Bachmann 31-920

Tooling

The Bachmann Branchline model of the London, Brighton & South Coast Railway H2 Class “Brighton Atlantic” was announced at the Bachmann Collectors Club Members Day in 2013 and released in 2018. The tooling covers both H1 and H2 classes, reflecting their historical significance as express passenger locomotives introduced between 1911 and 1912. These locomotives were designed by Lawson Billinton, incorporating Schmidt superheaters, and worked prestigious services such as the Southern Belle and boat trains until the mid-1950s. None survived into preservation, but a new-build replica of No. 32424 “Beachy Head” is now operational on the Bluebell Railway.

Tooling Features

• Scale: OO gauge (1:76).
• Construction: Combination of plastic and metal components with a robust chassis.
• Detailing: Factory-fitted separate details including handrails, pipework, safety valves, smokebox door dart, whistle, and cab interior. Etched nameplates supplied in accessory packs.
• Couplings: NEM pockets with tension-lock couplers; screw-link couplings included for display.
• Finish: High-quality livery application with accurate lining and lettering.

Mechanical & Electrical

• Motor: Smooth-running can motor located in the locomotive.
• Drive: Loco-driven wheels with tender pickups for improved electrical continuity.
• Minimum Radius: Second radius (438 mm).
• Lighting: No factory lighting fitted.
• Weighting: Integrated within chassis for adhesion.

DCC Capability

• DCC Ready with 21-pin socket.
• Speaker mount provided for optional sound installation.
• Factory sound-fitted versions available in later releases.

Liveries Produced

• LB&SCR Umber with gold lining (Era 2).
• Southern Railway Maunsell Green (Era 3).
• British Railways Lined Black with early emblem (Era 4).

Reviews & Commentary

The model received positive feedback for its fine detailing, accurate proportions, and smooth running. Reviewers highlighted the intricate cab detail, etched plates, and authentic valve gear representation. Some criticism was noted regarding the long lead time from announcement to release, but overall reception was strong among collectors and Southern Region enthusiasts. Social media and YouTube reviews praised its aesthetics and mechanism, with performance tests confirming reliable running and good haulage capacity.

Interesting Notes

• The tooling was developed in collaboration with the Bluebell Railway Atlantic Group, supporting the new-build “Beachy Head” project.
• Accessory packs include route indicator discs, vacuum pipes, and hinged tender fall-plate for added realism.

Class & Prototype

Operator & Livery

The Southern Railway (SR), formed in 1923 through the amalgamation of numerous railway companies, became Britain's most passenger-focused railway company. The three principal constituents were the LSWR, LB&SCR, and SE&CR, alongside several smaller railways including the Plymouth, Devonport and South Western Junction Railway and various light railways. Operating 2,186 miles across southern England, the SR pioneered extensive third-rail electrification and developed distinctive locomotive classes under Chief Mechanical Engineers Maunsell and Bulleid. The company's malachite green and olive green liveries, Art Deco architecture, and premium passenger services like the Golden Arrow established new British railway standards. Nationalised in 1948, the SR's innovations in electric traction and passenger comfort influenced modern railway practice. Today, SR locomotives remain highly popular with railway modellers for their elegant designs, varied operational roles, and distinctive Southern Railway heritage that connected London with the Channel ports and southern resorts.

The SR Maunsell olive green livery (1924-1939) was introduced by Chief Mechanical Engineer Richard Maunsell as the first standardised passenger locomotive livery for the Southern Railway. This darker olive-green shade replaced the lighter LSWR Urie sage green used immediately after the 1923 Grouping. The livery featured black frames and underframes with white lining edged in black borders, creating an elegant contrast against the olive green upper works. Primrose yellow lettering and numbering adorned the locomotive sides and tenders, with "Southern" prominently displayed. Maunsell locomotives carried distinctive polished brass nameplates with red or black backgrounds introduced in 1924. This sophisticated livery scheme was applied to famous classes including the King Arthur 4-6-0s, Lord Nelson 4-6-0s, and Schools 4-4-0s. The olive green remained standard until 1939 when Oliver Bulleid introduced his brighter malachite green livery. For modellers, the Maunsell olive green represents the classic 1920s-1930s Southern Railway appearance and remains highly popular for its understated elegance and authentic period character.