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    Brickpicker blog articles on LEGO investing, news, reviews, evaluations, discounts and more...
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    • jaisonline
      NEXO Knights is Lego's replacement for the Chima theme. This latest "kiddie" theme is returning to television on Monday January 11 on Cartoon Network. The 2-part pilot and new NEXO Knights episodes will be shown each weekday until January 22. Check your local listings for showtime (e.g. shown at 5:30pm in the EST time zone). Will you be watching?

      Wikipedia: "The series describes the adventures of five young knights: Clay, Aaron, Lance, Macy, and Axl who protect Knighton from Jestro, the Book of Monsters and their army of lava monsters. They also help the Monarchy, Merlok (sorcerer) and Robin."
      TV advertisement.
      While overall investment potential should be "very limited" like Chima and post-2013 Ninjago sets, there might be a couple of highlights. 
    • thoroakenfelder
      I remember when the leak for this LEGO set first surfaced. "What? Princess Leia wears purple and green? Admiral Ackbar is in it? Is this a new B-Wing?" It excited me inasmuch as any new Star Wars set does. Plus, we didn't know that it was called Resistance Troop Transporter. As images got larger, my enthusiasm diminished. When it hit the stores, and there was no other new Star Wars to buy, I was back on board. So let's take a look at the set that never made the Kessel Run. Let's Review.
      REVIEW: SET DETAILS
      Set #: 75140
      Name: resistance Troop Transporter
      Theme: Star Wars
      Parts: 646
      Price: $69.99
      Before we get to the build, let’s talk value. At $69.99 the price per piece works out to a bit over $.10 each. This is on the low side of pricing for a licensed set. There are 4 minifigures. The minifigures are unique to this set. THe Resistance Trooper with suspenders does not have any unique parts, but the combination is unique.
      BOX CONTENTS
      Some people may wind up picking up a set that is open box or, want to verify the box contents before beginning a build. For this set, there are 5 numbered baggies, a large sticker sheet, and an instruction book.

       
      THE BUILD AND EXECUTION
      Bag 1: I felt that the build started out a bit weird. It felt a bit like I was building a ground structure instead of a ship. I wasn't really seeing the final product coming together in my head.

      I have no idea, even after completing the build, why it made more sense to have several axels connected together here. I feel like a bracket on either side made just as much sense.

      Ah, now we're getting somewhere. Now there's a rounded thing with stickers on it, very much not a small hut.

      Well, I guess it could be a space hut, but, those spring shooters on the left give some hint as to it being more. Before anyone writes to point out, it took me a few more steps to realize that I had placed those gray pieces in the wrong position. I promise that I fix them in the next picture. The Resistance troopers are exactly as boring as ever. They do have the Pewter/Pearl Dark Gray blasters that I liked in the First Order Troop Transporter

      Bag 2: You continue to make walls, walls with studs facing out. You really get the clue that they are going to do decorative panels here.


      You add some curved pieces to the top. Now we're starting to make it more spaceshippy. Oh yeah, spaceshippy is definitely a real word. The hinge pieces on the top sides are interesting. I wasn't really thinking of what came next, so it piqued my interest 

      You also make a series of fins for the back of the craft.

      Finally, you add decorative paneling to the front.

      Bag 3: We find out fairly quickly that the roof sections are attached to the hinges, and pegged in place by another rounded piece.

      Underneath we add the curved slider pieces.

      Then we build a pod of some kind. It uses car hoods to define the shape.

      Sand green clips? weird choice in my opinion, but that can't be super common.

      I don't know if those things are supposed to be rockets or what. The fin is just another thing that a spacegoing box doesn't really need, but helps it look spacey

      Bag 4: We are gonna cockpit the heck out of this thing. Oh yeah, we're gonna make that cockpit like no one's business.

       
      What started off looking spacious is starting to look a little cramped.

      I don't know what happened with my picture of the dial mechanism, it looked fine in the camera, but when I loaded it to the PC, it was blurry. Suffice it to say that the dial in the next picture and the technic liftarm that you can see in the following picture are a part of the same mechanism that is used to open the cockpit. This is necessary because there's so much stuff built up around it that it's difficult to open manually.

      3 stickers just for the cockpit canopy. I thought for sure that the pilot wanted to see where he was going. I may be wrong.

      11 stickers just for this small portion of the overall set. That's ridiculous.

      Now you make a door. Big sticker there.

      It's actually starting to come together. looks pretty solid. Admiral Ackbar's got a coffee mug. Can someone explain to me why he's usually got a coffee mug? I realize its a joke, but they could have also given him a fish.

      Bag 5: What's left? Well, a ship needs thrusters. Not only do you make the thrusters, which are actually a very simple design, but you're also making cowlings to cover the thruster ports.

