I popped into my local model railway shop today, hoping to lay my hands on a couple of Bachmann coaches. I specifically wanted the Mk1 BSK and BCK in blood and custard livery. Although the shop had a CK and a BG in crimson, they had no blood and custard coaches at all. The proprietor informed me that the blood and custard Mk1s are becoming more and more difficult to get hold of.
Now, I have noticed a problem with other Bachmann coaches before. I am particularly interested in the LMS panelled stock, but only the "parcel van" (actually a full brake) seems to be readily available. I have an order for these coaches with one online stockist that has been outstanding for over a month.
I can understand the older LMS panelled stock being in short supply, but it seems odd that the Bachmann Mk1s should also be difficult to get. Or is it simply the blood and custard stock that presents a problem? My local shop proprietor claimed that blood and custard is an unpopular livery.
I don't really have a problem with repainting. Repainting models could allow me to have stock with faded paint, which would provide a nice contrast to other coaches in the rake. However, I am rather concerned about the possibility of supply problems from Bachmann. IIRC, the blood and custard BSK was only released in 2003.
Any comments on this matter from the retailers on the group?
-- Enzo
I wear the cheese. It does not wear me.