BOSTON AREA TOY COLLECTORS CLUB
Toy Reviews
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Click on the name below to read the review:
AUTOart - Ford Shelby GR-1 Concept
CORGI - Aviation Archives Fokker D.VII
CORGI - BATCC Edition Chrome Ford Consul
Dark Horse Deluxe - Peanuts: Then and Now Figure Sets
GreenLight Collectibles and Maisto - Ford Mustang Mashup
Hobby Master - Douglas A-1H Skyraider
Jakks Pacific - Disney's Phineas and Ferb 3" Figures
Kotobukiya - Iron Man 2 Movie Fine Art Statue
Kotobukiya - Senjyogahara Hitagi Ani*Figure
Maisto and GreenLight Collectibles - Ford Mustang Mashup
Matchbox - 2010 Lesney Edition
Mattel - DC Universe Classic Green Lantern's Light 5-pack
Mattel - Justice League Unlimited Fan Collection
Mezco Toyz - Mez-itz DC Universe Batman and Joker Two-pack
Sideshow Collectibles - Dr. Rene Belloq 12-inch Figure
(Sideshow Exclusive Edition with Idol Chamber Environment)
Tomica - "Little Jewels"
Tomica - The Tomica Line Returns to the USA
Tomica - Tomica on the Move (batteries required)
Tonner Doll Co. - Bella Swan and Edward Cullen
Tonner Doll Co. - Captain Malcom Reynolds from Firefly
Tonner Doll Co. - Power Girl Deluxe
Tonner Doll Co. - DC Stars Wonder Woman
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(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Dark Horse Deluxe - Peanuts: Charlie Brown Then and Now Figure Set
Before I begin my review of the two Peanuts characters, Charlie Brown (Then and Now) and Snoopy (Then and Now), I would like to thank Mr. Chris Gaslin, Product Development Mgr. and Dark Horse Comics, Milwaukie, Oregon for their continued support of our club's National Event each year. The Peanuts characters are celebrating their 60th anniversary and we are happy to have this donation for our event, which was held on Fri. Sept. 24th, 2010. (Click here for more coverage.)
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Dark Horse Deluxe - Peanuts: Snoopy Then and Now Figure Set
Probably the most successful comic strip of all time, Peanuts, by Mr. Charles Schultz, appeared for a couple of years as Li'l Folks in the St. Paul Pioneer Press before it was syndicated under its new name by United Features in 1950. The antics of Charlie Brown, the strip's unlikely hero, and Snoopy the Wonder Dog, pleased audiences worldwide. To celebrate the characters' 60th anniversary, Dark Horse Deluxe has produced figuines of Charlie Brown and Snoopy as they originally appeared in the 1950's and also in the more well known present-day look that they evolved into. These two characters have become part of American Culture. They have been featured in books, feature-length animated films, prime-time television specials, musical comedy plays, and extensive merchandising and licensing of all the major characters.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Dark Horse Deluxe - Peanuts: Charlie Brown Then and Now Figure Set, front, back, and sides
First up for review is the Charlie Brown Then and Now Figure Set. The set is showcasing the 1950's Charlie Brown figure and the now (2010) Charlie Brown figure. Each figure is made of vinyl and is nearly four inches tall. The suggested retail price is $24.99 and worth every cent. (You can purchase them here.) The 1950's Charlie Brown is smaller, has a wider black mouth, slightly bigger eyes, with a smaller nose, and different hair style that is separated by his tiny eyebrows. Even the yellow and black, zig-zag shirt that is worn is larger than the present day Charlie Brown. At the base of the figure, the shoes are not marked under the foot, as they are in the present day figure. Even the figure's shoe laces are made accrossed, as opposed to the laced up shoe laces of the "Now" figure. The details of the "Then" figure would have Charles Schultz smiling. It is completely accurate to the look of his first drawn images of Charlie Brown in his classic cartoon.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Charlie Brown as he appeared in the first Peanuts strip on Oct. 2, 1950. The zig-zag
line was not added to his shirt until Dec. 21, 1950.
The "Now" Charlie Brown figure in the set has evolved with the times and has its own distinct characteristics. It is larger, four inches tall, bigger in width, and has incorporated more details. The head is bigger, the mouth smaller (also jet black), the eyes are smaller, and the hair is a single wave, with the eyebrows set in closer to the hair. The yellow shirt is pretty much the same as the "Then" figure, except the black zig-zag stipe is thinner. He also has brown laced up shoes and lining underneath his shoes. The base on each character has their own grass stand, if one wishes to remove them from their attractive display package.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Charlie Brown Then and Now Figure Set
And now on to the review of the Snoopy Then and Now Figure Set. The two Snoopy figures are very different than the Charlie Brown figures and can be said to be complete opposites in so many ways. Let's start with the "Then" Snoopy. The figure is vinyl, nearing four inches tall and is much smaller in size to the "Now" Snoopy.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Dark Horse Deluxe - Peanuts: Snoopy Then and Now Figure Set, front, back, and sides
Starting from the head and moving down, Snoopy has much bigger flappy ears, bigger eyes, larger eyebrows, and long pink tongue. The tail is much longer, with a larger black spot on its back. It does not resemble the present day Snoopy we are all use to seeing. The nose is also smaller as are his feet (or paws). Perhaps most importantly, the "Then" Snoopy walks on all four feet like a real dog, not upright like a person, as he does in the "Now" figure. Yet, despite all these differences, the figure is a beautifully created depiction of what Charles Schultz had envisioned his first comic strip "wonder dog" to look like 60 years ago.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Snoopy as he looked in his first appearance in the third Peanuts strip on Oct. 4, 1950
Next up is the Snoopy of "Now" and its present day look. Clearly Mr. Schultz, throughout the decades tweaked and evolved his figure of Snoopy to become larger in size. The figure has a huge body base, big head, more streamlined floppy ears, smaller eyebrows and eyes, and not tongue. It is also vinyl and four inches tall. Both figures also have a black collar around their necks and the "Now" figure has a smaller jet black patch on his body base. Each figure also comes with a grass green base for display. To paraphrase our Action Figure Co-Chairman Moose Hannon, both Peanuts Figure Sets are "a lot of vinyl for the bucks!"
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Dark Horse Deluxe - Peanuts: Then and Now Figure Set
In addition to these figure sets, there are Classic Peanuts statues of Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and Schroeder, limited to 650 worldwide. Each statue has its own individual tin box, with a pin-back button and a character booklet. You can find these here. So if you are a fan of Peanuts figures, Dark Horse Deluxe has produced some of the best figures to date. To find out more of what Dark Horse Deluxe and Dark Horse Comics offers, see darkhorse.com. Keep on COLLECTING!
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
The "DRILL LINER" #70503 and the "ROADS & RAILS SET" #70571 both arrived in time to be incorporated into our First-in-the-nation TOMICA® Tribute Exhibit at our milestone 10th Annual National Collectible Toy Event held on Friday, Sept. 24, 2010. (Click here to see more coverage of the event). Both items presented no real obstacles in being set up, except that they both needed batteries. The boxes clearly let you know that a standard "C" battery will be needed for the magic to happen on either and that no batteries were included.
(Photo courtesy of Ron Krzywonos)
TOMICA® - "ROADS & RAILS" set and "DRILL LINER" set
The "DRILL LINER" is a bright yellow colored, black trimmed, three-piece train, consisting of a front, middle (motorized), and rear section. One serious-faced TomiKids figure is included with the train, even though the enclosed instruction sheet shows seven TomiKids at different stations. The instruction sheet illustrates the need for a Phillips-head screwdriver to access the battery compartment and where to apply the twenty-three different adhesive decals, which are also enclosed on a sheet. No train track or TOMICA® vehicle is promised on the packaging, though the box front does give the illusion of lights beaming from the front Drill Train and the Rear Train.
