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Trix Express, AC-model BR 20/54 (1939) on bakelite rails

Trix is a German company that originally made Trix metal construction sets. One of its co-founders was Stephan Bing, the son of the pioneer toy-maker industrialist Ignaz Bing. In 1935 the company began producing the electrically powered model trains that it became famous for, under the Trix Express label. Before World War II the company produced a small range of AC (14 V) powered three rail loco models (e.g. 20/51, 20/52, 20/53, 20/54) running on bakelite rails.

After more than six decades of independence, the TRIX company got increasingly into economic difficulties in the 1990s and was completely taken over in 1997 by the Göppingen competitor Märklin, but continued as an independent brand. Since then there has been increasing overlap between the model ranges from TRIX and Märklin in size H0; New model developments differ only in the respective power systems (alternating current at Märklin, direct current at TRIX International).

Trix Twin Railway

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Trix Twin Railway, scale model Compound (AC), 1950
TTR Catalog 1939/40, title page

Under the name TTR (Trix Twin Railway), the TRIX Express model railway was also available in England from the end of 1935. First of all, locomotives made in Germany were repainted in England. Since 1936, the locomotive bogies that were still supplied from Germany were equipped with housings in the English style. A TRIX subsidiary in England had existed since the early 1930s and was initially responsible for sales of the metal construction kit. The English model range was further expanded after the German company founder Stephan Bing was driven out of Germany by the Nazis in 1938. In the beginning most of the models run with alternating current (AC).

After second world war the production resumed in 1948 but began to lag behind the technology used by rivals. Trix switched from AC to DC (with its simple reversing function) later than rivals like Tri-ang, particularly the British Trix company. In 1956 Trix switched to DC and in 1967 to two-rail as used by most competitors.

The production of plastic models began in the late 1950s; the three-wire system was able to last there until 1967, when the international two-wire system was converted. The company then changed hands several times and at times also operated as Trix Trains and British Trix. The legacy of TTR then went to the British subsidiary of Liliput in the 1970s. Production of British Trix OO gauge trains ceased in 1973.[1]

Minitrix

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Minitrix ICE model

N gauge models under the Minitrix brand were made from the late 1960s mostly of European trains (German and British primarily). North American trains were also manufactured and marketed under the Aurora "Postage Stamp" brand; later these items were sold under the American Tortoise, Model Power and Con-Cor brands. Trix sometimes utilized North American consultants to aid in the design of this portion of the product line. The "Hornby Minitrix' brand was used in the 1980s for a short lived range of British models using the earlier product tooling.

Ownership

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Trix's owner in the 1980s and 1990s was Mangold, which went bankrupt in the late 1990s and Märklin purchased the assets in January 1997. In part, this purchase was a reflection of Märklin's need for added production capacity; Trix had been manufacturing certain items for Märklin in previous years. The purchase was also in response to the earlier purchase of the Karl Arnold company by the Italian company Rivarossi; Märklin were very keen to take over Trix market share in 2-rail H0 and especially Minitrix, until then Märklin had not marketed N gauge models. In 2003, Märklin introduced its first N gauge models under the well established Minitrix brand. A number of Märklin H0 scale three-rail AC locomotives have also been introduced in two-rail DC versions under the Trix logo and many models are shared between the two brands.

Since around 2003 or 2004 Trix has made a two-rail version of the Märklin C-track, and the two are mostly identical except for the colour of the trackbed and the height of the rails (with Märklin being 2,3 mm high and Trix 2,1 mm). Also, some of Märklin's digital components (such as the Mobile Station) are made in Trix versions with different colours and another logo; but otherwise identical and fully compatible with Märklin's. For a number of years Trix has made two-rail versions of many Märklin models with only minor differences, such as axles (electrically insulated) and for powered models (being of lighting and/or a motor) power pickup.

Other Trix brands

[edit]

Besides the AC Trix Express and Minitrix brands, the Trix company is also well known for its 1:87 scale DC brands, Trix International and Trix H0, dating back at least to the early 1970s and still being produced today.

