JOHN CHANDLER explores what is on the way from these prolific German manufacturers this year.
Across the range of scales covered by this branding (HO, N, 1, and Z), several new models are proposed for 2022 with, as is usual, some overlap between the Marklin and Trix HO ranges. 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of Marklin's launch into the ‘Mini-Club’ world of Z Gauge and also heralds the return of the Class S 2/6, the fastest steam locomotive of its time, in Gauge 1.
Starting big, in 1907, Royal Bavarian State Railway (K.Bay.Sts.B.) locomotive class S 2/6, designed by Anton Hammel, set a speed record of 96mph, which it held for 29 years. The Gauge 1 model features full metal construction with flickering firebox along with a fireman who turns to shovel the coal and a servo-controlled firebox door. Four other variants are available.
MN55162
A Bavarian (K.Bay.Sts.B.) S 3/6 locomotive with 5 coaches is offered as a limited edition in both Marklin (1500 pieces) and Trix (750 pieces).
Moving to modern image, components are offered to recreate the IC 2045, Cologne–Dresden long distance service. The full model comprises locomotive and five individual, double-decked passenger coaches including a DVT for push-pull operation.
The new Swiss 'Giruno' RABe 501, intended primarily for the Gotthard route between Switzerland and Italy, has not escaped the Marklin/Trix gaze. The model comprises a 5 car basic set with three 2-car add-on sets to allow the full 11 coach set to be modelled.
Finally, for HO, let’s head to Belgium with the Class 81 steam locomotive. Mostly of metal construction, a MN72270 smoke generator can be fitted. A suitable rake of 4 coaches is proposed but will need wheelset MN700580 for use with the Trix model.
Dropping into N Scale, Minitrix propose a one-off model of the classic Class 103 locomotive. This model features a metal-impregnated plastic body and pantographs which can be raised and lowered. Minitrix suggest a suitable set of coaches in M18712 and M18715.
Going back in time, Minitrix celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Vizinal Railways of the Royal Bavarian State Railways (K.Bay.Sts.B.). The locomotive features a die-cast zinc chassis and a set of 5 wagons is available.
Finally, we reach the ‘birthday boy’ in the Marklin Trix Group, Z Scale. The models have progressed some way since the early days of plastic wheels to a fully-fledged model train system in its own right. To celebrate this anniversary, a book (German Language) has been prepared, charting the developments in the scale over this period.
There is no better place to start in any scale than a Starter Set and the 50th Anniversary Set is no exception. Comprising a Diesel locomotive, 3 coaches, an oval of track and a controller, this set pays homage to the original sets from 50 years ago, including the packaging. A set of additional coaches in the same livery style can be added.
As a one-off for Z Scale, Marklin propose a Class 194 locomotive featuring a partially metal body shell. A suitable rake of 3 6-wheeled coaches with close couplings is also offered.
For operational interest, a set of 3 hopper wagons from the West German Quartz Mines is offered; the set also includes a delivery truck and a laser cut card kit to construct a loading conveyor.
MN82440
Finally, to add to the Investment Casting Edition of models, a platinum-plated Crocodile is offered in an exclusive special production.