Even though the fifty-three year old Roland from Meerbusch (Dusseldorf) calls himself a newcomer, the fascination with model railroads has been in his life for a long time. In late 2020, he stumbled upon an advertisement offering an existing scale N model railroad. This was purchased with the idea of further finishing and upgrading. Two months later, Roland realized that a new layout of his own was the best option.
Thus, in early 2021, a substantial scale N layout was created in a number of separate modules. In the form of an L layout with a total length of more den 9 meters. Built up in separate modules. Where the cabling can be easily detached.
“During that time, I learned a lot and made even more mistakes.”
Four months later, the first module was ready. Corona provided a lot of free time. “In that time I learned a lot and made even more mistakes,” Roland says, “but I am satisfied with the result.” Photos of the model railroad show a lot of attention to small details. Like a hobbyist who passionately refurbishes his Volkswagen T2 van or a carelessly left behind bicycle at a shack.
For Roland, there is still room for more details and work can continue on the next modules. This is definitely where the element of water comes in again. “My wife would like that,” he says, laughing. He is therefore most proud of the small port. The idea became a reality with the help of Dennis from N Bahn Spezial, who provides custom 3D printed models. Such as the concrete slabs and quay walls for the harbor. The detailing of the small harbor lives on throughout the layout.
In the landscape, no improper Swiss mountain peaks, but a lowland. “I really like being in Friesland and also on the Dutch side,” Roland explains, “so it has to be a rural landscape with a smaller industrial part and smaller crafts like sawmill, farm with riding school or windmill.” All of this takes place in the era III – V.
Everything is controlled by a Digikeijs DR5000 and DR4018 switch decoder for the turnouts. It is driven with the Z21 app from Roco/Fleischmann. Occupancy detectors are not there yet, even though the wiring for them is already in place.
Currently, only diesel and steam locomotives run on the track. This is due to the simple fact that there is no overhead line yet. “That doesn’t work for me,” says Roland, “an electric locomotive has to run under the wire.”
A digital BR18 with sound and smoke is high on the wish list. Right now, Arnold’s BR41 steam locomotive with smoke and sound is the absolute parade horse. “There’s nothing more fun than driving this super-realistic N gauge locomotive,” he says. And even sold all his other steam locomotives.
Due to a physical limitation, soldering and especially digitizing locomotives is a major effort for Roland. The lighting of the model railroad is therefore a little behind schedule.
Personal contact is an important part of the hobby for him. That’s why Roland prefers to go to a physical store. Contacts via Instagram and Youtube are also being made in abundance. Roland is less pleased with the various forums, where there are often participants who know better than others.
That ties in nicely with his advice to all beginning and experienced model railroaders: “Make it easy on yourself. Make what you like and don’t let people who think they know better throw you off balance. It is a hobby and you can do what you want”.
Roland’s N Welt follow on Instagram: @Rolands_n_welt
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