How to choose an era (epoch) for your HO layout

Step by step

1. 1

   Step 1: Understand what an epoch is

   The NEM 800 standard splits European railway history into six epochs, I to VI, written in Roman numerals, with small letters for periods within them (for example "IVb"). The changes between epochs are gradual and differ by country, so each country has its own detailed sheet.

   Next: step 2
2. 2

   Step 2: Learn the German example

   NEM 806 D sets out the German epochs:

   • Epoch I (1835–1920) — the state railways era, colourful locos and coaches.
   • Epoch II (1920–1950) — Deutsche Reichsbahn, standard designs.
   • Epoch III (1949–1970) — early Deutsche Bundesbahn (West) and Reichsbahn (East); steam declining, diesel and electric growing.
   • Epoch IV (1965–1990) — late DB/DR; computer (UIC) numbers and new colour schemes.
   • Epoch V (from 1990) — Deutsche Bahn AG, ICE trains.
   • Epoch VI (from 2007) — liberalised railway with many operators and no single livery.

   Next: step 3
3. 3

   Step 3: Check the dates for your chosen country

   Other countries' epochs start and end at different dates (there are separate NEM sheets for several countries). Use the manufacturer's epoch label on the box and the railway company initials (DB, DR, ÖBB, SBB, SNCF and so on) together.

   Next: step 4
4. 4

   Step 4: For American models, use eras

   North American models aren't labelled by NEM epoch. Makers group them by period instead — Athearn's website, for example, uses bands from 1860–1910 to 2010–present. Railroad names, liveries and the build date stencilled on the car tell you more.

   Next: step 5
5. 5

   Step 5: Write down your rules

   Note the country, railway and epoch (or a period like "Epoch IIIb") and stick to it when buying trains, road vehicles, signals and buildings. A short list on your phone saves impulse buys that don't fit.

   Next: step 6
6. 6

   Step 6: Allow some overlap

   Real railways kept old stock running for years, so an older loco in a newer epoch can be realistic. A newer loco in an older scene is not.