It is probably the same question in all scales, do you go for your favourite prototype or something more generic? Certainly in 16mm there are those who model locos, rolling stock and buildings to faithfully represent the Ffestiniog or the Corris, and others who prefer a freelance representation, which lets them go where their fancy leads. Perhaps this is a narrow-gauge thing, as standard-gauge modellers (unless my guess-the-prototype skills are even worse than I would admit) tend to run items that represent particular types of pre- or post-Grouping trains.

 

For suppliers the problem can be more acute, as financial success depends on getting the balance right between those potential customers who count rivets and those who deny their very existence. My favourite engine builder, Roundhouse Engineering of Doncaster, seems to alternate their new offerings between an accurate portrayal of perhaps a Mountaineer or a Leek and Manifold, and a more liberal interpretation of a typical side- or saddle-tank, influenced by many full-size locos but a model of no particular prototype. That way presumably they hope to find favour with modellers at all points of the spectrum. No doubt that is also why the size of their locos is often pitched between the 1:19 of 32mm gauge and the 1:22 or thereabouts of 45mm, to do business with both camps.

 

And even with a specific model, complete with accurate valve gear and precision-built boiler, and resplendent in the exact shade of off-gamboge worn by its 100cm-to-the-metre big brother between April and August 1933, there is no guarantee it will be used to pull the correct stock. Whilst I have a rake of Darjeeling tea wagons (complete with scratch-built tea-chests containing real Indian tea, I am not ashamed to say) it is just as likely that my Class B will be seen hauling a set of Isle of Man or Penrhyn coaches. It’s mine, so I can, and most probably will.

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