As you may have read elsewhere, Phil Traxson has decided to call time on the Port Wynnstay range of cast resin kits. I am delighted to be able to confirm that agreement has been reached regarding the transfer of the prototype rolling stock kits to 422 Modelmaking.
I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the influence that Phil and the Port Wynnstay models have had in the development of my own 422 Modelmaking range. Like countless others I watched and learnt from Phil’s casting demonstrations each Easter at York show. When my own journey into Narrow Gauge rolling stock got underway, it became clear from conversations with other modellers that Port Wynnstay was the benchmark to aspire to. I would like to thank Phil for agreeing to me taking over a significant proportion of the Port Wynnstay range and for trusting me to continue the products of his highly respected work.
The kits moving to 422 Modelmaking will be the prototype O gauge vehicles together with the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland / NWNGR coaches and wagon kits.
These products have been chosen to complement the existing 422 Standard and Narrow Gauge ranges, whilst at the same time remaining manageable in terms of production and the physical logistic challenges that an expanded product range presents. I anticipate a slight thinning down of the current 422 rolling stock list in order to accommodate the new arrivals, especially where there is duplication of similar vehicles.
For now, the immediate priority is the transfer of the patterns from North Wales to East Yorkshire. Inevitably there will be a short period of time whilst things are sorted out and I familiarise myself with the production requirements of each kit. Ideally, I would like to have the first products available early in the New Year. It will be a case of doing the easy bits first – although as a self-confessed carriage enthusiast with an affinity for Victorian wood panelling, there may be the odd personal favourite that gets promoted up the batting order!
The Port Wynnstay name will remain associated with the kits as a separate range within the 422 portfolio. For those who are familiar with Phil’s catalogue, I anticipate being able to keep the same product codes for the benefit of continuity.
I will of course keep everyone updated with product progress, and as always if folk would like to share their thoughts, do drop me a line via the contact form of the 422 Modelmaking website.
Thank you for your support as always.
Andrew,
422 Modelmaking.