Kato SD40 and Atlas SD35 modeling to sell

[6axlepwr]

OK, I need to generate some cash.

I have three underoated Kato SD40's and one undec Atlas SD35. My plan is to custom detail them and custom paint. The finished product would be DCC equipped. So what road should I build them in that would sell?

I was thinking of the following:

My first choice because I have all the detail parts neccessary.
SD40's in Western Maryland. I have the special box that goes behind the cab on the left side almost completed and ready to cast.
SD35 in Western Mayland as well.

Second choice.
One SD40 in CNJ Red Baron
Two SD40's in ATSF yelow/ blue book end scheme

I also have an undec Kato SD45 that I was thinking of doing as a Conrail unit ex READING with the extended cab face. Focusing on the SD40's and SD35 right now though.

So folks, input on what would sell better or a road that I did not put up there, what would be a sure sale. Target price for the models and work is $400.00 each.

Brian

[spookshow]

At last, a chance for all of the "I know what roadnames will sell better than do the manufacturers" guys to chime in! I can't wait to see the results 

[davefoxx]

Target price for the models and work is $400.00 each.

Brian,

No offense, but even if you're work is absolutely museum-quality, I don't think you're going to find many buyers at $400.00 each.  That seems way too steep to me.  I think you may find that there's not a lot of profit in custom detailing and paint.

DFF

[Smike]

At last, a chance for all of the "I know what roadnames will sell better than do the manufacturers" guys to chime in! I can't wait to see the results 

But the difference is he only needs to find 1 or a couple of buyers, vs finding 1000 + buyers for a large run.

My vote is the WM in heritage scheme. These one off types are more desirable then a run of the mill paint schemes when it's a specialty item like you want to do. Take advantage of all the recent hype with heritage stuff as of late.

http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=403118&nseq=4

[6axlepwr]

Yep, that is exactly the paint scheme I was planning.

Brian

[6axlepwr]

I am not looking for a debate on what roads sell the best. Just some ideas of roads that Kato did not produce that might sell well. So it might be nice to ask of the roads Kato did not produce, what might be good sellers. I am thinking oddball stuff.

Another that comes to mind is SOO Line. Kato did not produce ANY non-DB SD40's. A trio of SOO units might look nice.

Think I will put away the SD35 and build up the SD40's. I have a few more more to put out as other roads.

You might be right, $400 might be asking a bit much. Although maybe not. My HO stuff was selling for $1000+. Granted a lot more went into them. A bit will go into the N-scale models as well along with a first rate crisp paint and decal job and finishing.

Brian

[davidgray1974]

I do like the Western Maryland idea, but how about L&N?  I believe Atlas is the only one that has done an SD35 and 40 for the L&N. 
http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=1752411

[davefoxx]

My HO stuff was selling for $1000+.

WOW!  Nevermind what I said before!  Holy moly!  I'm impressed.

[spookshow]

I am not looking for a debate on what roads sell the best.

No doubt, I just figured it would turn into that anyway 

Cheers,
-Mark

[Dave Schneider]

Rather than trying guess what paint scheme will sell, why not offer your services to custom build and paint to spec? Impress folks with your skills on your HO models, and find the person who is willing to pay your going rate. Those folks are out there, but it is hard to know what road they want to purchase.

Best wishes, Dave

[sizemore]

I watch very well done custom painted/detailed WM SD40 units get put on eBay for $200 and go off for $200 with 0 bids. There just isnt a market willing to support that high of a cost. In relation to the SD-35, Atlas was kind enough to give us both Circus, and Speedscript. Typically go for $35 to $70 respectively.

The S.

[Alwyn Cutmore]

Hi Brian,

Are they up to your normal standards with all the proto mods. If that is the case you may just fall on your feet with someone. I know another professional modeller who gets that sort of cash from his normal clientele especially when they are fitted with flashing ditch lights and all that stuff as well as DCC. Good to hear that you are still modelling.

Regards

Al

[6axlepwr]

Hi Al,

Yes they will have all the usual details. Not just stock models painted. These will have plows, cut bars, grab irons, lift rings and the sort as well as that oiler box or whatever the heck that box is located behindthe cab on the left side.

Brian

[Sokramiketes]

Brian,

No offense, but even if you're work is absolutely museum-quality, I don't think you're going to find many buyers at $400.00 each.  That seems way too steep to me.  I think you may find that there's not a lot of profit in custom detailing and paint.

DFF

Normally I'd be right with you Dave, but Brian's work is an exception.  Check out www.6axlepwr.com sometime:

[Sokramiketes]

Almost forgot to vote... CGW ran three unit sets of SD40's.