I know there are many folks who model specific lines for personal reasons. I do not have a particular affinity for any specific railroad. I enjoy having electric locos, steamers and diesels equally. I am more apt to purchase a new train for style, looks or color over all other concerns. In fact, unless I read some detracting information about a piece, I usually don't have any concerns.
I enjoy having many different color schemes on my layouts. Perhaps the lack of towns and scenery have lead me to this. To me and for me, I just thoroughly enjoy looking at the trains. I am not one for reality, or number of rivets, and I do consider all of my trains as toys.
I mix tinplate with steamers and diesels, aluminum and abs cars, and passenger and freight trains. I usually try to buy freight cars in multiples, to have a consistent consist. And, I don't care if all the freight cars have the same number. Again, to me they're toys, and it's an overall look I am trying to achieve.
So these are my reasons for buying what I buy, what are yours?
Bob S.