not that I am interested in buying a Marklin HO Northlander (3150) that was listed on ebay as of Oct. 31 2008, since I have a nice new Roco set, but I know I have seen Northlanders for sale on ebay over the years I have been following the online marklin auctions, with at least two different box art types.
the one I see listed right now has a mostly blue box with cellophane cutout windows. I have also seen some with paper boxes with a "woodgrain" printed on it - also with the window cutouts.

the one listed on ebay right now doesn't mention a serial number (like xxx of 5000), or have a certificate of authenticity pictured as I believe the official/real ones came with. I have heard there was some Norhtlanders (ex-3071's) made several years ago and painted by another company - almost identical I supposed to what marklin sold. I don't recall that company's name.

So is there any sorts of dead give-aways bidders should look for to make sure they are buying a "real" Northlander? At least so far the top bid isn't too high.

Hi,
The "real" ones have a moving bell on top of the motor unit and pilot car, have a serial number printed underneath the motor unit, right behing the pick up bogie.
Although there were only 5000 made by Märklin, the number should read 00xxxx.
Mine is # 001057, and of couse the certificate of origin (carrying the same number!!!) is a must.
The box is blue.
Should you need any other specifics (pics, etc), just ask! (-;
Cheers

If you need any

Jon - I would call before you go to Ormandy's. The owner, John Ormandy, is not there during the weekdays usually only on Sundays.