In the 1960's and 70's AHM Rivarossi offered some of the best looking HO locomotives in plastic at very affordable prices. Before AHM these models were sold as Lionel and later, Athern.
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We take a look at several, the Virginia and Truckee early locomotives, the interesting Bolker as well as the 440 Baldwin locomotives. AND a quick look at the indiana harbor belt railroad 080 switcher, a beautiful little locomotive.
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History: (from the web)

Rivarossi was founded in 1945 by Alessandro Rossi with Antonio Riva.

Sold in America:
In 1957 Rivarossi developed several great American prototype trains in both HO and O scales HO models were licensed and sold by Lionel as Lionel HO. The cooperation with Lionel broke down over financial issues after only a year. In 1958 Rivarossi products were sold through Athearn. (Athern steam) After Athearn, just about all Rivarossi products, and its sister company Pocher, were distributed through AHM (Associated Hobby Manufactures).

For a brief but interesting time in the 1970's many of these products were offered by Tyco Trains!

In these early days before global trade agreements the only way a company like Rivarossi could sell in America was through a US based importer, who rebranded as their own. After trade deals were put in place Rivarossi could sell directly to wholesalers and retailers under their own name.

In the 1990s Rivarossi acquired Lima (1992), Jouef and Arnold (1997). In 2003 Rivarossi went into receivership.

In 2004 Hornby Railways acquired most of the assets from Rivarossi, in particular the brands Pocher, Arnold, Jouef, Rivarossi and Lima. Since 2006 products are sold again under these brand names. While Hornby is a Spanish company the production has been moved to China keeping prices low and the company is now doing well, even offering new products.