Trix - Twin
© Copyright 1998-2005 Garry Lefevre
The
First UK Trix 1935 Catalogue
The name Trix Twin was not used until 1936
The front cover shows
Mr. Bassett-Lowke operating a train on an exhibition layout. All the
locomotives and rolling stock are the German Trix Express models modified for
the English market.
The catalogue unfolds
to show :-
This spread sheet
measures 60cms x 24 cms.
At the top is the
passenger train shown with disc wheels was printed in actual size. On the
tender is written “ Twin Train”, whereas it was marketed with the words “Trix
Express”. On many models just visible is the name change with the paint
underneath showing Twin Train. Clearly the name was changed after many had been
painted.
The bottom train
shows the freight train.
The narrative explains
the advantage of two locos on the same track under independent control and a
boast about quality “ 15 coaches were loaded with nails and she was sent on a
run of over 100 miles…At the end of the journey the train was pronounced as
perfect as when she first left the terminus”
The second back sheet
( above) shows the complete range of rolling stock and buildings. These
buildings were the German wooden ones. Note the station has a round clock as
was used on the Trix Express “ Trixtstadt” station. Whereas in England the clock was square with
the name Twin City. This catalogue was not too accurate !
The original engine
shed shown in the catalogue was only high enough to allow the steam loco to
enter. Soon after the catalogue was made
the engine shed was heightened to allow the 20/52 electric loco with
pantographs to enter. The colour was also changed. The early ones were in pale green, but very
quickly the colour was changed to pale cream or pale yellow.
The back cover shows
other products made and marketed by Bassett-Lowke
Here is a photo of
the original 1935 trains with the very early pale green buildings :-
The Price list is in
shillings. To convert there were 20
shillings to £1. Thus the transformer shown as 10/6 was 10 shillings and 6
pence or 52.5 pence in new money that is just under 1 Euro. The passenger set with disc wheels was 35
shillings or £1-75 or 2.50 Euro. Today collectors pay up to £1,000 and more for
one in mint condition. That has easily beaten inflation !!
Or