H0m gauge - The meter gauge for demanding model railroaders
What does H0m gauge mean and what is the attraction?
The H0m gauge is a 1:87 scale scale and represents narrow-gauge railroads with a prototype gauge of 1000 mm - i.e. meter gauge. The abbreviation "m" stands for "meter". The models run on 12 mm wide track and are ideal for reproducing mountain railroads, industrial sidings or regional lines, such as those found in Switzerland, France or northern Italy. In contrast to the classic H0 (16.5 mm track width), the H0m gauge conveys a more delicate impression and is valued by connoisseurs as particularly authentic.
Prototypical representation of narrow gauge railways
The H0m gauge enables a detailed realization of meter gauge railroads such as the Rhaetian Railway (RhB), the Montreux-Berner Oberland Railway (MOB) or the Chemins de fer de Provence. The spectacular Alpine routes with tight curves, narrow viaducts and tunnel portals can be recreated particularly realistically in H0m. The 1:87 scale ensures that locomotives, multiple units and carriages are in harmonious proportion to the rest of the H0 world despite the narrow-gauge scale and can also be integrated visually into existing layouts. With H0m gauge, the meter gauge can be realistically reproduced on a scale of 1:87.
Typical applications and theme worlds
Model builders particularly like to use the H0m gauge to implement the following scenarios:
- Alpine railroads with slopes, hairpin bends and tunnels
- Railroad depots and terminus stations of small narrow-gauge railways
- Regional traffic with railcars and short passenger trains
- Freight traffic with covered wagons, tank wagons and open wagons
- Tourist railroad lines and museum railways
Due to the tight radii, short vehicle lengths and the narrow-gauge look, realistic rail operations with lots of atmosphere can be staged on a relatively small area - ideal for model building with limited space but high standards.
Technology and compatibility of the H0m gauge
The H0m gauge uses 12 mm wide tracks - identical to those of the TT nominal size. Many manufacturers offer special track systems with points, crossings and flexible tracks. Power is usually supplied via two-wire direct current technology, allowing the vehicles to be easily integrated into modern digital systems. Vehicles are usually equipped with an NEM shaft for couplings and optional interfaces for decoders. Many H0m locomotives also come with sound modules and LED lighting as standard or can be retrofitted.
Manufacturer overview - Who produces for H0m gauge?
Brands and products in the H0m range
| Manufacturer | Typical models |
|---|---|
| Bemo | RhB locomotives, railcars, passenger and freight cars, track systems |
| Tillig | MOB vehicles, Panorama-Express, special designs |
H0m gauge models in the range - selection from our store
| Product group | Designation |
|---|---|
| Steam Locomotives | Tillig H0m 02929 Steam locomotive 99 0234-7, DR, Ep. IV |
| Passenger coaches | Tillig H0m 13995 H0m Set of 2 passenger coaches, KB4i, DR, Ep. IV |
| Railcar | Bemo H0m 1209911 Wismar rail bus T 41 of the DEV |
| Goods wagon | Bemo H0m 2281116 RhB Sp-w 8356 stake wagon |
| Goods wagon | Tillig H0m 15921 DR Ep. IV freight car set |
Which eras does H0m cover?
Numerous railroad eras can be depicted with the H0m gauge - from the Wilhelminian era (Era I) to electrification in the 1920s (Era II/III) to modern tourist traffic in the present (Era V/VI). Scenarios from Switzerland are particularly popular, in which the imposing Alpine railroads with viaducts, narrow hairpin bends and typical buildings such as stations, keepers' houses and power stations can be reproduced in great detail. The rolling stock also covers a wide range - from rustic wooden box cars to modern Allegra multiple units with panoramic windows.
Advantages of the H0m gauge at a glance
- Authentic representation of meter gauge railways
- 1:87 scale - compatible with H0 elements
- More compact layouts with high realism
- Large selection of Swiss and international prototypes
- Digital operation and sound easily possible
- Ideal for mountain lines, museum railroads and regional trains
Conclusion: H0m gauge - The insider tip for real narrow gauge enthusiasts
H0m gauge - Realistically metre gauge on a scale of 1:87. The H0m gauge combines the best of two worlds: the level of detail of classic H0 with the fascination of the narrow-gauge railroad. It makes it possible to build realistic and topographically exciting layouts - whether in the style of the Rhaetian Railway, the MOB or other meter-gauge lines. H0m is a worthwhile and inspiring choice for model builders who attach particular importance to fidelity to the original, landscape design and technical standard. Discover H0m gauge now and create new miniature worlds! H0m gauge is the meter gauge for demanding model railroaders and many model railways in H0m are available in the Modellbahnshop available.
