We're not a model site here, but should anyone derisive comments about toy trains, you can show them this website. Consider the number of pieces that make up this exquisite O scale brass model of a Union Pacific 4-12-2... Manufacturing each part requires many more finite processes than the most complex diamond ring setting and there are thousands of such parts. Plus, after all the parts are assembled, they must be made to operate and move smoothly. This is more akin to a NASA project than a toy, and about the most complex piece of jewelry you could buy.

http://www.kohs.com/UP%20type%20pages/U ... 20home.htm

Yes, I realize it's a bit off topic - but it is interesting.

I guess if one can afford such jewelry one needn't ask, but what does this little beauty cost?

Scott

According to the brochure PDF, $3,900.00 plus shipping.

If you think this is bad, I remember a handcrafted HO model of a freelanced 4-8-8-6 (or the like), loosely based on the UP, NP, etc. Mallets, crafter in 14K gold (save for the motor and eight helical gears) by some European in the 1960s or 1970s; at the time the cost of the gold alone was over $3,000, and the model was appraised at $25,000 in early 1970s money.

A little more current are the G scale Aster live steam models from Japan, including a C&O Allegheny priced at (depending on the dealer) something like $9,000 in kit form or $22,000 assembled. And I know where one of these resides.

For that amount of money you have to class it as an investment!

And for a similar amount you could paint and letter a nice heavyweight Pullman car in 12 inch = one foot scale. But that probably would not fit in your basement or on the mantlepiece.

Bob Kutella