Everything You Need to Know About Bearbricks: The Iconic Collectible Toy
Everything You Need to Know About Bearbricks: The Iconic Collectible Toy
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Bearbricks, a revolutionary collectible toy, has taken the world by storm. Whether you're a seasoned collector or someone just stepping into the world of designer toys, Bearbricks are a must-have. This article delves into the fascinating world of Bearbricks, their variety, how to spot a fake, and where to buy them in the United States.
What is a Bearbrick?
A Bearbrick (also written as Bear Bricks) is a collectible figure created by the Japanese company Medicom Toy. These figures, inspired by the shape of a bear, are often designed in collaboration with artists, designers, and brands. Each Bearbrick features a minimalist bear design with movable limbs, making them highly customizable and adaptable to different artistic expressions.
Bearbricks have evolved from simple toys to high-end collectibles, often appearing in limited edition runs. The figures come in various sizes, ranging from 100% (7 cm) to 1000% (70 cm). Over the years, Bearbricks have garnered attention from collectors and fans of pop culture, fashion, and art.
Bearbricks Variety: What Makes Them So Special?
One of the main reasons Bearbricks are so beloved is their diverse range of designs. Bearbricks come in different styles, each catering to a variety of tastes and interests. Some popular types of Bearbricks include:
1. Kaws Bearbrick
The Kaws Bearbrick is perhaps one of the most recognizable and highly sought-after designs in the Bearbrick collection. Created in collaboration with the famed artist Kaws, these Bearbricks feature his signature 'Companion' character and 'X' eyes. With their unique designs and limited releases, Kaws Bearbricks are incredibly popular among collectors.
2. Bape Bearbrick
Another fan-favorite is the Bape Bearbrick, which features the iconic camo designs of the streetwear brand Bape. The collaboration between Bearbricks and Bape brings together two major cultural icons, making these figures a must-have for streetwear enthusiasts.
3. Bateman Bearbrick
The Bateman Bearbrick is a unique design based on Christian Bale’s character from the movie American Psycho. This Bearbrick stands out because it combines pop culture with dark humor, making it a popular choice among collectors who appreciate both art and film references.
Where to Buy Bearbricks in the United States?
If you’re interested in purchasing Bearbricks, there are several reliable sources in the United States:
1. Online Marketplaces
Websites like eBay and Amazon often have a wide selection of Bearbricks available for purchase. However, always be cautious and check the seller’s ratings before buying, as copyright Bearbricks can sometimes make their way onto these platforms.
2. Specialty Toy Stores
Several specialty toy stores and high-end boutiques in the United States sell Bearbricks, especially those focused on designer toys and collectibles. Stores like Kidrobot and colette are renowned for stocking a curated selection of Bearbricks, including exclusive collaborations.
3. Official Medicom Toy Website
While Medicom Toy is based in Japan, they often offer international shipping for collectors in the U.S. Purchasing from the official website ensures you're getting authentic, limited-edition Bearbricks directly from the source.
4. Pop Culture Conventions
For the ultimate Bearbrick experience, you may want to attend pop culture conventions such as Comic-Con. These events often feature exclusive releases and rare Bearbricks for collectors to buy.
How to Legit Check Bearbricks?
With the increasing demand for Bearbricks, copyright versions have become a common problem. To make sure you're buying the real deal, here are a few tips to legit check a Bearbrick:
1. Check the Packaging
Authentic Bearbricks usually come in high-quality packaging with detailed print. If the box seems cheap or poorly made, it’s a red flag.
2. Look for the Logo
Bearbricks produced by Medicom Toy will have the official Medicom Toy logo, either on the figure itself or on the box. This is one of the easiest ways to verify authenticity.
3. Examine the Paint and Details
Real Bearbricks have finely detailed paintwork and high-quality finish. Fakes may show signs of sloppy paintwork, rough edges, or uneven coloring.
4. Size and Weight
Check the figure’s size and weight. Bearbricks are typically quite heavy and made from solid materials. If the figure feels light or fragile, it’s likely a copyright.
5. Buy from Trusted Sources
To avoid purchasing fake Bearbricks, always buy from reputable retailers, official websites, or well-known collectors' stores. Be cautious when purchasing from unknown or unverified sources.
FAQs About Bearbricks
1. What are the different sizes of Bearbricks?
Bearbricks come in several sizes: 100% (7 cm), 400% (28 cm), and 1000% (70 cm). Some limited edition Bearbricks are available in other sizes as well.
2. Are Bearbricks only for collectors?
While Bearbricks are often collected as limited-edition art toys, they can also be used for display purposes or as part of a fashion or lifestyle statement.
3. Can Bearbricks be customized?
Yes! Some collectors choose to customize their Bearbricks by adding their personal touches, designs, or paintwork to make them unique.
4. Why are Bearbricks so expensive?
Bearbricks are often expensive because they are limited edition, feature collaborations with artists and brands, and are made with high-quality materials. Their rarity and artistic value also drive up their price.
5. How can I tell if my Bearbrick is a fake?
Check for the packaging, logo, paint quality, and weight of the Bearbrick. Buying from trusted retailers will also help ensure authenticity.
Conclusion
Bearbricks are more than just toys—they are pieces of art that capture the essence of pop culture and design. Whether you're drawn to the Kaws Bearbrick, Bape Bearbrick, or the Bateman Bearbrick, there's a figure out there for every collector.
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