The February-May 2014 Oxford Diecast Release Programme contains THREE new models using the 1:76 (OO-gauge) J-type castings. These are:

76MJ005: Post Office Telephones Planning Van – From the photo this seems to be the first of the Oxford Diecast J-type models not to have the window rubber printing effect, and is much better for it!

76MJ006: Carters Steam Fair Ice Cream Van – This is a rework of the Facchino’s model, so does not look much like the real vehicle (see photo in gallery, which shows that the real vehicle – a Whitby replica – is wider-bodied and without rear wheelarches).

76MJ008: Southdown – From the photo this seems to repeat the flaws of their Royal Mail model (76MJ004), and to add a few more. The silver-printed window surrounds (on both models) are just ridiculous! These models also repeat a mistake made on the 1:43 scale Corgi model, by giving the models printed indications of semaphore turn indicators fitted into the bodywork by the trailing edge of each side door opening. When fitted (infrequently) these were fixed to the forward-facing edge of each opening. Difficult to model, but in the circumstances surely better to leave off than do incorrectly.

When the Register learnt that Oxford Diecast were considering making models of the J-type, every help was offered and their Design Manager even measured and photographed 5003 NX in the primary research process. There’s really no excuse for these models being anything other than accurate, except where manufacturing processes involve compromise.

There does not seem to be a 76MJ007 listed, more details as and when.