Bavarian prototypes

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A particular Trix speciality is the reproduction of Bavarian models from Epoch I and their equivalent Epoch II, DRG versions. Examples such as the B VI (BR 34), D XI (BR 984-5), D XII (BR 73), G 3/4 H (BR 54), Gt 2x4/4 (BR 96), P 3/5 H (BR 384), PtL 2/2 (BR 983) and S 3/6 (BR 184) have been produced in the steam locomotive line, along with numerous passenger and goods wagons.

Brass models

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Trix also produced highly detailed brass models of steam locomotives in limited quantities under the "Fine Art" label, predominantly in the late 1990s.

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References

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Literature

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  • P. Berg: Trix Express – Die Vorkriegszeit 1935–1940. (= Tischeisenbahnen. Band 2). 2005, ISBN 3-933899-25-7.
  • T. Matthewman: The history of TRIX – H0/00 model railways in Britain. 1994, ISBN 0-904568-76-8.
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Trix (company)

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Trix is a German manufacturer of model railways and related accessories, renowned for its H0 and products that replicate European and international prototypes with high detail and historical accuracy. The company's origins trace back to two Nuremberg-based firms: J. Haffner, established in 1838 by Johann Haffner for figures and toys, and Andreas Förtner, founded in 1899, which merged after Förtner's death in 1922 to form Vereinigte Spielwarenfabriken (United Toy Companies). In 1928, the firm was acquired by Stephan Bing, Herrmann Oppenheim, and Siegfried Kahn, who introduced expertise in model railroading; the Trix brand debuted in , initially for metal construction sets. By 1935, Trix launched its flagship Trix Express line of electrically powered (1:76) model trains using a 14-volt AC three-rail system, marking its entry into the model railroad market at the Leipziger Spring Fair. In , Trix introduced the Trix Twin system, allowing two trains to operate independently on the same track, which was expanded . Following financial difficulties at Bing Werke, the Jewish owners Stephan Bing and Siegfried Kahn emigrated to and established Trix Limited in 1932 to continue production there; the German operations were taken over by Ernst Voelk in 1938 under Nazi policies. Post-World War II, the company shifted to 12-volt DC and two-rail track in 1956–1967, broadening its appeal, and introduced the Minitrix (1:160) line in 1964, one of the earliest commercially successful N gauge systems, which gained popularity in and the through partnerships like Aurora Plastics. Ownership changed hands multiple times: the German Trix was acquired by Mangold GmbH & Co. in 1970, then rescued by Märklin in 1997 following Mangold's , integrating Trix as a brand focused on adult collectors with era-specific detailing. Märklin's own insolvency in 2009 led to its acquisition by the in 2013, under which Trix continues as a brand offering H0-scale locomotives, cars, and digital control systems like Selectrix (introduced 1983) alongside Minitrix. Notable collaborations include joint projects with Märklin since 1978, such as the King Ludwig Train and Imperial Train, emphasizing Trix's commitment to historical fidelity.

History

Founding and Early Development

Trix traces its origins to 1838, when Johann Haffner established a firm in , , specializing in the production of figures and . This venture laid the groundwork for the company's expertise in metal craftsmanship, focusing initially on small-scale decorative and play items typical of the era's toy industry. Under successive family ownership, known as J. Haffner Nachf., the company expanded its offerings through the late 19th and early 20th centuries, incorporating construction sets and a variety of metal that highlighted durable, interlocking designs. In 1899, Andreas Förtner independently founded a competing metal toy manufacturer in , which grew to produce similar products. Following Förtner's death in 1922, the two firms merged in 1925 to form the United Toy Companies Andreas Förtner and J. Haffner Nachf. AG (Vereinigte Spielwarenfabriken Andreas Förtner und J. Haffners Nachf. AG), broadening their scope into comprehensive toy manufacturing while retaining a focus on high-quality metal components. The Trix brand emerged in 1931 from this merged entity, specifically for a line of innovative metal construction sets that featured perforated strips and bolts for assembling complex models, setting it apart as a cost-effective alternative to contemporary systems like Meccano. These sets emphasized modular, interlocking metal parts that encouraged creative engineering play, building on the companies' longstanding metalworking heritage. This foundational period in metal toy production positioned the firm for later diversification into model railroading in the 1930s.

