Tuesday, January 31, 2023
2023 Toyfair New Items Highlights NEWSLETTER #1 - Marklin/Trix and LGB
As during Covid, the factories held on-line meetings with their export countries as an alternative to in-person new item presentations. Fortunately, this theme has continued for dealers in North America. The number of factories attending the re-opening of the Toyfair in Nurnberg, is at its lowest point in the history of the Toyfair. As with most industries in the world, they have continuing challenges with material procurements and the ever-rising costs associated with that process. Even with these severe challenges, the Marklin company has announced another exciting program for 2023 with several brand new tooling pieces as well as new technical achievements. This newsletter will offer an overview of what many of those highlights are.
As in the past, we will cover Marklin highlights by scale and in HO, the equivalent DC model from Trix at the same time.
View New Items in our catalog pages: Marklin 2023 New Items TRIX 2023 New Items LGB 2023 New Items
Marklin MHI Highlights
MHI – Marklin continues to bring back Classic Models from the sixties and this year we have the famous NS Class 1100 Electric locomotive, stock # 30130 updated with a digital MFX decoder and a 4 piece Tin-plate Rheingold TEE Car Passenger set, stock # 40851. One coach includes built-in marker lights. These are always a popular and limited model as some collectors may have missed out on a model in their youth and now have the opportunity to add a pristine new model into their collections.
MHI – Marklin DB-AG Weathered 103 Electric locomotive, stock # 39152 is pulling a classic Inter-Regio Passenger set which is all brand-New Tooling! All coaches come with built-in LED lighting and buffer capacitor as well as correct multi-color interiors. The stock #’s are 43900, 43901 and 43902. Even the bicycle rack has been modelled in the bicycle compartment of the 43901 set.
MHI – Insider Club Models – The class 01.10 older version Steam Locomotive, stock #39760 was announced in late 2022. As with all Insider Models, this is again completely new tooling. The first thing one notices is the super heater in the front of the boiler and the flattened smoke box door offering this locomotive a very distinct and impressive appearance. This locomotive will come with the ever popular Dynamic Smoke capabilities as well. The Trix version can be found out stock # T25011. Of course, to go with this locomotive, one needs an equally impressive coach set. Marklin offers again new tooling in a 6 Piece standard design Express Passenger set including DSG Restaurant coach and baggage car with LED marker lights. All coaches come with multi-color interiors, LED Lighting with buffer capacitors and of course electrical conducting couplers. You can find this under stock # 42529 and the Trix version under T23629. Order deadline for each version set is February 28th. Please complete your Insider application and submit with your on-line orders.
Lastly, the MHI is celebrating its 30th Anniversary and so Marklin decided to do their Cl 44 w/Tub Tender as a one-time 30 Year Insider Model available to all Club Members for ordering. This is a first for the Cl 44 in this version. It will come with numerous technical and digital features including new smoke box door and central lock. You can order this Insider model under stock # 39745 and in Trix under stock # T25745. Order deadline for each version set is April 30th. Please complete your Insider application and submit with your on-line orders.
My World Highlights
Marklin is offering 2 new starter sets that will come with USB Battery chargers! The first is an Audi Transport set # 29347 and an extension loading set # 44347 and an additional sliding wall boxcar # 44145. The other well-known name is the Glacier Express under stock # 29348. Young children can have endless play value with these sets with lots of expansion possibilities. This gives your children their own trains to play with leaving Dad’s trains safe and secure.
Marklin Start-Up Highlight
Most people are quite familiar with the HARIBO Co., famous for its chewable gummy bears. Marklin has now introduced a Starter Set stock # 29132 and an additional add-on car stock # 44251. This is an ideal set for children 6 and older.
Marklin HO Highlights
Locomotives
- Stock # 37176 is the Class V100.20 Diesel Locomotive. This is the first version to come with Digital Electrical Uncoupling. Now you can provide not only uncoupling features but as well power the lighting in your coaches found in stock #’s 43175 and 43186. No longer are pick up shoes required on a pre-lit coach.
- Stock # 39853 is the Class ET 85 Powered Railcar. This is again completely New Tooling in both railcars! The model is made of metal with a multi-color pre-lit interior. As well, highly detailed pantographs and functional rear marker lights at both ends. This is also being offered in the Trix program under stock # T25853.
