Welcome to Tower-Models.com
This site is being constantly updated and any new items and details being added on almost a weekly basis. If you have any questions then please feel free to e-mail us for further details. The website is designed to work with Microsoft Internet Explorer but may work with other web browsers. Also some firewalls have strange effects, so be aware. It may be "belt-and-braces" technology but it works. The site is also just an online catalogue, it is not an online shop. To order just use the good old-fashioned phone!

NAVIGATION

Use the navigation side bar on the left hand side to look up the various scales and the ranges in those scales we stock.

NEWS 17th June 2013

San Cheng Final shipment

Hopefully either this Wednesday or Thursday we will be receiving our very last shipment from the San Cheng factory. This is much smaller than our usual shipment as it is just clearing the very last few items held at the factory. There are a limited number of Manors, Granges, V2's and City of Truros within the shipment and it has to be first come first served on these before they disappear. We still have stocks of most items available off the shelf but the above mentioned locos stocks are very low.

NEWS 12th June 2013

D.J.H.'O' Gauge Class 14 "Teddy Bear"

Speaking to DJH yesterday they are hoping to have the long awaited Class 14 "Teddy Bear" Diesel Starter kit ready in the next 6 weeks or so. Again we are taking advance orders for these now for immediate despatch as soon as they do become available. One slight change has been to the reference numbers for these. Originaly it was to be K329 but they have change the reference number to K339 now though this is only a superficial change that has no other effect. At £360.00 post free to mainland UK address this complete kit including wheels gears and motor is excellent value for money for either the beginer or more experience modeller wanting to add to his diesel fleet.

NEWS 11th June 2013

Bachmann ‘On30’ Heisler Sound Module.

We have now received the Bachmann On30 sound modules for the Heisler. All back orders have now been despatched and we are completely sold once again. As before we are operating a back order system for these and welcome advance orders to be despatched as soon as they re-appear.

We have also be received restocks of the Bachmann On30 18 foot twin packs of low sided gondolas; tanks cars and flat cars. We are nearly our of the flat cars but currently can supply all three types that have just re-appeared.

NEWS 5th June 2013

New Heljan ‘O’ gauge products announcement.

Heljan, working in close association with Howes of Oxford and Tower Models of Blackpool wish to announce a new range of ‘O’ gauge locomotives for release 2015 subject to sufficient orders being received in advance to make the manufacture economic.

CLASS 42 WARSHIP.

To be supplied un-named, un-numbered and in a choice of liveries. Usual specification of twin motors, working lights and fans, sprung buffers and couplings.

Three standard versions will be available, these being:
Maroon with yellow warning panels
Green with yellow warning panels
Blue with full yellow ends

A definite Limited Edition of around 100 pieces will be available only from Tower Models, this being original Maroon without the yellow warning panels. If there is sufficient interest a second Limited Edition would be original green without yellow warning panels.

There are no plans to produce a Class 43 Warship.

CLASS 25

There are so many options with Class 25’s that collectively it has been decided to look at two major variants.

Class 25/1, with gangway doors.
Assuming this version is given the green light it would be offered in green with yellow warning panels, blue with yellow fronts in both pre and post TOPS liveries. There would also be a Tower Models Limited Edition plain green version as built without yellow warning panels.

Class 25/3
Assuming enough orders are received, the Class 25/3 would feature the later style front an be available in green with yellow warning panels or blue with yellow ends in both pre and post TOPS liveries.

All locomotives would be un-numbered and feature the usual specification of twin motors, working lights and fans, sprung buffers and couplings.

CLASS 45

The featured locomotive would be as built with split headcodes boxes. The two standard versions would be:
Green with yellow warning panels
Blue with full yellow ends

The Class 45’s would be supplied un-numbered and un-named. At this point no decision has been made as to whether the model will have gangway doors or not. This will depend on what orders are received.

There should also be a Tower Models Limited Edition of just 100 pieces depicting the Class 45 as built all green without the yellow warning panels.

At this stage Tower Models are requesting anyone that is likely to want to purchase any of the potential models listed here to contact them. It must be stressed this is not a dreamlist. Only people who are seriously likely to make a purchase should register with Tower Models. The reality of the situation is that this will involve Tower Models in a considerable amount of time, effort and cost so no timewasters or dreamers please.

At this stage the prices cannot be confirmed but are likely to be in line with existing products in the range with an allowance made for a couple of years inflation. No deposits will be taken and once sufficient orders have been received the the decisions regarding production will be taken and prices set. At this point Tower Models will re-contact everyone concerned to ask them to confirm their order. Again, no money will be taken until despatch is made but it will be necessary to secure the advance order by supplying credit or debit card details ready for the release date.

Anyone seriously interested needs to contact Tower Models and make known their requirements whilst supplying name, address, telephone number and email contact.

I have created webpages for these new products but obviously at this early stage their is not too much detail. As and when we have further information I will update the relevant web pages. Hopefully first additon to these pages will be images.

Heljan 'O' Gauge Class 40 and AC Railbus release dates

We have also had confirmation from Heljan today of the progress of the forthcoming Class 40 and AC Railbus projects. It is looking like the Class 40 should become available late November 2013 and the AC Railbus should become available hopefully in January 2014. Again the relevant web pages have been updated with these latest details.

NEWS 4th June 2013

Skytrex 'O' Gauge Wagon Offers

I have just updated the Skytrex pages in the 'O' gauge section of the website to take into account the brand new special offer that has just come into effect. We now have 2 BR Standard 12 ton vans available with an additional deal available on 6 of these vehicles. Stocks are limited and is on a first-come-first-served basis whilst stocks last

Gauge 'O' Guild Exhibition at Cleckheaton

Given that the Gauge 'O' Guild was so very badly let down at virtually the last minute by the operators of the Halifax venue, we are full of praise for what was acheived. Nigel Smith and John Bizley along with the rest of the team had less than three months to find another venue, get it measured up, do a new layout plan for the stands, organise publicity and inform everyone involved. All their hardwork has paid off. The show was well attended with both the public and the trade having a successful show. Well done everyone involved.

