Luxury Lego Unveils travel may evoke visions of enjoying champagne in a lavish first-class airplane seat today, but for nearly a century, it was epitomized by a train weaving its way through Europe: The Orient Express.
Originating in 1883 and operated by the Belgian company Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits, the original Orient Express traversed European routes from London to Istanbul until 1977, celebrating its 140th anniversary this year. To commemorate this milestone, Lego has transformed a fan’s creation into an actual set.
On the Lego Ideas platform, amateur builders share their designs, and if they amass 10,000 votes, Lego considers producing the set. Thomas Lajon’s Lego Orient Express, inspired by a Pacific PLM 231 K 8 locomotive, received approval for production. However, the company made substantial alterations to Lajon’s intricate and ambitious original design.
Lego Unveils
Lego’s Orient Express locomotive, composed of 2,540 pieces, is notably smaller and more comparable in size to other steam train models previously released by the company. The set includes a buildable display stand with custom tracks, and the train seems compatible with standard Lego model train track sections.
Comprising a locomotive, coal tender, and two passenger carriages, the Lego Orient Express features seating, dining, and sleeping sections. The removable roofs of the carriages facilitate access for the eight included Lego minifigures, including a conductor, chef, waiter, and various travelers. When assembled, the entire train measures approximately 45 inches in length.
