Bearbrick Batman

What is a Bearbrick Batman figure?

Bearbrick Batman figures are collectible vinyl toys designed by the Japanese company MediCom Toy. They feature the familiar Batman character in a cubist block style inspired by artist Andy Warhol’s sculpture. The Bearbrick name combines the words “bear” and “brick,” referring to the stocky, blocky shape of the figures.

Bearbricks originated in 2001 celebrating the 10th anniversary of Tokyo toy store Village Vanguard. MediCom and graffiti artist Nigo created the first 1000% Bearbrick figure. In 2002, MediCom launched the 400% Bearbrick lineup. The Batman Bearbrick debuted in 2003 in a limited edition collaboration with DC Comics.

Where can I buy Bearbrick Batman figures?

There are several options for buying Bearbrick Batman figures:

• Specialty online retailers like HypeDC offer curated selections of rare and limited Bearbricks.
• Fashion boutiques and streetwear stores often carry Bearbrick figures.
• Comic book and collectibles stores may have Bearbrick Batman figures in stock.
• Online marketplaces like eBay and Mercari have listings for individual Bearbrick Batmans or full sets.
• Bearbrick specialty stores in large cities around the world may have exclusive figures.
• In Japan, toy and department stores stock various Bearbrick releases.
• Collaborations with brands like Supreme offer limited Batman Bearbricks.
• Some figures can only be won as prizes in arcade UFO catcher games in Japan.

How much do Bearbrick Batman figures cost?

Prices for Bearbrick Batman figures can vary greatly depending on size, design, rarity and availability:

• Standard 100% and 400% Bearbricks retail for $60-$150 USD.
• Bigger 1000% Bearbricks retail over $200.
• Rare and exclusive versions can cost $500-$1,000.
• Highly limited editions and collabs may resell for $2,000+.
• Smaller keychains and mini figures cost $20-$50.
• Older and out of production Bearbricks command higher prices.
• Signed or customized pieces also fetch higher values from collectors.

Are Bearbrick Batman figures limited edition?

Many Bearbrick Batman collaborations are limited edition with set run quantities. Some examples include:

• Supreme 700% Batman Bearbrick – Limited to 200 pieces worldwide.
• All Gone 2006 400% Batman Bearbrick – Limited to 300 pieces.
• Colette 400% Batman Bearbrick – Limited to 250 pieces.
• A Bathing Ape Bapesta Batman Bearbrick – Only 300 made.

Besides collaborations, MediCom will do limited runs of special Batman Bearbrick designs tied to anniversaries, events, and themes. However, many standard Batman Bearbricks are widely produced without limitation.

What sizes are available for Bearbrick Batman figures?

Bearbrick Batman figures come in these standard sizes:

• 100% – 3 inch mini figures. The original Bearbrick size.
• 400% – 12 inch figures. The most common large size.
• 1000% – 3 feet tall huge figures that stand out.
• 2000% – 6 foot tall life-size Bears. Very rare.

There are also 700%, 2500%, 3000% and 5000% Bears made in limited quantities. Keychain, capsule toy, and smartphone charm mini Bearbricks also exist.

How do I authenticate a Bearbrick Batman figure?

To make sure your Bearbrick Batman is genuine, look for these signs of authenticity:

• High quality vinyl construction and seamless joints.
• Clean, precise paint application with no messiness.
• MediCom branding on the figure’s foot tag.
• Matching official authentication card with unique serial number.
• Logo and details should align with official product images.
• No typos, spelling errors, or inconsistencies on the packaging.
• Correct sizing according to stated scale of the figure.

Consult collectors forums for pointers. Counterfeits do exist, so purchase only from trusted sellers and stores.

What materials are used in Bearbrick Batman figures?

Bearbrick figures are constructed from vinyl, generally ABS or PVC plastics. This gives them a pleasing heft and durability. High quality paints provide vibrant and accurate colors.

Limited editions may use more premium materials. Some Batman pieces incorporate fabric capes, sculpted utility belts, or translucent plastic. The 1000%+ sizes have wood, metal, or resin internal structures for support.

What are the most popular Bearbrick Batman designs?

These Bearbrick Batman variants are most sought after by collectors:

• All Black Suit Batman – Stealthy nighttime vigilante look.
• Rainbow Batman – Colorful suit in Robin’s classic palette.
• 1989 Movie Version – Michael Keaton’s icon Bat logo and suit.
• 1966 TV Batman – Bright blue and gray with Bat insignia.
• The Dark Knight Batman – Armored black suit inspired by films.
• Comic Cover Art Editions – Reproductions of famous Batman comic visuals.

Can I find Bearbrick Batman figures in local stores?

Your best chance of finding Bearbrick Batmans locally is in major cities with boutiques and specialty stores stocking vinyl toys. In the US, shops in areas like Los Angeles, New York City, Miami, San Francisco and Las Vegas may carry various Bearbricks. Overseas, especially in Japan and Hong Kong, Bearbricks have broader retail availability.

Comic book stores are another option, as are toy stores with extensive pop culture collectible selections. Events like Art Basel, DesignerCon, and ComplexCon also draw vendors selling rare Bearbricks.

Are there any upcoming releases for Bearbrick Batman figures?