NEWS 27th May 2013

Heljan 'O' Gauge Wagon Test Samples

We have today received from Heljan the first test sample images of all three of the forthcoming O gauge wagons that are due for release either very late 2013 or more likely early 2014. Further images can be found on the web pages for these products and we are taking advance orders for all three types of despatch as soon as they become available.

NEWS 20th May 2013

Ixion 'O' gauge Fowler test samples

Ixion have now sent us the first test sample body images of the forthcoming Fowler diesel mechanical and have also confirmed to us that they have managed to maintain the predicted price despite the rising production costs in China. Recommended Retail Price is £299.00 though as always we are discounting this to £225.00 post free to mainland UK addresses. Good news also that production is currently on target for release before the end of the year.

As always the order book is now open for advance orders on this eagerly awaited release for despatch as soon as they become available. Further details and images can be found on the Ixion pages of the website.

NEWS 16th May 2013

New 'O' gauge catalogue

The brand new Tower Models 'O' gauge catalogue for 2013 is currently at the printers and should be with us in about 7-8 days time. All mail order customers who have been active since January 2011 will automatically be sent a copy. Anyone not on our mailing list can obtain a copy either from the shop, from our trade stand at exhibitions or by sending us an A5 stamped addressed envelope with a note requesting our 'O gauge catalogue.

In the meantime for those people who cannot wait a copy of the 'O' Gauge catalogue in PDF format is now available to download here.Tower Models new 2013 'O' gauge catalogue Obviously the website has much more detail and also many more images but thought some people might like to have the option to download it.

NEWS 10th May 2013

Heljan 'O' gauge stock situation

We have now bought all of Heljan's remaining stocks of the Class 33 and Class 26 locomotives. This means we have now cleared Heljan of all 'O' gauge stock except for the standard green and pre-tops blue Class 31's. All other stock now belongs to us. We can still supply the following but remember stocks are now very low on many lines:

Class 20 Standard Green with yellow warning panel
Class 37 Standard Green with yellow warning panel
Class 37 Blue with yellow ends
Class 55 Limited Edition All Green with no yellow warning panel
Class 55 Standard Green with yellow warning panel
Class 55 Blue with yellow ends
Class 33Limited Edition All Green with no yellow warning panel
Class 33 Standard Green with yellow warning panel
Class 33 Blue with yellow ends
Class 26 Limited Edition All Green with no yellow warning panel
Class 26 Standard Green with yellow warning panel
Class 26 Blue with yellow ends
Class 31 Standard Green with yellow warning panel
Class 31 Blue with twin arrow (pre-tops) with yellow ends

In regard to the Mark 1 coaches in 'O' gauge please see the relevant section of the website for the current stock situation. To date, Heljan have never repeated any sold out item, this means that once we are sold out, we cannot obtain further supplies. With so many new items in the course of development it is highly unlikely that the above range will be repeated so for many this is probably the last chance to obtain one.

NEWS 8th May 2013

New Dapol 'O' gauge wagons

I have now updated the Dapol wagon pages in the 'O' gauge section of the website to include the new wagons which we expect to receive either tomorrow or Friday. Not only are they now doing SR versions of the existing wagons but also some weathered versions are now available along with the release of "Haydock" 7 plank private owner wagon.

Heljan 'O' gauge Class 52 and Class 40 images

We have today also received images of both the Heljan Class 40 and Class 52 test samples now fully finished by Brian Daniels. The production models are obviously un-named and un-numbered but these images give a beautiful impression of the final results that are possible!

NEWS 7th May 2013

Gladiator / Javelin Price Increases

We have received notification of a price increase across the board on both the Gladiator and Javelin 'O gauge ranges of kits with immediate effect. I have updated the website this morning with all of these new prices.

NEWS 3rd May 2013

Heljan 'O' gauge Class 52 test sample bodies

We have now received from Heljan Test Samples for the bodies for both the Tower Models Limited Edition Class 52 bodies. Further images can be found on the relevant pages in the 'O' gauge section under "Heljan". Advance orders for both of these have been coming in thick and fast and it is strongly advised to pre-order one if you are at all interested to avoid disappointment. Advance ordering is very simple, just give us a call on the usual number and we can record your requirements; you will not be charged anything at this stage but we will require card details to confirm the advance order.

NEWS 2nd May 2013

DJH 'O' gauge G5 launch.

We have today received the first of the brand new DJh O gauge starter kits for the LNER / BR G5 0-4-4T. All advance orders have been processed and have been despatched or are awaiting customers to confirm suitable delivery dates. Yesterday we also received the re-prints of the BR mixed traffic lining from the HMRS in 'O' gauge. These look very good indeed and next to be reprint should be the BR coach lining in approximately a months time. Again we are taking advance orders for these for immediate despatch as soon as they become available.

NEWS 23rd April 2013

HMRS Update.

We have heard today from the HMRS that they have now received the first test samples of the new source of paper from Indian and they have completed the first trial run of sheet 22 in O gauge for BR mixed traffic lining. We should hopefully receive these long awaited sheets later this week and further O gauge sheets that have been out of print should follow in the coming months. All back orders for sheet 22 will be despatched to customers as soon as they appear and anyone wanted to add their name to the list should give us a call.

NEWS 23rd April 2013

Heljan Class 31 update.

Heljan have confirmed that they have now totally sold out of the blue Class 31 in Post Tops livery. We have now completely sold out of both the Post Tops Blue version ourselves as well and the Tower Models Limited Edition all green version. There is still the Pre Tops blue version of the Class 31 and Green with the yellow warning panels though at this rate this is certainly going to be Heljan's fastest selling 'O' gauge model to date.

