The interest in model trains has increased hugely over the last few years, and especially in recent months. The recent increase in popularity, particularly in the UK, has been put down to the credit crunch forcing people to get involved in more home based and family oriented activities, rather than days or evenings out.

Model train build quality has also improved tremendously during the last few years. Having started out as crude tin plate, through basic plastic injection moulding, many of today’s models are highly intricate works of model engineering, with impressive amounts of detailing. This level of detail really captivates the character and feel of the prototype locomotive, coach item of rolling stock being modelled.

Some of the more recent Hornby Trains are particularly fine model trains with magnificent detail. Gone are the days where these are just simple plastic mouldings, with all the detail cast into the main moulding. These recent models are now intricately made up of many different parts. For example, the recently released Hornby Schools Class presents an entirely reworked model. The firebox, boiler and dome are all cast in metal, whilst the smokebox, running plate, cab, chimney and smoke deflectors are plastic.

The engine features plenty of accurate rivet detail and there are plenty of separately fitted items, such as brass safety valves, clack valves, nameplate, chimney and wire handrails.

However, perhaps the most stunning area of the model is the one that will most likely be hidden from view. That is the cab interior and boiler backhead. The detailing quality of the cab instruments, control levers and wheels is amazing. The calibrations on the gauges are legible under a magnifying glass, and the water gauge glasses, regulator, reverser and atomiser could be regarded as miniature works of art.

So the question is will models of this quality be run on layouts by young children, or are these models now intended for collectors to proudly put on display? Certainly these new, highly detailed models do look absolutely fabulous on display but also look magnificent on a highly detailed layout. That is not to say that they would look out of place on a simple layout either.

Hornby have obviously thought of this as they often produce Limited Edition models, clearly aimed at the collector. In 2008 they produced a 70th Anniversary Edition of the World Famous Class A4 Mallard, complete with gold plated exterior metal parts. This specially commissioned pack was limited to 5000 and each one comes complete with a certificate of Authenticity.

With the introduction of Digital Control, (DCC) locos now have features such as lights that work and stay lit all the time something not possible with a conventional layout unless using a separate power source in each loco and also sound. These new features add a whole new dimension to the hobby. These DCC locomotives are obviously intended to be worked on layouts to add extra dimensions to the operation of the layout, and also to add extra realism to the observer.

However, at the other end of the spectrum, Hornby additionally offer a range of models aimed at the younger enthusiast. Known as the RailRoad range, these models are devoid of the easily damaged detail parts that are a feature of the main range. The Hornby RailRoad Range also offers the younger enthusiast a cheaper entry into the hobby.

So, summing up. Are model trains toys, models or miniature works of art? The impressive quality of some of the recent models could well be classed as works of art. Many people still believe to this day that steam locomotives were works of art and these new models faithfully reproduce the character and charm of the originals. However, how many children still get a great amount of pleasure from operating their first train set? These are the ones that will go on to become enthusiasts and collectors as they grow older.

I suppose the answer is ‘Yes!’ to all three!