(Photos courtesy of G. Sullivan)
TOMICA® - "DRILL LINER" train TomiKids figure in rear of "DRILL LINER" train
The "DRILL LINER" is fun to operate, with the front chromed drill piece spinning in direct proportion to the speed of the train. TOMICA® lablels this item under the "HYPER CITY RESCUE" and clearly shows it incorporated on the box back side as a typical part of the "HYPER CITY". This is definitely a "new Tomica metropolis, where imagination lives!"
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
"ROADS & RAILS" set on display ("DRILL LINER" train and 2 extra cars not included)
The "ROADS & RAILS" set is by far the larger of the two and comes carefully boxed with a different train in three sections, one smiling TomiKids figure, one diecast car, and all the interconnecting rails for the train tracks. There are similarly connecting road segments for the car. An auto crossing with four auto crossing rails for safety allow said car to go from one side of the train line to the other. But wait, with patience you'll also learn how to get the "Support Vehicle" to emerge from the third "Rear Train" car. As with the "DRILL LINER" the "Middle Train" houses the battery. If the "DRILL LINER" needed adult assistance, you can only imagine what patience this set will require with two instruction sheets and two sets of decals. Still, with a little more patience, it does all go together well.
(Photos courtesy of G. Sullivan)
The train included with the "ROADS & RAILS" set with TomiKids Support Vehicle in the Rear Train car
figure driving
For our Sept. 24th event, we designed the massive Ballroom Floor layout such that the expanded, grand MATCHBOX exhibit was within eyesight of the first ever TOMICA® exhibit. While not scientific, the visible trail of excited collectors and media between the two exhibits was staggering. Imaginative, creative, and fun to watch outweighed any questions at the TOMICA® exhibit.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
A lot of buzz at the TOMICA® exhibit
As Toys R Us has the exclusive retail rights on the TOMICA® line until Sept. 2011, it has also been educational to see how it is rolling out. Reports streaming in to me indicate the positioning of the product separate from the diecast aisle is working even thought we are unaware of any TOMICA™ promotional space in any Toys R Us literature so far this season. Accessories seem to be selling well too, leading an observer to conclude that this is indeed the MATCHBOX or LEGO centric family at work. (Toys R Us has not provided us with sales numbers.)
As I said in my previous TOMICA® review, we anxiously await further developments from this well-deployed launch. The new TOMICA® web site is now up: www.tomica-usa.com as the official source of news.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Kotobukiya - Iron Man 2 Movie Fine Art Statue, Iron Man Mark VI
If you look at the picures below, you can see the superior detail work. The movie Iron Man costume is made up of many small plates joined together to make the armor. Every separate piece of armor, joint, screw, and rivet is clearly depicted and then painted to look new, but not never-used. The paint scheme, though not "distressed" as if the armor has endured heavy use, does look like it really works and has at least been used a couple times. The combination of cold-cast porcelain and the paint scheme allows it to look like real metal armor as well, avoiding the "cheap plastic" look that many character statues have (even when some of them aren't make of plastic).
(Photos courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Iron Man 2 Movie Fine Art Statue, Iron Man Mark VI (back and sides)
When I take pictures for toy reviews, I often have difficulty finding good angles that will make the photo of the toy look attractive. With this statue I had the opposite problem. I took a lot of photos from lots of different angles and they all looked good. I couldn't find a way to make this statue look unattractive!
(Photos courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Iron Man Mark VI detail, with lights off (left) and lights on (right)
The statue comes with a lighted stand and the pin that holds the statue to the stand has a metal connector that allows the batteries in the stand to not only light up the stand, but also the statue itself. The white design on the stand lights up, as do the statues eys, chest, and palms of the hands.
(Photos courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Iron Man Mark VI detail, the stand Iron Man Mark VI detail, eyes and chest
So, not only does this statue look great from all angles, but it also looks great in the dark!
(Photos courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Iron Man 2 Movie Fine Art Statue, Iron Man Mark VI
The box the statue is shipped in is quite striking as well. The front of the box is pure black with reflective gold lettering. This makes for a stark (if you'll pardon the pun) but attractive box. The back of the box has some beautiful pictures of the statue, but keeps the stark black background.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Iron Man 2 Movie Fine Art Statue box, front (left) and back (right)
The statue retails for $174.99 and I consider it well worth that price. It is a limited edition of 2500 and they are all individually numbered on the bottom of the stand.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Iron Man 2 Movie Fine Art Statue, bottom of stand
This statue can be purchased here, and I give it an overall grade of A+. This is not only the best Iron Man statue I've ever seen, it's also the best superhero statue of any kind I've ever seen.
For more information, go to kotous.com.
(Photo courtesy of Moose Hannon)
Mattel - DC Universe Classic Green Lantern's Light 5 pack, in box
The DC Universe Classics 5 pack entitled Green Lantern's Light produced by Mattel is a Walmart exclusive at primary market retail. This is the second time that Mattel has made a five figure set for Walmart; the first one-called the Gotham City 5--came out just about this time last year. The difference between the two has to do with focus.
(Photos courtesy of Moose Hannon)
Mattel - DC Universe Classic Green Lantern's Light 5 pack, back of box
The Gotham City 5 set always looked like it was slapped together at the last minute. Of the five, two figures--Batman and Superman--were the same exact figures that Mattel had already released as singles. The center figure in that set was Lex Luthor dressed in Super Friends pink and green. While the Catwoman and the Two-Face figures were appropriate to the Gotham City theme, what Super Friends Luthor and Superman have to do with Gotham City is beyond me. It seems like Walmart called Mattel and said, "Hey, we want a big set of figures really fast. What can you do for us?" Mattel answered with,"Let's see what we got in the wood shed."
(Photos courtesy of Moose Hannon)
Green Lantern's Light 5 pack - Tomar-Re Color of Fear 2 pack with Romat-Ru
With this new five pack of Lanterns, Mattel has paid more attention to details. While four out of the five are repaints/resculpts, they are good reconfigurations of these characters. In this set there is Tomar-Re in his GL garb. Conveniently this figure is very similar to a previous DCUC figure of Romat-Ru from the Color of Fear 2 pack, released by Mattel's online store (mattycollector.com) for the collector market. It didn't take much work for Mattel to rework Romat-Ru into Tomar-Re, considering that they are the same intergalatic species, the Xudarians. This is the first appearance of Tomar-Re in the DCUC scale and it is worth owning.
(Photo courtesy of Moose Hannon)
Green Lantern's Light 5 pack - Sinestro
This is not the first time that Mattel has released Sinestro in the DCUC line. Previously he was made for wave three in Classic blue and a variant of Sinestro Corp yellow. Now I have read that the difference between the new Sinestro and wave three is that the new Sinestro is appropriately taller. Since I like to keep my figures MIP, I will never know for sure until I am able to open them and compare. I guess that I may never know. I am just glad to have Sinestro in green, though he does look too muscle bound.
(Photo courtesy of Moose Hannon)
Green Lantern's Light 5 pack - Hal Jordan and Hal in his DC Universe single package
The center piece of any GL boxset is of course Hal Jordan where here he wears the classic Green Lantern uniform. The added touch here is that Hal has aged nicely with white temples. The detail is excellent because that is how he is currently drawn in new DC Comics, like the Blackest Night series. If you just want Hal, he is still available at Toys R Us in modern sheen for around $15. Aside from the paint job, they are the same figure.
(Photo courtesy of Moose Hannon)
Green Lantern's Light 5 pack - John Stewart
The fourth repaint in this set is John Stewart in an outfit with which I am not familiar. Of the five figures, this is the least exciting, since John Stewart was released as a single in wave 11 a number of months ago. Couldn't Parallax been made here instead?
