This original Yamashita Shunya-designed kit has been making model enthusiasts salivate since it first showed up at Wonder Festival in the winter of 2005, so when Kotobukiya announced a store exclusive limited edition PVC version there was much rejoicing (coupled with dismay at its lack of a broader release). Read on to find out if it was worth the hype.
Original Design: Yamashita Shunya
Sculptor: Mitsumasa Yoshizawa
Source: Original
Scale: 1/7
Material: PVC
Release Date: February 3rd, 2006
Production: Kotobukiya
Price: 6,090 JPY (tax included)
Current Availability: Yahoo Auctions
Final Analysis: 9/10
A fine figure all around, my copy was marred only by a smudge on the left shoulder of the sailor collar and a dark line on the right hip left behind from the placement of the skirt. The latter could have been easily prevented by tucking a plastic bag over the hips before putting the skirt on in assembly, an unfortunate oversight in the production process that knocks the figure down from a perfect 10. Other than that it’s hard to complain; Kotobukiya’s generally solid reputation pulls through to produce an item already coveted (as per the Yahoo Auctions listings linked above) at several times its market value. It’s a pity the kit didn’t see a general release, as I’m sure I’m not the only who looked at the initial production photos with wallet in hand.
Awesome pics. Too bad it’s not mass-released
A future wide release is certainly a possibility; it seems Yahoo auctions for the item have stabilized around 11,000 yen, which might be worth it if you don’t want to risk waiting.
I liked how you put a mosiac on the doujinshis on the bottom there. It’s those little things that really make the picture. ;)
>>jason
Haha… well, I didn’t flag the review as 18+ so that was an afterthought to cover my rear. These thin static-stick mousepads come with magazines occasionally, and I put them under the clear plastic mat on my hobby table; that’s the only ero one of the lot, and it’s rather unfortunately placed. I should get around to moving it to a less photographically conspicuous spot…
The most beautiful model I’ve seen………A must have………….Great review!!!!
Other than Japan yahoo…. where else i can get this figure
>>TheNeptunesFan
Thanks, glad you enjoyed. Good luck on snagging a copy!
>>Athony
Since it’s being reissued in another month or two I’m guessing you could contact a proxy service to preorder one for you. Either way you’ll be paying some kind of markup, alas; Kotobukiya is to blame for making it an exclusive store-only release. :(
just a quick note…
there is an USA version coming out..
retail price is 40 USD
I am interested in finding websites from which to buy any of these figurines. Most sites that show up in a Google search are in Japanese making it nearly impossible for me to order.