While engaged in a typical year-end reverie, the above question began to gnaw at me. For reference purposes: my own system is an HO scale, late '30s, mostly steam operation. As I am probably older than the majority of subscribers to this group, I'm sure no one will be surprized to learn that I still use dc and run on code 100 rail. I don't dispute that dcc might allow greater operational possibilities or that smaller codes will appear more realistic. It's simply that at my age even to consider building a new railroad is an act of hubris. More importantly, it's unnecessary as I am getting tremendous pleasure from what I already have! In any event, the nostalgia I refer to is not dependent on such major features. It will usually make itself felt in more subtle ways. Permit me to focus on one such possible area --- the purchase of "new" equipment.
Three years ago, Rivarossi introduced a beautiful C&O 2-6-6-6 (Allegheny) locomotive. I am told that its mechanical reliability matches its appearrance. I had no desire to buy one. I could not justify such heavy power and the radii of my curves would make it look awkward. In 2003, at a local swap meet, I came across (most of) a Winton version of the same locomotive. I believe the Winton company stopped producing this kit over fifty years ago. It is crude! Put it next to the Rivarossi and it's hard to suppress a smile. Its trucks, pilot, trailing and tender are almost toylike. I bought it at once. Didn't even haggle a bit. My consists hadn't increased in tonnage to require greater power. My radii hadn't grown. I had an opportunity to possess something I wanted for over fifty years and I made the most of it! Nostalgia wins!!
For me the above is not an isolated instance. Over the last ten years I've obtained about two dozen steam locomotives that haven't been offered since the fifties. "Fallen Flag" firms like Varney, Mantua, English, Winton, etc. run on my rails. Of course nostalgia isn't limited to motive power. My Comet cars run well and, if you don't put them next to Westerfields, pass my muster.
I apologize if any reader has been bored by my ramblings. Please feel free to dismiss same as signs of approaching senility. OTOH, I wonder how many others of you receive a similar motivation from nostalgia. It doesn't have to be rooted in half century old memories. It might be something you saw last month or even a book you read last week. I'd be intereted to find out. I hope you all have a Happy New Year. Jerry