■ GAUGE‘OO’ ■ MODELCavalex Models CM60010DBS BR/Brush Class 60 60010 DB Schenker red ■ PRICE£194.95 (DCC-ready) £294.95 (DCC sound-fitted) ■ AVAILABILITYCavalex stockistswww.cavalexmodels.com

I t’s been two years since Cavalex Models revealed the subject of its second ‘OO’ locomotive project and, following the huge success of the Class 56, we have been expecting great things from the ‘60’.

With a well-regarded model still in Hornby’s range, and with a new version to come from Accurascale, the market for 4mm scale Class 60s is becoming a little crowded. That said, the enduring popularity of the real Type 5s and the huge variety of potential liveries makes for a more viable project. Indeed, there’s a palpable appetite for high-fidelity replicas which provide greater prototype accuracy and heightened levels of innovation.

Cavalex’s first production run has been split into two instalments, with most of the first deliveries consisting of locomotives in their post-refurbishment ‘Super 60’ condition and boasting more up-to-date liveries. Our sample, DB Schenker red 60010, is a prime example. The second raft of models will cater more for the pre-refurbishment era, including a suite of BR Railfreight sector schemes.

IMPRESSIVE PACKAGE

I’m a bit of a nerd when it comes to packaging, and this model could win an award purely based on how the customer feels when opening the generous, foam-lined box. There’s no plastic inner clamshell obscuring the locomotive. Instead, it’s mounted on a tough, stylishly branded plastic transit cradle which not only offers superior protection but presents the model in all its glory. Talk about great first impressions!