We have now also sold out of the Heljan BR Mk1 Carmine & Cream SK's. Stocks are getting low on the 3 remaining Carmine & Cream coaches with stocks of Maroon coaches not much better.

NEWS 17th April 2013

D.J.H. / Piercy Price Increases.

DJH have just let us know that there will be an across the board price increase on DJH and Piercy ranges which will come into effect on the 1st of July. At least this gives customers time to beat the price increases prior to these kits going up on items either in stock or that we can obtain before the price increase. Just give us a call and I can double check the stock situation on any items you may of been considering but had not taken the plunge.

NEWS 3rd April 2013

Heljan 'O' Gauge Class 40 Colour Layouts

We have just received from Heljan the colour layout for the forthcoming Class 40 Tower Models Limited Edition. Hopefully the Class 40 should be released between Christmas 2013 and April of 2014 depending on how fast the project progresses. This is certainly going to be a popular addition to the Heljan range of 'O' gauge diesels and we would recommend advance ordering one of these for immediate despatch upon launch. The speed of the sales of the Class 31 have shown that Heljan sales are going from strength to strength and it is worth reserving yours now to avoid potential disappointment.

More images for the Class 40 can be found on the Heljan pages in the 'O' gauge section of the website.

NEWS 2nd April 2013

Heljan 'O' gauge Mk1's.

We have now sold out of the Heljan 'O' gauge Mk1 FK (First Class) in Carmine and Cream. Stocks are getting very low on the remaining 3 carmine and cream coaches still available as are the 4 remaining maroon coaches. For the time being stock of the blue grey versions are doing okay.

NEWS 28th March 2013

Tower Models New On30 catalogue.

Our brand new On30 11th edition catalogue has now been printed and we will be sending out to all current On30 customers on Tuesday . Anyone not on our mailing list can obtain a copy of this by sending us a stamped self addressed A5 envelope and a note saying On30 list and we will send one at no charge.

A copy of the On30 catalogue in PDF format is now available to download here.Tower Models 2013 On30 catalogue Obviously the website has much more detail and also many more images but thought some people might like to have the option to download it.

Tower Models Repaints on E-Bay.

It has come to our attention that there are currently two Heljan Class 47's being offered for sale on E-Bay. The seller claims that the locomotives were repainted in our workshops. Our workshops staff have had a look at the photographs on E-Bay and confirm that the models were not painted by us. The quality of the painting is very poor and the seller is just trying to get a better price for his models. Just goes to prove not everything on E-Bay is a bargain or what it is claimed to be. Tower Models never sell on E-Bay! Buyer beware.

NEWS 25th March 2013

Bachmann 'O' gauge Scenecraft buildings.

We can now confirm we have bought all the remaining stocks of the following 'O' gauge buildings from Bachmann. Once these have been sold there will be no more.

NEWS 20th March 2013

Dapol release dates update.

We have today spoken to Joel Bright, Director of Dapol and have been given the informatiom below on proposed delivery dates for the new 'O' gauge products. Dapol are determined to get the new models right and thoroughly test them before releasing them to the public. This takes time and even now, these proposed dates may be subject to change.

Hopefully, as this information has come from the "Horse's Mouth" it will put a stop to the rumour-mongers and self appointed experts who have voiced their opinions based on nothing more than a lot of hot air. (see our posting from the 6th March)

The estimated release dates are as follows:
Class 08 Diesel Shunter February 2014
SR / BR Terrier July 2014
Pillbox Brake Van February 2014
6 Wheel Milk Tankers November / December 2013
HEA Coal Hoppers 2014
HAA Coal Hoppers 2014
VBA Ventilated Box Van 2014

We know this will be frustrating for many customers, as it is for us, but good things are worth waiting for and no one wants to sacrifice quality for speed. We will post any further information as it becomes available.

New Tower Models Special Edition Dapol Private Owner wagons

We have decided to commision a range of Special Edition Private Owner wagons with Dapol. We will be producing only 100 each of these wagons and hope to have the first twelve types available around October this year with a further 24 to be announced in the next 6 - 12 months and follow in due course. As and when we receive further information I will update the relevant pages with images and the latest news.

We are now taking advance orders for all of these for despatch as soon as they become available. You will not be charged until despatch has been made on advance orders. These advance orders can be on an individual basis or as a standing order for one of each upon arrival to ensure you do not miss out on one of these Special Editions.

As a result of the above Dapol news I have now updated and restructured the Dapol wagon pages giving them all individual pages for the forthcoming new projects.

NEWS 12th March 2013

Dapol Ready To Run Private Owner Wagons

Dapol are now in the process of producing limited batches of the various 'O' gauge open wagons. We have all of the BR and GWR in stock plus the Private Owners listed below.

New DJH '0' gauge kits.

DJH have confirmed to us today that their brand new starter kits K338 NER / LNER / BR G5 0-4-4-T should be available the end of April and the K340 Class 14 "Teddy Bear" diesel shunter should be available in June. We are taking advance orders for these already for despatch as soon as they become available. further details can be found on the DJH pages of this website and they represent excellent value for money as both come complete including the wheels and motor.

NEWS 6th March 2013

Dapol update.

We have just spoken to Dapol regarding the expected release dates for the 6 wheel milk tankers and the Class 08 diesel shunter. In both cases the expected release date is now August.

Something we should point out is that pre-production samples of the milk tankers (which look very good) were on display in September of last year. Therefore , to have a release date of August of this year would appear fairly normal in this industry. However, as no test samples of the Class 08 diesel shunter have been seen as of yet we feel it is highly unlikely that the Class 08 will appear by August of this year.