(Photo courtesy of Moose Hannon)
Green Lantern's Light 5 pack - Guy Gardner
The fifth figure here is Guy Gardner, and it is the best. It is also the only totally new sculpt, with his signature vest, high collar, and his orange Moe Howard hairstyle. Mattel added the typical Gardner smarmy smirk. Good job, Mattel.
Not a good job by Mattel and Walmart is the price. At just under $60, it will keep many fans away. It is five bucks more than the last five pack. Averaging it out, these figs are $12 a piece in this set. Prices for DCUC are running from $14.00 to $16.49 when not on sale. IMO this set should retail for $50 or less, especially as there is no Build-A-Figure included.
This is a dashing looking set with all characters in highly energized poses. I'll keep mine in the box. In the end, to answer my favorite question, "Is this a lot of plastic for the dollar?" I say, "No! It is a good amount of plastic for way too many dollars."
Crossing the great age and cultural divide between a Japanese youth anime/manga audience and an American middle age toy collector audience is no easy task. However, Kotobukiya Co. Ltd. of
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Kotobukiya - Senjyogahara Hitagi painted figure (shown without accessories)
The newest release in the Kotobukiya Ani*Figure product line is Senjyogahara Hitagi who is a female character from the popular manga /anime series of light novels and DVDs called Bakemonogatari by the Japanese author Nisio Isin. The series name translates to either Monster Story or Ghost Story and is illustrated by a Taiwanese artist whose name is Vofan. The principal hero of the series is a third year high school student named Koyomi Araragi who among other things survives a vampire attack and has frequent encounters with ghosts and gods and spirits and mythological creatures and all kinds of supernatural apparitions. Each of the novels features a different heroine. Senjyogahara Hitagi is the main character in the novel entitled Hitagi Crab. She is a very complex character and is what the Japanese call Tsudere. This is “a Japanese character development process which describes a person who is initially cold and even hostile towards another person before gradually showing their warm side over time.”
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Kotobukiya - Senjyogahara Hitagi (side, shown without accessories)
The Kotobukiya 1:8 scale Senjyogahara Hitagi Ani*Figure vividly captures the essence of the character. It dramatically conveys two of the principal story points related above. The base of the figure includes the tip of the shadowy crab’s claw lightly touching her leg causing her to become weightless. The crab claw is transparent and covered with Japanese kanji characters adding a further enigmatic touch. With a clear plastic plinth beneath the bottom of her boot and the top of the base, she seems to rise up from the pedestal with her long legs, toe tipping feet, flowing hair and billowing school uniform skirt all adding to the illusion. In her right hand is a stapler ready to stop you from asking any questions even if her sideways glance expression were not enough of a deterrent!
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Kotobukiya - Senjyogahara Hitagi (back, shown without accessories)
The Kotobukiya Senjyogahara Hitagi Ani*Figure stands at just over eight inches tall. The sculpt is well defined and the PVC surface has a minimum of part divisions and mould lines that are an inherent part of the casting process. Kotobukiya has done a very good job with shading in the figure’s purple outfit and hair which adds to the realistic portrayal. Little touches such as the rolled tops and wrinkles in leggings contribute to a more realistic character. The PVC surface can be glossy in the wrong kind of lighting which may be of concern to collectors who display figures out of the box. For the mint-in-mint box collector, Kotobukiya encloses the Senjyogahara Hitagi in a purple box that accents the colors of the figure. The box features a large ‘window’ in the front and across the top that provides a clear view of the figure. There are two smaller ‘windows’ on the sides. The back of the box features a large picture of the assembled figure.
(Photos courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Senjyogahara Hitagi painted figure in box (front) Senjyogahara Hitagi painted figure in box (back)
Unlike other toy and collectible designers who work in anonymity, one of the more interesting features of Japanese anime statues is identifying the sculptor. The Kotobukiya Senjyogahara Hitagi is attributed to Shiketaudonko. This artist has done work on other Kotobukiya figures as well as figures produced by other manufacturers. Anime figure sculptors have a celebrity status among fans of the genre. If you find that you like this figure, you may also want to search out his other creations.
The Ford mustang burst onto the scene in 1964 and took the automotive world by storm. Over the years it has had its ups and downs. With the new retro style that came out in 2005 and a couple of little tweaks for the 2010 model, the mustang is better than ever before. As in the real life the die-cast world has seen the Ford Mustang done in a number of ways, from different model years, to concepts, to real life cars. We have two Mustang models done by two great companies, GreenLight Collectibles, and Maisto.
The first is 1:24 scale 1967 Ford mustang GT done by Maisto. This model is in their series “Old Friends”, a take-off on some other series that have been out there.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Maisto - 1967 Ford Mustang GT "Old Friends" series, in box
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Maisto - 1967 Ford Mustang GT "Old Friends" series, side views
As you can see it is aged and has the dirty look to it, like it was found in a barn or was left outside to rust away. There have been other series like this in the past. Jada had their "For Sale” series and the Johnny Lightning had the "Project In Progress" series of models. I have always like this type of stuff. It is a good representation of what happens to a lot of these cars when in real life they are left behind. It’s a good size, 1:24 scale, a kind of lost scale in the die-cast world. Everything is now 1:64 scale or 1:43, but with this 1:24 scale the detail is very well done.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
1967 Ford Mustang GT - front view
As you can see from the front, the dirt on the windshield, a broken headlight or the cracked window add to the theme of being an old friend. The bumper is aged looks like rust on it the paint coming through the dirt/dust, looking like it needs a wash.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
1967 Ford Mustang GT - rear view
The model has an opening hood and both side doors open to see more detail on the engine and the interior of the model. It has the dusty look to it, to go along with the overall theme of the series.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
1967 Ford Mustang GT - open hood and doors
Overall a well done model in good series, click here to see more in the series. There is a very good mix of models from a 1950 Chevy pick up truck, to a VW Beetle and VW Van, a 1965 Shelby Cobra, a Mercedes Benz and a couple of Citroens. For information on other Maisto models, go to maisto.com.
The next item is from Greenlight Collectibles, the 2010 Ford Shelby GT500.
(Photo courtesy of Jim Patterson)
GreenLight Collectibles - 2010 Ford Shelby GT500
It is in 1:18 scale, like the Maisto, 1:18 scale is another lost scale. A lot of companies don't get much into 1:18 scale or don’t do it at all due to cost etc. GreenLight is jumping with both feet into the 1:18 scale arena and they pick an awesome model to do it. This model comes in two colors torch red and grabber blue. They also have a regular Mustang GT in 1:18 scale in red and white as well.
(Photo courtesy of Jim Patterson)
2010 Ford Shelby GT500 - top view
I was never big on red cars, but this is just a sharp looking vehicle. It looks fast just standing still. The detail is really well done, the rear defrost lines on the rear window, the racing stripes, the snake along the side of the car. As with the Maisto, all the doors open, showing even more detail, even down to the seatbelts. The engine compartment even has the pole to hold up the hood.
(Photo courtesy of Jim Patterson)
2010 Ford Shelby GT500 - trunk, hood and doors open
This model is better than some of the AUTOArt models I have. The level of detail is amazing the GreenLight team did their homework on this one. This model is available here and more models can be seen at greenlighttoys.com. I can't wait till see what else they have coming out. Excellent job!
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
AUTOart - Ford Shelby GR-1 Concept car box
The Ford Shelby GR-1 Concept car is a new joint venture with Ford and Shelby Automotive. The car is an amazing work of art, with polished aluminum body and has a 605 horsepower, 390 cubic inch all aluminum v-10 engine. AUTOart has taken this super car and has done an outstanding job of replicating it.