      After you get propulsion worked out, it's probably a good time to add weaponry. Here, we build the weapons pod.

      Finally, Here's the whole thing. Pretty good size. Still reminiscent of the old school B-Wing. And of course there's Old Princess/General Leia.

       
      REACTION
      Something about this set just didn't grab me. It's an interesting enough build. Some of the details were nicely done. It's miles ahead of the build of the First Order Troop Transporter. The figure selection is dull. I think that maybe if they had really done anything in the film, or if this ship had been utilized as more than just background scene filler, I'd have more love for this set. As it is, I never really cared for the B-Wing and this just hits the same notes for me.

      All of the figures have back printing. Ackbar is the only one with hip and leg printing. Leia's got a Dual sided face wrinkly serious and wrinkly happy. I think this is the first time that her hairpiece was made in that color.

      FINAL THOUGHTS
      With 4 unique figures and an interesting build of a design that was featured in the film, there are things to recommend this ship. My personal ennui aside, I do feel like whoever builds this set will be glad that they did. It's a troop builder set, a display piece to go with the Resistance troop battle pack.
      The biggest detriment to this set is that it got limited screen time that included no action. Leia will be the part of this set that most casual collectors will want. The good news is, I doubt she's going to be showing up in many other sets. I don't think she'll maintain the early $30 price on Ebay for long. If I am right, after this set retires, she'll probably come back to that value.
      It's a solid set that doesn't need a redesign as badly as the First Order ship. This one will hopefully be used again in the Episode VIII. I could only speculate here. It might not see a reissue then, if they have more vehicles to choose from. I'd think this set would go up in value later on. The specter of the B-Wing 75050 hangs heavy over this though. No one really got behind the closest cousin to this set, and I'm afraid that it will follow in the same footsteps. Early and continued apathy for this set could be longterm gold though as collectors later on try to complete a collection. It's hard to tell for sure which way collectors will jump. General Leia may have the cache to lift this thing out of obscurity.
      I would recommend packaging this with a C-3PO Polybag and a Resistance Trooper Battle pack to garner more excitement. Or alternately the Battle on Takodana.
      Find it on Amazon
       
      Check out other 2016 Winter wave sets here:
      LEGO REVIEW: Star Wars First Order Battle Pack #75132
      LEGO REVIEW: Star Wars Resistance Trooper Battle Pack #75131
      LEGO REVIEW: Star Wars battle on Takodana #75139
      EXTRA PIECES

    • Ed Mack
      After the recent Telegraph article going viral all over the world stating that LEGO bricks and sets were better investments than Gold over the past few years, one has to wonder what other investment vehicles do LEGO bricks outperform. With the recent roller coaster on Wall Street and foreign markets, a question presents itself...Are the LEGO secondary markets and LEGO collecting and investment in general, more stable and profitable over the long haul than other more high profile investments? Let’s analyze some data…
      With 2015 coming to a close, the final financial year-end data on stock markets, crude oil and gold prices is available. Take a look at the major stock market and commodity returns for 2015 stated in an article from the USA TODAY:

      A quick analysis indicates an overall poor year for most major indexes and benchmark commodities. Only the tech heavy NASDAQ escaped the carnage and posted positive gains for the year. Now, compare the above chart to the “average” LEGO set returns over the past five years and this is what you find:

      Now, when I say, ”Average LEGO Set,” I am referring to the “mean” appreciation of all LEGO sets in our database. The Return On Investment is calculated from the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). There are thousands of LEGO sets in our database that get aggregated into these figures, some new and available at retail, but most retired and no longer available at primary retailers. The data shows a very consistent pattern for LEGO sets over the past five years. Even when other major investment vehicles were having a hard time getting into the black in 2015, LEGO sets held their ground. In an overall bad year for investing, LEGO bricks and sets still appreciated close to historical levels. Themes like Jurassic Park, Mixels, Speed Champions, Ideas and Lord of the Rings all had banner years, while Friends, Monster Fighters, Minecraft, DC Comics and Marvel Super Heroes themes all took a huge hit. There are many sets that appreciated very well, while others stagnated or fell in value. Just like stocks, the trick is picking the right sets.
      Now, before everyone goes out there and dumps their stocks, bonds and gold for LEGO sets, a potential LEGO investor needs to realize the pitfalls of investing in little ABS plastic bricks. First off, they are difficult to store and take up a lot of space. LEGO boxes play a large role in their values. The better the condition, the higher the value in most cases. They are susceptible to moisture and sunlight. Boxes are large and delicate, and a person can easily fill up a small room with a moderate LEGO collection. Another issue with LEGO investing is their expense. Their impeccable quality comes at a high price. They are very expensive toys. Period. Unlike stocks, bonds and gold, they are not liquid. A person has to sell and ship them to realize profits. This takes time and effort. Buying LEGO sets is easy. Selling and shipping them is not. Speaking of selling them, many LEGO secondary market sites such as eBay and Amazon charge high commission fees...ranging anywhere from 10-15% (Unless of course you sell on Brick Classifieds with ZERO commission and fees). This takes a huge bite from your appreciation. Granted, if you choose wisely and pick the right LEGO sets to invest in, these negative factors can be overcome, but many people do not choose wisely and end up failing at this endeavor.
      So are LEGO sets a better overall investment and more stable than stocks, bonds, gold and crude oil? At this point in time, probably, if you choose the right LEGO sets to invest in and buy and sell them with some creativity and frugality. What they seem to be is more consistent. Take a look at the chart below:
       