When Dapol announced at the beginning of last year that they were planning to produce a Class 08 and were giving delivery dates for the back end of last year we said we thought it unlikely to appear before March of this year. A blog on RMweb attracted a number of contributors claiming we were completely wrong in our assumptions, that we didn't know what we were talking about and that we should apologise etc, etc.....

All we can say is that our assumptions, based on thirty five years experience in the trade, have proved to be totally correct. Producing new product takes time. Everyone needs to be patient but we will not be too surprised if the Class 08 runs late and does not appear until next year.

San Cheng update.

The factory is due to close in the next few weeks. The final shipment, containing the second batch of 'O' gauge Granges is due to dock on Friday, so we will receive them a week or so later. The only items we expect to receive from the factory after this is a supply of spares and a few odd Gauge 1 items that are still in the storerooms.

We can now confirm that we have sold our last 'O' gauge Terrier and we are down to just one 'O' gauge Jinty; which is a fully finished late BR loco in medium weathered condition. We are running very low on a number of other products in the San Cheng and Tower Brass ranges and will not be able to obtain any further supplies.

Ixion update.

At Kettering show at the weekend Ixion announced their new locomotive project to follow on from their very successful Hudswell Clarke. I am updating the Ixion pages to show the details of their forthcoming new project.

NEWS 27th February 2013

Heljan Update.

We have listed below the expected release dates and photographs of the latest test samples.

Class 52 Western

The expected release date for the five versions of the Class 52 Western is now September 2013.

A.C Railbus

Delivery of the Railbus is not expected before December 2013 but do not be surprised if this gets knocked nack into the first quarter of 2014.

Class 40

Opinion differs here, depending on who you listen to. The optomists are saying December 2013, the pessimists say April 2014. We will just have to wait and see.

GUV and BG

The CADs have just arrived for both vehicles, test samples should follow in a couple of months time. Best guess for these would be delivery early 2014.

Petrol Tankers, VAA vans and OAA open wagons

All versions should be available first quarter 2014.

NEWS 25th February 2013

Dapol 'O' gauge wagons.

I have now updated the O gauge section of the website detailing the Dapol wagons with the latest details of forthcoming vehicles and also taking into account the wagons that are no longer available. Sadly at this stage we have no details from Dapol as to any release schedule though we are taking advance orders for immediate despatch when they do finally become available to avoid missing out on these short runs.

NEWS 19th February 2013

Bolton show.

We attended Bolton show at the new venue on Sunday. We want to congratulate everyone invloved with organising the show. Given that it was a new date, a new day and a new venue, there was plenty of opportunity for problems. However, the organisers had arranged everything from unloading the vans, parking, moving stock and layouts to the halls and even organised breakfast! At the end of the show they were just as effecient with the breakdown and clearing the hall. The stewards were amongst the best we have ever seen and deserve a big thank you. as for the staff at the venue, they were the friendliest and most helpful we have ever met.

The attendance at the show was virtually the same as last year and the exhibition featured 9 layouts. Well done to all concerned and thanks for the time and effort so freely given by all involved.

Heljan Railbus test sample.

We have now received the further test sample images of the forthcoming Heljan 'O' gauge AC Railbus and it is looking good so far! No indication as of yet of an expected release date though but the advance order book is open for reservations for these for immediate despatch as soon as they become available.

NEWS 15th February 2013

Bachmann On30 Heislers.

Bachmann have today confirmed that we will be recieving the long awaited On30 Heislers on Monday. We are at Bolton show on Sunday and will be unpacking from the show on Monday but hope to still get all advance orders for these off if at all possible. As usual I suspect Bachmann have not brough many of these into the country though we have spares if anyone wants to place an order to ensure they get the version they require. Details of the 5 liveries can be found in the On30 section of the website under Bachmann locomotives. We are also operating a back order system for the recently arrived 18 foot stock that was a complete sell out for despatch as soon as these reappear that people may want to take advantage of.

NEWS 5th February 2013

Heljan Class 31's images.

Yesterday went very well and we are already getting good reports back from customers who have received their Class 31's this morning. With a bit more time now I have had chance to upload some images of the Class 31's to the website.

NEWS 4th February 2013

Heljan Class 31's.

The Heljan Class 31's are now all in and despatches are underway. Most customers should receive theirs tomorrow unless of course they have specified a later date. Class 31's which are being numbered or numbered and weathered through our workshops should hopefully be completed in approximately 6 weeks or so. Keeping this short and back to despatches!

NEWS 25th January 2013

Dapol 'O' gauge wagons

Stocks of the Dapol 'O' gauge wagons are now getting low and we have sold out of three versions now (Butler, Ammanford and Edinburgh) and several of the others will disappear in the next few weeks. Hopefully Dapol will be going on to produce different private owner liveries but no details of yet of the specific companies.

NEWS 11th January 2013

Tower Models New Gauge 1 catalogue.

Our brand new Gauge 1 17th edition catalogue is now at the printers which we will be sending out to all current Gauge 1 customers once it is ready. Anyone not on our mailing list can obtain a copy of this by sending us a stamped self addressed A5 envelope and a note saying Gauge 1 list and we will send one at no charge.

A copy of the Gauge 1 catalogue in PDF format is now available to download here.Tower Models 2013 Gauge 1 catalogue Obviously the website has much more detail and also many more images but thought some people might like to have the option to download it.

Bachmann Scenecraft Buildings.

We have now completely sold out of the 'O' gauge Bachmann Scenecraft Water Tower. Stocks are also running low on several of the other buildings now including some of the Hornby 'O' Gauge buildings which have been equally as successful.

NEWS 31st December 2012

San Cheng / Finescale Brass / Tower Brass price increases.

I have now uploaded the new prices to the website for the San Cheng, Finescale Brass and Tower Brass ranges in both 'O' gauge and Gauge 1. These price increases have now come into effect.