(Photo courtesy of Jim Patterson)
AUTOart - Ford Shelby GR-1 Concept car
The first thing I noticed when I opened it up was that it was really light. Some of the other AUTOArt models I have are more on the heavier side. I figured it was just another company going the cheap route. However, when I read the little information pamphlet that comes with the model, I learned this is AUTOart’s first 1:18 polished aluminum body die cast model. The die cast cars made today are a zinc based die cast and can be used for many runs and mass-produced. This model was not mass-produced. Only 500 of this model were produced with this aluminum finish. Quoting from page six of the pamphlet, “this model is made up of 199 separate metal and plastic parts, wiring, screws, and nuts”. After reading the information I was even more impressed with the model and the attention to detail that AUTOart gives to each of their products.
(Photo courtesy of Jim Patterson)
Ford Shelby Concept - Open doors and hood
This model is your standard 1:18 scale. It has opening doors and an opening hood, showing all the detail of the v 10 engine and the interior, replicated beautifully by AUTOart. The lines are crisp and clean and the aluminum finish makes it look fast no matter which angle you view.
(Photo courtesy of Jim Patterson)
Ford Shelby Concept - Front view
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Ford Shelby Concept - Rear view
Some models look much better all closed up and this one is no exception. The lines are so smooth and the finish of this model is just amazing. Below you can see a good shot of the interior with the steering wheel and the shifter.
(Photo courtesy of Jim Patterson)
Ford Shelby Concept - Note steering wheel and shifter
Overall a very well done model. The details, from the rims and tires, the beefed up braking system, the engine, and the hours it must taken to put that all together. This model needs to be seen up close. The pictures just don’t do it justice. More information on this model and others in the AUTOart family can be viewed on autoartmodels.com.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Me and my Mezco Toyz Popeye action figure
When Mezco first introduced their Mez-itz line of toys, they were small figures, similar to, but slightly larger than, Kubrick figures. They were fun little figures, obviously meant to compete with Kubricks. Mezco produced several different series from several different licenses, but the line seemed to fade away after a few years.
Original style Mez-itz
approximately 3 1/2 inches Tall
About two years ago, Mezco Toyz re-introduced a redesigned and reconceived Mez-itz line. The new line was more in the Urban Vinyl mode. These 6 1/2 inch tall figures are more aimed at the Mighty Muggs collector, and thank goodness for that. The all-but-dead Mighty Muggs line only put out 3 figures in 2010 and one of them was an SDCC exclusive. I'm pretty sure they only put out one or two figures in 2009.
Mezco picked up the ball that Hasbro dropped by introducing these redesigned Mez-itz. I immediately picked up the Hellboy and Abe Sapien figures that they released under the Hellboy II movie license.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
New style Mez-itz approximately 6 1/2 inches tall
Hellboy and Abe Sapien from Hellboy II: The Golden Army series
Since 2008, Mezco has released several more of this style Mez-itz, mostly from movie licenses. The Werewolf, Clash of the Titans, Nightmare on Elm Street, Friday the 13th and a few others. My interest was piqued when I read recently that Mezco Toyz had won the DC Comics license for their Mez-itz line. Although the Mighty Muggs Marvel Comics figures were well done, that line never had a DC license. It looks like this Mez-itz line is preparing to fill that gap.
To kick off their DC Universe Mez-itz line, Mezco introduced a special Batman and Joker two-pack at the San Diego ComiCon. Although it was introduced at ComiCon, it was not exclusive to it. You can still buy the two-pack at mezcodirect.com (click here) for $40.00.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan) (Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Mezco Toyz - DC Universe Batman and The Joker two-pack
I got mine from the web site and it arrived two days after ComiCon, so the shipping is fast. I was very impressed with the box. Although it is not a window box like the Hellboy II figures, it is a beautiful design. The artwork and overall look would definitely grab my attention if this were sitting on a store shelf. Inside the box the figures are well protected from accidental damage. I was excited to see that the Joker's hat was removable. Batman comes with a BAT-A-RANG accessory that fits well in his hand. (I don't know how many previous Batman toys I've had that come with a nice BAT-A-RANG accessory that either doesn't fit in his hand at all, or fits in his hand but falls out after two minutes standing unattended.)
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Mezco Toyz - DC Universe Batman and The Joker two-pack
The figures themselves are very well done. I like the artist's slight-caricature style. As good as the drawings look on the box, they work just as well on three-dimensional figures. Often a well designed character can look great on paper, but not work really well when made into a 3D toy. I should have trusted Mezco because the well-designed-on-paper character of Popeye is notoriously difficult to render in three dimensions, but Mezco had no problems. (As a Popeye toy collector, I can't tell you how many really UGLY Popeye toys are out there!) [Edited to note: Several of my friends have pointed out that Popeye is A VERY UGLY character. Yes - that is part of his charm for me! But when I call a Popeye toy UGLY, it is because it is ugly in a way that doesn't resemble Popeye at all. Just in case you were wondering.]
Batman looks sufficiently grim, without losing the fun of the character. One of my personal pet-peeves is toys that color Batman's cape and cowl powder blue. I know it was colored that way in the comics sometimes, but for me it ruins the iconic look of the character. Although Mezco went with blue for the cape and cowl, it is a nicely subdued blue that almost looks dark grey in some light. In the photos below, the front-facing figure is the closest to an accurate representation of the coloring. As a Batman collector who has not purchased otherwise nice looking figures because of the hue of the cape and cowl, it says something that I not only purchased this figure, but also am very happy with it.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Batman - Front, back, and sides
The Joker figure has a nicely demented look on his face. I was very pleased to see that they didn't go for a Heath Ledger-style Shaggy Haircut for their figure. As popular as that interpretation is (and I thought it was wonderful too) that look only works for me on film. When comic drawings or toys try to use that look, it ruins the iconic value of the original Joker's look. Extra points to Mezco for resisting what was probably a commercial temptation with this character.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
The Joker - Front, back, and sides
As I stated previously, the Joker's hat is removable. It is form-fitted well onto his head, so it doesn't fall off easily once you place it there (other urban vinyl type toys have often had this problem). The slight detailing on the hat also contributes well to the overall design of this toy.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
The Joker without hat
Overall these are well-produced and good looking figures that will fit in with any urban vinyl collection. The two-figures for $40 is acceptable for a special limited release like this, but I hope once the individual DC figures hit store shelves that they will not be $20 a piece. That would certainly shorten the life of this line and I hope it lasts a long time.
Overall grade: A
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Batman pulls a BAT-A-RANG in his battle with the Joker.
Review: Sideshow Collectibles - Dr. Rene Belloq 12-inch Figure
Sideshow Exclusive Edition with Idol Chamber Environment
by:
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Sideshow Collectibles - Dr. Rene Belloq 12-inch Figure, Sideshow Exclusive
Edition with Idol Chamber Environment
Sideshow Collectibles has been producing the best 12-inch action figures in the most popular licenses for years now. They have been setting the standard for 12-inch scale detail and quality with their Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Marvel, Lord of the Rings, Pirates of the Caribbean, Hellboy, James Bond and many other lines. It's hard for them to surprise me, because my opinion of them is already so high, but they did it with this figure and environment. The Dr. Rene Belloq 12-inch figure with Idol Chamber Environment is a Sideshow Exclusive product, only available at sideshowtoy.com (Click here.) for $139.99. You can purchase the Belloq figure separately for $79.99, but for me the Idol Chamber is what makes this a superlative and unique toy.
