Judith Miller on collecting vintage model trains

A vintage model train makes a thoughtful Father’s Day gift. Judith Miller looks at the history behind model train sets and explains which types and brands collectors should look out for.

The first model trains were produced around the mid-19th century as interest in this exciting mode of transport heightened: following the railway boom in the first half of the 19th century, local rail links were developed into a national network in the 1840s. While early models were stylised, bulky and unrealistic, by the 1890s, tinplate versions became more accurate, with clockwork or steam mechanisms, and were further refined over the decades. This made them more appealing to boys – and their fathers – who were interested in engineering related toys; and they would spend hours building custom tracks and painting scenery for their trains to travel around.

Key producers were German manufacturers Märklin (established 1859) and Gebrüder Bing (1863-1933); many of their trains were exported to the US and Europe, although production and exports ceased during the two World Wars. British company Hornby began making trains in 1920 and its Dublo models, introduced in 1938, were very well designed; however, post World War II examples were of comparatively poor quality and the range was discontinued in 1969. A few years prior to this, Hornby was taken over by Tri-ang and the names were merged (Tri-ang Hornby).

Founded in 1901, Bassett-Lowke was primarily a sales organisation that marketed and distributed model trains, ships and other toys made by British manufacturers including Wintringham of Northampton, as well as German companies Gebrüder Bing, Carette, and Trix. However, the firm also produced its own high quality models, the first locomotive being made in 1903; Henry Greenly, the foremost miniature railway engineer of the time, designed many of its trains.

Business began to decline in the 1950s as children’s interests moved away from mechanical trains, and its competitors were producing less expensive models; in 1965 it closed. The brand has been acquired by a number of different firms over the last 45 years, but is owned today by Tri-ang Hornby, which produces new ranges under this historic name.

Tips for collectors:

• Märklin introduced gauge sizes in 1891; however, two decades later, smaller gauges (I and 0) replaced their larger ones (II and III) as demand for smaller train sets grew. By 1938 gauge I had also been discontinued; and in 1935 the even smaller 00 had replaced gauge 0. Märklin’s HO gauge – which was smaller still – was used from 1948.
• The locomotive, tender/carriages, and certain rare accessories tend to be the most valuable parts of a set.
• As many trains were played with and have become worn and damaged, examples in good condition will command the highest prices.
• The precise model, date and livery also affect value.

Buying at auction? Find auction houses in the Period Living Directory

WORDS JUDITH MILLER PHOTOGRAPHS VECTIS AUCTIONS LTD, WALLIS & WALLIS
Featured in the June 2010 issue of Period Living

Buy Judith Miller’s Antiques Handbook & Price Guide 2012-2013