Connoisseur Models Saloon Coach Kit

Time for a new project, something a little different.  A coach,  but in etched brass !   I have built a brass kit,  but it's been over 16 years.   If there is one thing true in this scale,  it's that one should start ones journey into etched kit construction with one of Jim's fantastic kits.  The instructions, diagrams and well thought out design of the Connoisseur models range is very well known.

I've wanted to expand my choice of available coaches to form a typical light railway passenger service,  which will mostly be run in the form of mixed trains between Boxer Bay & Windrush Junction,  where passengers will change trains to "God's Wonderful",  or the occasional  S&DJR service.

The kit is PMK.7,  four wheeled Saloon coach,  based on a North Eastern design.  It will of course be lettered for my fictional "Boxer Bay Railway",   Price was £64 plus wheels.  I've already managed to make my first folds & form the tumblehome curve.   Since this is my first brass kit in decades I'll be taking it slow.  Learning & challenges are all part of the enjoyment & satisfaction of model railways.   I hope to construct my first locomotive after this experience.

Couple GWR Stalwarts

A GWR weekend with a couple Great Western stalwarts,  the 48xx & 45xx.  Both beautiful running models by Dapol.  (The interloper is BBR #8 ex MR  0-6-0T  Hilda !  also a sweet running model)

Prairie out & about

Something a little larger this week,  GWR 45xx Prairie got a run this weekend with the branch goods. Such a lovely model by Dapol.  Hard to believe models this nice are now available in O,  and not much more expensive then some of the OO stuff !  A couple favorite wagons in the mix,  including a scratchbuilt LBSC van from 1977,  and a Peco GWR van which was one of my first kits.

 

More Goods Traffic

 Just a lazy Sunday snap.   GWR Pannier 7711 runs round its train in preparation for departing back up the branch with an eclectic mix of wagons.  She will back onto the train, collect the brake van, and be on her merry way.  I hope to start up on some scenic work again soon.  The dock is crying out to be built, ships are stacking up in the Bristol Channel waiting to be unloaded !