(Photos courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Sideshow Exclusive Idol Chamber Environment Raiders of the Lost Ark Idol (detail)
The Idol Chamber is a beautiful and intricately detailed work of art. I have never seen a toy "playset" (which is technically what this is) that looks so close to the real thing and you could probably convince people that it was a miniature that was used in the movie itself. The altar and stone step piece are not constructed from light plastic as is often the case, but are made from a much heavier material. It gives the altar, when you lift it up, a heft that is unusual. Whatever it is made out of, the material holds the intricate carving of the stone temple well. The moss and lichen details are very sharp and the painting of both the greenery as well as the stone altar and step are superb.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Sideshow Exclusive Idol, Altar, and Stone Step
The Idol itself is also much heavier than expected for a toy of this size. It is made of metal with a nice chrome-gold finish. I almost expect Harrison Ford to show up and drop a bag of sand on the altar in exchange for it. As an action figure collector, and most especially as an Indiana Jones collector, I cannont over emphasize how excited I am by this Altar environment. With the explosion of Indiana Jones licensed toys that accompanied the new movie in 2008, it became clear that quality was not always first (or even fifth) consideration on the licensor's minds when designing their product. Sideshow collectibles has clearly kept quality firmly at the top of their priorities with their Indiana Jones license and this Altar environment is Exhibit A.
(Photos courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Dr. Rene Belloq 12-inch Figure in package
I was very happy to see that Sideshow produced their Belloq figure in his linen suit and white hat. To my recollection, no other action figure of Belloq in any scale has been produced in this outfit. I always found it odd, because to me this suit was the character's most iconic look. Previous companies have always seemed to favor the ritual outfit from the finale of Raiders of the Lost Ark. While I think that look would be great for a second Belloq figure, I always wanted my first Belloq to be with this look.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Dr. Rene Belloq 12-inch figure
The figure itself is a spot-on likeness of actor Paul Freeman as he appeared in Raiders of the Lost Ark. Sideshow Collectibles are always very strong with their actor likenesses and this figure is no exception. He comes with a machine pistol accessory, as well as a pocket-watch and chain, a liquor bottle, and a display stand with the Indiana Jones logo. The figure has two sets of both right and left hands. One set is in a fist and the other is in a gripping position for holding the gun and other accessories.
(Photos courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Belloq Belloq with and without hat
Hats are almost always a problem with action figures. For smaller scale figures I don't think any company has ever solved the problem of making a removable hat for a 6-inch or smaller action figure. What happens is that if the hat is made large enough to fit well on the figure's head, it almost always looks out of scale - too large in comparison to the rest of the figure. Early DC Direct 6-inch figures had hats that both looked good (to scale) and were removable, by making the inside of the hat exactly form-fitting to the head of the figure, but although these hats looked good, they would invariably fall off after only a few minutes of standing display. So the solution I prefer with smaller scale figures is to mold the hat to the head in a scale-appropriate manner and not worry about making it removable.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
The hat works very well with this figure
When you get to 12-inch scale, however, most collectors are not willing to accept non-removable, molded-to-the-head hats. At this size it is a bit easier to avoid the "looks a bit too large" or "always falls off" problem with hats, but many action figure manufacturers still are putting out figures with these weaknesses. Sideshow seems to have solved the problem with just the right ratio of flexibility to firmness in both the Indiana Jones and Belloq hats. They look perfectly to scale, they come off the head easily, but stay on when left standing, in display.
This figure and environment are just about as perfectly realized as a toy could be at this price point. I heartily recommend it to any Indiana Jones or Action Figure collector.
Overall grade: A+.
If you would like to see some pictures of the Sideshow Collectibles display at our 2009 National Toy Event, click here.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Dr. Rene Belloq 12-inch Figure, Sideshow Exclusive Edition
with Idol Chamber Environment
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
CORGI - BATCC Edition Chrome Ford Consul in packaging
The CORGI Boston Area Toy Collectors Club 10th Anniversary Chrome Ford Consul is based on the CORGI #CC01105 1956 ford consul chrome plated car, which was produced in 2006 for the CORGI Collector Clubs' members to celebrate, in model form, the 50th anniversary year of the CORGI brand. The Ford Consul was the first car produced by CORGI in 1956. The BATCC model is a code 2/promotional model, produced by CORGI and Code3models UK for the BATCC. (For those not familiar with the terminology, "code 2" is a term for "a model produced by the original manufacturer but modified by the original factory, or another, with knowledge of the original factory. It's not a regular release, but also not a privately or basement-made model.)
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
CORGI - BATCC Edition Chrome Ford Consul left side
The model body is chrome plated all over, including the wheels, with black rubber tires. The baseplate is also chrome plated and reads "CORGI Toys " and "Ford Consul". There are labels on each body side, which include a large "10" in yellow and "th Annual" in white all against a red background, followed alongside in red letters "Collectible Toy Event, Sept. 24th 2010" against a white background.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
CORGI - BATCC Edition Chrome Ford Consul right side
There is also a red and white checkerboarded pattern on the lower side of the labels. There is a label on the roof, which comprises the BATCC club logo, that reads "Boston Area Toy Collectors Club" in black against a red outer circle over white, with a multi-colored action figure and car in the inner circle against white. There is no interior detail.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
CORGI - BATCC Edition Chrome Ford Consul top
The box is also based on the #CC01105 anniversary model from 2006. It has 2 BATCC logo labels on each end of the box, along with black blank-out stickers over the original corgi number. There is also a "code3models.com" sticker on the top of the box.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
BATCC Edition Chrome Ford Consul Box
The model and CORGI anniversary box are all packaged in an outer white shipping box, which has the #CC01105 printed in blue on the end flaps. The model and packaging are a superb presentation. The collectability of all the CORGI Ford Consuls, both from 1956 and the now 7 newer versions (from 2006: gold, chrome, raw, brown, green, and blue and from 2010: BATCC chrome) forms a valued "anniversary" collection.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
CORGI - BATCC Edition Chrome Ford Consul front and rear
It was only just this past July 14th that I had a ‘TOMICA moment’ as I discovered and rescued a dirty TOMICA (Matchbox-sized) No. 71 boat with trailer for one dollar. I was in one of the many tents at the famous
Imagine my reaction upon returning home to learn that TOMY Corporation of
Read on if you are a demanding collector or a retailer looking for a great opportunity.
Around 1970, as the famous Matchbox brand was entering its Superfast styling phase to compete with Mattel’s then new (1968) Hot Wheels line of die-cast cars, Tomy Corporation of Japan went backwards in time and launched a line of die-cast vehicles called TOMICA. This line more resembled that of earlier British produced Matchbox die-cast models that were actual existing autos, trucks, etc, and not fantasy vehicles to race. Things took off fast.
Intially, TOMICA models came out in small boxes with great artwork (still do in Asia) just like original British-era Matchbox did and then became blister packed, peg hanging TOMICA ‘Pocket Cars’ in stores of all types across the USA. The line advanced to introduce ‘F models’. These were ‘foreign models’, including a London Bus (F15), a VW 1200 LSE (F20), a Dodge Coronet Custom Police Car (F8), a Winnebago Chieftain Motor Home (F1), and many more great choices. By around 1980 a decision was made for the TOMICA line to exit the
Over the past years, a growing audience here has been placing special orders for new TOMICA models from Asian distributors. Mr. Mark Shinohara, executive vice president and C.O.O. at TOMY Corporation is to be highly credited for this move to the
So, what makes the new TOMY TOMICA line special? Well, in their own words… “Released in the initial launch will be seven die cast cars, three train sets, six accessory sets, six destination sets and five deluxe play sets. All elements of the line can be merged together to create a TOMICA city with limitless building and exploration opportunities for kids… TOMY Corporation has partnered with a leading national toy retailer for the first year…” An official announcement on this is pending. Retail prices will range from $4.99 to $79.99.
This approach reminds me not only of Matchbox, first introduced in 1953 and strong to its roots today, but also of the 1955 launch by LEGO of Denmark (1932) and its wildly accepted play city line which did include a group of small, yet very accurate, vehicles. Unlike TOMY, LEGO didn’t continue very long with vehicles, making them very hard to find today. If you or your customers like the Matchbox and LEGO approaches to quality and play value, then this is for you.