Introduction of Model Trains

In 1935, Trix entered the model railway market with the launch of its Trix Express system, marking a significant expansion from its earlier toy manufacturing roots. This electrically powered line featured alternating current (AC) operation at 14 volts, utilizing a three-rail track system constructed with durable bakelite bases for the rails, which allowed for stable and innovative tabletop layouts in H0/00 scale (approximately 1:87, 16.5 mm gauge). The system debuted publicly at the Leipzig Spring Fair that year, offering affordable, accessible model trains that appealed to hobbyists seeking realistic railway simulations without the complexity of larger gauges. To adapt the product for the British market, Trix collaborated with the established model railway firm Ltd. in 1935, resulting in the rebranded Trix Twin Railway system. This partnership involved customizing German-designed locomotives and track for preferences, including British outline models painted in local liveries, while retaining the core AC-powered three-rail technology. The Trix Twin Railway was introduced in the by Christmas of that year, emphasizing dual-train control features that enhanced playability and set it apart from competitors like Hornby. In the early 1930s, Nazi policies forced the Jewish owners Stephan Bing and Siegfried Kahn to sell their stakes and emigrate to , where they established Trix Limited to continue production; the German operations were taken over by Ernst Voelk in 1938. Prior to , Trix's production emphasized trains in the H0/00 scale, with locomotives featuring die-cast metal bodies for durability and construction for to balance cost and realism. Early electrical components, such as simple motors and transformers, supported the AC system's reliable performance on bakelite-insulated tracks, fostering a growing enthusiast base across . The focus remained on a limited but high-quality assortment of models, like the 20/51 and 20/52 series, which captured the era's railway aesthetics. Economic pressures in the late , compounded by the onset of , severely disrupted Trix's operations, ultimately halting model train production from 1939 to 1945 as resources shifted to the war effort in both and the . Factories, including the British facility at Winteringham, ceased railway manufacturing to prioritize military needs, effectively pausing the Trix Express and Twin Railway lines during this period.

Post-War Evolution and Challenges

Following , Trix Modelleisenbahn resumed toy production in 1948 after rebuilding its facilities in Nürnberg, which had been impacted by the war, allowing the company to meet surging demand for model trains. Due to ongoing material shortages in devastated , initial designs were simplified, focusing on basic metal and construction to conserve resources while restarting operations. This resumption marked a cautious recovery, with early products emphasizing affordability and export potential amid economic reconstruction. In the mid-1950s, Trix undertook significant technical updates to remain competitive, switching from (AC) to (DC) power systems in 1956, which simplified motor designs and improved reversing mechanisms through permanent magnet technology. This change aligned Trix more closely with industry standards, though it initially retained three-rail track layouts. By 1967, the company fully adopted two-rail fine-scale track, enhancing realism and compatibility with competitors' systems, while phasing out coarser pre-war elements to appeal to modelers seeking prototypical accuracy. The late 1960s saw Trix expand into smaller scales with the launch of the Minitrix N-gauge line in , targeting enthusiasts interested in compact, detailed layouts and broadening the company's market beyond traditional H0/00 offerings. However, the and brought severe economic pressures, exacerbated by industry consolidation and fluctuating demand for products, leading to financial instability by the late .

