Norman Rockwell Z Scale Layout- Help!!

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
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A friend of mine recently found a small Norman Rockwell themed winter z scale layout while cleaning out a garage. The layout had a working waterfall, lighted buildings etc. I am not sure how old it is but am guessing it’s from the 90’s. There were only 2500 made as the plaque describes on the bottom of the layout. I would like to get it working again as it needs some electical work but it is missing many of the buildings. If anyone has any information on this I would greatly appreciate it. (where to buy the missing buildings etc)

Note: The front plaque reads- “Inspired by the artwork of Norman Rockwell from the Saturday Evening Post. Home for the holidays limited edition collectors train set”

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Sounds interesting. I like Norman Rockwells work, can imagine what the little layout looks like. Could it be built into a coffee table?

Is there any indication of who made or distributed the layout?

I’m not a big fan of google - too many answers - but it may be your best hope. I suppose you could keep an eye on eBay also.

Good luck,

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Hi JamesConRail!!

I think I have some info for you!! I believe you have the “Home for the Holidays” z-scale trainset produced by Marklin (famous Z-scale German manufacturer) and The Franklin Mint. Yes, the plaque reads “Inspired by the artwork of Norman Rockwell from the Saturday Evening Post”. As far as I know, these were made around 2004-ish?? (Really , not sure). It’s true they are not made by the Franklin Mint anymore.

I have this same set for myself that I purchased in an unopened box. I am missing pieces too. I have called the Franklin Mint to find out if replacement pieces are available, but I never found anyone who really knew. If you are missing some of the buildings, try going to the “Noch” website. “Noch” has alot of stuff and buildings in z-scale. Also, e-bay!! About a month ago someone was selling a ton of z-scale buildings!!

Hopes this helps and please respond!! CraigPR

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Hi

You can also get teh Walthers N & Z Scale catalog when it comes out {should be soon} to look for Z scale stuff that perhaps you can fit into the layout. It lists all they carry for N Scale and Z scale. You won’t find “Norman Rockwell style winter houses and buildings” in there, but you might find something you can use.

As far as electrical work, I woul d say if you know how to wire HO/N sacle, you can do the same to the Z scale layout to correct teh problems there. Should be a simple layout to wire I would think…biggest problem being finding a small power pack to hide in it?

I would make it into a coffee table layout also, if I had one and had the space.

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I suggest you point your browser over to Ztrak Magazine & Ztrak Center. Ztrak.com can be a good place to start.

I suggest you get the MTL/MRC 1300 modified controller. It limits voltage to 9volts or less. If you use 10or more runs the risk of burning motors.

MTL track uses most of the Marklin geometry if you need replacements. Curves are 195mm or 220mm.

There have been a lot of nice laser wood kits by MTL & other makers. Have fun with your little layout!

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I have a Franklin Mint “Home for the Holidays Z-Scale Limited Edition Train Set.” The layout is intact but I seem to have lost the cord to plug in the lights. Any suggestions on what type of replacement cord to use? The lights are super-tiny and I don’t want to blow them out with high voltage. Thanks for your help on this!