What does it mean if a model is in the catalogue

[tgv_obsessed]

does it mean that there are some remaining at the manufacturer, or does it mean that there will be a production run that year, or does it mean something else entirely?

[EtchedPixels]

does it mean that there are some remaining at the manufacturer, or does it mean that there will be a production run that year, or does it mean something else entirely?

IMHO it means very little other than perhaps "someday we'll make one of these, probably, maybe even this year but don't bet on it"

For Farish stuff if you want to know what is currently 'out there' check the Bachmann site. That lists current stock, recent arrivals, due in 60 days and shows which they've sold out (but shops may still have). It's not always accurate but its about as good as you get.

Alan

[H]

does it mean that there are some remaining at the manufacturer, or does it mean that there will be a production run that year, or does it mean something else entirely?

It means that they have made it in the past, or that they are currently making it, or that it may be made in the future. The snag is that it doesn't exactly indicate which, but then anything printed can quickly date. The best thing is that it gives an idea of their range and that you should check with stockists as to whether they have had them (but have now sold out), have curently got stocks, or are expecting some in the future.

H.

[keerout]

Speaking strictly business, these guys are all away with the fairies as far as I can see....   
(lucky for them, I am too) 
Gerard

[tgv_obsessed]

so when does a model stop being in the catalogue? perhaps thats a more interesting question?

[Newportnobby]

My only answer to that question is it stops being in the catalogue when there are no plans for further production. However, it doesn't mean there aren't any in the shops. It just means searching every possible outlet, including accursed Fleabay.
I operate purely on the basis on what I can see on the websites of the major box shifters and use the Farish website to see what they state is on order to see whether I can pre order it anywhere. This is only my way of doing things though

[intraclast]

I'm waiting on the Farish Ivatt 2MT 2-6-0. As far as I can work out there a was pretty limited variety of engines running on the track I'm going to model and that was one of the work horses.  Is it worth email/phoning them to ask them for an ETA?  Has anyone tried that before? Did they get a worthwhile answer?

[Pengi]

I'm waiting on the Farish Ivatt 2MT 2-6-0. As far as I can work out there a was pretty limited variety of engines running on the track I'm going to model and that was one of the work horses.  Is it worth email/phoning them to ask them for an ETA?  Has anyone tried that before? Did they get a worthwhile answer?

I think it is worth a shot e mailing them. They have always replied to when I've emailed them although the responses can be variable in quality. I tend to go by the expression 'if you don't ask, then you don't get'

[Newportnobby]

I'm waiting on the Farish Ivatt 2MT 2-6-0. As far as I can work out there a was pretty limited variety of engines running on the track I'm going to model and that was one of the work horses.  Is it worth email/phoning them to ask them for an ETA?  Has anyone tried that before? Did they get a worthwhile answer?

I've had one on pre order since the old King died it seems. If you can find anything out I'd be grateful, but at the N Gauge show in September last year Farish were vague as to release date due to issues with the coreless motor. Mind you, they also were vague about the Blue Pullman because they couldn't decide if the seating was red or blue

[scruff]

Facebook can be a very good medium to contact Dapol and ask questions, Joel does a good job of answering most questions... except the very awkward ones! Faish don't seem to update their Facebook page though.. shame really.

Cheers

Mark