Product Lines

Trix Express

Trix Express was launched in 1935 by the Trix company in as an affordable electric tabletop model railway system, marking the introduction of their first powered trains under this flagship brand. The initial lineup operated on a 14-volt (AC) system and utilized three-rail track with sleepers for insulation and durability, allowing for independent control of multiple locomotives on the same layout. Designed in a scale close to OO/H0 (approximately 1:80) with a of 16.5 mm, often referred to as H0, it positioned it as an accessible entry into detailed model railroading for enthusiasts. This launch occurred at the Spring Fair, where the system's innovative tabletop design quickly gained popularity across . Pre-war Trix Express models emphasized robust construction, with locomotives, passenger cars, and freight wagons primarily made from metal, including lithographed bodies for vivid detailing. The three-rail power distribution enabled smooth operation at 14 V AC, with the center rail serving as the common conductor, a feature that supported dual-train control without complex wiring. included European prototypes such as and typical freight types, reflecting the era's railway aesthetics, while accessories like bakelite-based tracks provided a stable, non-conductive base. Production halted during , but the system's reputation for reliability and affordability had already established Trix Express as a cornerstone of the company's offerings. Following the , production resumed in 1948, with Trix Express evolving to meet changing market demands. In 1956, the line underwent a significant technical shift from AC to (DC) operation at 12 V, incorporating permanent magnet motors for improved efficiency and compatibility with emerging standards. By 1967, the system transitioned to two-rail insulated track, aligning with competitors' designs and enhancing realism by eliminating the visible . This adaptation maintained H0 scale compatibility while allowing seamless integration into broader layouts. The Trix Express system was briefly adapted for the British market as Trix Twin Railway, focusing on local prototypes. As Trix's primary H0-scale DC line, Trix Express continued production for decades, specializing in era-specific European prototypes such as steam and diesel locomotives, along with detailed passenger and freight cars. The line's focus on high-fidelity models, including features like directional lighting and synchronized sound in later iterations, solidified its role as a benchmark for accessible yet authentic model railroading. Today, under Märklin ownership, Trix Express remains a key product, offering collectors and hobbyists a range of historically accurate that captures the evolution of European railways.

Trix Twin Railway

The Trix Twin Railway system was introduced in through a collaboration between the German Trix company and the British firm , adapting the Trix Express design for the market in (1:76 scale). Initially marketed as the Bassett-Lowke Twin Train Table Railway, it featured British outline locomotives and to appeal to local enthusiasts, with production of UK-specific bodieshells beginning at a factory in 1936. This adaptation stemmed briefly from the 1935 Trix Express origins but emphasized a coarser, more affordable system suited to British preferences. Key design features included a three-rail track system with a stud-contact rail mounted on metal baseplates made of construction, enabling independent control of two on the same layout via separate controllers. The locomotives operated on 14V , with die-cast metal chassis and bodies, while the track's outer rails served as returns for each train, sharing the powered studs for current pickup. Early models also incorporated compatibility with mechanisms in select accessories and conversions, allowing hybrid operation alongside electric propulsion. , such as wagons and coaches, used pressed with lithographed details in liveries like LMS and LNER apple green. Post-war production resumed in 1946 at a new factory, shifting toward components for bodies and some chassis to reduce costs and improve durability amid material shortages. British outline locomotives expanded to include LMS compounds, LNER Pacifics, and Southern Railway electrics, all maintaining the 14V AC three-rail standard and track elements for continuity. By the 1960s, as interest waned in favor of finer-scale models, production of elements declined, with full wagons introduced around 1959. The system ceased production in 1973 following the closure of the factory, driven by diminishing demand for tinplate coarse-scale trains in an era dominated by more realistic alternatives from competitors like Hornby.

Minitrix

Minitrix is the N-scale (1:160) product line of Trix, launched in 1964 by the German Trix as a (DC) system to offer compact, detailed model trains for space-limited layouts, with British production beginning in 1967. In 1967, the German Trix acquired assets from British Trix, incorporating some N-scale production into the Minitrix line. This built on the original German Minitrix designs, adapting them for broader international markets while maintaining compatibility with standard N-gauge track systems like those from Atlas or . In the , Minitrix expanded significantly, incorporating high-fidelity prototypes from both European and North American railroads to appeal to diverse modelers. The line emphasized precise detailing, such as etched metal parts and multi-color paint schemes, setting it apart from contemporaries in the growing N-scale market. Key models included steam locomotives like the Pacific and DB Class 23 Mikado, diesel units such as the DB Class V 200 and US ATC 1000 from American railroads, and electric locomotives including the DB Class E 03 and GG1. These offerings covered freight, passenger, and express services, with like hoppers and coaches designed for seamless integration on standard N-track. North American examples, produced until the late 1990s, paralleled the detailing standards of Trix's H0-scale line but in a smaller format. Under Märklin ownership since 1997, Minitrix production continues with regular updates to reflect modern modeling demands. The 2025 releases include Era VI container transport wagons (e.g., item 18434), alongside sound-equipped locomotives like the DB AG class 110.3 electric (item 16260) with integrated digital decoders. These additions maintain Minitrix's reputation for detailed, operational N-scale modeling focused on German and international prototypes.

