BR Late Blue A3 Class 60063 'Isinglass' w/Steam Generator

BR Late Blue A3 Class 60063 'Isinglass' w/Steam Generator

1:76 scale model produced by Hornby. This model is ready-to-run straight out of the box and would make a excellent addition to any model railway collection.

Details

The legendary LNER A3 Pacific returns to the Hornby range as No. 60063 'Isinglass', beautifully finished in striking BR Express Blue livery with early Cycling Lion crests. Combining classic Gresley design with the latest model railway technology, this highly detailed OO gauge steam locomotive features a factory-fitted HM7000 decoder, authentic DCC sound, and advanced Gen 2 steam generator system for an immersive operating experience.

Based on extensive research and original works drawings, this model faithfully recreates one of Britain's most recognisable express passenger locomotives. Complete with decorated crew figures, turned brass safety valves, detailed cab interior and a fully detailed tender, Isinglass is a standout addition to any LNER or British Railways collection.

The integrated Gen 2 steam generator delivers synchronised cold-water steam effects matched to wheel speed and locomotive sounds, while the pre-installed HM7000 sound system reproduces authentic A3 locomotive audio recorded from preserved examples. Finished in iconic BR Express Blue, this feature-packed model is ideal for collectors and operators seeking the ultimate OO scale steam locomotive.

This premium model features a die-cast chassis, die-cast connecting rods and valve gear, together with a powerful 5-pole skew-wound motor for smooth and reliable performance. The locomotive includes a highly detailed cab with a fully decorated backhead, decorated crew figures, turned brass safety valves and a wealth of separately fitted details. The tender features a simulated coal load, detailed bunker and tender-mounted speaker.

Electrical pick-ups are fitted to both locomotive and tender wheels and are connected via a quick-release locomotive-to-tender connector. The Gen 2 steam generator uses advanced piezo technology and an optical sensor to synchronise steam output with wheel speed and sound. A built-in water reservoir provides up to 20 minutes of continuous operation, while adjustable steam settings allow operators to tailor the effect to their preference.

Additional features include brass main drive bearings, sprung metal buffers, front and rear NEM coupling pockets, a flickering firebox effect, HM7000 Power Bank compatibility and an accessory pack containing lamps, vacuum pipes, couplings and a tablet catcher. Suitable for layouts using 2nd radius curves and above.

Features:

• 1:76 Scale Model
• Analogue DC Model
• This model mainly operates in Britain
• Decorated in BR company markings
• Best suited to 438mm radius curves
• BR Express Blue livery with early Cycling Lion crests
• Pre-fitted HM7000 decoder with authentic A3 DCC sound
• Integrated Gen 2 steam generator with synchronised steam effects
• Flickering firebox effect for enhanced realism
• Die-cast construction with numerous separately fitted detail parts

Historical Background

Originally built at Doncaster Works in July 1925 as LNER No. 2562, Isinglass was one of only eight members of Sir Nigel Gresley's original A1 class to receive a name from new. Named after a famous racehorse, the locomotive quickly became part of the LNER's prestigious express passenger fleet.

In April 1946, Isinglass was rebuilt to A3 specification, receiving a higher-pressure boiler similar to those fitted to the later A3 locomotives built between 1928 and 1935. Renumbered 531 under the LNER's revised numbering scheme and later 60063 under British Railways, the locomotive continued to operate on important express services throughout its career.

Further modifications included the fitting of a double chimney in 1959 and smoke deflectors in 1961, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve performance and efficiency. After almost four decades of service, Isinglass was withdrawn in June 1964 and subsequently scrapped, but it remains a fascinating member of the famous Gresley Pacific family and a popular choice among steam-era railway enthusiasts.