It's been a great week for showcasing the incredible variety – and quality – of pre-owned models that pass through our doors, proving that no matter what you’re into (at least when it come to trains…), we’ve probably got something that’ll fit the bill.

Perhaps most significantly, we’ve rolled out the red carpet for a visit from the top brass. But these visiting dignitaries don't require feeding or entertaining because they’re actually made from brass (every square inch of them) and are the finest collection of HO scale American models we’ve seen for some time. In mint condition, they’re dressed to thrill, with factory and custom finishes – and include steam and diesel locomotives alongside a wonderful array of freight and passenger stock. Quite simply stunning.

We’re always keen to champion the benefits of O Gauge modelling – specifically, how it can be enjoyed in a very small space and (nowadays) at a modest cost. A small engine, a few wagons and a spare metre or two can be all you need to get you going in the large-scale world, especially if you fancy an industrial scene. There’s a huge selection of excellent ready-to-run wagons out there, many of which come to us unused in pre-owned collections. This week, we’ve been raking them up into useful bundles for you to pick n’ mix…

...While Neil used a spare slot in his weathering schedule to grub up a Heljan Class 02. These fantastic little models are just a few inches long but with all the superb detail, smooth running and satisfying ‘chunkiness’ that O Gauge delivers. Could it be the perfect main course to go with your side-order of wagons? Check out New Arrivals for a closer look.

Neil’s also been tackling larger fayre this week, with an impressive upgrade to a Heljan class 25/1. These are now very rare on the pre-owned market, and with its new number, authentic grime-coat and top-spec sound file, it looked every inch the workaday 'Rat' that infiltrated almost every corner of the country throughout the '60s, '70s and '80s. It rolled onto the website at tea-time on Tuesday and had been snapped within an hour by its new owner. If you didn't know already, 5.30pm during the week (4.30 on Saturdays) is when the day’s new O Gauge listings go live. So if there’s something you’re looking for, set your alarm, and be sure to log on…

Finally, this week’s Curiosity Corner is inhabited by a beautiful O Scale metre gauge engine of Germany’s Hohenlimburger Kleinbahhn, with Bemo metre gauge wagons to match. Though its real-life home is a bit of a mouthful, the loco is anything but; its pint-sized stature is another perfect excuse for anyone tempted by large-scale modelling and something a little different. The HKB was a fascinating 3km industrial line to the south of Dortmund, with several spurs into factories that would provide the perfect muse for a spot of micro-layouting. And with the exquisite quality of these models, you really can't go wrong. They'll be up for sale on Thursday.

As it was Evan’s job to photograph and list these Euro-gems, we thought it only fair to fire up our shrink-ray and let him have a go at driving…

….And keen to get in on the act, Neil begged us to let him take the reins of the ‘25’ that he laboured so long and lovingly over; he seemed to have fun. There are definite perks to working at Ellis Clark Trains!

The only trouble is, we haven't yet invested in an expansion ray. So if you find either Evan or Neil inside your next purchase, please pop them in an envelope and send them back to Skipton!