Hornby 2018 Range

[Bigmet]

...And some people's interpretation of "brand new tooling/model" sometimes unfortunately just means a revamp of an existing model!

Both Rails and TMC have fairly nailed their colours to the mast on 'brand new tooling, all new model', and since both have already gone out and commissioned all new models, that is credible. Announcement at Glasgow feeds suspicions of Scottish, or at least northern half of the UK, oriented items; no shortage of attractive choices of subject.

I am inclined toward the ambitious end of the product choices, locos, MU's and the like. (There's a vid. in which the owner of TMC explicitly says 'loco'. )This because of the competitive landscape: retail competitors like Hattons, Kernow, Model Rail, NRM, all have their exclusives, better ensure we have some of our own rather than just relying on independent manufacturer supply choices and capability to stock our shelves, and keep the customers coming in for a look.

[Ex-Pat]

Well, so glad I got my diesel prediction wrong (even though the new models don't fit in for me).

However, backing up Jim's comment elsewhere that Hornby report great interest in the J36, see:

http://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/index. ... j36/page-5

(Post 123)

Even more happy now that I pre-ordered 2 Haigs at the outset.

[luckymucklebackit]

A later comment in that thread reports "I was advised by the guys in Scoonie Hobbies that the rep visited them last week and advised that Haig has sold out to pre order. Looks like Hornby have made a good choice. I have also heard a rumour that Hornby may have measured more than one item at Bo'ness when they visited so maybe something else in the pipeline for next year.

Although there us nothing yet on the Hattons Website to suggest that no further orders are being taken to support that first comment. The second comment is interesting however, as 419 would be an obvious measuring target

Jim

[Bigmet]

I would imagine that all the commissioning retailers as well as the active manufacturers will be observing the commercial performance of the J36 and Hattons Barclay 0-4-0T with great interest. Hornby would be mad not have a couple more classic Scottish designs researched (and possibly even in CAD) with which to 'pounce' if the J36 does really well for them.

Hot favourites would have to be the CR's 0-4-4T and 4-4-0 classes and the NBR 4-4-0 classes. Characterful, successful and long lasting in service, and make lovely models with the potential for really smart liveries.

[Ex-Pat]

Hattons announce that the J36 delivery is now expected to be in October 2018.

Well, at least it gives me an opportunity to finish the coaling stage first, and perhaps even pick up the J36's from Hattons at Warley.

[trainlover23]

Hattons announce that the J36 delivery is now expected to be in October 2018.

Well, at least it gives me an opportunity to finish the coaling stage first, and perhaps even pick up the J36's from Hattons at Warley.

I don`t think Hattons attend Warley in a selling capacity or indeed attend any shows in a selling capacity.

[GWR_fan]

What a novel idea releasing matching Mk3 coaches with the "GWR" class 43 set simultaneously, well almost.

[luckymucklebackit]

Just had an email from Hattons telling me that the J36 is delayed until December 2018, that's another two month slip, starting to wonder if it will be launched at Model Rail Scotland in February.

Jim

[D605Eagle]

Knowing Hornby they will miss Christmas and its associated sales.

[Bigmet]

There's a good question there, is there any real seasonality in the RTR trade now? I aim to buy in summer when keen offers result from the competition arising from sunshine and cheap booze. I can set something aside just in case my wife needs a gift for me.

[b308]

I was thinking that as well. There probably is for the cheaper end of the market but I don't think there is now for the more specialised end. It's noticeable that manufacturers these days seem to release their new products when they get them delivered rather than on particular dates such as Christmas...

[luckymucklebackit]

I have a standing agreement with Mrs Luckymucklebackit - as far as presents are concerned, Xmas is not on the 25 December, in 2019 it is on the 22nd February
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http://www.modelrail-scotland.co.uk/exhibition.html

[JLK2707]

It is just such a bummer that Hornby will be discontinuing the thomas range again this year.

[Bigglesof266]

There's a good question there, is there any real seasonality in the RTR trade now?

I think you've made a salient point given the purchasing demographic shift over the past half century. e.g. Would Hornby actually relinquish the Thomas franchise if it had the capability to turn a profit, or if market analysis determined that even at break even, it held any significance as a brand and entry level feeder for the hobby in general for their product?

I too wait for the new release stampede to subside then wander on in to raid the remaindering bin.

[Bigglesof266]

It is just such a bummer that Hornby will be discontinuing the thomas range again this year.

Why?

I've never bought a single item from the line, and would wager a majority in the hobby probably likewise within the past 20 years if they're honest.