Hi, All!
First some background before I get to my questions. We downsized our home three years ago going from a typical suburban three BR split to a smaller condo. My prized HO Railroad empire was a casualty; just not enough room in the new home. Just this past summer, though, we completed development of our basement and I was able to convince my wife to cede to me enough space for a 4' X 8' train table which is now occupied by the Lionel O27 layout that I have secretly yearned for since I was ten years old. I have three Lionel locos and both freight and passenger rolling stock all of which gives my grandchildren and I much pleasure. I would like to aquire more to add more variety to my operations, which leads to my question.
I have noted, through ads in "Classic Toy Trains", the products of the Williams Electric Train Company. They appear to me to be almoist exact (at least externally) copies of existing and classic Lionel equipment but at MUCH lower prices. A Lionel F3 A-B-A set is listed at $900 in the 2004 catalog where as a similar appearing Williams F7 outfit is listed on their web site at $350!
I would appreciate comments from anyone who is familiar with the Williams equipment as to the relative quality of their product.
Thanks,
Gerald Young, Calgary, Alberta