Product Features and Details
Set Includes:
HN2545S Steam Locomotive
HN4488 Passenger Set
HN4489 Passenger Set
Locomotive Highlights: Just like all Arnold steam locomotives, the 141R is meticulously crafted with an array of striking cosmetic details. These include a flawless, high-quality paint finish, crisply applied lettering, windows that are seamlessly inset, brake shoes artfully positioned between the wheels, and intricate interior features within the driver's cab. When it comes to N Gauge locomotives, Arnold consistently stands out as a top-tier choice in the market.
This particular model boasts a fully functional and finely detailed Heusinger valve gear, as well as a prototypical "daylight" gap between the boiler and chassis. The locomotives are equipped with robust motors featuring a flywheel and high-quality gears, ensuring the model's operation is both smooth and performance excellence is maintained.
Notably, this model is also outfitted with a Next18 DCC sound decoder and authentic headlights on both the locomotive and tender, with lights that synchronize seamlessly with the direction of travel.
Here are some of the standout features that make this locomotive a true gem:
- Powerful Motor with Flywheel: The locomotive is driven by a potent motor complemented by a flywheel, guaranteeing reliable and consistent performance.
- Maintenance-Free LEDs: Illumination is provided by maintenance-free LEDs, ensuring enduring and efficient lighting.
- Next18 DCC Sound Decoder: The incorporation of a Next18 DCC sound decoder enriches the model's auditory experience, bringing the locomotive to life with realistic sound effects.
- Directional Lighting: The locomotive is equipped with directional lighting, providing not only a functional purpose but also enhancing the model's realism and visual appeal.
Passenger Cars Highlights:
Step back into the golden age of European luxury rail with the Arnolds “Étoile du Nord” coach set. Cars consist that authentically recreates one of the most iconic Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits (CIWL) expresses of the interwar period. Perfect for N-scale enthusiasts and collectors alike, this ensemble embodies the refinement, detail, and historical accuracy that define Arnold craftsmanship.
The Étoile du Nord (Star of the North) was a premier daylight express launched in 1927, linking Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam. Operated by CIWL, it symbolized continental elegance during Epoch II (1920-1945) with its polished Pullman coaches, fine dining service, and Art Deco interiors. Arnold’s HN-4488 and HN-4489 sets capture this spirit, offering modellers the opportunity to bring a full luxury consist to life in 1:160 scale.
Passenger Car Highlights:
- Includes three coaches faithfully finished in CIWL livery.
- Rich paint and printing, with prototypical logos and lettering.
- Interior detailing visible through windows for added realism.
- NEM couplers and finely engineered bogies for smooth, reliable running.
- Matching three coaches that complete the full train formation.
- Composition: 1 × DD3 coach, 1 × VPC “Flèche d’Or,” 1 × VP “Étoile du Nord.”
- Interior fittings included, enhancing display and operational authenticity.
- Length over buffers: approx. 416 mm (for the set).
Historical Inspiration
The “Étoile du Nord” Orient Express
The “Étoile du Nord” (Star of the North) was one of the most distinguished luxury trains connected with the Orient Express family of services. Running between Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam, it became a shining example of refined international rail travel in the early 20th century.
Inception: Introduced in 1927 by the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits (CIWL), the “Étoile du Nord” was conceived as a premier express service linking France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. It quickly gained a reputation as one of Europe’s most elegant daytime expresses.
Luxury and Prestige: Like its sister services, the “Étoile du Nord” was celebrated for its refinement. Passengers traveled in luxurious Pullman cars, featuring plush seating, polished wood paneling, and attentive service. Fine dining, crafted by the famous CIWL kitchens, elevated the journey into a social experience rather than mere transportation.
Route and Significance: The train connected Paris Gare du Nord with Amsterdam, passing through Brussels. This route not only linked three European capitals but also became a crucial artery for diplomats, business leaders, and wealthy travelers who demanded speed and comfort without compromising style.
Design and Elegance: With interiors reflecting the Art Deco movement, the train embodied modernity while preserving classical luxury. The Pullman cars glowed with soft lighting, rich fabrics, and CIWL’s hallmark attention to detail.
Notable Passengers: The “Étoile du Nord” was frequented by statesmen, aristocrats, and members of Europe’s high society. It became the preferred route for travelers shuttling between Paris and the Low Countries, adding to its reputation as the “Northern Star” of luxury rail.
Legacy and Transformation: After World War II, the service resumed but gradually evolved with the times. As high-speed rail and air travel reshaped European journeys, the train’s original grandeur faded. By the late 20th century, the “Étoile du Nord” was absorbed into modern services, with the name continuing for a time on high-quality international trains.
Today, while the original “Étoile du Nord” no longer runs in its classic form, it remains a symbol of Europe’s golden age of rail travel—a reminder of when crossing borders by train was an event marked by luxury, elegance, and timeless style.
