since I don't know anything about Vintage, i'd though i'd ask the experts. Someone emailed me these pics asking if this toy is legit, rarity, year released and how much it might be worth. Antiques Roadshow style. She says it's complete with everything shown here. I asked her if the toy actually still works when you put in the batteries. she says it's 21" tall. Plastic, not vinyl. so what's the deal? If anyone is interested in this toy, i'm happy to put you in touch with the owner. ps: since i'm paranoid, these could be pictures sent to me by somone on this board as a prank.
i could swear i saw an old commercial for this on youtube. edit: yep, here it is... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdQRMrj3jfk
Earthtron Battinger Machine is what it is called, the character is Earthtron from the Ultra Series, it sits on a plastic base, and throws balls which you can hit with either a baseball bat or tennis racket (included in the box). Someone imported a bunch of these in the 70s and a warehouse find popped them up in the late 90s. They still pop up from time to time (yes, we do have a boxed one for sale at super7). It is a great toy, and it really is no where near as available as it once was, but for many older collectors, the memory of it being everywhere still lingers. I did not see a single one this trip to Tokyo if that gives you any indication. I think ours retails for $350 MIB never opened, but you would need to call the store to confirm.
I'm telling you....if I could come back as someone else...it'd be a kid growing up in Japan in the 1960's-70's. All those great toys and television. Plus, I could wear short pants. When I try it now, I just get funny looks.
My favorite part would be owning a bullmark labeled baseball bat. Next year glenn is showing up to SDCC to take care of linejumpers with that thing.
I picked this guy up about 10 years ago in an ice cream shop in SF that also displays/sells some vintage toys. I think it was on Clement Street, near Heroes. Not sure if it is still there. It's of my favorites in my collection...vintage is where my addiction began! It was mint - and they really work (I had to give it a try). Definately worth picking up IMO! Between thinking about this & Kimono My House, I am feeling rather homesick tonight (I don't know I would do without having Lulubell here!) ahhh...memories...of vast vinyl in my own backyard....
they were imported by kimono my house, late 80's to mid 90's. The ice cream store is called Toy Boat.KMH wholesaled them and sold them by the case.including to Toy Boat.I know I was there. P.S. the ice cream store is still there.
hey kirkland did you end up picking this up? i have seen a few of these at toy shows in person its amazing! box art kills.
KR is right, Kimono had tons of them once. They found a bunch in Japan too, for a while making it the most common "jumbo" out there (although most jumbo collectors don't consider it a jumbo).