      A quick glance indicates a rather steady growth pattern for LEGO sets, while the various stock market indexes are quite turbulent. Even when stocks were down, LEGO sets yielded in the 10% range. Pretty solid. While the LEGO secondary markets will probably never take off into stratospheric levels like stocks did in 2013, there are multiple individual LEGO themes and sets that could explode in growth at any given time. To find those sets, one needs to research the markets and study the products. It also takes effort to find deals on LEGO sets when purchasing and work to properly list, package and ship LEGO boxes. Experience also matters. While a novice can make profits from investing in LEGO sets, it often takes experience in buying, selling, packaging and shipping to maximize profits. LEGO investing is no longer “easy” money as it once was, but if you educate yourself, make prudent choices, adapt to changing trends and get a little lucky, you can still see solid profits...
    • jaisonline
      I'll dive right into this article by discussing the investment potential of the "comes in black" 76023 Lego Tumbler set. It appears production was stopped for the $199.99 76023 Lego Tumbler set months ago about the same time Lego slapped the infamous "retiring soon" tag.  European and US  Lego Shop At Home websites have either sold-out (red font for those who track that) or removed this set's page entirely.  In the US, only Amazon and Target have stock currently.  According to Brickpickers who try to track inventory like @trekgate502 , the current inventory at those 2 online retailers could be gone by the time the 4th NFL Wild-Card game finishes this Sunday.  Regardless of the availability left, the clock is near midnight folks. Time is running out so please check the Brickpicker Inventory Stock Checker. 
      http://www.brickpicker.com/brickwatcher/lego-stock-checker.cfm#76023-1

      Since coming out of my Lego Dark Age in 2012, there have been only one time I felt a set's popularity growth was guaranteed to grow after retirement (aka a Grand Slam) : 10212 : UCS Star Wars Imperial Shuttle.  The Tumbler is the second set I've had this feeling about. 
      In recent months, this set has fallen out of favor with many Brickpickers.  They have their reasons.
      Reasons why this set is a "Grand Slam".
      It's Batman. This character has global appeal. Past set comparisons can help predict future growth. The initial $49.99 Tumbler set (7888 from 2008) continues to sell for a premium : $470 MISB and $244 used.   Granted, this set had a very limited production run and was the only Lego Tumbler available for from 2008 to 2013. The Batmobile: Ultimate Collectors' Edition (7784 from 2007) retailed for $69.99 and grew to $432 MISB and $208 Used. 2013's Batman: Arkham Asylum Breakout has increased from $159.99 to $238 in one year of retirement. If this set performances 1/3rd as well as of the previous 3 sets, that gives us a secondary market price of $700-$800 within 3-4 years of retirement.  If achieved, that growth will be considered a success. More Batman films are coming. Building this set is fun.  The designer used various elements and techniques to create the Tumbler's complex outer design. Batmobiles are popular. There have been countless debates whether the 1966 Adam West version is better than the 1989's Tim Burton one and if the latter is better than the Tumbler.  The Tumbler was introduced in Christopher Nolan's 2006 Batman film.  He wanted something different than done in past films.  The point is that any vehicle Batman drives remains popular. Lego marketed this set as an advanced model and included a UCS-styled plaque. Christian Bale and Health Ledger minifigures are included and both remain exclusive to this set.  I doubt they will appear in future sets especially this Joker version.
      The vehicle is massive.  It measures over 5” high, 15” long and 9” wide. Don't let the 1,869 piece count fool you as most pieces are Technic bricks, medium to large plates and semi-exclusive tires.  
      The picture below shows the minifigure to vehicle scale.

      Many elements are still harder to find for those trying to "bricklink" this set.  9 non-minifigure elements are available in only 6 or less sets including 1 element still being exclusive as of writing this article (Pearl Gold Wheel Bearing Back). Retail availability of this set appears it will be less than 2 years since it was introduced in August 2014. I don't have many issues with this nor identified "Cons".  One not is this model is meant to be displayed and not played around with by the kids.  The fenders and rear roof are two of the more fragile areas.
      One review I've liked since the set was introduced, was written by Ace Kim's in Aug 2014.
      http://www.fbtb.net/2014/08/18/review-76023-the-tumbler/
      In summary, The Tumbler has a "love it or hate it" affect on Lego fans. One thing for certain is that Batman fans will never forget The Tumbler when debating Batmobiles for decades to come.
      NOTE: Please be sure to check-out our popular forum topic and the Lego Designer Video for more information. Also included below is a link to the awesome Jay Leno's Garage episode which highlights a film used Tumbler.

