Model Trains

The Bassett Lowke company specializes in creating scale models such as model trains and railways.  Apart from model trans and railways, Bassett-Lowke toy company also manufactures model ships and model construction equipments. 

As a son of a boiler-maker, W.J. Bassett Lowke only had a small number of 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 making 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.  He later established his own mail-order catalogue business.

Bassett-Lowke’s interest in making model trains was heightened 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.  Initially, the first scale models his company manufactured were scale model ships used as training pieces for the navy and for display.  The company’s model trains were initially made exclusively for the rich and exhibits.  Together with E.W. Twining, Bassett-Lowke also produced high quality architectural models that offer more life to model trains and railways.

In 1905, their 15 inch gauge steam locomotive called “Little Giant” performed a trial run.  This trial run served 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 presented model trains hobbyists new ways to improve and enjoy their collection.

Now, the Bassett-Lowke company offers scale replicas of renowned main-line locomotives.  Among them are the Flying Scotsman and the Flying Fox.  These two iconic steam locomotives are the brainchildren of England’s well-renowned 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 service 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.  Additional features add in revised gearbox that makes a quieter run, illuminated firebox, electric drive and smoke generator and exceptional details and paintwork.