Bassett-Lowke Model Train Sets
The Bassett Lowke company dedicates itself in making scale models such as model trains and railways. In addition, they 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 substantial amount of time in an architect’s office. Eventually, he joined his father in his business making boilers. During his free time on his father’s factory, W.J. Bassett-Lowke made stationary model steam engines. At the time he started his own business, he created a mail order catalogue business together with an associate who used to be a bookkeeper in his father’s boiler-making business.
In his visit at the 1900 Paris Exhibition, Wenman Bassett Lowke’s inspiration on making his own scale models was expanded thanks to the model trains he purchased from German manufacturers. His first manufacturing factory came about in Northampton, England. In the beginning, his company fabricated model ships that were used for displays as well as teaching aids for sailors and navies. The company’s model trains were initially made exclusively for the wealthy and exhibits. Bassett-Lowke also coordinated with E.W. Twining for the production of architectural models for model railways.
The Bassett-Lowke company made a test run of their very first 15” gauge steam locomotive branded as Little Giant on the Eaton Railway in 1905. This test run functioned as a preview for people on how the model train’s main line counterpart would run once it begin 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 provided model trains hobbyists new ways to make better and enjoy their collection.
Now, the Bassett-Lowke company offers scale replicas of renowned main-line locomotives. Two of which are the Flying Scotsman and the Flying Fox. These two iconic steam locomotives are the brainchildren of England’s well-known 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.
Made from soldered sheet metal, Basette-Lowke’s Flying Fox and Flying Scotsman models are made resilient and long-lasting. Other features add in revised gearbox that makes a quieter run, illuminated firebox, electric drive and smoke generator and exceptional details and paintwork.