       
       
       
      </p> <p>   </p> <div class="ipsEmbeddedVideo" contenteditable="false"> <div> <iframe allowfullscreen="true" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ydtGew7bWuw?feature=oembed" width="480">
       
    • Jeff Mack
      Yesterday I was contacted by the website Tech Insider to help them list the Top 25 most valuable sets of All Time. It was good timing too since I did run the price guide numbers recently. With no real big surprise, Star Wars led the pack with getting 10 sets into the list.  I think the one surprise is getting a set from 2015 in there with the Bat-Pod.  No one is really sure how long that will remain in the list and if aftermarket builders will do a good enough job on the "fakes" to kill that market.  Good old Mr Gold is still going strong after a few years and holding onto a value greater than $1,500.  
      If you are lucky enough to have every set on this list, you are holding onto a pretty nice bundle of cash, $35,277.95! So the big question is, how many sets on this list do you own?

      SET NUMBER SET NAME THEME YEAR VALUE (NEW) VALUE (USED) 10179 Ultimate Collector's Millennium Falcon Star Wars 2007 $3,987.40 $2,499.34 10189 Taj Mahal Advanced Models 2008 $2,732.93 $1,219.53 10196 Grand Carousel Advanced Models 2009 $2,593.27 $1,450.53 3450 Statue of Liberty Advanced Models 2000 $1,998.87 $1,282.00 10181 Eiffel Tower Advanced Models 2007 $1,781.60 $851.87 10030 Imperial Star Destroyer Star Wars 2002 $1,744.00 $1,030.40 10182 Cafe Corner Advanced Models 2007 $1,676.13 $773.25 10143 Death Star II Star Wars 2005 $1,656.87 $875.11 710019 Mr Gold Collectable Minifigures 2013 $1,558.88 - 10190 Market Street Factory 2007 $1,537.40 $729.13 5004590 Bat-Pod DC Comics Super Heroes 2015 $1,530.20 $700.00 10129 Rebel Snowspeeder Star Wars 2003 $1,365.53 $734.13 10019 Rebel Blockade Runner Star Wars 2001 $1,199.20 $718.33 852293 Castle Giant Chess Set Gear/Board Games 2008 $1,128.20 $513.60 10134 Y-wing Attack Starfighter Star Wars 2004 $1,067.60 $621.93 10185 Green Grocer Advanced Models 2008 $959.93 $674.27 10221 Super Star Destroyer Star Wars 2011 $881.33 $687.20 7191 X-wing Fighter Star Wars 2000 $848.87 $320.80 10018 Darth Maul Star Wars 2001 $807.13 $388.60 10187 Volkswagen Beetle Advanced Models 2008 $754.13 $423.27 10173 Holiday Train Trains 2006 $734.40 $359.47 10210 Imperial Flagship Pirates 2010 $731.61 $477.20 10175 Vader's TIE Advanced Star Wars 2006 $673.20 $387.73 8275 Motorized Bulldozer Technic 2007 $671.87 $257.87 21021 Marina Bay Sands Architecture 2013 $657.40 $353.17 Here are quick breakdowns by Theme:


       
    • Fcbarcelona101
      We all love lists, right? Welcome to what I expect to be a new weekly blog entry for Brickpicker: Top 10 Best Sellers at LEGO Shop at Home.
      As most of you know, LEGO’s online site includes a feature showcasing the Top 25 selling sets, updated on a daily basis. While this list is definitely a small sample, I believe it can help us gauge what’s popular with end consumers at any given time, so that when retirement time approaches we have at least an idea of how well a set sold through it’s lifetime. 
      I will also be excluding (basically skipping) those entries on S&H that are not sets. For example, if a baseplate is currently sitting in place number 5, I will replace it with the set currently in place number 6.
      As far as the schedule and format is concerned, this entry will be posted weekly, as daily seems as overkill to me. Also, unlike most of my other articles, I will try to keep it short and keep my comments about each set to a couple sentences (Maybe none if a set has been on the list every week). Other than that, I will shoot for Wednesday night releases of the updated entry.
      Hope you enjoy them!
      Top 10 Best Selling Sets (LEGO S@H)
      #1: 10251 Brick Bank - Buy Now!
      No surprise at the top. The Brick Bank is the newest modular and was introduced at the beginning of the year, so we can expect a rush of buyers as collectors and AFOLs look to expand their modular streets.