Upcoming Bearbrick Batman drops for 2023 include:

• DC Comics 950% Batman Bearbrick – March 2023.
• Batman 2023 Movie 400% and 1000% Bearbricks – Summer 2023.
• Batman Black and White 400% Bearbrick Series – Spring 2023.
• Batman x Tamagotchi 100% and 400% Bearbricks – June 2023.
• Jun Inagawa 700% Batman Bearbrick – April 2023.

MediCom celebrates Batman’s anniversary every year with special edition Bearbricks. More unannounced collabs and exclusives will also release throughout 2023.

How do I care for and maintain my Bearbrick Batman figure?

To keep your Bearbrick Batman looking its best:

• Dust regularly with a soft dry cloth to prevent dirt buildup.
• Gently spot clean with a damp towel if needed.
• Store in a clean, climate-controlled space out of direct sun to avoid fading.
• Handle with care as vinyl can scratch or scuff if dropped.
• Posing, play, and handling can cause joint looseness over time.

Keep all original packaging and authentication materials. Bearbricks can be safely displayed in Detolf cabinets or on acrylic risers.

What is the history behind Bearbrick and Batman collaborations?

The first Batman Bearbrick was released in 2003 as one of the earliest brand collaborations for Bearbrick. Its success helped cement Bearbrick’s reputation for cool crossover editions.

In 2006, Medicom Toy obtained the DC Comics master toy license. This allowed for an explosion of DC characters like Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman rendered in Bearbrick form.

Over the years, Batman has had 100+ unique Bearbricks celebrating anniversaries, movies, and major storylines. It remains one of the most prolific character collaborations.

Are Bearbrick Batman figures a good investment?

As a popular character with nostalgia appeal, Batman Bearbricks can appreciate nicely in value on the secondary market, especially rare collabs and limited editions.

Well-kept retired pieces can sell for 2-5 times their original retail price. 1000%+ and special variants have even higher growth potential.

However, value is subjective and influenced by buzz, market trends and condition. Not every Batman Bearbrick becomes valuable, so collecting based on personal enjoyment is ideal.

How can I display my Bearbrick Batman figure?

Display options for Bearbrick Batman figures include:

• Detolf display cases to fully show off the figure.
• Floating shelves, wall mounts, or risers for standalone display.
• Pose dynamically on a desk, workstation, or shelf.
• LED lighting to highlight and accentuate details.
• Rotate through curated sets and arrangements.
• Showcase in mint condition or interactively posed.

What other superheroes have Bearbrick figures besides Batman?

Notable superhero Bearbricks include:

• Superman
• Wonder Woman
• The Flash
• Green Lantern
• Aquaman
• Shazam
• Harley Quinn
• Joker
• Robin
• Catwoman

Batman remains the most prolific DC Comics Bearbrick, but many allies and villains are represented. Marvel characters like Spider-Man, Captain America and Iron Man have some Bearbricks as well.

Are there any fake Bearbrick Batman figures on the market?

Unfortunately, counterfeit Bearbrick Batmans do exist due to the high value of rare pieces. Fakes may display these warning signs:

• Poor vinyl quality and loose joints.
• Messy, inaccurate paint application.
• Misshapen proportions and head sculpts.
• Spelling errors on packaging.
• Non-functional authentication codes.
• Not matching edition size claims.

Stick to reputable sellers and inspect figures thoroughly before purchasing to avoid counterfeits.

How do I spot a counterfeit Bearbrick Batman figure?

Ways to detect a fake Bearbrick Batman include:

• Compare to official product images to catch inaccuracies.
• Inspect paint closely for sloppiness.
• Check if branding details like logos are correctly rendered.
• Verify the weight and density feel authentic to the vinyl used.
• Match up serial numbers and edition sizes listed.
• Run authentication codes to ensure they work.

Join collector communities to learn what real vs. fake Bearbricks should look like. Proceed with caution when buying from non-official channels.

What is the resale value of Bearbrick Batman figures?

As an in-demand collectible, most Bearbrick Batman figures will sell for a premium over retail in the secondary market. Values can range from:

• $150-$300 for standard 100% and 400% sizes.
• $500+ for rare colorways and limited collabs.
• $1,000-$5,000+ for very limited editions under 500 pieces.
• $10,000+ for ultra rare one of a kind customs and 1/24 scale.

Significance, hype and condition impact value. Signed pieces also fetch higher prices from collectors. Values fluctuate over time based on demand.

Are there any online communities for Bearbrick Batman collectors?

Bearbrick collecting communities exist on platforms like Reddit and Discord. Popular forums include:

• /r/bearbrick – Reddit’s main Bearbrick discussion board.
• MediCom Bearbrick Collectors – Facebook group with 10K+ members.
• Instagram hashtags like #bearbrickbatman to connect.
• Designer Toy Collective – Forums covering Bearbrick news and sales.
• Bearbrick Graveyard – Collector value and rarity info.

These communities authenticate, value, discuss upcoming releases, and share rare Bearbricks for sale.

Can I customize my Bearbrick Batman figure?

As a blank canvas, Bearbricks are highly customizable using painting, sculpting, accessories, and more. Some custom options include:

• Hand-painting suits, cowls, and other details.
• Sculpting a custom Batmobile or themed base.
• Adding real fabric capes, costumes, or armor.
• Swapping heads to create mash-up versions.
• Kitbashing with model kits and action figures.

Fully custom Bearbricks clock hundreds of hours of skilled work. Be careful not to decrease value of rare pieces. Customizing standard releases offers the most creative freedom.