With its sunset-bridge cover, 1979 is quintessential late-’70s Hornby: strong HST Class 253 material, BR blue across 37/47/29/25/08, and an evergreen steam cast. It’s also one of the first catalogues where Inter-City branding and Railfreight coding start to feel “normal” in OO.
Range themes. The official publication entry lists 9 train sets, 16 steam + 9 diesel/electric locomotives, plus one HST pack—and well-stocked coach/wagon pages for full-period formations. The set menu includes B.R. High Speed Train, Inter-City, LMS Express Passenger, LNER Heavy Goods and more.
Notable models. Alongside A3 4472, A4 “Mallard”, 9F, Hall, this is a good year for diesel collectors seeking R.073/75 Class 47 and R.751 Class 37 entries, plus Western hydraulic (R.352 Class 52) still present.
Scenic & accessories. Full rake options (RMB, CR/CR Mk1s, tanks, minerals) are documented, making 1979 reliable for coach code verification and matching sets to their correct liveries.
Why 1979 Still Resonates with Collectors
It captures the HST mainstreaming moment while maintaining high-appeal steam. The catalogue’s roster tables are frequently used to validate late-’70s Hornby variants.