The most striking thing at first is the packaging. Tremendous work has been done for this
Of my three samples, I’m starting with the smallest, the ‘Transportation Play Map, #70504’, which includes a Mitsubishi bus with opening lower luggage doors, a Toyota SUV with opening rear door, and a Play Map which folds open to give any child the feel of a busy traffic intersection complete with illustrated businesses. I like the instant play value proposition.
(Photo courtesy of Tomy-USA)
Tomy-USA/TOMICA - Transportation Play Map, #70504
My second sample is larger and even more fun. The ‘Mini Gas Pump Set, #70510’ is a clever design which includes a different Toyota SUV than the preceding one and everything you could need. One gas pump with TOMICA labeled peel-off adhesive sections for it, one street lamp, one circle traffic sign, one guard rail, one tree, and all capped off with a nice TomiKids Figure whose hands do hold the gas hose. This larger outer box also encourages you to ‘expand your own hypercity’ showing how other city sets interconnect. Very nice.
(Photo courtesy of Tomy-USA)
Tomy-USA/TOMICA - Hypercity
The third and final box is called ‘Gas Station, #70556’ and is also the biggest of the three in terms of parts. You’ll own one die-cast Subaru Legacy B4, one TomiKids figure, a
(Photo courtesy of Tomy-USA)
Tomy-USA/TOMICA - Gas Station, #70556
All three sets reviewed are labeled ‘Ages 4+’ and would be compatible for those already accustomed to buying lots of Matchbox, Hot Wheels, Maisto, Johnny Lightning, GREENLIGHT, and other similar sized die-cast vehicles.
Remember, 24 more SKU’s are coming in this launch. For more information, click here. Welcome back TOMICA!
In 2010, Matchbox decide to do a throwback to the early years of Matchbox and call it the Lesney Edition. Gone is the matchbox superfast series from the past few years and a whole new series has been developed. The new series has die-cast bodies and die-cast bases, just like the Hot Wheels classic series that is a success.
The first wave consisted of 4 vehicles, 1964 Mini Cooper S, 1975 Chevy Step-side pickup truck, 1960 MGA and the 1969 Cadillac Sedan Deville.
The four models chosen are a very good start to great new series the pick-up truck seeming to be the harder of the group to find. The first series also brought a very interested error or variation to the ’60 MGA, some the of the models arrived with no front grill.
There was speculation that it was to be recalled or another run was to made, but no one ever figured out what was going to happen. The series sold so well there weren’t any left to be recalled and the series moved along.
The second wave has consisted of two new models, 1974 VW type 181 and the Jungle Crawler.
That the Jungle Crawler is the first generic in this new line came as a surprise. The VW is a sharp looking model and having a nice clean version of it and the weight of the model with die-cast base sets the model off very nicely. The series was taking off with some great models, then we were hit with the third wave Sahara Survivor, 1954 Jaguar XK 120Se, and the Cadillac Ambulance.
Another great looking wave! The Jaguar is beautiful - the color, wheels and the details! The ambulance is another sharp looking model, by far the best one so far. The
Sahara Survivor is another generic that uses an interesting technique in the making of the model. The model is assembled and then given the look of being hand sprayed.
The look of each model is different from one to the next.
Not too long after that wave hit stores Matchbox snuck another wave of two models out there, the 1969 VW Karmann Ghia convertible and the 1968 Mercury Cougar.
These two castings are two that needed the all die-cast treatment! The regular 1-100 version was too light. These are two more great looking models.
During the writing of this article another group hit the stores, a Toyota Land Cruiser and a 1971 Camaro.
The rest of the series consists of the following, in no particular order:
Pierce Dash Fire Truck
Lotus Europa
VW t2 Bus
Jaguar E Type
Mustang Cobra Jet
Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser
The series has been coming out steadily over the past few months. They have been found in the larger Wal Marts around the country for a price of 3.99 plus tax. Toys R Us has them in the collectible die-cast aisle for a 2.99-3.49 price point. The best place to find them, at least in
The series overall is just a great evolution in the Matchbox brand, going to a all die-cast vehicle just like Hot Wheels Classics does. The upgrade in the packaging means no more flimsy boxes, like with other superfast lines from a few series back. The look of the packaging is eye catching with the model artwork on the card and on the box.
The selection of models is picked very well, even with the generics, Matchbox did them well with the graphics and the schemes they chose for these models. But, in my opinion, the Lesney Edition should have all real cars in the line. Matchbox/Mattel have a great library of castings to choose from: the Mustangs, Corvettes, and classic pickup trucks have all been in previous lines. The breakdown of models, for a product being sold in the
The series seems to be going very well. Hopefully Matchbox will continue it through next year. If they do, maybe they could grow it to 36 models, or different waves like the Hot Wheels classics, or do a special mail away model or something along those lines. Keep up the good work, Matchbox. I’m looking forward to some more interesting items in the months ahead.
August of 2010 marks the 40th anniversary of the introduction of the Tomica brand of diecast vehicles produced by TOMY Company Ltd. of Japan. From the six original very basic Japanese car models that comprised the initial offering in 1970, the Tomica line has grown to encompass many individual model castings and sub-product lines. The core products are centered on an ever changing line of Tomica Regular models that now lists 140 vehicles including new ‘long’ Tomica vehicles. An estimated 500 million Tomica vehicles have been sold since they were first released.
Tomica packs a wealth of detail into a standard three-inch long product box. Tomica has a long and rich history of product innovation. There are numerous model series in different scales, with differing wheels, a variety of packaging (i.e., box color), country of manufacture (Japan and China), items developed for export markets (the ‘F’ or Foreign series) versus Japan-only products (such as Tomica Regular), individual product lines (Tomica Dandy, Long Tomica, etc.), product themes (Racing, Emergency, Disney etc.), box sets (by auto manufacturer or a common vehicle theme), play sets (such as Japanese airlines and Tomica Town), and on-and-on. Special models have been commissioned as give-away items (‘Not For Sale’ models) at automobile dealerships, for big Japanese automobile and toy shows, and at the Mecca for Tomica collectors – the Tomica Shop in Tokyo.
Collectors of diecast vehicles or themed toys will find Tomica offerings to delight even the most discriminating enthusiast. That’s the good news. The bad news is that Tomica vehicles are very hard to come by within the USA. Except for a short period some decades back, Tomica models were not sold in this country. The secondary market from this earlier wave of domestic purchases is very hit or miss. Tomica enthusiasts are very reluctant to part with these gems. Those that become available are priced very dear. With the advent of the Internet, Tomica products are now more readily available to US collectors. However, the cost of shipping from Japan, China, Hong Kong and Singapore can be very expensive and is often as much as the unit price of basic models.
Given the high cost of shipping, I selectively limit my Tomica purchases. One yardstick that I use is models that have a ‘cross over collectible’ character, this is, they would appeal to both a diecast collector and to a collector whose is interested in a particular theme. One of these themes is Disney-related items. Tomica has a large number of Disney items including those that were originally sold at the Tokyo Disney Resort. These are highly prized gems in my collection.
The first Tomica Disney model that I acquired was the original Disney Resort Cruiser.
Tomica - Original Disney Resort Cruiser Tomica - 2008 Christmas Disney Resort Cruiser
It is a very stunning representation of one of the busses that serve visitors to the Tokyo site. This bus has a retro ‘look and feel’. Particularly interesting features are the large silhouette of Mickey Mouse that is displayed on the side of the bus and a rear window that is a cut out in the same shape. Since my original purchase, I have acquired the 2008 Christmas Disney Resort Cruiser (which features a side door) and the Disney Resort Cruiser in the livery of the 25th anniversary of the Tokyo Disney Resort.
Tomica - 25th Anniversary Tokyo Disney Tomica - Disney Tomica Resort Limousine
Resort Cruiser
My favorite Tokyo Disney Resort Tomica piece (and one of my personal top favorites across all of my collections) is the Disney Tomica Resort Limousine. This is a superbly crafted model with a two-toned color scheme, white wall tires and lots of chrome. The back seat side window features a cut out in the shape of Mickey Mouse. This model rarely comes up on eBay and usually attracts many bidders. It took over a year between the last of several lost auctions and a final winning bid.
