When LEGO ‘leaked’ The Orient Express Train a few weeks ago in a catalogue we got our first look at this LEGO Ideas set. Today the full set was finally announced officially. And it’s reaching it’s destination soon as well, with the set releasing December 1st. It will cost $299.99 / €299.99 / £259.99 with the set containing 2,540 pieces.
It looks to be one of the most detailed LEGO train sets I’ve seen so far, featuring a detailed exterior and a lush interior as well. It is however quite different from the original Ideas entry that was approved.
So below you’ll find the official LEGO press release containing all details. With more detailed pictures at the bottom of the post.
The LEGO Group today unveils the Orient Express – a beautiful brick recreation of one of the world’s most luxurious and legendary forms of travel. Known as a ‘rolling palace’, the Orient Express was the world’s first international luxury train that carried thousands of passengers across Europe to Istanbul from 1883 to 1977.
Released to celebrate the train’s 140th anniversary, the new 2,540-piece LEGO set transports builders back to the Golden Age of travel, with some stunning key features, including the main locomotive, tender, dining and sleeping cars.
The 1.6 metre long Orient Express train features removable roofs to allow access to detailed interiors, 8 LEGO minifigures including the conductor, a chef, staff, and a variety of passengers. Decorations of the destinations that the train visited on its original route are also visible across the magnificent set.
The set was designed by 27-year-old Paris-based LEGO fan, Thomas Lajon, as part of the LEGO Ideas programme. Once designed, 10,000 people voted for it to be made into a real set. Talking about his design, Thomas Lajon said, “I have always been a great fan of locomotives, sailing ships and ocean liners. As a child, I collected everything related to them. Years later, my girlfriend encouraged me to get back in touch with LEGO bricks and, knowing my love for trains, she encouraged me to make one. Obviously, I chose to make the Orient Express. A sumptuous French train, at the heart of many stories.”
The LEGO Ideas Orient Express set is available from 1st December priced at $299.99/€299.99/£259.99.
So what do you think of this set? Do you choo-choose to buy it next month? Share your thoughts in the comments.
What is your reaction?
YES!
I like it
It's OK
Not Sure
No!
