Following the most recent update in the December 2020 issue of Railway Modeller, Hatton’s have given us the opportunity to have a closer look at some of the tooling samples their forthcoming range of four- and six-wheel pre-Grouping coaching stock.
The two samples loaned to us cover the four-wheel five-compartment with oil lamp roof fittings and six-wheel full brake with electric roof fittings. The models showcase a wealth of fine detail and tooling differences, including separately fitted door latches, lamp irons, handrails, turned metal buffers, as well as etched metal steps and running boards, while removing the clip-on roof on the four-wheel sample, reveals five detailed compartment interiors, including separately fitted luggage racks.
To help negotiate tight curves the six-wheel variant features a sliding centre frame, which allows the axle to move freely while not detracting from the aesthetics of the model. Pickups for the lighting system will be provide via pin-point brass bearings, which also ensure the coaches are free-rolling.
Naturally these are still early tooling samples and the retailer advises that there are a number of corrections and changes to be made; including rectifying the bowed chassis which was evident on our sample of the six-wheel full-brake.
Further information on the project, including details on how to pre-order, can be found via Hattons website;
https://www.hattons.co.uk/newsdetail.aspx?id=594
For more of latest news and reviews, be sure to grab your copy of the March 2021 Issue of Railway Modeller, on sale from February 11th.
