[Gary]

Given the prices being paid on eBay for Bachmann items there may be some misconceptions.

Since 1990 which of Bachmann or Hornby have produced products with greater collectability?

Looking ahead for those keeping products under the bed for 40 years is it considered better to stock up with Hornby or Bachmann goodies?

You have to remember that in 40 years time there is a good chance that the existing Hornby and Bachmann management will have changed and the new management then will have different ideas. Graham Hubbard and Simon Kohler will be seen as the equivalent of Richard Lines by historians. The products of today in the future will be today's equivalent of the EM2, steeple cab diesel, Transcontinental loco and Triang Princess.

Happy modelling
Gary

 

[Gary]

From what I see those who buy the tin plate and Dublo stuff do in the main buy it to run. Its one aspect of the hobby and we don't have to try understand the motives behind it. From the point of view of the Dublo and tin plate operators it is probably felt that todays offerings are too good to run and not very practical for a hands experience! Thats the impression given when I chat anyway.

I too cannot understand those who buy something and keep it in the box forever! However this is yet another aspect of the hobby and who are we to condemn those who help to support the manufacturers through their purchases even if they do remain forever in the box.

However this is not the question and this topic seeks opinions on todays products not yesterdays. We all buy for today and most of us run the products we buy however when they eventually get packed away which the majority of us will do which are going to offer a better tomorrow?

Hornby or Bachmann?

Happy modelling
Gary

 

[Gary]

QUOTE Does anyone know how Mainline or Airfix GMR models fair on the collectors market

Hornby in similar condition from the same period fares 25-30% better. The issue is Mainline and Airfix models are perceived as fragile and are often damaged or don't run that well due to chassis design so collectors are a little wary. Hornby may have their knockers for chassis design however the models from the period are very reliable and are more robust probably becuase models were produced with kids in mind although many are actually pretty good even so.

My view is the Hornby brand will carry a 25-30% premium in 40 years time as it does now. One reason will be that spares will be in reasonable supply whatever as the market will be big enough to sustain a spares business. Spares for Mainline and Airfix are non existant. I have a feeling spares for current Bachmann will be non existant in 40 years time in the way they are now for Mainline and Airfix.

Happy modelling
Gary

 

[Gary]

I would guess that more models are put away now than was the case 40 years ago. If spares are not available in 40 years time I would also guess that those models that have remained undisturbed would be the ones most sought after given that the collector market is as strong then as it is now.

Given the current state of play I have a suspicion that in 40 years time Hornby spares will be plentiful and Bachmann not and as such this could strengthen the case for Bachmann being the more collectable.

On the other hand Hornby has the history (100 years old in whenever it is. Yes I am aware of the Hornby Hornby and Triang Hornby thing however expect Margate fireworks) and may well be the more sought after in 40 years time.

Happy modelling
Gary