July 2025 Update - New Announcements & Reservation Deadlines

Rolling Into August with Momentum!

It’s been a dynamic and inspiring summer here at Third & Townsend Models and Sunset Models/Golden Gate Depot! We’re hard at work moving forward on both HO and O scale projects, locking in production details, reviewing samples, and preparing some exciting announcements as we roll into the second half of the year. Whether you're a longtime brass collector or just discovering our offerings, there's never been a better time to follow along.

We had an incredible time at the 2025 NMRA National Convention, Station No.VI in Detroit earlier this month! Meeting so many of you, hearing your input, and unveiling what’s next was a real highlight. Thanks to everyone who stopped by our table to chat, it was a fantastic week of connections and shared enthusiasm.

Celebrating 50 Years of Sunset Models

We’re thrilled to unveil the Sunset Models 3rd Rail 50th Anniversary Catalog, marking five decades of passion, craftsmanship, and prototype modeling excellence. Inside, you’ll find upcoming HO and O scale projects, long-awaited reissues, and a few exciting surprises, all reflecting our continued commitment to raising the bar.

And now, for the first time, all reservations for Sunset Models 3rd Rail and Golden Gate Depot projects can be placed directly through us at Third & Townsend Models. As part of our ongoing transition, we’re honored to take the lead on this next chapter and provide modelers with a more streamlined and responsive ordering experience. If you see something in the catalog that excites you, head to our website and reserve your models today!

Looking Ahead: York Train Show

Mark your calendar for the Fall 2025 York Train Meet, happening October 20–25 at the York Expo Center in York, Pennsylvania. As the world’s largest model train event, York brings together dealers, collectors, and enthusiasts under one roof for an incredible week of layouts, vendors, seminars, and community. We’re planning to be there and would love to meet you in person, stay tuned for booth info and event updates.

As always, we’ll be sharing more announcements, sneak peeks, and production updates throughout August. If you’re not already following along, now’s a perfect time to hop on board!

Click the photos below to learn more about each project, and don’t forget to check out the catalog!

Sunset Models 3rd Rail 50th Anniversary Catalog

We’re excited to unveil the Sunset Models 3rd Rail 50th Anniversary Catalog, back for the first time in nearly a decade! This milestone edition is packed with all-new brass steam locomotives, diesels never before produced, and major announcements that mark a bold new chapter for the brand. Click the catalog to visit the webpage and download your copy today.

Golden Gate Depot HO Scale Southern Pacific Subs/Harriman 2.0

Reservation Deadline Approaching!

We’re just 30 days away from closing reservations for the HO Scale Southern Pacific Subs/80' Harrimans, with delivery slated for December/January.

These models will be built to order, so don’t wait, if you haven’t placed your reservation yet, now’s the time. As with all our projects, no reservation means no model. Secure yours before it’s too late!

O Scale New Announcements

Norfolk & Western M Class 4-8-0 "Mollies"

We’re excited to officially announce the highly anticipated return of the O Scale N&W M Class “Mollie” 4-8-0's, featuring upgraded detailing and modern electronics for both 2-Rail and 3-Rail. Over 10 different variations are available! This long requested project is back and better than ever, now available for reservation! Each version is meticulously crafted with authentic class details, smooth motor operation, and advanced sound and lighting features, compatible with both 2-rail and 3-rail systems. Reservations are now open, don’t miss your chance to add these beautifully detailed locomotives to your collection.

Southern Pacific P-8/10/13/14 4-6-2 Pacifics

We’re proud to announce the upcoming Southern Pacific P-8, P-10, P-13, and P-14 Passenger Steam Locomotive Project in O scale, capturing the beauty and history of these classic Pacifics with prototype accuracy. Reservations are now open for these finely crafted brass models, featuring multiple variants from Southern Pacific’s storied roster. Each variant is meticulously crafted with authentic class details, smooth motor operation, and advanced sound and lighting features, compatible with both 2-rail and 3-rail systems. Reservations are now open, don’t miss your chance to add these beautifully detailed locomotives to your collection.

Timken Four Aces/Northern Pacific A-1 2626/DL&W Pocono 4-8-4 Northerns

We’re thrilled to announce the re-run of the Timken Four Aces / Northern Pacific A-1 O Scale Brass Locomotive Project by Sunset Models 3rd Rail—an iconic piece of American railroading history. Originally built by ALCO in 1930 for the Timken Roller Bearing Company, the Four Aces No. 1111 was the first steam locomotive equipped with all sealed roller bearings, showcasing revolutionary low-friction technology. This exquisite model features both the polished Timken version and Northern Pacific coal and oil-fired variants, complete with fully detailed backheads, operating sand and turret hatches, and cutting-edge sound and lighting options.

Including in this exciting re-run, we are also preparing to build the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western "Pocono", continuing our commitment to producing masterful, historically accurate brass models that celebrate the rich heritage of American steam locomotives. Stay tuned, more details on the Pocono and other upcoming projects will be shared shortly.

GE B23/30/36-7 & EMD SD70ACE & EMD FL-9

As we’ve shared before, this special catalog marks a milestone for Sunset Models 3rd Rail and Golden Gate Depot, featuring nearly a dozen exciting new project announcements that truly showcase our passion and dedication to the hobby. While we wish we could dive into every detail here, the sheer number and scope of these new offerings are far too extensive to cover in one message.

Each project reflects our unwavering commitment to quality craftsmanship, historical accuracy, and innovation, values that have guided us for decades. From meticulously researched prototypes to advanced production techniques, every model we introduce is designed to meet the highest standards and exceed the expectations of collectors and modelers alike.

We encourage you to visit our website and explore the full range of upcoming O Scale brass projects under the Sunset Models 3rd Rail/Golden Gate Depot Pre-Order tab. There, you’ll find detailed descriptions, images, and reservation information for each new release, allowing you to discover and secure the models that best fit your collection.

Thank you for being part of the Third & Townsend Models and Sunset Models family. We’re just getting started, and the best is yet to come. Stay tuned for more exciting updates, new project reveals, and behind-the-scenes looks as we continue to bring the finest brass models to your collection. Until next time, happy modeling and keep the passion rolling!