- Stock # 26616 Kof Shunting Train Set. The shunter comes with digital uncouplers; a Schuco Truck; a Presier Freight Figure Set and 2 Box Cars which have “Repair Patches” added onto the body panels. If you need a shed to park your Kof into, Marklin is offering a small locomotive laser cut shed under stock # 72178.
- Stock # 39200 CL 120 DR/GDR Diesel Locomotive is a completely New Tooling! These we’re nicknamed “Taiga Drum”. Body & Chassis are of course made of metal and the trucks are extensively detailed. Extensive digital sound functions including the original recording of this locomotive in operation. This is also being offered in the Trix program under stock # T25200.
- Stock # 39070 – DB Cargo CL 77 Diesel Locomotive – Though this locomotive has been offered in a number of different versions, it should be mentioned that DB Cargo as recent as 2021, painted some of these units in a red livery. Of course, this model will not only have its extensive lighting and sound functions, but now as well, “Dynamic Smoke”. This is also being offered in the Trix program under stock # T25300.
- Stock # 39290 – Vectron Class 249 Dual Power Locomotive – represents completely New Tooling! What is “Dual Power” you ask? This locomotive can either be run as an Electric Locomotive or as a Diesel-Powered Locomotive allowing it to travel in both Non-Catenary powered areas and Catenary powered areas. This model is completely made of metal with extensive sound and lighting functions including the Cab and Engine Room lighting. This model is also offered in the Trix program under stock # T25290.
- Stock # 39291 – Railsystems RP, Inc. Class 248 Dual Power Locomotive – represents completely New Tooling! What is “Dual Power” you ask? This locomotive can either be run as an Electric Locomotive or as a Diesel-Powered Locomotive allowing it to travel in both Non-Catenary powered areas and Catenary powered areas. This model is completely made of metal with extensive sound and lighting functions including the Cab and Engine Room lighting. In addition to the company logo on one bodyside, the other depicts 3 Marklin locomotives with one featuring the name Marklin on it. How cool is that! This model is also offered in the Trix program under stock # T25291.
- Stock # 39244 EST Class 13 French Express Steam Locomotive – Though the base model has had a number of different versions, this model comes with tooling changes to depict this very particular version. You will note the upper centre lamps and only the left side lower lamp depicting the EST locomotives. This model is also offered in the Trix program under stock # T25241. The absolute Highlight for this Locomotive will be the Passenger Coach set discussed under Passenger Cars. Do not miss this model. It will no doubt be one of the PREMIERE Collector Model in anyone’s Marklin Collection. They always sell out quickly so RESERVE YOURS NOW!
- Stock # 39281 Swedish Class Rc5 Electric Locomotive – A long time favorite has now been announced as a Complete New Tooling project. Locomotive is made completely of metal including a special alloy cast depicting the trucks. Numerous light and sound functions including cab lighting. This model is also offered in the Trix program under stock # T25281.
- Stock # 38440 Union Pacific type GE ES44AC Diesel Locomotive – Finally a new American Diesel! These come with Factory Installed Dynamic Smoke as well as extensive lighting and signalling functions. This particular version has the US Flag waving on body side. It’s important to note that these locomotives can either run the NEM Marlin Close Couplers or Kadee couplers by mounting fixed shim plates included in the packaging. This model is also offered in the Trix program under stock # T25440.
- Stock # 38441 Union Pacific type GE ES44AC Diesel Locomotive – Finally a new American Diesel! These come with Factory Installed Dynamic Smoke as well as extensive lighting and signalling functions. This particular version has the UNION PACIFIC on body side. It’s important to note that these locomotives can either run the NEM Marlin Close Couplers or Kadee couplers by mounting fixed shim plates included in the packaging. This model is also offered in the Trix program under stock # T25441.
- Stock # 38xxx – Marklin announced that a North American Exclusive Series of the type GE ES44AC Diesel Locomotive will be produced. The first in the series will be the KCR or Kansas City Southern Railway. These will only be available in North America for purchase. More details to follow!
- Stock # 39322 – Annual Toyfair Locomotive – DB class 232 Diesel Locomotive in a fictitious TEE colour scheme. Though this color did not exist for this Diesel, it looks pretty sharp. The locomotive is well known by now, featuring all metal chassis & body, operational ventilation fans, numerous lighting and sound functions.
