Brass model trains are very unique in the world of the train collector. Made of solid brass, brass model trains purport a unique aesthetic elegance that is sure to impress any onlookers of the collector’s train set. The only problem is that brass model trains can be very expensive. In fact, some of the prices associated with them can be over $1,000. So, are they worth it for most train collectors? This article will answer this question by examining the advantages and disadvantages of brass model trains in comparison to their traditional counterparts.
The advantages of brass model trains include their appearance and their resale value. Appearance-wise, brass model trains almost look golden, despite being made of brass. You can get a good idea of how brass model trains look by doing an image search on Google or buying the book the Art of Brass by Presse Einsebahn. If you do the latter, you can get a good idea of what to expect if you decide to delve into the world of brass model trains.
As far as resale value, brass instantly makes your train worth more because most model trains are not made in this type of material. Brass model trains are a niche market in the model train industry, so if you did decide to sell your trains back, you could make a handsome profit.
But it is the increased profit value that leads into a major disadvantage of brass model trains. When you get a brass model train, expect to pay at least double the price that you would pay for a regular model train. Expect that price to multiply even more if you actually get a vintage brass model train, something that is extremely rare.
Another disadvantage associated with brass model trains is the fact that they must be polished regularly. Traditional trains do not require this type of constant care. Worst of all, if you do not polish your brass model trains properly, you could put them at risk of turning “black.” To prevent this problem, you must make sure you meticulously clean your brass model trains with just the right amount of polish. Too much polish will damage the brass model train, rather than protect it.
Finally, there’s the issue of realism. Brass model trains are attractive, but for train collectors that are genuinely interested in recreating the trek of a typical locomotive, brass model trains are not only gaudy but unrealistic. There have never been brass locomotives in real life, and there never will be. Yet, the styles associated for traditional model trains have been used in real life. In fact, if collectors like emulating Amtrak-like trains in their collection, some of the styles are still used to this day. Granted, this element of brass model trains is more psychological, but should definitely be considered when one is starting a train set.
In conclusion, brass model trains are a unique addition to a train collector’s set. Yet, whether or not they are truly necessary, will depend on the intentions of the individual train collector.
Quick Tip #1
Buy From Specialist Model Stores – I recommend that you always buy your model trains from specialist stores as there are often experts in these stores who can help you find the right train for you. You may also find that model trains are cheaper from specialist stores.
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Quick Tip #2
Start Small - When you buy your first model train, don’t spend a lot of money. You should start with a fairly low cost model. There is no point spending hundreds of dollars only to decide after just a few short weeks that you don’t enjoy collecting trains.
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