Everything You Need to Know About Bearbricks: The Collectible Toy Phenomenon
Everything You Need to Know About Bearbricks: The Collectible Toy Phenomenon
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If you’ve ever walked through a toy store, browsed an online marketplace, or even spotted a display in a pop culture museum, you’ve likely come across Bearbricks. These iconic collectible figures have taken the world by storm, becoming a must-have for collectors, art enthusiasts, and pop culture fans alike. In this article, we’ll dive deep into Bearbricks, exploring their variety, what makes them so special, and how to authenticate them. Plus, we’ll tell you where to buy your very own Bearbrick to start or add to your collection.
What Are Bearbricks?
Bearbricks are designer bear-shaped figures created by the Japanese company Medicom Toy. These toys, which were first introduced in 2001, have since become highly coveted items among collectors. The figures come in various sizes, starting from small 100% Bearbricks, which are around 2.75 inches tall, to larger 1000% versions that can reach over 28 inches tall.
Bearbricks are known for their minimalist design, which often features a simple bear shape with a smooth, block-like body. However, the fun begins when you consider the variety of designs and collaborations these figures feature. From limited edition releases to one-off artist collaborations, Bearbricks have become a canvas for creativity and an iconic part of the designer toy culture.
Bearbrick Variety: What Makes Each One Unique?
One of the things that makes Bearbricks so appealing is the sheer variety of designs available. Some of the most famous Bearbrick designs come from collaborations with well-known brands, artists, and franchises. Here are a few examples of the different Bearbricks you might find in the market:
Kaws Bearbrick
The Kaws Bearbrick is a collaboration between Medicom Toy and the famous artist Kaws (Brian Donnelly). These figures are highly sought after due to Kaws' signature style, which incorporates characters like "Companion" and "BFF." The Kaws Bearbrick often features bold, graphic designs, including his iconic "X" eyes, and is a favorite among art collectors.
BAPE Bearbrick
BAPE (A Bathing Ape) is a legendary streetwear brand, and its Bearbricks are just as cool as the clothes. The BAPE Bearbricks are known for their camouflage patterns and bold color schemes, often featuring the brand's signature ape logo. These limited edition Bearbricks are highly coveted by sneakerheads and streetwear fans alike.
Bateman Bearbrick
The Bateman Bearbrick is inspired by the fictional character Patrick Bateman from the film "American Psycho." With dark and edgy design elements, these Bearbricks take on a more sinister aesthetic, making them a unique and stylish addition to any collection. Fans of the movie and those interested in darker-themed collectibles often seek out this special edition.
Bearbricks as a Toy and Art Form
Though they started as a simple collectible toy, Bearbricks have evolved into a global art form. Many of these figures are designed by famous artists, and they are often released as limited edition items, meaning their value increases over time. This combination of rarity, artistic design, and cultural relevance has made Bearbricks a hot commodity in both the toy and art markets.
Collectors seek out Bearbricks for a variety of reasons. Some appreciate the design and craftsmanship, while others see them as an investment that can appreciate in value. Because they are often tied to limited runs and collaborations with famous figures, they become more valuable the rarer they become.
Where to Buy Bearbricks
Finding Bearbricks might seem like a daunting task, but there are plenty of places to get your hands on one. Here are some options:
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Official Medicom Toy Website – The most reliable place to find new Bearbrick releases is the Medicom Toy website. They release figures directly to fans and collectors, often selling limited-edition runs.
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Online Marketplaces – Platforms like eBay, Amazon, and StockX are full of Bearbricks. However, it’s important to be cautious when buying from resellers to ensure you’re not paying for a copyright.
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Specialty Stores – Some high-end toy stores and boutique retailers may carry Bearbricks, especially in major cities. You can also find them in select art galleries that focus on designer toys.
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Pop Culture Conventions – Comic-Con and other pop culture conventions often feature exclusive Bearbricks that are not available anywhere else. These limited-run figures are highly prized among collectors.
How to Legit Check Bearbricks: Spotting Fake Bearbricks
As with any collectible, there’s a risk of encountering copyright Bearbricks. Here are some tips to help you legit check Bearbricks before purchasing:
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Packaging – Authentic Bearbricks come in high-quality, well-designed packaging that features the Medicom Toy logo. If the packaging looks cheap or the print is blurry, it could be a fake.
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Design Details – Pay close attention to the details of the Bearbrick, especially the paint job and the overall finish. copyright versions often have flaws in the design, such as uneven paint or incorrect colors.
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Check the Serial Number – Some limited-edition Bearbricks come with a serial number that can be traced back to the original release. You can check this number online to ensure its authenticity.
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Buy from Trusted Sources – Whenever possible, buy from authorized retailers or well-known online marketplaces with buyer protections. This reduces the risk of receiving a copyright item.
Common Questions About Bearbricks
Q1: What sizes do Bearbricks come in?
Bearbricks are available in multiple sizes, with the most common being 100%, 400%, and 1000%. The 100% Bearbricks are about 2.75 inches tall, while the 1000% Bearbricks can be up to 28 inches tall.
Q2: Are Bearbricks only for collectors?
While Bearbricks are mainly targeted at collectors, they also serve as unique art pieces and toys. Many people collect them for their design and rarity rather than for play.
Q3: How can I tell if a Bearbrick is authentic?
Check the packaging, design details, and serial numbers. It’s also a good idea to buy from reputable sources to avoid copyright products.
Q4: Are Bearbricks a good investment?
Bearbricks, especially limited edition or artist collaboration versions, can appreciate in value over time, making them a potentially good investment for collectors.
Q5: Where can I buy Bearbricks?
You can buy Bearbricks from the Medicom Toy website, online marketplaces like eBay, or specialty toy stores. Be cautious about where you buy to avoid copyright products.
Conclusion
Bearbricks are much more than simple toys; they’ve become a cultural phenomenon, blending art, design, and pop culture in a way that appeals to collectors worldwide. Whether you’re a fan of Kaws, BAPE, or even the darker Bateman Bearbricks, these toys offer something for everyone. By understanding the variety, knowing where to buy them, and learning how to authenticate your Bearbricks, you can begin or expand your collection with confidence. Happy collecting!
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