      #2: 75827 Ghostbusters HQ - Buy Now!
      Another of the long awaited new releases, the Ghostbusters HQ has involved in some controversy since it was announced. It will be interesting to see the reaction of buyers once reviews start coming in.

      #3: 40201 Valentine’s Cupid Dog - Buy Now!
      Much like the Bat and Snowman released by the end of 2015, this little set is one of the seasonal sets LEGO releases to match specific holidays. With Valentine’s Day a little more than a month away, it will be good to pay attention and see if there is any potential for this set in the short term.

      #4: 75105 Millenium Falcon - Buy Now!
      With Star Wars fever still in the air, this set was bound to be somewhere in the Top 5. As always, the most iconic Star War ship proves to be extremely popular, though this very same factor will probably mean a longer than average shelf life.

      #5: 75117 Kylo Ren - Buy Now!
      The new buildable figures introduced by LEGO seem to be popular with LEGO fans. I am not particularly into them, but it is no surprise that the star villain of the new trilogy occupies one of the higher spots. Even though his character may have disappointed some people…

      #6: 21028 New York City - Buy Now!
      The highlight of the new “Skylines” line in the Architecture theme. I actually really like these little sets, and with the proven performance of the theme in general, you can be sure this one will be sought after once it retires (Yes, I know it’s way too early to even think about that!)

      #7: 75102 Poe’s X-Wing - Buy Now!
      Extremely popular and great looking ship from The Force Awakens that has proven to be a somewhat successful flip for some.

      #8: 75139 Battle on Takodana - Buy Now!
      Another new release based off one of the best scenes in TFA, in my opinion. Part of its popularity may also be due to the fact that it is a cheaper alternative to acquire the Kylo Ren minifigure.

      #9: 21304 Doctor Who - Buy Now!
      Doctor Who fans can finally get their hands on the latest IDEAS set released, and by the looks of it that is precisely what they have been doing. The set is very well done, and its core fan base large and passionate enough that I think has the potential to be a top performer once retired.

      #10: 75114 First Order Stormtrooper - Buy Now!
      Finally, we close the list with another buildable figure, the FO Stormtrooper. I am somewhat surprised that this one managed to edge out the cool looking Captain Phasma, but I guess it just has more mainstream appeal.

       
      So that’s it for this week! Feel free to leave your comments below, I am also pushing to make these articles more interactive and engaging for all!
      Note: Be on the lookout for a new thread in the forum with an announcement about my future plans for the Brickpicker blog. I have some interesting ideas and will be including the community more and more in future entries. I will also update you on what types of articles I will be focusing on, and when you can expect them!
      Thanks for reading.
    • Alpinemaps
      Hope you didn't spend all your money on the new LEGO Ghostbusters Headquarters.
      In November, we mentioned the possibility of new LEGO Ghostbusters sets coming, based on a press release from Sony Pictures, the rights holder to Ghostbusters franchise and the 2016 reboot film's distributor.
      Paul Feig, director of the new film confirmed today on Twitter that there indeed will be LEGO sets based on the movie.  He states "Fun stuff coming from LEGO too. Just FYI. Sorry, bank account."
      Note this is ahead of any official word from The LEGO Group.
      The movie should no doubt drive buyers to all things Ghostbusters, including 21108 Ghostbusters Ecto-1.  Will Ecto-1 disappear before the movie hits the shelves?  Will there be a 2016 edition of Ecto-1 with the new Ghostbusters team?  Share your opinion with us below.
       