"O" Gauge catalogue.

For 'O' gauge the grey covered 31st edition catalogue is no longer valid and has been replaced by the pink covered 32nd edition catalogue. Anyone wanting a copy of this catalogue should send us a stamped self addressed A5 envelope and a note saying "O" gauge list and we will send one at no charge. We are trying to include a copy of this catalogue with all outgoing orders. Copies are available from the shop or at the two shows listed below.

Gauge 1 catalogue.

The Gauge 1 16th edition catalogue will be replaced in the next couple of weeks by a new 17th edition catalogue which we will be sending out to all current Gauge 1 customers once it is ready. Anyone not on our mailing list can obtain a copy of this by sending us a stamped self addressed A5 envelope and a note saying Gauge 1 list and we will send one at no charge. For the next couple of weeks though the website has the correct prices for 2013.

On30 catalogue.

The current 10th edition of our On30 is still valid except for the Peco price increase which came into effect in October. We will be issuing a new On30 catalogue in March following the usual Bachmann price increases which will come into effect at that time. All regular mail order On30 customers should receive a new On30 catalogue around the end of March.

Above is a nice image of both an 'O' gauge and Gauge 1 examples of the impressive San Cheng Duchesses, one of their last projects and well worth investing in. Stocks of these are very limited.

Ready to Run available off the shelf updated.

The workshops have delivered over the last few days the last of the items that will be completed before Christmas for both customers and items available off the shelf. Therefore the R-T-R list for both 'O' gauge and Gauge 1 have both been updated.

'O' gauge fully finished.

We currently have 98 fully finished brass locomotives and 8 fully finished brass coaches.

Gauge 1 fully finished.

We can offer off the shelf 13 fully finished brass locomotives and a rake of 5 BR maroon Mk1 fully finished brass coaches.

NEWS 13th December 2012

Heljan Class 20, 37 and 55 update.

We have now totally sold out of blue Class 20's and our stock of green Class 20's is running very low. We have just 5 blue Class 37's and a few more of the green version. We can also now confirm that we have bought all of Heljan's remaining stocks of the Class 55 Deltics; so, for the time being we have all three types available although quantities are very limited.

NEWS 12th December 2012

Bachmann On30 2-4-4-2 Sound Card.

Good news from Bachmann, the long awaited sound card for the On30 Baldwin 2-4-4-2 Articulated should arrive with us tomorrow. The refererence number for these is 44952 and retails at £76.80 each though as always we are offering a discount on these and they are available for only £62.50 whilst stocks last. All advance orders for these will be despatched tomorrow and if you too would like one just give us a call on the usual number.

New Bachmann On30 18 foot rolling stock

Whilst on the subject of On30, the brand new Bachmann On30 wagons are also due in tomorrow. We will tie up all advance orders for both the 18 foot stock and sound cards to reduce on postage for customers where we can. These are not all sold out yet and we are still taking orders for despatch tomorrow when they arrive. As usual though with Bachmann we do not expect them to hang around very long and soon will become scarce after the initial batch. Details of these can be found in the On30 section of the website under the Bachmann On30 wagon section.

NEWS 6th December 2012

Heljan 'O' gauge Class 20 and 37 Final Call.

Sometime ago we found ourselves with a huge stock of Heljan 'O' gauge Class 20's. As we felt we could use both the space they occupied and the money we had invested in them we decided to reduce the price from the RRP of £545.75 down to just £350.00. Furthermore, we offered two for just £675.00 or four for only £1300.00.

This offer has been incredibly popular and stock levels are now critical. We are now sold out of the blue Class 20's and have only 11 green Class 20's .If anyone wants a bargain Class 20 then they need to be quick as this offer cannot be repeated.

As for the Class 37's, we bought all the remaining stock from Heljan and the situation is almost as bad. We have been selling these steadily at £435.00. There are so few left we have no need to offer them on any sort of clearance as we expect to sell out of very soon with only 5blue Class 37's remaining and about a dozen of the green version.

Please remember that to date Heljan have never made any further batches of items that have been sold out. Once these Class 20's and Class 37's have gone we are very unlikely to see anymore.

NEWS 5th December 2012

Production updates.

To answer a few questions that are on many peoples lips:

Dapol.

Had an answer from Joel at Dapol yesterday and he has confirmed that the 6 wheel milk tankers should finally become available around March / April 2013. They should also begin tooling the Class 08 any time now and therefore release the model around the middle of the year if all goes well. Advance orders for both the milk tankers and 08 have been very encouraging and is advised to get your name down on the advance order list in case either product is a sell out.

Heljan Class 31.

At Reading show at the weekend we had the Heljan 'O' gauge test samples of the forthcoming Class 31, Class 52 Western and Class 40. In regard to production schedules the Class 31 is running rather late as they alter the roof colour slight. At the earliest this means they will appear around the end of January but this is still to be confirmed. As we get more information on this I will post it here. In regard to the Class 52 Westerns; the delays on the Class 31 has pushed this back and it is no longer expected around Easter 2013 but more likely the middle of the year. Hopefully we should see the Class 40 towards the end of 2013. Again advance orders for all of these has been good, especially in regard to the two Tower Models Limited Edition Class 52 Westerns and is advised to get your name down on the advance order list in case either product is a sell out.

NEWS 2nd December 2012

H.M.R.S.Transfers.

H.M.R.S. have confirmed that they have obtained futher supplies of pressfix paper and are trying to get some of the out of stock sheets re-printed in the near future. First of the 'O' gauge sheets to be re-printed will be sheet 22; LNWR / BR mixed traffic lining. We are therefore taking advance orders now for this long awaited sheet re-print for immediate despatch when it becomes available. Please be patient though, this will take a little time.

