Bachmann 31-761

Tooling

Announced in 2015 as part of Bachmann’s Branchline range, the Ivatt C1 ‘Large Atlantic’ represented a significant milestone for British outline ready-to-run models. The prototype, designed by Henry Ivatt for the Great Northern Railway in 1902, was a 4-4-2 express passenger locomotive that later became the LNER C1. These engines were pivotal in the development of high-speed East Coast services and influenced subsequent wide-firebox designs. The Bachmann model was initially commissioned as a National Collection model for Locomotion Models before entering the main range in multiple liveries.

Tooling Features

• Scale: OO gauge (1:76) on 16.5mm track.
• Construction: Plastic bodyshell with a die-cast metal chassis for strength and weight distribution.
• Detailing: Highly detailed footplate with gauges, piping, and working firehole door shield; separately fitted vacuum and steam pipes, brake rodding, guard irons, drain cocks, and cosmetic screw-link couplings. Turned metal whistle and safety valves add finesse.
• Couplings: NEM pockets with tension-lock couplers supplied; provision for cosmetic screw-link couplings.

Mechanical & Electrical

• Motor & Drive: 12V DC 3-pole motor driving the rear coupled axle via a gear train (no flywheel).
• Pickups: On driving wheels, trailing truck, and tender axles for reliable current collection.
• Minimum Radius: Second radius (438mm) recommended.
• Weight: Approx. 367g, aiding smooth running and haulage of up to eight Mk1 coaches in tests.
• Lighting: No factory-fitted lighting; cab detail is fully painted.

DCC Capability

• DCC Ready with a 21-pin NEM socket located in the tender. Space provided for a speaker if sound decoder is fitted.

Liveries Produced

• GNR lined green (No. 251 and others)
• LNER apple green with black/white lining
• BR unlined black (weathered variants for NRM exclusives)

These covered eras from pre-grouping through LNER and early BR service.

Reviews & Commentary

The model received widespread acclaim for its accuracy and finish. Reviews praised its smooth running, excellent weight balance, and fine lining, noting the ability to handle tight pointwork without issue. Detail highlights include the backhead and motion, though some reviewers mentioned minor compromises in connecting rod geometry due to OO standards.
Social media and forums echoed these sentiments, calling it “a beauty in all respects” and “amazingly, the first RTR OO Atlantic despite its historical importance.”

Interesting Notes

• Initially exclusive to Locomotion Models as a National Collection model before general release.
• Represents the preserved GNR No. 251, the sole surviving Ivatt Atlantic in the UK National Collection.
• The tooling includes provision for fine-scale detailing parts, making it popular among enthusiasts seeking authenticity.

Class & Prototype

No prototype found.

Operator & Livery