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Passenger Cars
- Stock # 42470 - EDELWEISS PARLOR CAR EXPRESS – This absolutely stunning set represents all New Tooling for each individual car and is ideally matched to the Cl 13 Steam Locomotive #39244. Each interior is specific to the coach with multi-colored interiors. LED lighting w/buffer capacitors throughout as well as separate table lamp lighting. Each car has electrical conducting couplers. The baggage coach has prototypical marker lighting. This model is also offered in the Trix program under stock # T26470. Do not miss this model. It will no doubt be one of the PREMIERE Collector Model in anyone’s Marklin Collection. They always sell out quickly so RESERVE YOURS NOW!
Freight Cars
- Stock # 46662 – 4 Piece Freight Car set which contains 2 type Rms/Rmrs 31 Stake cars which are new tooling projects. . . Stock # 48820 Type G10 Boxcar – this is the first time with an economy Brakeman’s Cab and comes with sliding doors. These complement the new BR 94 Stock # 38940 very nicely. You can also find this locomotive in the Trix program under stock # T25940.
- Stock # 46538 is a 5 Piece DR 4 Axle “Weathered” Tank Car set, the ideal set to be pulled by the new 39200/T25200. If you would like to make a 10 Piece Unit Train you can expand this by adding Trix Stock # T24145. In either case, the wheels can be changed to either AC or DC depending on your system.
- Stock # 45042 – DR/DDR Circus Busch 2 Piece Freight Car Set. This continues on with the previous years Busch Circus cars (45040 and 45041) but now are offering the 2 Stake Cars as New Tooling. Each car with different loads and rotating stakes.
- Stock # 45665 – U.P 12 Piece Hopper Car Set w/Real Coal Inserts! This is the perfect pairing for the new 38440/38441 locomotives. These represent completely New Tooling and will come individually packaged within the case. It’s important to note that these cars can either run the NEM Marlin Close Couplers or Kadee Knuckle couplers by mounting fixed shim plates included in the packaging. The 12-piece set is not offered in the Trix program but a 6-piece set under stock # T24903 is. Its simply a matter of choosing which system you would like to run a complete 18 piece Hopper Car Set that no doubt will look very impressive.
- Stock # 48123 – 2023 HO Museum Car Set – These are meant to be sold to Museum Visitors only, but once a year, North America is blessed with a one-time order of these cars from the factory. Make sure you get your orders in early to avoid disappointment of a sell out.
Digital
- Stock # 60667 – Wireless Mobile Station (WLAN) – Finally, a Marklin wireless control unit in the form of the Mobile Station. A couple of different operation scenarios are possible. First one can use it with their CS2 or CS3 as long as an existing WLAN connection has been set up and have access to the full 5 amps of the CS. Using the 60667 on its own, you need the 60117 WLAN Receiver Box and it is connected to the 60114 or 60116 track connection box. On its own, one gets the usual 2 amps of power supply. Up to 4 of these wireless 60667 units can be connected to one 60117 Receiver Box. From what we have observed on Marklin’s YouTube channel, there is also the possibility for auto rotation of your screen so that you can run your locomotive in a portrait setting vs. the landscape setting. So, its not a completely revised piece of tooling nor is it a color screen, but is an economical step in the right direction for both the factory and the consumer.
Marklin Z Highlights
Locomotives
- The MHI is celebrating its 30th Anniversary and so Marklin decided to do their Cl 44 with an Oil Tender as a one-time 30 Year Insider Model available to all Club Members for ordering. You can order this Insider model under stock # 88975. A Laser cut building kit of the base storage unit at the factor is also included. Order deadline for each version set is April 30th. Please complete your Insider application and submit with your on-line orders.
- The MHI Insider Model is Stock # 88250 – is the Class ETA Rechargeable Battery Powered Rail with Class ESA 150 Control Car. This Railcar set is Completely New Tooling. Both railcars have metal chassis and highly detailed bodies and interiors. There is LED Cab lighting and interior passenger lighting along with LED marker lights changing with direction of travel. Order deadline for each version set is April 30th. Please complete your Insider application and submit with your on-line orders.
