Thanks RR and SJ for the explanation. This is similar to the “’76” scheme used during our bicentennial. Both are well done in my opinion. Seems totally appropriate to me. Although, I don’t have a problem with the “billboard” cars that are being talked about in this thread. It’s just another way to use a “surface”. I don’t find them as “beautiful” as a scheme used to glorify the engine itself, think NYC Empire State J3A Hudson. BTW, American models have just produced a gorgeous version of this in “S”, check out the website. But I don’t find them “repulsive” either. Actually, I’m waiting for someone to figure out how to put video “movies” onto busses and trains like they do on billboards and buildings in Tokyo and New York.
Then….i can’t wait to see how us modelers reproduce THAT on our layouts. Little N gauge trains with little moving ads on their sides. Using flexible LED screens laminated to the sides of the passenger cars? I’m gonna need stronger glasses!
This discussion is a little like comparing postmodern architecture with the “real thing”; i.e. a REAL colonial house or a REAL modern structure like the “Seagram building”. I like Philip Johnson’s ATT tower just fine, I think it adds to the skyline. BUT, I LOVE Dulles airport, Mies’ high-rises, and Christopher Wrens’ work. Have no use for 95% of the homes built in this country that all look alike from the rear.
Have fun guys,
Ted