In addition to the Tokyo Disney Resort vehicles, I have also acquired a few Disney character-based vehicles for my collection. With so many to choose from, I primarily focus on the ‘classic’ Disney characters especially Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. Two delightful Tokyo Disney Resort vehicles are the Chim Chim motor scooters.
Tomica - Disney Chim Chim motor scooters
In keeping with the retro look theme, there are also classic 1930’s hot rod roadsters that are made up as Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.
Tomica - Disney 1930's Mickey Mouse Roadster Tomica - Disney 1930's Minnie Mouse Roadster
One likable character who lends itself to charming models is Winnie the Pooh. While I have no particular attachment to the character or any of the Winnie the Pooh stories, his engaging charm results in vehicles that I could not pass up. My first Winnie the Pooh vehicle purchase was the Corotto.
Tomica - Disney Corotto
Highlights of this model include the two-tone coloring, a honey bee on the roof, and the character’s face on the hood displaying a happy countenance. My latest Disney Tomica addition is the Winnie the Pooh Mixer truck. This model is up there with the Disney Tomica Resort Limousine as one of my highly prized collectables.
Tomica - Disney Winnie the Pooh Mixer Truck
The vehicle has a retro look with ‘wood paneling’ and white tires that enhance the feel of a 1930s pickup truck, Winnie the Pooh’s nose on the center of the hood, a honey bee on the roof, and a mixer overflowing with ‘Hunny’.
Tomica offers collectors many paths to follow to appease their collecting passions. Thanks to the Internet, rare and/or highly desirable models are just one click away. Even better, TOMY Company is returning to North America in 2010. The first year’s offerings will comprise 27 different Tomica items including “seven diecast vehicles, three train sets, six accessory sets, six destination sets and five deluxe play sets”. The individual products are designed so that they can be integrated into a Tomica city. A Tomica USA website is currently under construction. Stay tuned for more Tomica product reviews!
As a long time collector of CORGI diecast aircraft, I have been very pleased to see that Hornby, their new parent company, has put continued product development muscle into the Aviation Archive line. Instead of a continual series of repainted existing castings which deteriorate as each ‘new’ model is released, CORGI has expanded its Aviation Archive offerings with many new castings. In the last month or two, so many new models have arrived at my local dealers that my greatest problem was to pick one for a timely review. While my action figure and diecast vehicle collector friends bemoan the lack of new products on the retailer shelves, I have been enjoying a bountiful selection. Thank you CORGI and Hornby!
The CORGI Aviation Archive series towers above all other competition when it comes to World War I aircraft. They have mastered the complexities of biplane modeling with its complicated arrangements of struts and wires. They have also overcome the difficulties with the unique and colorful aircraft paint schemes worn by the many famous aces of World War I.
My choice of new products for this review is a new casting in this 1:48 scale series: the Fokker D.VII. This fighter entered service with the Imperial German Army Air Service (Luftstreitkräfte) in May of 1918 and quickly proved itself as a fearsome opponent. The aircraft was so successful that the Armistice Terms imposed by Allies in November of 1918 required
CORGI has released two Fokker D.VIIs in their ‘first wave’:
(Photo courtesy of Hornby/CORGI)
CORGI Aviation Archive Fokker D.VII (AA38901) "Herman Göring"
The first version (Item Code AA38901) to be released is in the markings of Herman Göring, a 22 victory ace and the last commander of JG1 (the famous von Richthofen Flying Circus). It is painted all white and is a very striking aircraft. Features specific to Herman Göring as a pilot include a special cut away on the left side of the cockpit to enable him to mount the aircraft due to his suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Production of this model was limited to 2000 and it is already sold out at the CORGI website. If you see it in the store, buy it without a moment’s hesitation as this will definitely be a highly sought after collectible in the future.
(Photo courtesy of Hornby/CORGI)
CORGI Aviation Archive Fokker D.VII (AA38902) "Ernst Udet"
The second version (Item Code AA38902) to be released is in the markings of Ernst Udet the second highest scoring German ace of World War I with 62 victories. This is a very colorful model saw service in Jasta 4. Features specific to Ernst Udet as a pilot include his fiancé’s name LO! (shortened from Eleanor "Lo" Zink) prominently displayed on the fuselage. Another nice personal touch is the inscription ‘Du Doch Nicht!!’ on the tail which roughly translates to ‘Surely Not You!!’ – a bit of nose thumbing for his opponents. Production of this model is even more limited with only 1700 to be produced.
Both models are well produced. Like many ‘diecast’ airplane models today, they include a small number of plastic parts. While some purists may decry this mixing, plastic is the only economical way to get the detail insisted upon by a demanding collector. The model is approximately 5 ¾ inches in length and has an approximately 7 ¼ inch wingspan. The panel lines, access panels and surface details are realistic. The propeller and control surfaces are movable while the landing gear features real rubber rotating tires. Included is an articulating presentation stand to allow display of the aircraft at any number of angles of attack. The pilots are also well painted. Both models come in the current CORGI black boxes which are sure to appeal to the mint-in-mint box collector.
Hobby Master is highly regarded by many military diecast collectors (including this reviewer) for its continual introduction of new castings. While many diecast manufacturers focus on the same ‘old’ airplanes (flooding the market with ubiquitous P-51 Mustangs, P-47 Thunderbolts, the Supermarine Spitfires, Hawker Hurricanes, ad nauseum), Hobby Master boldly pioneers new castings which have made it one of my favorite brands.
Hobby Master Douglas A-1H (HA-2901)
The latest new product in their 1/72 scale Air Power Series (Propeller Powered) line of military aircraft is the Douglas AD-6 Skyraider. The Skyraider was the last propeller-driven attack plane to serve in the U.S. Navy. It saw service in the Korean and Vietnam wars. As someone who grew up in the late 1950’s, this is one of the planes that I first made as a plastic model kit when I was a young boy. The aircraft has both a nostalgic and a historical appeal for me.
The Hobby Master Skyraider is predominately diecast metal with a minimum of plastic pieces for detailing. This first model comes with two center-line fuel tanks (for long-range & short-range operations), two bombs; twelve air to ground missiles; and two under-wing fuel tanks. Also included are a pilot figure plus a display stand. The landing gear can be displayed up or down.
Hobby Master does an excellent job in painting its models and all markings are pad applied which produce a superlative model. Complementing the model is a colorful box which will appeal to mint-in-mint box collectors (including myself). The one weak point in the packaging is the lack of in-depth history about the individual aircraft. This is a bit disappointing as Hobby Master chooses individual airplanes that are often historically significant. Fortunately there are Hobby Master enthusiast websites which remedy this omission.
The first Skyraider product release (Hobby Master product code HA-2901) is a ‘MIG Killer” flown by VA-176 on the U.S.S. Intrepid (CVS-11). This aircraft, piloted by Lt (jg) William T. Patton shot down a North Vietnamese MIG-17 on 9 October9, 1966 for one of the two aerial victories by Skyraiders in the Vietnam war.
Hobby Master has announced two additional Skyraiders in U.S. Navy and USAF markings. As with other Hobby Master models, future releases are sure to include other Skyraider operators including the French and British navies. As with all Hobby Master models, each individual aircraft model is an exact replica of the original airplane as opposed to a simple repaint of the same casting.
The Hobby Master Douglas A-1H Skyraider (HA-2901) is a great addition to any diecast airplane collection.
Attention, collectors of the Justice League Unlimited Fan Collection by Mattel! It is safe to go back to Target. Safe meaning Target finally has new product or single carded action figures for you to buy.
