Atlas Reps Hit the Road

The “museum quality” layouts created by the members of California’s San Diego Model Railroad Museum recently drew two Atlas employees from their pressing duties in New Jersey to see for themselves what everyone’s raving about. They were not disappointed.

During a three-day visit, Marketing Department Coordinator Jarrett Haedrich and Atlas O Scale Specialist Steve Horvath were wowed by five elaborate layouts, especially an O Scale extravaganza made entirely with Atlas O 3-Rail track. The Atlas reps interacted with members who offered their product suggestions and feedback.

“We donated all the Atlas O track, and what they have done with it is gorgeous,” Jarrett said. “Sections of the layout are on timers and every so often, the lights dim. The 1950’s era town lights up at night, and the O layout includes an oil refinery, an airport, rural areas and more. We enjoyed meeting the members. They were a fun bunch of guys.” Jarrett and Steve came bearing gifts; a Santa Fe GP60M locomotive and a switch signal.

“Club members bring their own locomotives and rolling stock on the days they are scheduled to operate the layouts,” Steve added. “All their layouts are museum quality and as nice as I’ve ever seen anyplace in the United States in one location. In a museum, there are strict guidelines and one must meet certain standards. Every layout there was without a doubt the highest quality I’ve seen.” Members said they chose Atlas track for their O layout because of its scale, the appearance of the track and nature of the construction of the solid rail. They said it keeps the noise level down and the train operation smooth.

During the planning phase, members sent Atlas a proposed track plan for review and modification. Special requests, such as creating a specific length of track, were accommodated. Members keep Atlas supplied with photos of their efforts, which can be seen at http://www.sdmrm.org; also available via the Atlas website, under “Railroading Resources.”

The San Diego Model Railroad Museum’s 27,000 square feet makes it the largest indoor model display in the world, featuring O, HO and N Scale layouts. Open since 1982, the museum has seen some 3 million visitors. If you go, Jarrett reports that the area makes a fine destination for a fun-filled family experience, with sites such as the San Diego Zoo, an aerospace museum, and a sports hall of fame all within walking distance.