Norfolk Southern Office Car Special

ocs2 Several railroads today have what is called an ‘Office Car Special’, a term used for the executive train. Often the call sign or train symbol for this type of train is OCS. When I was looking for cars to produce for my Executive Line Series, the Norfolk Southern paint scheme jumped out at me as beautiful. Actually ‘handsome’ was the word I used. With further research, I found what the rest of the east coast knew all along, that the NS ‘OCS’ was a very popular and commonly seen train.

 

I have no proof, but it seems like Union Pacific and BNSF run their executive trains seldom, but like I said it’s only my perception. Imagine a railroad, the Norfolk Southern, taking a business trip to the Kentucky Derby or the US Open. Now that’s cool! It sure would be great to see those cars next week when we visit the city of Roanoke, Virginia for this year’s National N Scale Enthusiast Convention. That’s reason enough to run an OCS in my book!

When I found that many of the NS – OCS cars were six-axel observation cars, with platform, smooth sides, and full radial roofs, I was ecstatic! A friend of mine went to the Altoona paint shops and sent me actual paint samples so I could get the color right, because getting the color ‘right’ is so important. The reception of my ‘West Virginia‘ has been a great success. So, I am very excited to announce that I’m producing the NS – OCS. At least thirteen of the cars look like they can be done, but there may be more as the NS continues to add cars to it’s OCS line up.

There are more Office Car Specials out there. What would you like to see?

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Lowell Smith

A native of Portland, Oregon, Lowell Smith married his church choir sweetheart Barb in 1978. After a lifetime of rail-fanning, Lowell and Barb ventured out in 1992 to launch a new business in Portland, Oregon. Read more

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R. K.

You are in my book one of the very best.

Charlie S.

Thank you for producing such well researched quality offerings.

R. LeBrun

Thank you for all that you do for the N Scale community. Your products by far, in my opinion, are the top of the line when it comes to N Scale Trains and I am always on the lookout for them when they come up for auction.

S. S.

I got my new Santa Fe business cars, they are superb and worth the wait ten times over.

D.K.

Aside from the quality, creativity and originality, you are to be commended for your ongoing commitment to this (GAC) series, and all of your series of trains over a period of so many years.  There is always something to look forward to. Keep up the great work!’ D. K.

Jerry

I really am enjoying what you are producing, Lowell! Thanks for doing it. Jerry

R.L.

Ferdinand Magellan is great! This really fits your mission of offering significant cars that otherwise wouldn’t be produced.

R.M.

You know I’m always looking forward to the next release and its arrival with great anticipation. I treasure my Lowell Smith Signature collection.

Dan D.

I look forward to continuing to buy trains from my favorite special run train maker. That’s how I think of you now, “The Train Maker”.  And speaking of cool trains, I just received a box loaded with great looking Texas Special cars. Thanks.  I certainly look forward to all the new releases you are planning.

Ray F.

I just wanted you to know my O gauge Hood River Pears car came yesterday in perfect condition. This car is just beautiful I can’t wait for the next one to come out. Keep up the good work.