Since February 21st, 2010, Target stores have displayed three different waves of figures giving you the collector 12 new figures/accessories/packages for you to buy and enjoy. Since Target store chain has made a deal with Mattel to have the primary exclusive right to sell this style of action figure in retail stores, Target is the only place to find this brand of toy, at least right now.
(Photo courtesy of Moose Hannon)
Figures released are (so far): Firestorm, first time in JLU style - Deadshot, first time on a single card - Batman in Black with yellow Bat symbol, first time in JLU style in this color - Aquaman, the classic version, meaning no hook but two hands - Big Barda, first time on a single card - Star Sapphire, first time on a single card - Green Arrow, first time on a single card - Batman in Black and Grey, first time in JLU style in this color - Superman with a Kandor miniature, a new accessory - Plastic Man, first time on a single card, with box like version, a new accessory - Martian Manhunter with head piece, a new accessory - Brainiac, in new paint, with shrinking gun, a new accessory.
(Photo courtesy of Moose Hannon)
Other figures released with these have been re-releases of: Batman in Blue and Grey with a Batarang (no Wonder Pig accessory) - Green Lantern (same figure from last year’s selection as well as recently sold at Big Lots, the close-out retailer, for $2.00) - The Atom with a mini-version accessory.
(Photo courtesy of Moose Hannon)
Quality of product:
These figures have been produced/sold by Mattel and Target in this style since 2003. Long time collectors know exactly what they are purchasing: a 4.75 inch plastic figure with maybe 5 points of articulation, with pivot points at the neck, shoulders and thighs. JLU have never bent at the knees or the elbow. These toys are less action figures and more small, plastic statues.
These new figures are more of the same, which is not a bad thing. As a collector of JLU figs myself, I like Mattel’s presentation. It doesn’t hurt that I am a keep-it-in-the-package collector. Of the ones that I have actually opened, the figures loose will need a stand/disc to keep your figure upright for a long term. One bad thing about some of the packaging is the poor use of a sticker on the back of some of the cards. All figures from the Firestorm wave have a sticker applied to cover up some older information, like the 2008 waves. Many times the sticker has been poorly applied and needs to be folded over. That is bad card quality. Overall, I rate this area a B.
Target Pricing
Also… What I do not like about these new items is the price.
Single carded JLU figures at Target will cost you $8.99, a $3.00 jump since the 2008 wave of single carded JLU at Target. Due to slow sales, last year Target put all their JLU figures on clearance. While the regular price for these type of figures was $4.99, many/some sold at clearance for $1.24. Since Target could not sell similar style figures a year ago for $4.99, Target still must be making a nice profit even at the clearance price. If that is no the case, why bring these back at such an expensive price?
Target must know what they are doing since they have been doing it for 7 years now. Right now, we are being gouged by Target IMHO. Score: D-
Choice of Figures
Mattel and Target make and sell too many not-all-that-different Batman’s. While easily the most famous or desired character in all of DC, it should not be necessary to include the Blue and Grey Batman figure again when Mattel and Target has already forced it upon collectors in the form of a three pack with Amanda Waller. Overall, I score Mattel a C+ for variety of characters. That needs improvement.
In conclusion, while I like these figures a bunch, I cannot afford all that I desire at $8.99, plus tax. I guess that I will be doing what other collectors have done: Wait and buy these at Big Lots for the closeout price of $2.00. I love saving $7.00 a figure.
As a toy collector, I have been waiting for some figurines from this show and for two years now, none have appeared. Just in the last month, Jakks Pacific has stepped up to the plate and released a set of 3" figures: Phineas, Ferb, Agent P, and Dr. Doofenshmirtz. It has been worth the wait, because these are nice looking figures.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Jakks Pacific - Disney's Phineas and Ferb 3" Figures
I found these figures at my local Toys 'R' Us and they are even releasing a special Toys 'R' Us exclusive 4 pack. The packaging is appealingly designed and works well for the display-in-package collector.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Toys 'R' Us Exclusive 4 Pack
The 4 pack retails for $19.99, which I found acceptable for these four fine figures. Let's take a look at each figure individually:
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan) (Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Phineas 3" Figure Ferb 3" Figure
Phineas - The character design for Phineas is appealing for the 2 dimesional world of animated cartoons, but like Popeye, it is a difficult design to transfer into 3 dimensions. As a Popeye toy collector, I can tell you there are many awful looking Popeye toys out there. Fortunately there are also some wonderful ones. Jakks Pacific has done a great job with Phineas. His triangular head looks correct from both sides, but does not look bizarre from the front.
Another challenge presented by the Phineas figure is the character's very small feet. I am glad that Jakks Pacific did not distort the design to make the character stand more easily. Instead they provide a well-made, clear, plastic stand for each figure. And major points to them for these stands. The pegs on the stands and holes in the figure's feet fit easily but not too loosely so that the figures can stand on your shelf without popping off their pegs and falling over or being too loose to stay on the peg in the first place. It's amazing the number of Superhero and Movie action figure manufacturers who have not mastered this engineering, despite being in the business for decades.
Ferb - Ferb's hot-dog-shaped body and head as well as his different-circumference eyes cause the same difficulty as Phineas when rendered in 3 dimensions. I was also glad to see that they preserved Ferb's stance. He always holds his long thin body and head at a slight angle, so he is never perfectly horizontal and as you can see in the photograph, when placed on his stand, he does lean slightly to the side but does not fall over.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan) (Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Agent P 3" Figure Dr. Doofenshmirtz 3" Figure
Agent P - Now this is a character that I'm surprised wasn't released as a figure by itself before this. Agent P is fairly easy to realize in 3D and is unique enough that I would think it might appeal to people who aren't even fans of the show. This is a beautiful figure, my favorite of the four. Suprisingly for a figure this small, the hat is removable (see photo below). It's nice that they did this because it is a running gag of the show that when Agent P takes off his hat, no one can recognize him and he is simply seen as Phineas and Ferb's pet Perry the Platypus.
Dr. Doofenshmirtz - This figure captures not only the design of Doofenshmirtz, but the hand gestures are well suited to the personality of the character. One small complaint about this figure (my only real complaint about any of these figures). Doofenshmirtz is posed looking slightly up and although you can rotate his head to the left and right, you cannot turn it down. If you look at the first photo in this review which shows all four figures in scale with each other, you can see the problem. Dr. Doofenshmirtz only interacts with Agent P on the show and if you wish to dispay these figures on your shelf (like I do) then Doofenshmirtz cannot look at Agent P. Not a huge criticism, but hopefully something that could be tweaked in future releases.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Perry the Platypus w/ Hat 3" Figure
I found the following figure packages at my local Toys 'R' Us but they have no exclusive markings on the packaging, so I assume they will be available at most toy retailers. They retailed for $7.99 each, which I found acceptable for 2 figures plus accessories in each pack.
(Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan) (Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan) (Photo courtesy of G. Sullivan)
Phineas & Ferb with Skateboard Launcher - This pack contains the standard Phineas and Ferb figures that are available in the exclusive Toys 'R' Us 4 pack with a skateboard, which will fit both figures, and a skateboard launcher accessory as well as skateboard helmets which fit on the two figures.
Agent P & Dr. Doofenshmirtz with Backfiring Uglyinator Gun - This pack contains the standard Agent P and Dr. Doofenshmirtz figures that are available in the exclusive Toys 'R' Us 4 pack with Backfiring Uglyinator Gun accessory. The gun fits in Doofenshmirtz's hand and when you pull the trigger, he is hit in the face.
Phineas & Ferb Surfin' Tidal Wave - This pack contains variant Phineas and Ferb figures with their surfing attire, as they appeared in the episode "Backyard Beach". Also included is a surfboard with jet engine accessory, which will fit both figures.
I am very happy to finally have these figures and it is great that they have been produced with quality and imagination.
Overall Grade: A-
