About Us
Minerva Model Railways launched in the spring of 2015 with its acclaimed 0 gauge RTR Peckett E Class 0-4-0 saddle-tank locomotive. The company was formed by Chris Basten and the late Chris Klein, both experienced businessmen and model railway enthusiasts, who were frustrated with the long delays between announcements of new models and subsequent delivery. With the loss of Chris K, Chris B’s son has now become a director, and acts as a steadying influence on his father!!
What’s different about Minerva?
We committed 7mm scale modellers – we know our business
Our models are only available from Minerva directly or a very few selected added-value suppliers. In this way, we can be sure of customer satisfaction, and you know that we care about you.
Each locomotive is checked and run before delivery
We deliver in a reasonable time
We do not over-promise
The realisation
Since launch, we have delivered models of the Peckett E class, Victory side tank, 3 varieties of the Great Western 57XX/8750 pannier tank locomotive, Iron Minks, Gunpowder Vans,a modified Mink, and the latest, a GW Open A 5 plank wagon on time, sometimes within 3 months of announcement. Our fourth loco, the Manning Wardle K class was again delivered on time All this shows that it is possible to produce accurate models without waiting for years. Unfortunately, the Class 14 was delayed by many issues, mainly Covid related and took far longer than expected. However, things are returning to normal, and we are looking to produce our latest locomotive, the GW 56xx, within a 15 month time span.
The future
We intend to produce at least one new 7mm scale model locomotive each year, together with rolling stock that will have universal appeal. This will continue to be combined with brilliant customer service, outstanding quality, competitive prices and attention to detail.