Bachmann 31-922

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 London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (1846-1922) remains one of Britain's most beloved railway companies among modellers and enthusiasts. Famous for William Stroudley's distinctive yellow ochre "Improved Engine Green" livery and iconic A1 "Terrier" tank locomotives, the LB&SCR operated intensive passenger services from London to Sussex seaside resorts. The company pioneered electric lighting in carriages and overhead electrification, while its compact triangular network offers perfect prototype inspiration for model layouts. Following absorption into the Southern Railway in 1923, LB&SCR locomotives continued serving with new numbering systems and gradual livery changes, before entering British Railways service in 1948 with the famous 30000+ number series. Many "Terriers" survived into the 1960s on branch lines, providing modelling opportunities across three distinct eras. With strong preservation heritage through heritage railways like the Bluebell Railway and active support from the Brighton Circle historical society, LB&SCR models benefit from extensive research resources covering the full timeline from Victorian origins through nationalisation.