Fleischmann (model railroads)

Lore & Background

Fleischmann produced its first model train in O scale in 1938. As a result of the Nuremberg Race Laws and subsequent Aryanization of Jewish businesses, Fleischmann acquired Doll & Co. in 1938, also a manufacturer of model railway toys. At the Nuremberg Toy Fair in 1952, Fleischmann began presenting its own lineup of H0 scale models, implementing two-rail direct current technology and becoming the first company to offer such a product line. The tough metal tracks with discreet cardboard sleepers indicated Fleischmann's objective and formed the base for the perfected track line used in layouts today. From the origin of the H0 product line, Fleischmann offered a class 01 tender locomotive, a class 80 tank locomotive, and a class E44 electric locomotive, along with a full assortment of accessories.

Fleischmann offers model track with full profile rails, 'thinking' turnouts, a turntable, and a rack & pinion railway. Its more recent lineup includes the PROFI label, consisting of pre-ballasted track, PROFI couplings for close coupling operation, and tilt technology found in both the Pendolino and the ICE-T express train. Most Fleischmann H0 products are made for the two-rail direct current system, but they also make three-rail, Märklin-compatible versions of some locomotives, as well as replacement non-insulated wheelsets for use with their wagons on three-rail systems.

In February 2008 Fleischmann was taken over by Modelleisenbahn München GmbH, which also owns Roco. The two companies continue as separate brands while benefiting from economies of scale through joined development, marketing, and procurement. In August 2017 the two companies were put up for sale by Modelleisenbahn München GmbH. In March 2018 it was reported that the Fleischmann brand would from 2019 onwards only cover N scale products, while H0 production would be designated the Roco brand; many Fleischmann H0 models have since been issued as Roco H0 models.

Reader's Guide

Fleischmann's significance lies in its early adoption and exploitation of two-rail direct current technology for H0 scale, making it the first company to offer such a product line in 1952. This innovation, combined with its tough metal tracks and discreet cardboard sleepers, established a foundation for model railway layouts that influenced the industry. The brand's focus on central European prototypes has given it a strong market position in Germany, rivalling Märklin, but has limited its recognition elsewhere. Fleischmann's acquisition of Doll & Co. in 1938, driven by the Nuremberg Race Laws and Aryanization, marks a historical note in its corporate history. The later takeover by Modelleisenbahn München GmbH in 2008 and the subsequent shift of H0 production to the Roco brand from 2019 represent a major restructuring, consolidating the brand's legacy primarily in N scale. Despite these changes, Fleischmann remains a well-established name in German model railroading, known for its PROFI line, tilt technology, and compatibility options for both two-rail and three-rail systems.

Did You Know?

• Their first model train, in O scale, was produced in 1938.
• From 2019, the Fleischmann brand covers only N scale products; H0 production moved to Roco.