       
    • jaisonline
      Update....
      Lego's announcement has been made.  "POW" about the price .  Sure looks cool though.
      I removed the initial Facebook pics and added Lego's official ones.
      6052 Batman™ Classic TV Series – Batcave
      Ages 14+. 2,526 pieces.
      US $269.99 – CA $329.99 – DE 249.99€ – UK £229.99 – DK 2499.00 DKK
      Drive the villains out from Batman’s Batcave!
      Help Batman™ and Robin™ to drive the villain intruders from the Batcave, featuring a Bat Lab with Batcomputer, plus the Batmobile with stud shooters, Batcopter with flick missiles and the Batcycle. This special model, based on the classic 1960s TV show, also has a Wayne Manor section with an exterior wall to climb on and Bruce Wayne’s study featuring the iconic Batphone and a false bookcase that slides open to reveal the secret entrance to the Batcave. Before spiraling down the Batpoles into the Batcave, change identity from Bruce Wayne™ and Dick Grayson™ into Batman and Robin (separate minifigures included).
       Includes 9 minifigures: Batman™, Robin™, Bruce Wayne™, Dick Grayson™, Alfred Pennyworth™, The Joker™, Catwoman™, The Riddler™ and The Penguin™.  This LEGO® model of the Batcave as seen in the classic 1960s TV series features 2 Batpoles for Batman™ and Robin™ to slide down, a selection of Bat-gadgets, helipad, plus a Batmobile and Batcopter.  The Wayne Manor section of the model features Bruce Wayne’s study with the iconic Batphone, a hinged Shakespeare bust with secret button underneath, sliding false bookcase to access the Batpoles, and assorted elements including decorated wallpaper bricks, wall lamps, framed portraits, a framed fish and trophies. It also includes an exterior wall for climbing, with an opening roof for easy access to the Batpoles and an aerial element.  The Batcave incorporates a hi-tech, 2-floor Bat Lab with Batcomputer element and a variety of detachable accessory elements, including a lie detector machine, table, chest of drawers, Bat-gadgets and test tubes with translucent elements. Also includes the iconic Batcave entrance for the Batmobile and a helipad for the Batcopter.  The Batmobile features a dual cockpit with iconic Batphone, 2 stud shooters, an opening trunk, dual exhaust and sign stickers.  The Batcopter has an opening cockpit for a minifigure, bat-inspired wings with 2 flick missiles, spinning rotors and a spinning propeller. A villain minifigure can grab onto the back of the Batcopter for more aerial battle action.  The Batcycle features a driver’s seat for Batman™, translucent headlight element and a sidecar for Robin™.  Also includes a cat.  Weapons include The Joker’s TNT, Catwoman’s whip, The Riddler’s TNT and The Penguin’s umbrella.  Accessory elements include Batman’s 3 Batarangs, rope, grappling hook and handcuffs.  Includes separate minifigures for Batman™ and Robin’s alter-egos, so enter the secret doorway as Bruce and Dick, and slide down the Batpoles as LEGO® DC Super Heroes!  Batcave measures over 18” (46cm) high, 22” (56cm) wide and 7” (20cm) deep.  Batmobile measures over 2” (6cm) high, 8” (21cm) long and 2” (7cm) wide.  Batcopter measures over 2” (7cm) high, 8” (22cm) long and 7” (19cm) wide.  Batcycle measures over 1” (4cm) high, 3” (8cm) long and 1” (4cm) wide.  
      6052 Batman™ Classic TV Series – Batcave
      Ages 14+. 2,526 pieces.
      US $269.99 – CA $329.99 – DE 249.99€ – UK £229.99 – DK 2499.00 DKK
      Drive the villains out from Batman’s Batcave!
      Help Batman™ and Robin™ to drive the villain intruders from the Batcave, featuring a Bat Lab with Batcomputer, plus the Batmobile with stud shooters, Batcopter with flick missiles and the Batcycle. This special model, based on the classic 1960s TV show, also has a Wayne Manor section with an exterior wall to climb on and Bruce Wayne’s study featuring the iconic Batphone and a false bookcase that slides open to reveal the secret entrance to the Batcave. Before spiraling down the Batpoles into the Batcave, change identity from Bruce Wayne™ and Dick Grayson™ into Batman and Robin (separate minifigures included).
      • Includes 9 minifigures: Batman™, Robin™, Bruce Wayne™, Dick Grayson™, Alfred Pennyworth™, The Joker™, Catwoman™, The Riddler™ and The Penguin™.
      • This LEGO® model of the Batcave as seen in the classic 1960s TV series features 2 Batpoles for Batman™ and Robin™ to slide down, a selection of Bat-gadgets, helipad, plus a Batmobile and Batcopter.
      • The Wayne Manor section of the model features Bruce Wayne’s study with the iconic Batphone, a hinged Shakespeare bust with secret button underneath, sliding false bookcase to access the Batpoles, and assorted elements including decorated wallpaper bricks, wall lamps, framed portraits, a framed fish and trophies. It also includes an exterior wall for climbing, with an opening roof for easy access to the Batpoles and an aerial element.
      • The Batcave incorporates a hi-tech, 2-floor Bat Lab with Batcomputer element and a variety of detachable accessory elements, including a lie detector machine, table, chest of drawers, Bat-gadgets and test tubes with translucent elements. Also includes the iconic Batcave entrance for the Batmobile and a helipad for the Batcopter.
      • The Batmobile features a dual cockpit with iconic Batphone, 2 stud shooters, an opening trunk, dual exhaust and sign stickers.
      • The Batcopter has an opening cockpit for a minifigure, bat-inspired wings with 2 flick missiles, spinning rotors and a spinning propeller. A villain minifigure can grab onto the back of the Batcopter for more aerial battle action.
      • The Batcycle features a driver’s seat for Batman™, translucent headlight element and a sidecar for Robin™.
      • Also includes a cat.
      • Weapons include The Joker’s TNT, Catwoman’s whip, The Riddler’s TNT and The Penguin’s umbrella.
      • Accessory elements include Batman’s 3 Batarangs, rope, grappling hook and handcuffs.
      • Includes separate minifigures for Batman™ and Robin’s alter-egos, so enter the secret doorway as Bruce and Dick, and slide down the Batpoles as LEGO® DC Super Heroes!
      • Batcave measures over 18” (46cm) high, 22” (56cm) wide and 7” (20cm) deep.
      • Batmobile measures over 2” (6cm) high, 8” (21cm) long and 2” (7cm) wide.
      • Batcopter measures over 2” (7cm) high, 8” (22cm) long and 7” (19cm) wide.
      • Batcycle measures over 1” (4cm) high, 3” (8cm) long and 1” (4cm) wide.
      - See more at: http://www.thebrickfan.com/lego-dc-comics-super-heroes-batman-classic-tv-series-batcave-76052-officially-revealed/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+LegoEverlasting-LegoReviewsNews+%28The+Brick+Fan+-+LEGO+Reviews+%26+News%29#sthash.JizIQBcQ.dpuf  
       
