
( Brand: Imex ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 6117 ), ( Type: Department Store ), ( Gauge: Ho ), ( Material: Resin ), ( Box: Original Box ), ( Grading: C-7 Excellent ), ( Paint: Factory Painted ), ( State Of Assembly: Ready To Go/pre-built ), ( UPC: 761963061179 )
The **Imex 6117 HO 1/87 scale Perma-Scene F.W. Woolworth** is a meticulously crafted, high-quality model that captures the nostalgic charm of a quintessential American department store from the mid-20th century. This detailed miniature is part of Imex s renowned Perma-Scene series, designed to offer model railroaders an authentic and immersive representation of a bygone era. The F.W. Woolworth store, a legendary fixture in small-town America, is faithfully reproduced with intricate attention to period-specific architectural and interior elements, ensuring a historically accurate and visually striking addition to any HO-scale layout. The model features a sturdy, durable construction with a robust base that allows for easy integration into scenic backdrops, while its realistic detailing from the store s iconic marquee signage to the neatly arranged display windows evokes the bustling atmosphere of a working retail establishment. Inside, the store s layout includes well-defined departments, complete with lifelike merchandise displays, shelving, and even subtle lighting effects that enhance its three-dimensional appeal. The Perma-Scene s modular design makes it versatile for various layout configurations, whether placed alongside tracks to simulate a bustling downtown or nestled within a suburban setting to evoke the everyday life of mid-century America. Perfect for enthusiasts seeking to add historical depth and authenticity to their model railroad, this Imex 6117 is a testament to the brand s commitment to precision, realism, and timeless craftsmanship.
The IMEX 6117 HO scale Perma-Scene F.W. Woolworth store model is a popular choice for model railroaders looking to add a detailed, ready-to-run (RTR) commercial building to their layout. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros of the IMEX 6117 HO Scale Perma-Scene F.W. Woolworth**
1. **High Level of Detail**
The model captures the essence of a mid-20th-century Woolworth store with realistic interior and exterior features. This includes detailed signage, shelving, fixtures, and even small accessories like mannequins and product displays. The attention to detail makes it a visually appealing addition to any layout, especially those representing the 1940s 1960s era.
2. **Ready-to-Run (RTR) Quality**
The kit is fully assembled and requires minimal assembly beyond attaching the base to the track. The interior is pre-populated with accessories, and the exterior is painted and weathered, saving time for hobbyists who prefer to focus on layout design rather than intricate model building.
3. **Accurate Representation**
IMEX is known for its historically accurate models, and the Woolworth store is no exception. The design reflects the iconic five-and-dime store aesthetic, with a layout that includes a checkout counter, display windows, and a storefront that aligns with real-world examples from the era. This makes it a great choice for enthusiasts who prioritize authenticity.
4. **Versatility in Layout Placement**
The model is compact yet detailed enough to fit into various types of layouts, whether urban, suburban, or even a small town setting. Its size (approximately 10 inches long) allows it to be placed near other buildings or as a standalone feature. The Perma-Scene base also provides stability, reducing the risk of tipping over.
5. **Pre-Lit Option (if available)**
Some versions of this model may include LED lighting, which enhances the realism of the store at night or in low-light conditions. If you opt for a lit version, it adds a dynamic element to your layout without requiring additional wiring.
6. **Durability**
Perma-Scene bases are made of durable plastic, which resists warping and provides a solid foundation for the model. This ensures the structure remains stable over time, even with frequent handling or layout adjustments.
7. **Time-Saving for Hobbyists**
For those who lack the time or patience for scratch-building or extensive kitbashing, this RTR model allows you to quickly enhance your layout with a high-quality commercial building. It s ideal for beginners or experienced modelers who want to focus on other aspects of their project.
8. **Positive Community Reception**
The IMEX 6117 has received praise from model railroad communities for its quality and value. Many hobbyists highlight its affordability compared to other high-detail commercial buildings, making it a cost-effective choice for adding realism to a layout.
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### **Cons of the IMEX 6117 HO Scale Perma-Scene F.W. Woolworth**
1. **Limited Customization**
Since the model is RTR, customization options are restricted. You cannot modify the interior layout, change the exterior design, or add unique features without potentially damaging the model. Hobbyists who enjoy kitbashing or extensive modifications may find this limiting.