Trix H0 and Other Scales

Following the transition to two-rail DC operation in 1967, Trix's H0 scale (1:87) lineup became a of its offerings, emphasizing compatibility with global standards and export markets through the Trix International brand. The Trix H0 line operates on DC power, ensuring compatibility with standard NMRA/DCC systems unlike Märklin's AC. This shift away from earlier three-rail systems allowed for broader accessibility in DC-powered setups, particularly in non-German markets where two-rail track was predominant. The H0 models focused on high-fidelity reproductions of European locomotives and , supporting detailed layouts with robust construction and smooth-running mechanisms. Key features of the Trix H0 line include meticulously detailed models of European prototypes, such as the German Reichsbahn's BR 01 class Pacific , which exemplifies the brand's attention to historical accuracy in bodywork, running gear, and paint schemes. The proprietary C-Track system, adapted from Märklin's design for two-rail DC use, provides stable, low-profile roadbed track with integrated bedding for realistic scenery integration and easy assembly. Complementary accessories, including signals, station buildings, and electrical components, enhance operational realism, with many items compatible across Trix and Märklin ecosystems for expanded layout possibilities. Beyond H0, Trix ventured into other scales with limited scope. In the , the company conducted experimental production in (1:120), testing smaller-format models primarily for European markets, though these efforts remained niche and did not expand into full lines. For (1:220), Trix maintains ongoing collaborations with parent company Märklin, sharing tooling and design elements for compact locomotives and cars, enabling cross-brand availability in high-detail micro-layouts. The 2025 Trix H0 catalog underscores the line's modern evolution, featuring new locomotives equipped with MFX digital decoders for enhanced sound, lighting, and control functions compatible with DCC and Selectrix protocols. Highlights include the Class 01 (item 25001) commemorating its with III detailing and firebox flicker effects, the Class 186 electric locomotive (item 25800) for VI cross-border operations with buffer capacitors, and the Class 59 (item 25059) honoring regional heritage. V/VI additions, such as the Falns 182 dump car set (item 24182) with realistic coal loads and the Swiss Express passenger car set (item 23691) featuring LED interiors, provide versatile freight and passenger options for contemporary European prototypes.

Technological Innovations

Selectrix Digital System

The Selectrix Digital System, introduced by Trix in 1983, represented a pioneering proprietary (DCC) alternative designed for independent operation of multiple locomotives on model railroad layouts. Developed by Döhler & Haass for Trix, it utilized microprocessor-based technology to transmit control signals via the two track rails, enabling precise addressing without additional wiring. This wire-based approach allowed for simultaneous control of several trains, marking a significant advancement over analog systems prevalent at the time. Technically, Selectrix employs a DC voltage signal on the track rails, with data pulses operating at ±18 V ±6 V and synchronization pulses at 0 V, adhering to the for bit encoding and protocol. The supports up to 100 addresses in its original configuration (Selectrix 1), with 31 speed steps, direction control, and basic functions like , all transmitted in serial packets at a bus speed of 76.8 ms per cycle. It is fully compatible with both analog and digital modes, as decoders can revert to analog operation in the absence of digital signals, and no separate boosters are required for layout expansion due to its load-independent, arbitrarily networkable bus design. One of Selectrix's key advantages is its gauge-agnostic nature, functioning seamlessly across H0, N, and O scales without modifications, thanks to standardized interfaces like NEM 680 and NEM 681. This versatility made it particularly cost-effective for club layouts and large installations, integrating directly with existing Trix two-rail DC track systems while supporting interoperability among components from different manufacturers. The system's Super-Soft-Drive (SSD) feature further enhanced realism by providing smooth, adjustable acceleration and braking. In the , Selectrix evolved to incorporate expanded functions, including sound effects and advanced lighting, through decoder upgrades that maintained . The introduction of Selectrix 2 in later years increased capabilities to 127 speed steps and thousands of addresses, while original Selectrix decoders remained supported. As of 2025, Trix continues to include Selectrix compatibility in new H0 and models, often alongside DCC and mfx protocols, ensuring its ongoing relevance in digital model railroading.

