Current Model

GWR Castle Class Locomotive In SidingsMasterpiece Models first model will be based on the series of GWR Castle class locomotive built at Swindon Works between 1932 and 1939. We looked carefully at producing all Castle's built by Swindon Works since 1923 in various conditions, up to withdrawal. However developments and modifications by the GWR and BR over the years make it extremely difficult to build accurate models of each locomotive without adding significantly to production costs, especially within a limited edition.

So with advice from our experts, a specific series of Castle's - Nos. 5013-5097 - will be modelled in their original condition (and we will exclude the Abbey's Nos. 5083-5092 from the production run because they had earlier joggled frames - our highly detailed frames will be based on the later straight frames, as built).

GWR Castle Class LocomotiveResearch and development for the Castle model has been on-going for about a year. More than 700 official plans have been sourced and evaluated and are now with the model builder, together with a vast amount of Castle class photos from various sources including the late Ken Leech's superb Castle photographic collection and the Irwell Press compilation of photographs. There is no shortage of material available to Masterpiece Models to ensure an accurate model!

GWR Castle Class LocomotiveBut interpretation and practical guidance is also vital to ensure accurate models. To support Masterpiece Models research, we are fortunate to have the guidance of two professional locomotive engineers. Bob Meanley is Chief Engineer at Tyseley Locomotive Works, currently responsible for maintaining 'Nunney Castle' and the rebuilding of 'Earl of Mount Edgcumbe'. Bob's knowledge of Castles is extensive and his input of considerable value (as well as being a model locomotive builder of some repute). Bob will also be one of the team of experts who will carefully evaluate Masterpiece Models pre-production Castle when it becomes available. Brian Penny C.Eng.M.I.Mech.E, our other professional locomotive engineer, worked extensively with Castle's at Worcester, Swindon, Stafford Road, Shrewsbury and Cardiff, as well as Swindon Works Drawing Office. Brian ended his career at Derby as Locomotive Engineer - private owner locomotives and was particularly helpful in the early stage of research.

Both made significant input to developing the Castle model at the planning stage.

In addition to professional locomotive engineers, Masterpiece Models needs the involvement of professional model makers to ensure the final model meets their high professional standards - particularly if they have considerable knowledge of Castle's. Malcolm Mitchell, well know for his excellent 0 gauge GWR kits (take a look at www.swindonworks.co.uk) has been extremely helpful when planning and development issues have arisen. Malcolm will be another Castle expert to evaluate the pre-production models, and his assessment will appear on this website. Further details of our model railway professionals will appear shortly.

Each Masterpiece Models Castle will incorporate the following features:-

  • Hand assembled with high levels of quality control
  • Computer designed, laser produced
  • Top quality brass construction with lost wax fittings
  • Ball bearings to main and side rods and wheels
  • Machined brass wheels with separate balance weights
  • Fitted with stainless steel tyres
  • Sprung suspension with real leaf springs
  • Nickle silver rods and valve gear
  • All rivets machined punched and not etched
  • Individual nameplates with bolt detail by Severn Mill
  • Brass number and tender plates
  • Full cab detail with brass bezels and lenses
  • Extensive underbody detail
  • Fully painted and lined in two GWR liveries
  • Two different chimneys - tall (5013-5042) and standard
  • External sandboxes fitted to no 5060 onwards
  • Servo assisted forward and reverse gears
  • Fully working inside valve gear
  • Threaded / moving reverse lever, from cab
  • Swiss made Maxon rare earth motor (under test)
  • DCC fitted, with GWR Castle sound
  • Silent fully enclosed gears
  • Wooden cab floor, folding seats, moving regulator handle
  • Opening smokebox door, water filler, toolboxes
  • Removable GWR loco lamps (5) with glass

Detailed planning for the Castle is almost complete and individual components will shortly be available for checking accuracy, quality control, etc. Because great care will be taken to ensure every component is of the highest quality, this vital stage (indeed the entire model) cannot be hurried. By late spring 2008, the first pre-production model will be available for assessment by our experts. Their findings will be available to reservation holders as well as photos on our website, and your inspection will be invited. Because only one model will be produced for each name and number combination, we are taking reservations now - once a name and number has been has been reserved, it will not be repeated. Each model with its individual name and number will be unique. £150 reserves the name and number of your choice, and the £150 is fully refundable if you are not happy with our model. Once a reservation has been made, you will be kept fully up-to-date with progress and developments. A second pre-production model will then be produced, incorporating any necessary changes, and on this occasion fully finished in full GWR livery, for further evaluation. You will then be asked to confirm your reservation by paying a further £1000. The completed Castle models are scheduled to be delivered to UK by winter 2008, when a final payment of £1500 will be request. All prices include VAT.