New Parkside 'O' gauge Brake Van.

The brand new Parkside wagon is now available. PS111 is the LMS (ex MR design) 20 ton Goods Brake Van Diagram 1659. In total 849 of these vans were built between 1924 and 1927. They all had hand brake only. They lasted through LMS times and indeed were quite common until the 1960s, by which time they had also spread into ex LNER areas. Some of the brake vans that had been transferred to the Civil Engineers fleet were still around in the 1970s.

It has a RRP of £39.90 each but as usual we have our special offers and are selling this for only £35.90. There is also the Tower Models deal rates on any 6 or more Parkside wagons and you can mix and match these as always.

Skytrex Private Owner Special Offer.

New to the website is a section for some clearance wagons from Skytrex that we can now offer whilst stocks last. Details of this can be found under the Skytrex heading as part of the O gauge sectrion of the website.

NEWS 19th November 2012

Tower Models New 'O' gauge catalogue.

Due to the recent price increases from Peco, Slaters and Mashima amongst others, we have now produced an interim catalogue showing up to date prices and a list of new products. Copies of the new 40 page catalogue are available, free of charge either to callers in the shop, from our trade stand at Reading show or will be sent to anyone ordering 'O' gauge products. Alternatively send us an A5 stamped addressed envelope and we will send one to you.

We are not posting these catalogues out to all our mail order customers on our mailing list as this is only an interim catalogue. A full new catalogue will be produced probably in February next year which will be sent out to all existing customers.

A copy of the interim O gauge catalogue in PDF format is now available to download here.Tower Models 2012 Updated 'O' gauge catalogue Obviously the website has much more detail and also many more images but thought some people might like to have the option to download it.

A few points to note are that the new catalogue shows the new prices for Tower Brass, San Cheng and Finescale brass that come into effect from the 1st of January 2013. the current prices as per the website will apply until 31st of December. Also, we have not increased or altered our postage charges for five years. the Post Office has increased it's charges every year during that period and has added an additonal 20% this year alone. Meanwhile, our courier costs have also gone up by 8% this year We will therefore introduce new postage rates from 1st of January. These new rates are also shown on the interim catalogue but the current rates will apply on all orders until the end of the year.

NEWS 26th October 2012

DCC Sound Fitted Ixion Hudswell Clarke Locos.

We are pleased to be able to offer Ixion Hudswell Clarke locomotives fitted with ESU LokSound chips and ESU LokSound 20mm speaker. We are trying to keep a supply of all three livery locomotives fitted with sound units in our own workshops available off the shelf. The additional cost of supplying and fitting the DCC sound system is £150.00, making a total price for the sound equipped Ixion locomotive just £375.00.

Gauge 1 Brass.

Mark 1 coaches.

Latest additions to the range are the CK (Corridor Composite) and BCK (Brake Corridor Composite). We have also received the final batch of the other seven types of Mark 1 coaches

The price for the brass coaches is £450.00 each, or £425.00 each for four or more. Fully finished coaches, completed in any livery and with a choice of running numbers cost £660.00 or £635.00 each for four or more. The brass coaches are all available off the shelf, the fully finished coaches normally take approximately 3 months to complete. we do currently have a few fully finished coaches on the shelf including a rake of six BR maroon Mk1's.

The next shipment from China will contain the last batch of Gauge 1 Duchesses, if you want one, we suggest you pre-ordered it now.

'O' Gauge Brass.

We have received, what we believe, will be the final batch of San Cheng Duchesses. We have Semis, De-streamlined and non-streamlined models available and can finish them in a choice of liveries and conditions. The rest of the shipment was a mixture of various items where the factory has sent the last remaining stocks to us. The final shipment from the factory will include a small batch of the GWR / BR Granges before Christmas so order yours now to avoid disappointment as so few of these are being produced.

We should point out that stocks of Black Fives. 8F's, Scots, Halls, Jubilees and Schools are all running low. On the Tower Brass side we are down to the last few Jintys, 14xx's and are running low on Castles and Kings

Last chances.

Prior to Telford and with a large shipment from the factory on its way to us, we have carried out a massive spring clean and stock check. We have not found any lost treasures but we have unearthed a few things we thought had sold out and have also come up with exact figures for many of the brass items which are now close to being sold out. With the factory closing in the New Year there will be no more Tower Brass, Sancheng Brass or Finescale Brass produced after the closure. We cannot restock any of the older items so once this lot has gone there will be no more.

'O' Gauge.

Tower Brass Jinty.
We have just one fully finished locomotive left on the shelf and completely out of the brass versions

Tower Brass 48xx / 14xx Autotanks.
We have twelve fully finished locomotives on the shelf and a couple of the early version in the workshop that can be completed to order and about a dozen brass bodied late versions left.

Tower Brass Collett Coaches.
Just a handful of each type left, we have very few D127's.

Tower Brass 4575 Prairie.
Although not critical we are now getting low on these superb models.

San Cheng Brass 8F, Black Five and Royal Scots
We have bought all of San Chengs remaining stocks. Of the six types of Black Five we are down to just two Late 1 versions and a few more Early short firebox types. 8Fs are now only available with rivetted tenders; Scots will possibly last out until the end of the year.

Heljan Limited Edition Class 33s.
We have discovered two boxes of the Tower Models Limited Edition original plain green Class 33s in the stores. We thought we had sold out of these months ago.

Gauge1.

We have just one 57xx Pannier Tank in the workshop which can be finished to order, we have a couple of fully finished Jintys on the shelf and a couple more brass ones available. We are very low on both the 45xx and 4575 Priarie Tanks. We still have a couple of the Class 04 blue diesels on the clearance offer. From the original Bachmann Brassworks range we still have a handful of the Black Fives, either the Early version or the Late 1 type though we are down to rivetted tenders only on these.