Compatibility and Modern Controls

Trix's Selectrix digital control system achieves compatibility with the dominant DCC () protocol through dual-protocol decoders and adapter kits introduced in the early , permitting seamless operation of Trix locomotives alongside DCC-equipped models from other manufacturers on shared layouts. For instance, the Trix Systems Add-On Kit includes DCC/Selectrix decoders that convert analog Minitrix starter sets to digital, supporting mixed-protocol environments without requiring full system overhauls. This adaptability has been essential for hobbyists transitioning from proprietary systems to industry standards, as multiprotocol command stations can address both Selectrix and DCC decoders simultaneously. Following its acquisition by Märklin, Trix integrated the MFX (Märklin eXchange) protocol into its H0 and Minitrix product lines during the , enhancing wireless control and sound capabilities. By 2013, new Trix locomotives featured built-in mfx-compatible decoders that support up to 32 functions, including synchronized sound and lighting effects, controllable via Märklin's for intuitive, cable-free operation. This adoption maintains with Selectrix while aligning Trix models with Märklin's ecosystem, allowing automatic locomotive registration and expanded accessory control in digital layouts. In 2025, Trix emphasized modern enhancements through LED lighting simulations across H0 and Minitrix models, such as directionally responsive cab and interior illumination in locomotives like the Class E 95 (Item 25950) and Regio Shuttle RS1 (Item 25967). These features utilize warm white LEDs for realistic headlight and firebox effects, integrated with mfx and DCC decoders for dynamic operation. Cross-brand collaborations with Märklin further advance compatibility via shared tooling for dual models, exemplified by the Class 2159 Dual Power Locomotive (Item 25980), which shares its detailed metal construction with Märklin's AC variant (Item 38900) to support both 2-rail DC and 3-rail AC systems.

Ownership and Corporate History

Pre-Märklin Ownership Changes

Trix originated from the tin toy manufacturing firm founded in 1838 by Johann Haffner in , , which initially produced figures and later expanded into toys. In 1899, Andreas Förtner established a competing company, and following his death in 1922, the two businesses merged in 1925 to form Vereinigte Spielwaren-Fabriken J. Haffner & A. Förtner AG, preserving family-influenced control through the 1920s. In 1928, the merged entity was acquired by Stephan Bing, Herrmann Oppenheim, and Siegfried Kahn, who shifted production to and leveraged Bing's expertise in model railroading to launch the Trix metal construction sets and early train models. The Nazi forced the Jewish owners to sell in the mid-1930s; Bing and Kahn emigrated to , where they co-founded Trix Ltd. with W.J. in 1932. In 1938, Ernst Voelk, owner of the Distler toy firm and president of Nuremberg's Chamber of Trade, purchased the German operations. World War II halted production from 1941 to 1948, after which Trix resumed independently under Voelk's successors, navigating post-war reconstruction and growing competition from firms like Fleischmann and Roco while expanding its model train lines. This era of autonomy lasted until 1970, when investment group Mangold GmbH & Co. acquired Trix amid intensifying market pressures in the European toy sector. Under Mangold ownership through the 1970s and 1980s, Trix introduced innovations like the Minitrix N-scale line but faced mounting economic challenges from industry consolidation and shifting consumer preferences. In 1978, Trix initiated collaborations with competitor Märklin on premium special editions, including the King Ludwig Bavarian train set and the Imperial Train, marking early cross-company synergies. The brought severe financial strain; in 1993, Mangold restructured by merging Trix with Schuco and GAMA under the Gama-Mangold umbrella to stabilize operations. However, persistent difficulties culminated in Mangold's in 1997, leading to its acquisition by Märklin.

