As this representation on LNER 4901 Capercaillie is designed and aimed at the collector , we had to consider the all important, “collect-ability” factor in the presentation of this project. From most of our marketing information, and collectors feed-back, it was, and still is, quite evident that if a new limited-edition loco was to become available, the criteria would have to be quite high. The 4 main points were the quality, rarity, presentation and price. The issue of  quality was of utmost importance, and the latest Hornby ,loco drive, Mallard (R2339) was quickly chosen for the donor loco. With the issue of renumbering and renaming, several specialists were considered but we decided to put the benefits of high quality super-detailing into this presentation and a sample loco by Peasholm Models was chosen.

 With an agreement in place to rename and renumber 25 body shells over the course of 12 months, Project Capercaillie entered production. During the time the first batch was at Peasholm Models, we decided to limit the run to only 25, as one of our major customers had declined to full fill their obligation. Considering we had reservations from collectors for more than half of the original 25 editions, we decided to finance the project ourselves. Work on producing the trademark inner sleeve had started with an emphasis on the barcode to designate this as a Mallard, but not the shop standard (R2339). The bar code for the previous Mallard, china made—super detail  - tender drive version was used, as any shops would have this item on a ’collectors’ category. With the proof of the inner sleeve, and the limited edition certificates meeting our expectations, the final components were in the finishing stages. When the first batch of 5 body shells returned, work started on re-assembling the loco, and re-packaging the finished item. As we aimed this project at the collector, thus the recommended retail price of £145.00,designated by our now absent customer, was reduced to £125.00.

 

 

As customers can cancel reservations on the locos yet to be issued, availability can be re-appropriated in certain circumstances. Click here for a reservation request.