LLS01. Aster Gauge 1 Live Steam GWR Collett 'Castle' 4-6-0 & Tender No. 5015 'Kingswear Castle'. In lined GWR green livery with 'Twin Cities' crest as used circa 1927 to 1934. This is a live steam model, factory built by Aster Hobbies of Japan, number 43 of a Limited Edition of 280 models (typically half were factory built and the other half released as kits). As can be seen from the photographs, it has never been steamed and has only been used as a display case model. However I have given it a light test on compressed air at 15psi in forward and reverse. The scale is 1:32 Gauge One (45mm) and overall length is 62.8cm (Loco and Tender) with a weight of 5.38Kg. The model is in brass and stainless steel with a copper boiler, spirit fired (Methyl Alcohol), and fitted with a host of features including - Walschaerts Valve Gear (Bore: 11mm x Stroke: 16mm), Safety valve, Pressure gauge, Water gauge, Blower valve, Regulator valve, Roscoe Displacement type lubricator and screw type reverser. See the photograph below of the full specification. The model comes with its original Aster box and all packing pieces, instruction manuals, display track, tools and accessories (unopened) and black and green touch-up paint (unopened). Note that the price when released by Aster in 2008/2009 was £4850. If the next owner plans to steam it then it is recommended that it should first be checked over by a live steam engineer as a safety precaution. Due to the value, insured shipping (UK and International) is by DHL only at cost price. The prototype loco was into service from Swindon Works in July 1932 to Cardiff Canton. It had a number of allocations across Great Western and BR(W) territory from Exeter and Plymouth Laira to Wolverhampton Stafford Road and Old Oak Common. However its last six months took it full circle to Cardiff East Dock from where it was withdrawn in April 1963. £4500.
