Back in the 1970's I collected and restored original Lionel standard gauge sets, mostly 318's, 8's and 10's. I was raising three children at the time and did not have the cash for the larger engines and cars. I well remember replacing drive wheels with MEW repros, as well as cast headlights, whistles and cloth wiring. All my sets were in their original boxes and it was fun. Years later in the 1990's, the children were adults and gone their separate ways, and we had the means for me to start a new collection of MTH Tinplate Traditions and Lionel Classics reproductions. I started off with an MTH green state set with four cars, including the then new Maryland Solarium car and a Proto 1.0 381E. I then acquired an 072 oval with some Johnson rubber roadbed and a brand new Z4000, and the rest, as they say, is history!
I have a functional case of OCD and I like my new "old" trains shiny and bright with NO scratches. I have no switches on my layouts and that makes it easier on wheels and flanges. Even after running for hours, my trains are like new and are carefully handled by me and my spouse. I prefer traditional locos with modern BAL motors and have several 408E's and 400E's as well as a Lionel Classics 2-390E. The luster and bright colors of these marvelous repros are a sight to behold. I have one Proto 2.0 400E Blue Comet but the rest of my SG engines are traditional motor-equipped. My Lionel Classics 2-400E and the 2-390E both have those wonderful diecast motor driven whistles and those are truly melodious sounds.
I certainly can appreciate originals, but could never afford them in the like-new condition my OCD requires! For me, "patina" is high-gloss paint, whether apple green, Blue Comet blue or state green! I should mention that my OCD has literally helped keep me alive on hemodialysis over the past 12 years as being proactive in my care is absolutely essential as well as paying attention to details of diet, chemistry and fluid restrictions. Long term hemodialysis is NOT for the faint of heart and requires constant vigilance!
My trains, like many of yours, are a soothing respite from often harsh reality - Carpe diem!
