Collecting toys has always been a beloved pastime for many individuals, with each collector gravitating towards their preferred niche. One such niche that has gained immense popularity in recent years is Bearbrick collectible toys. With their distinctive design and limited availability, Bearbrick figures have captured the hearts of enthusiasts around the world. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the fascinating world of Bearbrick figures, exploring their history, different series, rarity levels, and valuable tips for building an impressive collection. Let’s get this party started.
What Are Bearbrick Figures?
Bearbrick is a line of collectible designer toys created by the Japanese company Medicom Toy. These art toys are characterized by their simple, bear-like shape and are made from plastic. So, each Bearbrick is divided into nine parts, allowing for customizability and artistic expression. Their sizing specification is a bit different, which truly makes these collectibles unique. Bearbrick figures are enumerated as a percentage, from 100% to 1000%, with some collections that featured different shapes and sizes.
A Brief History of Bearbrick Figures
The story of Bearbrick figures began in 2001 when Medicom Toy and its founder Tatsuhiko Akashi released its first series of Bearbrick toys. Since then, these bad boys have gained a massive following, attracting collectors and artists from all walks of life. The name “Bearbrick” is derived from the words “bear” and “brick,” representing the bear-like shape and brick-like construction of the toy.
Different Series
Bearbrick releases are categorized into different series, each with its unique themes and collaborations. Some notable series include:
- Artist Collaborations: Bearbrick figures often feature collaborations with renowned artists like Andy Warhol and Basquiat, Van Gogh, and Jackson Pollock, designers like Karl Lagerfeld or Coco Chanel, and brands like Karimoku or Hajime Sorayama, resulting in limited edition releases that appeal to both art enthusiasts and toy collectors.
- Medicom Originals: These are Bearbrick designs created by Medicom Toy, showcasing their in-house creativity and artistic vision. They often come in various colors, patterns, and materials.
- Licensed Characters: Medicom Toy has collaborated with numerous iconic characters from popular franchises, such as Marvel superheroes, DC Comics, Star Wars, and Disney characters. These collaborations produce highly sought-after Bearbricks that resonate with fans of those characters.
Rarity Levels and Collecting Strategies
These little rascals are released in different rarity levels, significantly affecting their value and desirability among collectors. Generally, all Bearbrick figures can be grouped into Series and Types. Usually, there are two drops per year, and each series is released in the summer or the winter. Not to mention the blind boxes. Each Series is continuously numbered and made in four different Types, and within the “Standard” Series specifically, there are different Themes. Understanding these levels can help collectors strategize their acquisitions:
- Standard Release: The most common Bearbrick figures are often part of the standard release, which makes them more accessible and affordable.
- Limited Edition: Limited edition figures are produced in smaller quantities, making them more valuable and sought after by collectors. These releases often feature special designs or collaborations.
- Exclusive Edition: Exclusive editions are highly coveted Bearbrick figures that are exclusively available at specific events, conventions, or through lottery systems. They are incredibly rare and command premium prices in the collector’s market.
Building Your Bearbrick Collection
As Bearbrick enthusiasts and connoisseurs (trust us), here are some valuable tips for building an impressive collection:
- Research and Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest Bearbrick releases, collaborations, and artist editions through official Medicom Toy channels, forums, and social media groups. This ensures that you stay ahead of the curve and have a chance to acquire highly sought-after pieces.
- Determine Your Focus: Decide whether you want to collect specific series, artists, collaborations, or characters. Focusing on your collection can help you build a more cohesive and valuable set of these unique art toys.
- Network with Fellow Collectors: Engage with the Bearbrick community by attending events, joining online forums, and connecting with fellow collectors. Sharing insights, trading, or even collaborating on group purchases can be a rewarding experience.
- Display and Preserve: Showcase your Bearbrick collection with pride. Invest in display cases or shelves that protect your toys from dust and sunlight. Additionally, consider keeping the original packaging and accessories to maintain their value.
Bearbrick collectible toys offer a unique blend of art, design, and pop culture that has captivated enthusiasts worldwide. With their limited editions, artist collaborations, and captivating designs, these figures are a collector’s dream. By understanding the history, different series, rarity levels, and collecting strategies, you can embark on an exciting journey to build an impressive Bearbrick collection. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, this ultimate guide will equip you with the knowledge and resources to navigate the fascinating world of Bearbrick figures.
Images: Medicom Toy
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