- Stock # 88651 – DB Class V60 Diesel Hydraulic Locomotive. This is again Complete New Tooling. The frame and body are constructed of metal; interior cab details; working jackshaft; separately applied brakes and grab irons. Roof equipment is finely detailed. Motor is a bell-shaped armature.
- Stock # 88026 – DB Class Klv Small Volkswagen Van. Although this is not new tooling, this was an extremely popular model when first released in red. These run extremely well and have a nice weight to them with the metal injected plastic body shell. Now its featured in blue with a black roof rack. The previous version sold in great numbers and sold it very quickly as well. If you missed the first version, be sure to not miss this one and place your orders shortly.
- Stock # 88085 – DB E19 Electric (Museum) Locomotive – Though not new tooling, this model is the continuation of the Museum Series of locomotives. It will come with a bell-shaped armature, LED lighting and in a wooden display box. This locomotive is currently stationed at the DB Museum in Nurnberg.
- Stock # 88430 – DB Class 143 Electric Locomotive – this is the annual Toyfair Locomotive in a nice color scheme.
- Stock # 88597 – SBB Re 4/4II Electric Locomotive in BRONZE! This is the 6th edition in this Bronze series. The bodies are fine detailed and will come with refined special packaging in a black case depicting the value of these precious models. These are always very limited editions so reserve yours early.
Freight Cars
- Stock # 82228 – 4 Piece DB Heavy Duty Transport Car Set – Again this is not new tooling, but tanks in any scale are always a sought after item. These 4 axle flat cars are made of metal, however the tanks are made of plastic which allows for moveable turrets. For those that already have the single versions of the flat car, now you can your own tank loads by order the 3-piece set stock # 89025.
- Stock # 82640 – DB AG 3 Piece Container Transport Set – these cars are Complete New Tooling made of plastic impregnated with metal. There are 2 40’ containers and one 60’ container and one without containers.
- Stock # 80034 – 2023 Z Museum Car Set – These are meant to be sold to Museum Visitors only, but once a year, North America is blessed with a one-time order of these cars from the factory. Make sure you get your orders in early to avoid disappointment of a sell out.
Marklin 1 Gauge Highlights
Marklin’s modelling of High-End 1 Gauge models continues to grow at a fast pace with heavy new tooling investments every year. Quite astonishing in this current economic climate.
Locomotives
- Stock # 55167 – Royal Bavarian State Railroad class S2/6 Steam Locomotive in the very popular Blue Livery. This model is Completely New Tooling made of Highly Detailed Metal Construction. There are just far to many details to list, but this will of course come with Dynamic Smoke, cylinder smoke as well as whistle smoke. Several other servos to operate the valve gear switchover for forward, neutral and reverse, firebox latch opening to reveal multi color fire and even the fireman is turning while shovelling the coal! How cool is that! In addition, the coal load in the tender will also automatically lower while running the locomotive. Finally, a Telex coupler in the tender for uncoupling your cars.
- The very famous Wismar Railbus will become a reality this year with quite a range of models. These represent Completely New Tooling made of all metal and brass parts. Each axle has its own motor, the doors can be opened separately via separate servos. Interior detailing with full lighting, cab lighting and instrument lighting. You can find the various models and pick the one or all that meets your collector and railway needs. Stock # 55133; 55134; 55135; and finally 55136. This will be a fantastic edition to anyone’s collection.
- The Class 151 Heavy Duty Electric Locomotive is just one more example of Marklin’s incredible investment into the 1 Gauge market. These models are Complete “HIGH-Detailed” New Tooling’s constructed of die cast metal and cast brass parts. They offer operational Pantographs as well as Telex coupler on the rear and prototype coupler on the front. Even the Engineer Control Desk lights up. All 7 versions will be made starting with Stock # 55251; 55252; 55253; 55254; 55255; 55256; and finally # 55257.
Freight Cars
- Stock # 58010 – 2023 1 Museum Car – These are meant to be sold to Museum Visitors only, but once a year, North America is blessed with a one-time order of these cars from the factory. Make sure you get your orders in early to avoid disappointment of a sell out.
MINITRIX MHI Highlights
Locomotives
- Stock # T16085 – DB AG Class 101 Electric Locomotive – Insider Club Model – Featuring the Award Winning Silver Arrow. Locomotive is completely made of metal with numerous sound functions. Order deadline for each version set is February 28th. Please complete your Insider application and submit with your on-line orders
Passenger Cars
- Stock # T15160 – DB AG Metropolitan Car Set Part 1 - This Coach Set is Completely New tooling. The 5-Piece Coach Set comes with factory installed LED interior lighting. The Cab Control Coach where you can control headlights; interior lights; engineer’s cab lighting and long-distance lights. Order deadline for each version set is February 28th. Please complete your Insider application and submit with your on-line orders.
- Stock # T15161 – DB AG Metropolitan Car Set Part 2 - This Coach Set is Completely New tooling. The 2-Piece Coach set comes with factory installed LED interior lighting and is the ideal add-on to complete the Silver Arrow Metropolitan Train. Order deadline for each version set is February 28th. Please complete your Insider application and submit with your on-line orders.
Freight Cars
- Stock # T18271 – 4 Piece DB Dump Car Set – These cars are Completely New Tooling. They have 2 unloading hatches on each side with brakeman’s platform and close couplers. One car comes with imprinted marker taillights on the end.
Locomotives – Regular Program
- Stock # T16435 – DB Class 143 Electric Locomotive – this is the annual Toyfair Locomotive in a nice color scheme.
- Stock # T16831 – DB AG Vectron Electric Locomotive – Completely New Tooling – Body & Chassis are all diecast metal. The locomotive comes with numerous light functions as well as extensive sound functions.
- Stock # T16906 – DB AG CL 185 Electric locomotive – though not new tooling, this locomotive has been painted with the “Günni drives freight!” children’s play characters.
- Stock # T16832 – SBB Cargo Class 193 Electric Locomotive – Completely New Tooling - Body & Chassis are all diecast metal. The locomotive comes with numerous 4 pantographs; light functions as well as extensive sound functions.
Freight Cars – Regular Program
- Stock # T18291 – PKP - 6 Piece Set type Uacs 408S 4-Axle Silo Cars - Completely New Tooling – All cars with close coupling and of course separate road numbers. They will come in current Era VI paint scheme.
- Stock # T18292 – CSD - 6 Piece Set type Uacs 408S 4-Axle Silo Cars - Completely New Tooling – All cars with close coupling and of course separate road numbers. 3 Cars will be painted reddish brown and 3 cars in moss green car bodies.
- The MiniTrix Museum Car can be found under stock # T18223. Remember, there is only one opportunity given by the factory for North American dealers to receive these, so Reserve yours now to avoid disappointment.
Track System – Regular Program
The N Scale program has long awaited a track system reflecting the modern era with Concrete Ties so that all of the modern Electric Locomotives, Passenger and Freight cars can be prototypically modelled. Well, MiniTrix delivers a Completely New Tooling Program for this new track system adhering to the NEM standard Code 60 rail.
Its important to note that the R1 Radius will not be part of this program and will range from R2 through to R6. The track program itself is extensive with the exception of turnouts. At first there will only be a left and right R4 15-degree turnout. These will feature metal frogs with a built-in switch to automatically supply power whenever the turnout is changed. These turnouts will also require new solenoids as well and can be found under stock #’s T14534 and stock # T14535.
Marklin is to be Congratulated for its on-going extensive investment into the MiniTrix N Scale Market. Track tooling is very expensive and it takes many, many years to break-even with respect to tooling costs. Its important to note that the current wood-tie track system will be discontinued and eventually phased out, but have no fear as this will take many years before that happens.
TRIX HO
Most items have already been referenced in the Marklin discussion with reference to the corresponding Trix stock #. There are however some items that we’re not part of the Marklin program and only appear in Trix this year. As with the Marklin Insider Club, the Trix Insider Club has important ordering deadlines as well so do not miss them.
Locomotives
- Stock # T25100 – SBB Re 421 2-Piece Electric Locomotive Set. These are not new tooling but unique. One locomotive will come in the TEE crimson/beige color scheme and the other in the Rheingold cobalt blue/beige color scheme. Both locomotives are completely made of metal and offer extensive lighting and sound functions. Each will be individually packaged into a master package.
Freight Cars
- The Trix HO Museum Car can be found under stock # T24723. Remember, there is only one opportunity given by the factory for North American dealers to receive these, so Reserve yours now to avoid disappointment.
LGB Highlights
Quite an extensive program this year with several HIGHEND Locomotives being offered as well as several new tooling’s as well.
Locomotives
- Stock # LGB-26273 – For the last few years, LGB produces one “HIGH-END” Model, which means they are Extremely Limited and completely made of metal, often with brass parts added separately. This year’s model is the RhB “Rhätia” Class G3/4 Steam Locomotive. Not only is this a Finely-Detailed locomotive, but it has dynamic smoke and extensive sound functions. The dynamic smoke is not only out of the smoke stack, but the whistle at the vacuum brakes and of course cylinders. As in the past models, this will no doubt be a very impressive piece to add to one’s collection. These usually sell-out on the Toyfair so be sure to Reserve yours now!
- Two additional versions of the above HIGH-END model can be found under Stock # LGB-26274 and Stock # LGB-26275.
- Stock # LGB-26272 – The final HIGH-END Model to bring to your attention. Exclusive Metal Model of the Cogwheel HG 4/4 Steam Locomotive, Number 704, One-Time Edition. This locomotive has all the digital light, sound and Dynamic Smoke features as the previous models, but, this one is being released in an unpainted version so that one can enjoy all the metal highlights. Dealer allocation is one only, so do Reserve yours now before they sell out!
- Stock # LGB-23100 – RhB Capricorn World Record Holder Railcar – This is Completely New Tooling with two powerful motors; DCC/MFX Sound Decoder with extensive lighting functions including the Coat of Arms and Train Destination Signs. Pantographs can be raised and lowered digitally as well. Due to the size of packaging and shipping costs involved, the centre rail car is being offered separately.
- Stock # LGB-33150 - RhB Capricorn World Record Holder Intermediate Railcar – Completely New Tooling featuring fine detailing, interior details, interior lighting as well as lit destination sign.
- Stock # LGB-33100 - RhB Capricorn World Record Holder Intermediate Railcar – Completely New Tooling featuring fine detailing, interior details, interior lighting as well as lit destination sign.
- Stock # LGB-20493 – AMTRAK P42 Diesel Locomotive – Fitted with 2 powerful motors, MFX/DCC Sound Decoder with extensive functions.
- Stock # LGB-20494 – AMTRAK P42 Diesel Locomotive 50th Anniversary Model – Fitted with 2 powerful motors, MFX/DCC Sound Decoder with extensive functions. This model has the 50th Anniversary Logo in a striking Blue and Red Color scheme.
Passenger Cars
- For the 50th Anniversary AMTRAK Diesel Set, LGB is producing 6 appropriate Amfleet Passenger cars. Each come with Interior details and interior LED lighting. The Baggage car is found under stock # LGB-31201; Passenger cars Stock # LGB-31202; Stock # LGB-31203; Stock # LGB-31204; Café Car Stock # LGB-31205.
- For the RhB HIGHEND class G3/4 Steam Locomotives, 2 reissue Passenger cars are being offered to go with these locomotives. Stock # LGB-30341 and Stock # LGB-30342.
- Stock # LGB-36023 - 2023 Christmas Car
Freight Cars
- Stock # LGB-41023 – 2023 LGB Museum Car – “Pinzgau Local Railroad”. This car as depicted runs in real-life as well.
- Stock # LGB-42615 – 2023 LGB Club Car – RhB Construction Car – Unloading hatch can be opened and closed digitally. Order deadline for each version set is February 28th. Please complete your Insider application and submit with your on-line orders.
This concludes our summary of Marklin/Trix and LGB 2023 New Item Highlights. Many items are quite limited and several have strict order deadlines as in the Club models. As a special Thank You for placing your pre-orders with us, we will be offering additional bonus discounts depending on the value of the order. Some restrictions will apply.
- Orders cannot be combined with regular non-2023 New Items
- Orders for Marklin/Trix 2023 New items can be combined.
- Orders for LGB are separate.
- Discount levels will applied to CDN Orders >$1,500.00 > $2,500.00 and > $4,000.00 Canadian.
- Discount levels will be applied to USD Orders >$1,150.00 > $1,900.00 and > $3,100.00 US dollars.
- Note: Club Models will not apply.
- Discounts will be manually applied to your orders, once orders are submitted.