Sold May 2006 Back to Archive

A finely engineered example of Martin Evans' "Metro", a 5 inch gauge version of the GWR small Metro tank locomotives which were built from 1871 at Swindon. Known for their brisk performance on fast suburban services around London, they regularly hauled six coach trains.

With the typically nineteenth century double frames and trademark Swindon copper capped chimney, large dome and safety valve bonnet, the engine is particularly good looking to my eye. Based on a modest-sized prototype, the model is easily handled by one man yet is still a decent passenger hauler.

Work to date is to a high standard and comprises an air-running chassis, complete with brakes, cross head pump and mechanical lubricator. The smokebox is largely complete and fitted, featuring particularly neat riveting. There is a smokebox door and hinges, the blast pipe and blower ring are fitted.

There are unmachined castings for inner and outer domes, chimney, safety valve bonnet and hand pump.

Complete with a set of drawings, parts and castings are still available from Reeves.

Length 31 inches