Ho scale 611 in the 1950s

[NW Modeling List]

Jeff,

I’m no expert, but I surmise that in addition to the Spirit of Roanoke designation for the refurbished/restored 611, the actual black paint on the restored (excursion version) of the 611 was glossier than the paint on the engines while they were in service.  The available on-line videos of 611 certainly bear that out.   

The N&W did wash the J-class engines regularly, however, during the in-service period of the early-mid 1950s, and the railroad was especially proud of their J-Class engines.  So I’m not sure that the glossiness of the black paint really matters that much.  

If you really want to go for authenticity, a bit of “weathering” through careful application of grey/black powder could tone down the high gloss of the excursion version and might be less challenging than some judicious airbrushing of a clear matte finish that would likely reduce the high gloss.  (I wouldn’t be brave enough to attempt that on The Queen of Steam!)  

My J-class is No. 601, with a dull or matte black finish, and no Spirit of Roanoke decal or lettering.  I am lucky to also have the matching passenger car set from MTH.

Bill Demarest