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I have been thinking about this, and this is my carefully considered GUESS (!)
First, I applaude the production of the accurate models (I am surprised that Heljan has failed so notably with regards to the 33/0).
Second, looking at the matter of producing only "twin packs" of the same livery, I can only understand this in terms of "using" the collectors market. A real collector will "need" the twin pack - a single model will not suffice. An ordinary modeller may need two of a single livery, but with most layouts being quite small and 33/0s being mostly oddities encroaching on steam or EMU service, a "single" would be more likely useful. In addition, the "sharing" option (espoused both here AND by Rail Exclusive !!!) does not bring any more money to Rail Exclusive.
Third, whether Rail Exclusive or E-Bay sharks hoard some of the more popular ones to release over time on E-Bay is something for them.
Fourth, as the locos will be manufactured and sold in their own boxes there is NO sensible reason for Rail Exclusive not to sell mixed livery pairs as long as they could choose the running number. They would only be left with a maximum of one each !
This last point is, to me at least, a VITAL point - my take is that it shows a lack of respect to the railway modelling fraternity (!)
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So, I believe this is merely a marketing ploy to make "collectors" buy more. As I am an "operator"/amateur hoarder - I am only interested in a single model of a plain green AND/OR a small yellow panel green model. I would be most happy with a mixed livery pairing of a plain green/syp green. In this matter I am, quite selfishly, happy to see collectors have to shell out more, but as the matter rebounds on me I cannot just accept it happily.
So, I can either find a "partner" who also wants this sort of pairing (as I have no preferences for specific numbers) or just not buy.
It is a balance between "wanting" the models and whether I believe Rail Exclusive are abusing the "ordinary modeller" (mostly "me" but also my fellow sufferers). At present I am inclined to go with the " *** them, I refused to be used " and won't put in an order. However, when the first reviews come out, or an actual deadline for final order of models is announced/imminent then I may have to think again.
Remember - there is no SENSIBLE reason for Rail Express NOT to sell mixed livery pairs.
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