12782 operating lift bridge

[cmrj]

I enjoy the humor and the info, you guys talk like you have been friends sence you were kids. I spotted this bridge on EBay ,saw it on a display layout at my LHS many years ago. Want to know if any of you have one or have seen it on a layout. want to verify it's actual size. I'm considering bidding on it. [:)]

[Chris F]

It's big (29.5" long x 8" wide x 19.25" high) and expensive (usually seen advertised for about $700, about double the MSRP when issued in '91-'92). There was one on the Lionel factory layout the last time I was there (2000).

The 2005 Greenberg's price guide indicates $620 (exc.) and $780 (new). Good luck!

[cmrj]

Chris thanks for the info. I'm going to watch and see. I need to pick up a price book,been watching sell price's. people go to far, compared to retail + s&h .

[Chris F]

The current bid of $430.69 would be a real bargain; it will be interesting to see how much higher it will go.

Just for fun, I dug out an old issue of CTT and saw a 1991 Island Trains ad offering the Lift Bridge at $369. This was an example where Lionel underestimated the demand, and the market price quickly rose to the $700 level. I know, because I've been looking at 'em for the last 10 years. I'm hoping for a reissue.[:)]

[rlplionel]

Very interesting. The same seller had an identical bridge for sale on eBay in January. Wonder if the sale fell through on that one?

Regarding the bridge itself, I would say go for it if you have the room. I found my bridge a few years ago on the second day of a local train meet. No one was even looking at it and the seller was motivated to sell. Really neat accessory to see and hear in action. Here's a pic:

http://home.surewest.net/rlplionel/Photo21.htm

Robert