NEWS 13th August 2012

Ixion 'O' gauge Hudswell Clarke Wiring.

We took delivery of the new Ixion locomotives last week and are very impressed with both the quality of finish and the excellent running. They are superb value for money. This is bourne out by feedback from our customers and the fact we have now had second orders from a number of customers.

One minor problem that has arisen is the way the locomotives have been wired. The factory where they were made simply reversed the wiring so that the locomotives run in the opposite way to the accepted normal.

It is quite easy to cure by removing the body, de-soldering two wires and re-soldering them correctly. It is a straight forward job, just a little fiddly to do.

Ixion have issued instructions on how to do this work and we have supplied a link below. Ixion are hoping to be able to offer a service to re-wire the locomotives for anyone incapable of doing the job themselves but, as yet, it is simply too soon to have anything in place. This slight hiccup should not put anyone off; other companies have made the same mistake in the past but Ixion have been very quick to recognise the problems and start offering solutions.

Click here to view the Hudswell Clarke wiring fix.

NEWS 7th August 2012

Heljan 'O' gauge gears, A statement.

There appears to be a rumour going around model railway websites that there is a widespread problem with gears splitting on Heljan 'O' gauge diesels. As the largest stockist of Heljan 'O' gauge and with consistantly high sales since the range was first introduced we feel it essential to present the facts to the public rather than destructive "Chinese Whispers"

On the very rare occasions we have seen split gears it is only with Class 35 Hymeks and Class 47 diesels. In all cases the locomotives had considerable amounts of running and it must be stressed that replacement gears are available from Heljan's service agent; Howes of Oxford. Unlike certain other model railway manufacturers, Heljan have always tried to provide spares.

Tower Models are not the service agent, so we do not carry a full range of spares. However when there is a known problem such as broken vacuum pipes on the Class 33's we obtain spares from Heljan and provide them to our customers. ( Note this is our cutsomers; anyone buying elsewhere should contact their supplier. )

Overall we have had very few problems with any of the Heljan 'O' gauge range. If there were on going problems then Heljan would not of won "Model of the Year" competition so many times, or have so many repeat customers. It is a pity that such vindictive rumours can be spread and accepted by so many as true. Anyone with a split gear should contact Howes of Oxford. Anyone who has not got a split gear should stop worrying about something that probably will never happen. As we have said, it is an incredibly rare event given the total numbers sold.

NEWS 25th June 2012

Gauge 1 ready to run available off the shelf.

I have added a new section to the website to cover the ready to run Gauge 1 locomotives that are available off the shelf for immediate despatch. We have finally been able to build up enough stocks to warrant this which has taken some time. Obviously this is just a cross section fo what we can do and we can always complete any of the locomotives in any livery or condition to the customers specification should the be anything you are after that is not on the list. Currently completing Gauge 1 locomotives to customers specifications is between 3 and 4 months.

NEWS 7th June 2012

Bachmann On30 deleted items.

With the issue of the new On30 catalogue there are now several items that may not appear in the latest version as they have now been discontinued. I have now updated this list of the few remaining stocks of items that are no longer available. It is therefore the last chance to get some of these.

On30 Locos.

On30 Wagons.

First come first served on these as we cannot get any more.

NEWS 22nd May 2012

Bachmann 'O' gauge Class 101's

We are down to the very last Bachmann Brassworks Class 101. This is currently being finished through the workshops in BR Green with Cat's Whiskers which should be completed in the next 4-6 weeks in clean finish and is priced at £1160.00 complete but at this stage could be weathered if a customer wanted which makes the final price £1210.00. Once this last one has gone that is the end of the road for yet another Bachmann Brassworks piece.

NEWS 17th May 2012

Bachmann G Gauge clearance list

Last year we took the decision to stop selling the Bachmann G gauge range. As such we have a clearance offer on the last few remaining pieces of Bachmann G we have in stock at cost prices. The updated list can be found in the G gauge section of the website under the Bachmann heading. Stocks are very limited with at most threes of the Billboards Reefers. At these prices they are a bargain for anyonje modelling American G gauge.

NEWS 16th April 20.

Bachmann Brassworks Gauge 1 Class 03's

We have now completely sold out of the Bachmann Brassworks Gauge 1 Class 03 shunters in factory painted blue. We still have a few of the Class 04's available in factory painted blue but at the clearance price of only £375.00 these have been selling very well.

NEWS 22nd March 2012

H.M.R.S. Transfers.

The HMRS have informed us that they cannot obtain further supplies of the special paper required to produce Methfix and Pressfix transfers. For the foreseeable future this means that once exsisting stocks are sold, HMRS will have to look for an alternative format for their transfers such as waterslide.

We can confirm that in 'O' gauge sheets 22 and 23 in Pressfix and Sheets 2a, 14, 19 and 26 Methfix are now sold out. Other sheets are running low so we can only suggest that if you want Methfix or Pressfix transfers you order them now whilst still available.

NEWS 6th March 2012

Last chances.

We have recently had a spring clean and stock check in our storerooms. Listed below, set out in scale and by manufacturer, are a range of items that are now either discontinued or were limited editions that are now nearly sold out. To the best of our knowledge, we cannot obtain further supplies of any of these products. This is therefore the last chance to obtain these items.

Gauge 1.

'O' Gauge items.

NEWS 10th February 2012

Tower Brass Patriot Review.

This months copy of Railway Modeller has a 2 page article on the Tower Brass Patriots and thankfully The Railway Modeller and photographer both Craig Tiley have allowed us to feature the images from the magazine.

You can follow this link Railway Modeller Patriot images to see this beautiful series of images of the brand new Tower Brass Patriots which have recently been completed through the workshops.

If youy are interested in commisioning a Patriot just give us a call and we can discuss your requirements.