       
      =======================
      Earlier today, a Greek Facebook user posted two pictures of set 76052, "Batman Classic TV Series - Batcave". 
      Before quickly reviewing this set's highlights, I will "POW" my way to this blog's conclusion.  If these pictures are fact, I'm officially   declaring that set 76052 will be a winner for AFOLs, KFOLs and investors.  
      While consider campy by today's entertainment standards, Adam West's Batman is still very popular despite debuting on the ABC Network 50 years ago (aired January 12, 1966 to March 14, 1968).  Yes folks, this year marks the 50th anniversary of the Batman TV series. 
      Despite this set being Lego's 3rd Batcave since 2006 (excluding Juniors & Duplo) and won't be the last, it most likely will never be refreshed or redone.  We have an iconic part of pop culture history in Lego form that will probably be available at retail for only 2-3 years.
       
      Box Design
       

       
       
       
      Highlights
      Includes 9 minifigures : Batman, Bruce Wayne, Robin, Dick Grayson, Alfred Pennyworth, Catwoman, The Joker, The Penguin and The Riddler  Sorry Bat fanatics but Aunt Harriet Cooper, Commissioner Gordon and Barbara Gordon / Batgirl are not included.  The rumored Mr. Freeze minifigure might be a polybag promotion. Vehicles included are The Batmobile, Bat-copter and Bat-cycle. Portions of Wayne Manor are included included the famous red Batphone and statue head that doubles as the secret entrance to the cave.  A side wall is also included for Batman and Robin to climb.
      Portions of Wayne Manor are included included the well-known red Batphone and Shakespeare bust that doubles as the secret entrance into the cave.  An outside wall looks to be also included for Batman and Robin to climb and dual sliding poles I expect MSRP to be around $199.99 considering the amount of minifigures and types of elements used.  Update : a Mod at Eurobricks thinks retail price will be $270 with a 2,526 piece count. Retail availability  looks to be next month.  
       
       
       












    • thoroakenfelder
      The winter wave of Star Wars LEGO sets has begun to hit. The Force Awakens sets are front and center, just the way that should be expected weeks after the movie is released. Since they are here, it is time for a review. In this installment, we'll be looking at the set that is the turning point of the movie that brings our heroes and villains more firmly into their roles, the Battle on Takodana.
      REVIEW: SET DETAILS
      Set #: 75139
      Name: Battle on Takodana
      Theme: Star Wars
      Parts: 409
      Price: $59.99
      Before we get to the build, let’s talk value. At $59.99 the price per piece works out to a bit under $.15 each. This is on the high side of pricing for a licensed set. There are 5 minifigures. This version of Kylo Ren and the Maz Kanata minifigure are unique to this set.
       
      BOX CONTENTS
      Some people may wind up picking up a set that is open box or, want to verify the box contents before beginning a build. For this set, there are 3 numbered baggies, a small sticker sheet with 2 stickers, and an instruction book.

       
      THE BUILD AND EXECUTION
      So, we're going to go bag by bag and talk about the build of this set.
      Bag 1: The first thing that I want to talk about is the thing I was almost indecently excited to make, the baton that the riot control Stormtrooper brandished. It's a simple build that consists of a white telescope piece 64644 (its first time in this color,) a white baraki eye 58176 which is not terribly common, a black 58176 (which is new in this color) and a gray clamp bar 48729b. I was genuinely more excited for this single thing than the rest of the build, which says more about y personality than the set itself. Every time I look at my Stormtrooper carrying it, I imagine him yelling out "Traitor!" I only wish that the tip was blue or forked, but I will live with it.

      So, now that we're past the exciting part, let's build Maz Kanata's castle on Takodana. We have to build the façade, and that needs a base. Very early on, we build the first play feature, a push bar that shoves out rubble in the form of 6 black studs. (I know, more tiny loose studs for the kids to easily lose.)


