Model Forum / General / Railroads / January 2005

Hi, All!

First some background before I get to my questions.  We downsized our home
three years ago going from a typical suburban three BR split to a smaller
condo.  My prized HO Railroad empire was a casualty; just not enough room in
the new home.   Just this past summer, though, we completed development of
our basement and I was able to convince my wife to cede to me enough space
for a 4' X 8' train table which is now occupied by the Lionel O27 layout
that I have secretly yearned for since I was ten years old.   I have three
Lionel locos and both freight and passenger rolling stock all of which gives
my grandchildren and I much pleasure.  I would like to aquire more to add
more variety to my operations, which leads to my question.

I have noted, through ads in "Classic Toy Trains", the products of the
Williams Electric Train Company.  They appear to me to be almoist exact (at
least externally) copies of existing and classic Lionel equipment but at
MUCH lower prices.  A Lionel F3 A-B-A set is listed at $900 in the 2004
catalog where as a similar appearing Williams F7 outfit is listed on their
web site at  $350!

I would appreciate comments from anyone who is familiar with the Williams
equipment as to the relative quality of their product.

Thanks,

Gerald Young,
Calgary, Alberta