or condition. No second runs; no additional builds; plus a straightforward guarantee that no more will be constructed. These are highly complex designs and builds, by one of the worlds finest model engineers.
Each Masterpiece Model is :-
- computer designed from original drawings; laser produced
- top quality primarily brass construction with lost wax fittings
- hand assembled with high levels of quality control
- ball bearings to main and side rods and wheels
- individual leaf springs that actually work
- machined brass wheels with separate wheel balance weights
- stainless steel tyres
- nickel silver rods and valve gear
- fully working inside motion
- opening smokebox door with interior fittings
- rivets are clearly rivets, as bolts are bolts – as the original
- fitted with accurate name and numberplates
- with additional moving and working components
- full cab detail with timber floor and range of accessories
- accurately fully painted and lined
- Swiss made Maxon motor
- fitted for sound with two speakers
- silent fully enclosed gears
Additional features are developed for each model such as real copper caption to chimney, movable reversing lever, removable loco lamps, etc. Other modifications may be made.
Masterpiece Models first UK outline model was the GWR/BR Castle. 111 were built and the entire run sold out before delivery. Our 2009 build is the GWR/BR King, and 111 are being built in seven different conditions. For the current situation regarding availability, go to our ‘Availability & Reservations’ list under ‘Current Build’. Our 2010 build will be LMS/BR-LM/ScR Coronations and Duchesses, both streamlined and non-streamlined in various conditions and in seven liveries. Reservations are now being taken. See under ‘Next Build’. Two further commissions can now be announced; BR Britannia’s (and perhaps Clans) and GWR Stars in pre Great War, between the Wars and in BR conditions. See under ‘Future Builds’.
Masterpiece Models will produce one new class of locomotives built to museum standards each year. Models of this quality and accuracy cannot be rushed. The only possible exceptions are smaller locomotives or locomotives with distinct similarities to a series already built. Each limited edition will consist of 111 models (although that may change for smaller locomotives); with as far as possible each individual model different.
Masterpiece Models are not cheap – neither would you expect them to be for limited edition models of this quality and accuracy. Prices range from £2500 to £3250 depending on complexity and variations. But compared with buying decent kits and time spent building, plus wheels, motors, sound systems, painting and lining, etc., Masterpiece Models offer very good value-for-money, especially if accuracy is important to you.
If you want to make a reservation, go to our ‘Availability and Reservations’ lists and make your selection. A fully refundable reservation fee of £150 will be required. If your reservation payment hasn’t been received within ten days, the reservation will revert back to the availability list. A further payment (usually half the total amount) will be required after the first pre-production model has been available for inspection or comprehensive pictures appeared on our website. The final payment will be required before the completed locomotives are shipped to UK. After a thorough check, your model will be available to collect at Model Railway shows, sent directly by courier or collected from us.
