Bachmann's original Jubilee was released 1979 as part of the Palitoy Mainline Railways system. Six names were released before the Mainline production was closed down. Palitoy had dominated the LMS passenger 4-6-0s producing also both original and rebuilt Royal Scots and a Rebuilt Patriot. The tools for these passed to Bachmann Europe and reappeared in the 1990s with the addition of a Rebuilt Jubilee - leaving only an Unrebuilt Patriot not yet produced by them.
By the turn of the century, sales of these models were falling as better designed alternatives were taking up the slack. With the LMS passenger 4-6-0s just ticking over, unknown to Bachmann, Hornby decided in 2005 to revive them with rebuilt Patriots and Royal Scots produced to a high standard. Bachmann in 2007 announced their intention to replace their own models but on hearing that Hornby were to do two of them in their own range, modified their plans and settled for a Jubilee and an Unrebuilt Patriot.
Hornby released their two types in the summer of 2007 and later the Bachmann Jubilees arrived. Here we have 45611 'Hong Kong' in BR early green livery - a model excellent in detail and finish. Like Hornby, Bachmann are paying more attention to cab detail and although possibly not quite up to Hornby's standard, this feature is very good. The loco has the usual sprung buffers but has also adopted the idea of a sliding roof hatch in the cab. The brake rods come separate for fitting along with brake pipes, drain cocks, front steps and cab doors. There is also an alternative coupling bar for closer coupling if your curves will take it.
Model Railway Express
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