Most modelers are fine with the highly detailed commercial models available today, as we should be. Today’s models are almost a detail-for-detail replica of the prototype. Some modelers, like Sarah Griessenböck, try to push their skills and creativity to another level with excellent results. Modelers like Sarah thrive in refining their craft, which takes time, but the satisfaction of holding a lifelike model in your hands makes every effort worthwhile.

When Glenn Guerra released his brass model of an EMD SW-1, Sarah purchased one and immediately began studying the prototype. The interior is blank giving her the opportunity to super detail the cab.

With equipment information in hand, Sarah began drawing each component based on drawings, photos, and feedback from the O scale community. These drawings would then be printed in resin.

Each component is painstakingly recreated to get as much prototypical accuracy as she could fit into a 1:48 scale reproduction.

Once the design for the interior components was complete, Sarah turned her attention to the windows and doors. 3D prints of scale window gaskets were created and fitted into place. Much trial and error went into designing these parts; however, the results are awe-inspiring.

Finishing the Interior

Each part was printed, tested, and finally painted. Weathering adds an extra dimension to the model, primarily found in military models. Each detail has been treated as its own model.

Sarah’s work is becoming increasingly more complex, and the level of detail is something to behold. She seems to be setting a new standard in the hobby, and I am looking forward to seeing where our community of modelers is taking it.