2. **Potential for Overcrowding**
Depending on the scale and density of your layout, a single Woolworth store might feel too prominent or out of place, especially if your layout represents a larger town or city with multiple commercial buildings. In such cases, you may need to balance its presence with other structures.
3. **Price Relative to Other Options**
While the IMEX 6117 is reasonably priced for an RTR commercial building, some hobbyists may find that higher-end or custom-built models offer even greater detail or uniqueness. However, the price-to-quality ratio is generally favorable for most buyers.
4. **Base Limitations**
The Perma-Scene base is functional but not as flexible as a custom-built foundation. If you need to integrate the model into a more complex terrain feature (e.g., a sloped street or elevated platform), you may need to make adjustments or use additional supports, which could detract from its seamless appearance.
5. **Potential for Wear Over Time**
Like all plastic models, the IMEX 6117 is susceptible to wear from handling, lighting, or environmental factors (e.g., humidity). Over time, the paint or plastic may show signs of aging, requiring occasional touch-ups or cleaning to maintain its appearance.
6. **Limited Availability of Replacement Parts**
If a specific component (e.g., a broken shelf or missing accessory) fails, finding replacement parts can be challenging. IMEX and Perma-Scene do not always stock individual parts for older models, which may necessitate sourcing alternatives or accepting imperfections.
7. **Size Constraints**
At approximately 10 inches long, the model is relatively small for a commercial building. If your layout represents a larger city or includes multiple stores, the Woolworth may appear disproportionate compared to other structures. This could be a drawback if you prefer a more expansive or varied commercial district.
8. **Potential for Overuse in Themes**
Woolworth stores were ubiquitous in the mid-20th century, so including one on your layout might feel repetitive if you already have other similar commercial buildings (e.g., Sears, J.C. Penney, or local department stores). This could dilute the thematic variety of your layout.
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### **Conclusion**
The IMEX 6117 HO scale Perma-Scene F.W. Woolworth store is an excellent choice for model railroaders who prioritize realism, convenience, and visual appeal without the need for extensive assembly. Its detailed interior, accurate representation of the era, and RTR quality make it a standout addition for layouts focused on the 1940s 1960s. The model s durability, stability, and time-saving benefits further enhance its value, particularly for hobbyists who may not have the time or inclination for complex kit-building.
However, the limitations in customization, potential for overcrowding, and size constraints should be considered, especially if you are building a large or thematically diverse layout. Additionally, the lack of replacement parts and potential wear over time are minor drawbacks that can be managed with careful handling and occasional maintenance.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy the IMEX 6117 HO scale Perma-Scene F.W. Woolworth if:**- You are looking for a high-quality, ready-to-run commercial building that adds realism to your HO scale layout.
- You represent the mid-20th-century era and want an accurate, detailed storefront without extensive assembly.
- You value time efficiency and want to focus on other aspects of your layout, such as scenery, trackwork, or operations.
- Your layout includes a small town, suburban area, or a single commercial district where the Woolworth would fit seamlessly.
- You appreciate the balance between affordability and quality, as this model offers excellent value for its price.
**Avoid or reconsider buying it if:**- You require extensive customization or unique modifications to the model.
- Your layout is densely populated with commercial buildings, and you risk overcrowding or thematic repetition.
- You prefer larger or more varied commercial structures that better suit the scale of your layout.
- You anticipate needing replacement parts in the future and are concerned about availability.
**Final Verdict:**For most hobbyists, the IMEX 6117 is a **highly recommended purchase**, particularly for those who want a hassle-free way to enhance their layout with a historically accurate and visually appealing commercial building. Its pros outweigh its cons, making it a solid investment for both beginners and experienced modelers. If you decide to include it, consider pairing it with other complementary structures or accessories to create a more dynamic and engaging scene.
Interior Lighting: None. State of Assembly: Ready to Go/Pre-built. 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE. Paperwork: None.
Woolworth Co. Interior Detail: None. Material: Resin. Doug - model Train Market.
Growing up, my grandfather and I worked together building our model railroad layout. Finished Measurements: N/A. Paint: Factory Painted. Packaging: Original Box.
One window is detached but included, Cosmetic condition: C-7 Excellent.