Bassett-Lowke Model Trains
The Bassett Lowke company dedicates itself in constructing scale models such as model trains and railways. They also bring in line-ups of model ships, boats, tractors, excavators, and model construction vehicles.
As a son of a boiler-maker, W.J. Bassett Lowke only had a few years spent in school but had spent a considerable amount of time in an architect’s office. Shortly after, he joined the family business of producing boilers together with his father. While making boilers, the young Bassett-Lowke used some of his free time making model steam engines which are only for display. At the time he started his own business, he created a mail order catalogue business together with a friend who used to be a bookkeeper in his father’s boiler-making business.
Bassett-Lowke’s fascination in making model trains was sharpened when he attended the Paris Exhibition in 1900 where he also bought intricate German-made model trains with English livery paint. The first scale model factory he built was at the town of Nothampton. At first, his company fabricated model ships that were used for displays as well as training aids for sailors and navies. Later on, scale model trains followed but were only available to the wealthy. Bassett-Lowke also coordinated with E.W. Twining for the production of architectural models for model railways.
In 1905, their 15 inch gauge steam locomotive called “Little Giant” performed a trial run. This trial run functioned as a preview for people on how the model train’s main line counterpart would run once it start service.
The model trains the company offers have evolved with the passing of time in terms of functionality and technology. The use of modern materials as well as digitization of model train and railway components have presented model trains hobbyists new ways to make better and enjoy their collection.
These days, a number of legendary main line locomotives are offered by the Bassett-Lowke line up. This collection include the two sibling locomotives, the Flying Fox and the Flying Scotsman. These two iconic steam locomotives are the brainchildren of England’s well-recognized Chief Mechanical Engineer Sir Herbert Nigel Gresley.
Created in 1923, The Flying Scotsman was recorded to be the fastest steam locomotive of its time. The Flying Scotsman ended its operation in 1963 and the Flying Fox in 1964.
The Bassett-Lowke Flying Scotsman and Flying Fox are made from soldered sheet metal, a distinct feature the company has been doing since they started. The in-house workings also include revised gearboxes which makes the model trains run quieter, smoke generators to simulate the steam exhaust from the engine, electric drive, illuminated firebox, and superb paintwork and miniature details that add pizazz.
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