2009 Toronto Christmas Train Show

[RobertInOntario]

I was there for the whole show. Saw Robert. Where were you, Tetters?
From the inside, it seemed a lot less crowded than other years. I suspect that some attractions were at the Whitby show which came on the same weekend this year. (Tetters: HobbyWorx is a Whitby guy, so he was probably there instead.)
In my occasional rambles, I didn't really see any layouts that called me back. There were probably a few that I should have looked at more closely. There seemed to be a lot more demos than usual; every club seemed to be doing some.
What worries me most is the scarcity of dealers selling a good range of new beginner's trains. I know there were a few hobby shops there, but my overwhelming impression was used stuff -- much of it well used. It may be good for the enthusiasts, but not for someone who wants to walk out with an early Christmas present. On Saturday, I spent more on coffee than trains. (It switched around on Sunday.)

Well, for the British enthusiast, I noticed an increased amount of Hornby's new "Railroad" line products -- these are ideal for both the newcomer and those on a budget because they have less detailing & cost less.

There were several new releases and these items are quite affordable and only slightly more basic, IMO. Both Tony Potter and Model Railway Imports were selling these.

Rob