The return of TT 1:120 scale models

PECO paved the way for several manufacturer announcements after it revealed it was launching a new range of TT:120 scale products, starting off with streamline flexible track, medium radius turnouts, and a selection of building kits.

TT was an historic acronym for table-top and a scale designed to meet the demands of true scale modelling within space restrictions that many modellers encountered when building their layouts. The reintroduction of this 1:120 scale sees PECO factor in all the detail of larger scales, with the smaller scale assembly benefits of moderate spaces and scale. TT also provides an accurate scale-to-gauge ratio for British outline models compared to other commercially available scales on the UK market.

‘Gap in the market’

Managing director Ben Arnolds said:“I’ve always wanted us to offer a true 1:120/2.54mm scale 12mm gauge track and accessories to fill this gap in the market and bring back the true-to-scale format. As we have our own UK-based manufacturing operation, we are able to do this to the highest standards that we require and within a relatively short space of time.”

The first range of products were due to hit shelves imminently.

In the days following this announcement, Heljan followed up by announcing the first ready-torun British outline locomotive for the scale in the form of the BR Class 31 locomotive, with CAD work completed and the move to tooling expected soon.

Six different liveries were planned, with a DCC sound option for each. The models will be consistent in scale, unlike previous ready-to-run TT models that saw 1:100 scale bodies on 12mm gauge track, negating any need to convert models to finescale to achieve the correct look.

Prices for standard models have a SRP of £199.00, with delivery anticipated towards the end of 2023.

Heljan also confirmed it was looking at producing the Hunslet Austerity 0-6-0ST steam and BR Class 08 0-6-0 diesel locomotives as future models, with more information expected soon.