So I know these two are made by Marusan: but I don't know their names (specifically in japanese characters) I know this is a Ikarus but who makes it?: I've looked online and in a bunch of vintage books but haven't found it. And lastly are Marusan original some of the hardest vinyls to find? I've searched Marusan on YJA and these never come up it seems. Thanks
The characters are (top to bottom) Angoras, Garugon and Bakura. The bottom one is actually made by Marusan and is kind of a patchi version of Ikarus Seijin. It's also a giant size vinyl. They show up from time to time. The ones that you have listed rarely come up for sale. I've seen each maybe once or twice in the past few years.
Thanks Daniel. Typical anything that appeals to me has to be some of the rarest Just once I'd like to see something and be told "Oh yeah it's one of the most common of all vintage toys, easily had!"
Tell me about it. Youve got expensive taste Chris. I had my eye one this pachi Ikarus when it came up a while ago, no idea it was going to go for this much. http://page9.auctions.yahoo.co.jp/jp/auction/k143385577 You've got to be patient with these they dont come up that much (at least in my experience). Some can be had fairly cheap though the two I have were under $100.
Thanks Viva, yeah I can see why. A lot of character in those sculpts. Not too many people want to part with them I suppose. Were they made in very low quantity from Marusan's early days? I've seen a bunch more (including another giant red/purple Ragon sculpt that I like). Never have seen reproductions made of these either.
Chris, you have a good eye for the classics. Unfortunately, you're not alone. That's why they're "classic", afterall...and subsequently (and consequently) highly sought-after!
Man, these Marusan originals are amazing. I really don't think it gets much better when it comes to vintage figures. But collecting them is definitely a pain I would say. I would say that, yes, price is a big issue, but also for a lot of these guys, I think even if they exist in greater numbers, collectors in Japan (just like us) aren't quick to part with these guys from their collections, hence their scarcity. And who can blame them? Just look at those guys!! Here is an earlier thread where they've been discussed too http://www.skullbrain.org/bb/viewtopic.php?f=30&t=31949