Arnold N-Scale Model Trains
Arnold, a Nuremberg company, was founded by Karl Arnold in 1906. Its product line included model trains, tin toys, model ships, doll house items and other toys.
During the early 1900's, the movement toward smaller model railroad scales began. It was during this time period that O scale model trains were introduced. HO and OO scales soon followed in the 1930's and the 1940's. The 1950's introduced TT or Table Top scale, which compared to N scale is a bit larger at a ratio of 1/120th the size of it real life prototype.
While N scale currently has greater popularity than TT scale, TT scale's popularity is growing. Considered a niche model railroading scale, TT is growing in popularity in East Germany, Eastern Europe, and the UK.
Today, N scale is the second most popular model railroad scale in the world. Although Arnold was not the sole developer of N scale, it was the forerunner for the new technology. Under the management of Hornby International, Arnold still produces quality locomotives and rolling stock.
Arnold History Timeline
* 1960 - 1962, Arnold marketed the Arnold Rapido 200 product * 1962 - Birth of N Scale * 1963 - 1967, Introduction of the Rapido Coupler, and the beginning of its widespread use in N-Scale * 1964 The term N Scale comes into use * 1968 - 1970, Introduction of Arnold turntable and roundhouse * 1995 and beyond - Arnold files for bankruptcy and is now under control of Hornby International of the UK
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