Maker record
Aster
Aster Hobby is a Japanese maker of live-steam model locomotives. The company plans, designs, prototypes and sells Gauge 1 locomotives, including exports. Its models reproduce the mechanisms of full-size steam locomotives and are designed to run under steam. Aster’s published roster documents locomotive types released from 1975 through 2016, including later reissues of some models.
- Founded
- 1975
- Countries
- United Kingdom
- Locations
- Yokohama, Japan; Surrey, United Kingdom · 1976
- Founders
- Yoshio Asamoto
The story of Aster
Aster Hobby is a Japanese specialist in Gauge 1 live-steam locomotive models. The company’s business includes planning, design, prototyping, sales and exports. Its official company profile gives 1975 as the company’s establishment year and lists its head office in Tsuzuki-ku, Yokohama. The profile also identifies European, British, German, Australian and American model railway businesses among its principal trading partners.
Aster’s published locomotive roster covers models released from 1975 through 2016. The roster notes that some models were reissued, sometimes with changed specifications. Its range consists of live-steam locomotives, with technical specifications including wheel arrangements, cylinder and valve types, boiler details, fuel and pump options. Aster’s current catalogue continues to present the company as a live-steam locomotive maker.