Kato have just announced a newly tooled range of OO9 Narrow Gauge range models focused on the Sekisui Main Line - their very own real life railway based at their factory in Japan!
This range includes their custom-built and characterful Emeslett 0-4-0ST steam locomotive named "Oscar" and his accompanying open coach called "Rachel". Available alongside these is a fun diorama kit allowing you to recreate a small piece of the Sekisui line as well as a separate locomotive chassis which is sure to be popular with all of you OO9 kitbuilders!
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LOCO Product Features
Faithful model of OSCAR, the newly built steam locomotive operating on Japan's Sekisui Main Line.
Distinctive EMESLETT-class design, inspired by Rowland Emett's whimsical locomotives and Hunslet narrow-gauge steam engines.
Functional side rods recreate the characteristic movement of the locomotive's driving wheels.
Supplied with a dummy front coupler, Arnold coupler and PECO-style coupler with hook for operational flexibility.
PECO-style rear coupler fitted as standard, with a replacement Arnold coupler included.
Prototype Information
The Sekisui Main Line is a newly built narrow-gauge railway that opened in June 2024 and circles the KATO factory (also known as SEKISUI WORKS) in Saitama, Japan. The railway is a non-electrified single-track line approximately 630 metres in length and features a distinctive dual-gauge (three-rail) track system, allowing both 762 mm (2 ft 6 in) and 610 mm (2 ft) gauge rolling stock to operate on the same line.
A variety of rolling stock is preserved and operated on the railway, including the Emeslett OSCAR, Japan's newest steam locomotive. Oscar was built in Japan by the RASSCHIJIN Railway Society and completed in 2024. Its design draws inspiration from two highly distinctive sources: the whimsical steam locomotives illustrated by Rowland Emett and the iconic Hunslet engines that have come to symbolise British narrow-gauge railways.
Emett's influence can be seen in Oscar's tall chimney, unusual fittings, and decorative detailing, while a number of mechanical features draw inspiration from British industrial and narrow-gauge locomotives. Many of Oscar's fittings were also sourced from antique shops and auctions in Britain, including a ship's wheel that now serves as the regulator and a century-old whistle.
Adjacent to the line is KATO Railway Park (Tsurugaoka Park), home to Inarimae Station and its distinctive three-track locomotive shed, where the railway's locomotives are housed. The station building and locomotive shed, both constructed in an eye-catching brick style, have become iconic features of the Sekisui Main Line.