Key Model Imports EMC/EMD FT
All photos are copyright (c)2015 Erik C Lindgren for Key Model Imports
Produced 2014 by FM Train Model of Korea
In this photo review I un-boxed a set of brand new Denver & Rio Grande Western A/B units in the last scheme they wore before trading in on new power. The Single Stripe paintwork was used famously until the very end of F unit service on the Grande on the Rio Grande Zephyr. The Key Model Imports pieces are very unique and spotlight the tremendous value found in producing low production run brass miniatures. Not just a paint scheme change but something as minute as a pipe assembly added at Burnham Shops in Denver to aid in cooling oil. Everything about this model is custom one off; not only the paintwork but the unique steam generator equipment detailed inside the model.
Dave Devita lives up to his legendary pursuit to the highest level of perfection possible in a production model with the FT’s and my D&RGW units here. These models like my E5’s and the fabulous legendary PA project are nearly a custom build; completely tailored to my request and needs.
This Key Model Imports FT project is something only done by Hallmark and OMI in 1:48 O scale brass and more recently in non-brass with Sunset’s wonderful plastic FT's. This locomotive deserved to be executed in fine hand crafted brass to 21st Century levels. Everything that is on each prototype is faithfully captured on these miniatures.
The Key Model Imports FT runs better than it looks; ball bearings everywhere and lights galore. This is an absolute treat to watch running like past releases from Key Model Imports. Furthermore, there is absolutely no substitute to real incandescent light bulbs used on miniatures. LED’s are too bright and have a strobe-like flicker that I can not wrap my brain around; I will argue with anyone the effect the real incandescent build has in miniature replicating a 1:1 incandescent bulb on the prototype. One word, as real as it gets.. .Stunning!
Key Model Imports set the bar and maintains it today with their most recent project the legendary FT from EMC/EMD.
I hope you enjoy the photos.
Prototype photo courtesy (c) Don Strack collection
Photo courtesy: (c) Walter Zullig, Jr. (Morning Sun Books)
