Graham Farish 2012-3 Programme

Bachmann have just announced the new models for the Graham Farish 2012/3 programme. It’s an interesting mix of new and retooled items. The obvious modern-era highlight is Freightliner’s class 70s “Powerhaul” locomotive, but I notice the refurbished 37 and the Deltic are being retooled as all-new models. Several new and retooled steam locos as well, with an emphasis on big Pacifics, although the humble GWR pannier tank gets a partial retooling.

Highlights for me include

• Mk2a coaches, with TSO, BSO and FK being produced. Early Mk2s have always been a big gap in RtR N gauge. Bachmann shrinking down their existing OO models isn’t entirely unexpected, but nevertheless is greatly welcomed.
• Retooled FK added to the Mk1 range. Probably more useful, to me at least, than the already-announced FO.
• SR-design Bullied coaches. Again, the 4mm ones scaled down, and will add a bit of variety to my transition era fleet. They did make it to the Cornish main line at times.
• 50′ Polybulk covered hopper. This doesn’t duplicate the Grainflow hopper of the N gauge society kit; it’s the shorter swing-roofed wagons used not only for grain but a variety of other traffic flows, including china clay and assorted chemical traffic. For a Devon and Cornwall layout, it’s an important signature item for the 1980s/90s.

While no doubt some people might be disappointed in which OO items haven’t been “shrunk”, I’m more than satisfied by the announcement of the Mk2s and Polybulks – Those are two of the most significant gaps for the region and era I’m interested in.