Airfix Mk2 Hurst White Metal Kit Modified DBSO Intercity Swallow 9710 - OO Gauge

Very nice example of the Airfix Mk2 BSO brake coach which has been extensively hand-modified into the sought-after Driving Brake Standard Open coach, in this case as operated by British Rail in Intercity Swallow colours.  Numbered 9705.

In the days before Bachmann's RTR DBSO, the only accessible way most modellers could depict the DBSO in their rakes was via a conversion kit designed to work with Airfix/Mainline, Dapol and more latterly the Hornby Mark 2 coach (given the tooling origins of all were essentially the same).  A number of different kits have been available at various times over the past 25 years or so.

Acquired by us already modified as part of a large private collection that included a number of DBSOs, we are certain this one makes use of the no longer available Hurst Models white metal kit specifically made to depict 9705 without a side grille.  Other kits are/were available from others including PHD Design Etchings and DC kits, but only the Hurst is a match for this coach.  The white metal used gives it a nice weighty feel and the cab detailing is generally quite good - albeit not to the modern standards of the Bachmann version.

Please take a close look at all photos for details of condition - rare modified items such as this are always a matter of personal taste, so please satisfy yourself that it meets your needs before purchase.  In our view, the modifications and re-livery have been carried out very well and make for a nice looking, quality item.  The only blemish we can see is that white bathroom cubicle window has discoloured a little as shown in close up. This is very common with the earlier examples and is probably the natural oxidisation of the oil-based gloss paint used on the window panes, which starts to yellow when kept out of direct sunlight for a prolonged period. 

Comes in an aftermarket lift-off top box as shown.

This is the last of several examples we were able to acquire from a private collector.

Will be carefully packaged for dispatch via tracked service.

We have a wide selection of preowned model railway items in our store, with more being added regularly.   We are always happy to combine postage on multiple purchases.  

If you have not purchased from us before, please feel free to take a look at our feedback to see what thousands of satisfied customers have to say about our service.