Acquisition by Märklin and Current Status

In January 1997, following the of its previous owner Mangold, Märklin Holding acquired of Trix Modelleisenbahn & Co. KG, making Trix a wholly owned dedicated to DC-powered model trains in H0 and N scales. This integration provided Trix with financial stability after years of ownership volatility, allowing it to continue operations under Märklin's umbrella while preserving its distinct brand identity for two-rail DC systems. Post-acquisition, Trix benefited from significant investments in modernization and production relocation, achieving status by and enabling the revival of key product lines such as Minitrix and Trix H0. The merger fostered synergies in , building on prior collaborations dating back to 1978, which enhanced model fidelity and innovation in DC-compatible technologies. Additionally, Trix gained access to Märklin's global distribution network, including subsidiaries in and the , expanding its market reach for era-specific locomotives and . Märklin itself faced insolvency in 2009, but was acquired in 2013 by the through Sieber & Sohn GmbH & Co. KG, under majority shareholder Michael Sieber. As of November 2025, Trix remains headquartered in , , as a of Märklin Holding , with stable ownership under the and no major structural changes reported thereafter. The company continues annual releases of new models in H0 and N scales, emphasizing digital enhancements such as mfx+ and DCC decoders, integrated sound generators, and programmable light functions to improve operational realism and compatibility with modern control systems.

Notable Models and Specialties

Bavarian Prototypes

Trix has specialized in modeling locomotives and rolling stock from the Royal Bavarian State Railways (Königlich Bayerische Staatsbahn, or K.Bay.Sts.B.), particularly those from Epoch I (up to 1920) and Epoch II (1920–1945 under the Deutsche Reichsbahn, or DRG), with production of such prototypes beginning in the late 1950s as the company shifted toward more realistic HO-scale offerings. This focus emerged alongside Trix's expansion into plastic-bodied models, allowing for greater detail in representing the unique designs of Bavarian railways, which operated both standard-gauge main lines and narrow-gauge branch lines across southern Germany. Key examples of Trix's Bavarian models include the class B VI tender , reclassified as DRG BR 34, introduced in during the 1950s to capture early freight service on Bavarian lines. In the 1990s, Trix produced a detailed version of the class Gt 2×4/4 articulated , designated DRG BR 96 (formerly Bavarian), renowned for heavy freight hauling on steep gradients in the ; this model was offered in Minitrix and later in as a high-fidelity brass import emphasizing the prototype's compound cylinder system. More recently, the class S 3/6 Pacific express has been a staple in Minitrix, with versions depicting the "Hochhaxige" (High Stepper) subclass featuring 2,000 mm driving wheels and technology for high-speed passenger services from to major cities. These models emphasize historical accuracy in detailing, such as the dark green livery with fine striping on Bavarian prototypes, meticulously reproduced rivets on casings, and functional representations of mechanisms like the Mallet's articulated frame for narrow-gauge operations or the Pacific's streamlined running gear for standard lines. Trix's commitment to such authenticity extends to variants across classes like the S 3/6, Gt 2×4/4, and B VI, filling a niche for collectors interested in underrepresented regional German railways that were often overshadowed by Prussian or national designs in early model railroading. This specialization has cemented Trix's reputation for preserving the engineering heritage of the K.Bay.Sts.B., which operated until its integration into the DRG in 1920.

Brass and Fine Art Models

In the late 1990s, Trix launched its "Fine Art" series, a premium line of highly detailed brass models primarily focused on , produced in limited quantities to cater to discerning collectors and modelers seeking exceptional craftsmanship. These models feature etched and soldered bodies and frames for intricate detailing, including fine wire handrails, spun cast wheels, and multi-pole can motors with bell-shaped armatures that power multiple axles for smooth operation. Many incorporate digital decoders compatible with DCC and Selectrix systems, enabling advanced control of functions like headlights and sound effects. Production emphasizes handmade assembly in , resulting in one-time limited series that highlight rare prototypes, such as the Royal Prussian Railroad Administration class EG 507 or Bavarian models like the K.Bay.Sts.B S 2/6 narrow-gauge tank engine. The series' collectible appeal stems from its focus on historical accuracy and superior materials, often commanding prices significantly higher than Trix's standard plastic offerings due to the labor-intensive processes involved.

