I have been building SCALE models, model train scenery and model train layouts for most of my life.
There is sheer joy in owning and operating a model train that is hard to beat.
There is magical element in watching a model train as it meanders along the track that is extremely relaxing. Suddenly all the stresses experienced in the grind of daily life seem to melt into oblivion. Your imagination takes over as you are transported either into another world or back into the pages of history. Unfortunately a few model train owners have not enjoyed their model train purchases to the fullest. One of the contributing reasons is that a few people purchase flawed model train layouts because they do not know what to look for. Consequently they end up feeling frustrated and cheated. So here are a few things to look for or questions to ask before making your purchase.
1. Is model builder artistic in nature? Constructing a realistic looking layout is in part a work of art. The artistic nature of the modeler enables them to accurately represent the intended scenery. Appropriate colors must be selected and realistic models must be built. These realistic effects can only be captured by someone who is artistic in nature.
2. Does model builder understand the principles of engineering? A realistic model train scenery, while important is not enough. It is also critical for the train to operate properly and to traverse the tracks without derailing. In this regard the model train layout must also be constructed with an engineering perspective. And as such the model train builder must also have an appreciation of the engineering principles which undergird the railway system.
3. Does the model builder have an eye for detail? A model builder without an eye for detail is a model builder to avoid. One of the key tenets of a model is that it is representative of the real world entity. Hence a model builder who is not keen on details will end up creating something which is far removed from the actual thing. You absolutely do not want to choose a model builder who does not pay attention to details.
4. Does the model builder use high quality materials? The quality of the model is largely dependent on the quality of the materials used in its construction. You should try and find model builders who are so enamored with their work that they will refuse to use anything but the best quality materials in their work. While the initial cost associated with the high quality material may sound high, the investment in quality actually pays back for itself over time. This occurs because the model is better able to withstand the wear and tear of regular use and still be in tiptop shape for many years to come.
A few other things to note are as follows:
You should ensure that the layout table is made of solid wood as this makes it easy to move the layout from place to place. You should also try and obtain a DC operated layout as this makes it possible to run several locomotives on the same track.
Finally, you want to ensure that the tracks are soldered as this will assist in preventing the trains from being derailed. I must confess that I have been blessed. As a model builder I have been fortunate to have been mentored by the German genius behind the Miniatur Wunderland – the world’s largest model railway.
If you have never been to Hamburg Germany to experience this amazing creation, then you must take the time to watch the following
which takes you on a breathtaking journey into this wonderful world. In fact, this popular tourist attraction attracts over 1 million people a year. And the number of people who tune in to get a slice of this unforgettable experience just keeps growing. I want model enthusiasts like you to enjoy similar experiences in the comforts of your own home. I want enthusiasts like you to share this experience with young men and women who are so inclined. In this regard I invite you to contact me and to allow me to use my considerable experience to create a model that is customized for you. This is an ideal gift for yourself or for your loved ones.
You can send a picture of your childhood home and let me immortalize it by creating a model with trains zipping by to give you that nostalgic feeling. Or you can send a picture of your favorite scenery and I can accentuate it by adding a few locomotives which meander by in a timely manner. The possibilities are limitless. If this sounds right for you, then contact me now and let us work out the details.
If this article has prompted you to action then please let me know in your email and I will ensure that you get extra special attention. I am really happy that I was afforded the privilege of sharing this with you and I look forward to working with you soon.
Looking forward to working with you soon. Sincerely Jiri