Machiel Wilmink - C.J. van Doorne, Delft - Ook 's winters per spoor - Veilig, Vlug, Voordeelig en Verwarmd - 1930s

Vey rare Original Dutch Railways Poster – “Ook ’s Winters per Spoor” – Machiel Wilmink – c. 1936–1938

A beautiful and increasingly scarce original pre-war Dutch Railways advertising poster, designed by renowned Dutch graphic artist Machiel Wilmink (1894–1963) for the Nederlandsche Spoorwegen (NS).

Dating from approximately 1936–1938, this striking poster represents the golden age of Dutch railway advertising and is a remarkable example of Art Deco-inspired graphic design.

The Famous “Veilig, Vlug, Voordeelig” Campaign

During the 1930s, Dutch Railways became widely associated with its memorable advertising slogan “Veilig, Vlug, Voordeelig” (Safe, Fast, Affordable).

The slogan became a familiar and recognisable part of Dutch railway advertising, appearing in numerous promotional campaigns that encouraged the public to choose rail travel.

This particular poster features a clever winter variation on the famous slogan, introducing a fourth “V”: "Verwarmd” (Heated).

The illustration depicts a comfortably seated passenger reading inside a warm railway carriage while a snowstorm rages outside. The message perfectly captures the appeal of train travel during the cold winter months.

Historical and Artistic Significance

Designed by Machiel Wilmink, this poster combines dramatic colours, bold typography and striking visual storytelling.

Its black background, vibrant red and orange lettering and atmospheric winter illustration make it a particularly attractive example of Dutch commercial art from the interwar period.

The design is also documented in the collection of the Dutch Railway Museum (Spoorwegmuseum), underlining its historical significance.

Original surviving examples are increasingly difficult to find, particularly those retaining their original paper and strong colours.

Poster Details

- **Title:** Ook ’s Winters per Spoor – Veilig, Vlug, Voordeelig en Verwarmd
- **Artist:** Machiel Wilmink (1894–1963)
- **Date:** Circa 1936–1938
- **Publisher:** Nederlandsche Spoorwegen (NS)
- **Printer:** N.V. C.J. van Doorne, Delft
- **Original format:** Approximately 100 × 62 cm
- **Country:** Netherlands
- **Condition:** B+ (Good), minor folds

Condition and Authenticity

This is an authentic period printing, preserved on its original, unbacked paper, rather than a modern reproduction.

The poster retains striking original colours and a largely complete composition. Visible signs of age include minor fold lines, minor paper wear and localised damage, as shown in the photographs.

The poster has not been linen-backed, preserving its original paper character.

A Distinctive Piece of Dutch Railway Heritage

More than just an advertising poster, this is a fascinating reminder of the golden age of European rail travel and the creativity of Dutch railway publicity during the 1930s.

Its connection to the celebrated “Veilig, Vlug, Voordeelig” advertising tradition, its distinctive winter theme and its authentic pre-war origins make it a special addition to any collection of vintage railway posters, transportation memorabilia or historic European graphic design.

An eye-catching and historically significant original poster, nearly 90 years old, celebrating one of the most recognisable slogans in Dutch railway history.