      Then you begin building the doorway that marks the main display feature of this set.

      TR-8R and his squadmate discuss how the TC-17 is not any better than the TC-16.

      Bag 2: First, you build some doors. Of course, they're simple. They're going to be a very minor part of this set, with nothing through the doorway, you're probably unlikely to even open them.

      Then you build up the façade. creating a lot of nice, temple/alien details. The triangular doorway is fairly accurate to the film design, including the lines on the door.

      To represent the large number of banners hanging outside of Maz's castle, we get one. Is this one the Mandalorian Bantha Skull associated with Boba Fett? The one that is prominently seen front and center? Nope. We get one that looks like a strip of bacon.

      Despite looking like bacon, it looks good hanging from the front of the castle build. I only wish that LEGO would release some more.

      I'm not sure what to call the decorative bits that come next, I guess antennas? Maybe Maz Kanata is getting space ESPN for her bar, and has to use satellite dishes in order to make her bar patrons happy.
       
      Bag 3: The final bag is full of play features. as an AFOL, these are not my favorite uses for LEGO. I'd prefer more complexity for the pieces, or more decoration. Anyway, you already have 2 play features in the making.


      Next, you build a collapsing tree, and add some levers for one of the play features (the collapsing wall)



      Then you top up the wall and make a box. I assume that the box is where you might conveniently find a lightsaber. The box slots into the inside of the wall. You can turn the knowb to kick it out.

      Finally, you make the wall pieces that explode when you turn the gear in back.

       
      REACTION
      I really like the looks of the façade. It will look great as a background display piece. It has a lot of little levers and play features for kids, and the number of minifigures is not shabby. This is the cheapest way to get Kylo Ren and Finn, as well as a couple First Order Stormtroopers. Maz Kanata is the only unique character, but I don't think that she is what will drive sales of this set. She looks good for what she is. The detailing on these figures is good. All of them have back printing. The Stormtroopers have the standard angry face. Ren and Finn (sounds like a folk group) have dual sided heads.

      Kylo Ren is probably the star attraction for this set. You can decide whether he's angry, or very angry. He comes with the same hairpiece as Ezra Bridger, all the young force users go to the same stylist I guess.

      I forgot to mention, I was so happy that all of the guns were the standard blaster. You may remember from my previous Star Wars reviews how much I dislike the stud shooters. LEGO provided the Battle on Takodana with the proper weapons. If I had to make a complaint about the weapons, I would wish that they were molded in white to distinguish them as the Stormtrooper guns from The Force Awakens. LEGO hasn't done that yet, I just think it would be cool.
      FINAL THOUGHTS
      Playsets are not great in the aftermarket. They do moderately well, but people want the vehicles for display. What generally drives a playset are the minifigures. The more unique and interesting minifigures, the better the playset does. For now, we have 2 unique minifigures and one that is only available in another set that costs more than twice as much as this one. Maz Kanata's unlikely to be a must have for collectors. She's more of an inaction hero, so not a lot of fun playtime with her telling people about their eyes.
      Kylo Ren and Finn are very likely to be reused. Interestingly, I think that the advent of this dual sided head will drive the price of the previous Kylo Ren figure up in the long run. I think his unique headpiece will eventually draw people back around. I would suggest that parter outers should get a hop on this Kylo Ren, since it's the one fans wanted most. 
      People wanting to get this set for themselves will probably see a 20-25% discount down the road on Amazon, and eventually probably a clearance deal on these. It's not a terrible set. There's a lot of great architectural pieces for MOCs, 1x2 bricks with bricks molded onto them and 1x2x3 slopes. None of that though translates into long term gold. This set will likely appreciate after EOL, but unless it retires extra quickly, there are better places to park your money in the Star Wars world.
      Support the site Go buy it on Amazon
      If you want to see more of the 2016 winter wave check out


      EXTRA PIECES
      you get an extra white telescope and a claw as well as a couple lightsaber hilt pieces including the pearl dark gray hilt for Kylo Ren.
      What's a review without a few action shots? Well, at least they amuse me.

      I know Rey's not in this set, but I had to take a couple shots with her and Kylo.

       
    • jaisonline
      Good news fellow Lego fans. We are getting a Finn Stormtrooper polybag (30605-1).  That means no more switching minifigure heads to reenact Finn and Poe being best buddies while escaping the Star Destroyer.
      Details will emerge about soon enough about how to acquire it. Most likely a Lego or Toys R Us promotion.  It could be a Lego promo for the May the 4th weekend.
      I do expect this minifigure to have demand especially if the sand stains print remains exclusive.

      Source : http://brickset.com/sets/30605-1/Finn-(FN-2187)
       


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