RW James

Kit vs RTR - may I throw in my $0.02 (US)?

This is a dilemma I have faced many times over the 40 odd years I've been in this hobby. For me it comes down to what I want to do. Some parts of this hobby are much more enjoyable than others. For instance, I enjoy hand laying track - for a short distance - like say a diorama. But over a whole layout, for me that's just a chore. Especially when flex track really looks so good!. (Keep in mind, I started this hobby when fibre ties (sleepers) was all there was.)

I've built a few locomotive kits over the years and I'm very proud of them. But when I see a RTR loco that looks good AND runs well - for me there's no choice.

I know this is not what the OP meant - but it just brought all this to mind.

But regarding the marketability of old kits - I've bought a few over time and very much enjoy working on them - often using them as a basis for a fun kitbash, replacing old rough castings with newer versions.

Not being critical... just curious. That second footbridge looks like it has an awfully long span without much support. Is that design taken from a prototype?

Love the 37043 - especially with the plows and lights.

If you don't mind - how did you make the Loch Lomond nameplate? Or was it ready made?

I also have very much enjoyed this thread - amazing level of detail.

I feel really sure that I've been there, but unfortunately I'm not familiar enough with Edinburgh to be sure. I rode the train twice from Stirling to Edinburgh to attend the Fringe Festival. If this isn't it, it seems close. But that was a few years back and my memory is dim (wish I had taken more photos.)

I'm excited about the lighthouse. It's hard to find a good scale lighthouse. I tried to google for it to find an image, but all I could find was the above press release.

I don't have anything to contribute except that I really appreciate your work. Thank you for sharing these photos and the video. You are a true craftsman.