Other Trix Brands and Collaborations

Trix has developed several sub-brands to cater to diverse market segments and product types within the model railroading industry. The Express brand focuses on reissues of models, particularly those from the pre-World War II era, offering collectors access to historically significant designs in AC-powered formats. Similarly, the International line, now integrated into Trix H0, was originally established for export markets featuring H0-scale DC models tailored to international standards and preferences. Selectrix serves as a dedicated for advanced control systems, providing digital solutions compatible with various layout configurations. In terms of collaborations, Trix has maintained a long-standing with Märklin since 1978, notably co-developing special edition trains such as the King Ludwig Train and the Wilhelm II Imperial Train, which highlight Bavarian historical prototypes. Earlier, in the , Trix engaged in tool-sharing arrangements to support the production of Minitrix N-scale models, enabling efficient manufacturing of detailed 1:160-scale locomotives and . Internationally, Trix partnered with Hornby for the distribution of Minitrix products in the UK from 1973 to 1987 under the Hornby Minitrix branding, adapting European designs for British enthusiasts. In the United States, Trix models have been distributed through Walthers since the late , facilitating access to H0 and N-scale European prototypes for American hobbyists. These brands and partnerships underscore Trix's strategy to expand its reach beyond core German markets, fostering through shared resources and targeted exports while preserving the company's legacy in precision model railroading.

References

  1. https://www.trix.de/en/company/about-trix
  2. https://tcawestern.org/trix.htm
  3. http://davidksmith.com/birth-of-n/trix.htm
  4. https://www.marklin-users.net/forum/posts/t7899-What-s-Trix-Express
  5. https://www.gracesguide.co.uk/Trix
  6. https://www.brightontoymuseum.co.uk/index/Category:Trix
  7. https://doubleogauge.com/a-history-of-oo-gauge/
  8. https://www.brightontoymuseum.co.uk/index/Category:Trix_Twin_Railway
  9. https://www.trix.de/en/
  10. https://www.mcronse.eu/index.php?route=extension/mcronsebrandpages/module/brandpages&manufacturer_id=47
  11. https://www.trix.de/en/products/trix-h0/
  12. https://www.ttrca.co.uk/TTR.htm
  13. https://trix-twin.co.uk/Patents.html
  14. https://railwaypages.com/manufacturer-histories
  15. https://www.trix.co.uk/locos.htm
  16. https://www.spookshow.net/loco/trix462.html
  17. https://www.trix.de/en/new-items
  18. https://www.trix.de/en/products/trix-c-track
  19. https://tcawestern.org/arnold.htm
  20. https://www.comboioselectricos.com/html/trix/EN_Trix_H0_nh2025_Online.pdf
  21. https://potomac-nmra.org/PDnewsite/Clinics/GilFuchs/QuestForBetterTrainControl.pdf
  22. https://www.ccbrailroad.com.ar/manuales/nem/normas%20nem.pdf
  23. https://www.firma-staerz.de/index.php?lang=en&sub=selectrix
  24. https://www.morop.org/en/nem-standards
  25. https://velmo.de/html/-_locodecoder.html
  26. https://www.trix.de/en/products/details/article/11122
  27. https://www.rmweb.co.uk/forums/topic/160847-selextric/
  28. https://www.marklin-users.net/forum/posts/t25545-DCC-mfx-in-Trix-new-locomotivs
  29. https://streaming.maerklin.de/public-media/m/nehe25/trixh0/EN_Trix_H0_nh2025.pdf
  30. https://www.trix.de/en/products/details/article/25980
  31. https://www.z-insider.de/was-wurde-aus/
  32. https://www.company-histories.com/Marklin-Holding-GmbH-Company-History.html
  33. https://www.simba-dickie-group.com/en/the-group/history/
  34. https://www.tapatalk.com/groups/germanrailfr/arnold-br-96-models-a-brief-history-t7983.html
  35. https://www.trix.de/en/products/details/article/22016
  36. https://www.trix.de/en/products/details/article/22403
  37. https://www.trix.de/en/products/details/article/16183
  38. http://www.rjftrains.com/sales/neu13/Trix_EN_NH_2013.pdf
  39. https://www.ebay.com/itm/394529436415
  40. https://www.lastdodo.com/en/areas/1889809-hornby-minitrix
  41. https://www.walthers.com/trix
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