Bachmann Scenecraft 'O' Gauge Buildings.

We have just received the brand new Hampton Hill Platelayers Hut priced at £24.95 and provender Store priced at £49.95. All advance orders should be despatched to customers today. Images and details of this range can be found in the 'O' gauge section of the website under the Scenecraft buildings heading. Just call us if you wish to place an order for any of the building now availble or to advance order the buildings due for release later in the year.

NEWS 16th January 2012

NEWS 13th January 2012

Tower Brass 'O' gauge Un-Rebuilt Patriot.

We can now confirm the shipment containing the bulk of our Un-Rebuilt Patriots will arrive here in the first week in February. Customers who have ordered factory painted models will receive them around the end of the first week in February but we will contact everyone to arrange a suitable delivery day. Customers for fully finished Patriots have already been contacted.

NEWS 4th January 2012

Heljan 'O' Gauge Class 52 Western.

We can now confirm that this project has been given the green light and we hope to have all versions available very early in 2013.

Specifications for the standard versions will be as usual, with two powered bogies, working fans and directional lights. The standard versions will be supplied un-numbered and un-named but otherwise totally ready-to-run. Three standard versions will be available:

HJ5280 BR Green livery with small yellow panel.
HJ5281 BR Maroon livery with small yellow panel.
HJ5282 BR Blue livery with full yellow ends.

There will then be two Limited Editions exclusive to Tower Models; of which we will produce only 60 of each type.

HJ5283 D1000 "Western Enterprise" in Desert Sand without yellow panels
HJ5284 D1015 "Western Champion" in Golden Ochre with yellow panels

HJ5283 D1000 "Western Enterprise" in Desert Sand without yellow panels.

Our Limited Edition Models will depict this locomotive in its original condition without yellow panels and before the roof was painted black. The reason we have taken this decision is so that if a modeller wishes to depict the locomotive after November 1962 then it is relatively easy to paint on yellow panels and a black roof. It would not be so easy to reverse this proceedure so it seemed an obvious option to us. Our workshops will be able to paint on the yellow panels and black roof for an additional cost if the modeller does not want to undertake the work himself.

HJ5284 D1015 "Western Champion" in Golden Ochre with yellow panels.

This locomotive carried this livery from 21/01/63 until 08/11/65. We will depict the locomotive with the standard rectangular yellow warning panels at both ends. Our research tells us the "T" bar extension to the yellow panel was only carried in service for a few days. We are aware that in preservation this "T" bar has re-appeared and disappeared but this does not merit us issuing a Limited Edition locomotive in such a short lived livery. Any modeller who wants to depict the locomotive with the "T" bar can paint it on himself or our workshops will undertake the work for a small charge.

Our order book is now so just give us a call and reserve your choice of Western now, especially in regard to the Limited Editions when we have never produced so small a quantity. No money will be taken until despatch is made.

Heljan 'O' gauge Class 20 clearance.

Heljan introduced this award winning model in 2009. Tower Models bought all the remaining stocks late last year. As we are expecting two major shipments in the next few weeks we have decided to free up space in our warehouse and put some cash back into the bank.

We are therefore offering the remaining stocks of the Class 20 at unrepeatable prices. We have two versions of the Class 20 available:

Often Class 20's were used double headed on trains so we are also offering multiple deals:

Whenever we have a clearance offer, we always get asked if we will offer other items in the range at similar prices; to avoid having to answer these questions can we make the situation quite clear. We have bought all of Heljan's remaining stocks of green and blue Class 37's; blue Class 33's.

We expect to sell out of the first version of the Class 37 within a couple of months with the second version possibly lasting until the end of the year. . Quite clearly with such limited stock we have no need to offer any further reductions on these items.

Please also note that to date, Heljan have never re-issued any sold out 'O' gauge items, prefering to move on and make new items. Therefore, once sold out, it is unlikely to ever be re-issued.

Clearance 'O' Gauge Items Update.

We are no longer stocking a number of products and have decided to use the website to clear off the last remaining items. As will not be re-stocking this this is your last chance at bargain basement prices.

SHOGUN MOTORS.

Neat fully assembled motor gearbox with fitted flywheel. Suitable for small to medium sized locomotives pulling light to medium loads. Not suitable for large locomotives or for extended axle outside frame locomotives.

GAUGE 1 CLEARANCE ITEMS.

NEWS 12th March 2011

Bachmann 'G' gauge clearance offers.

We have decided to completely clear our existing stock and review the situation regarding re-stocks. We are therefore offering all remaining items at approximately 33% discount off the RRP.

Details of the stock can be found in the G and Gauge 1 section of the website under under the Bachmann G gauge subsection or via this link Bachmann G gauge clearanceThe offer applies only to items on this list. If an item is not on the list then we do not have it in stock and cannot obtain it at these prices. Stocks are limited , in many cases we are down to the last one.

NEWS 8th September 2010

Gauge 'O' Guild Telford Show.

Given the current economic climate Telford show went very well, the stand look very well and was commented upon by several people and we were proud of our display, so much so we thought we would put an image up of the stand. For anyone who is into 'O' gauge and has never attended the show it is the premiere 'O' gauge event of the year and cannot be rivalled for both variety and quality. If there is only one show you can attend in the year, this should be it and if considering coming from overseas this is the show you should aim to attend. The show was extremely well organised had a good atmosphere.

I have now also created the brand new Gauge 1 sections for the website dealing with the new Collett coaches in plain brass and also the painting service for these new coaches which are expected before the end of the year. At the same time I have updated the 'O' gauge section of the website with the first images of the Hawksworth tender that will become available after the collett tendered version. As mentioned yesterday we are now taking advance orders on all new items that we have announced that are due in the next six months including the Heljan Class 33's, 26's and Deltics.

A REALITY CHECK ON CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONS