First view of Kato 009 loco "Oscar"

"Oscar" is based on a prototype on the 610mm gauge Kato Railway Park.

Built in 2023, the real locomotive is inspired by the steam locomotives drawn by British illustrator, Roland Emmet, with hints of Hunslet thrown in. As a nod to the artist, a ship's steering wheel performs the role of the regulator.

The model will feature Bagley-type valve gear, giving it the potential to donate its chassis to other projects, 009 modellers being especially keen on this, hence Kato already supplying the Small England chassis without a body. The incredibly tiny size of the model will certainly make it useful.

No delivery dates are available, and the model seen appears to be a 3D-printed test piece, so we suspect that there will still be quite a wait.