Masterpiece Grimlock LTD Ed reissue - with crown.

[griffin]

This might please or annoy fans. Please those yet to get MP Grimlock, and annoy those who already have it. Or at least, give hope that the Hasbro version will have the Crown and not some weird cartoon themed accessories.

In the recent Denki hobby magazine, a limited edition exclusive version of MP Grimlock will be released in around December, with the Crown from the comic, in place of the items the regular release had.

Even the box will reference the Crown in the Marvel comics with special artwork on it.

http://www.tformers.com/transformers-first-look-at-takaratomy-toy-hobby-market-mp-08x-king-grimlock/12040/news.html


The figure will be available for pre-order between August 1 and September 11, 2009 and will be a Toy HobbyMarket exclusive.

King Grimlock will retail for 13,000 Yen (~$137 USD).

The figure will ship in the second half of December.

[1orion2many]

:mad:They should sell the crown seperately for fans that didn't get it. I hate this sort of thing, let's just rip the collectors off a bit more shall we:mad:

[Kyle]

Even the plastic used and paint job are different too. TT is making my life difficult. :(

[SentinelPrime]

Im satisfied with my MP Grimmy already... the crown doesnt do anything for me.

[Adzma]

Well I suppose this is TT's way of making money out of a mould that can't be redecoed. It's pretty stupid though, I can't imagine that there'd be a huge amount of people willing to buy a whole new piece just for the crown.

[Kyle]

Well I suppose this is TT's way of making money out of a mould that can't be redecoed. It's pretty stupid though, I can't imagine that there'd be a huge amount of people willing to buy a whole new piece just for the crown.

It could be worse... They can give us a blue G2 version... (iceburn will you be getting one? :D)

[Sky Shadow]

Bwahahahaha!

I am so glad I waited for this exact reason. And that box is amazing - I normally throw them out, but I'll keep that one for all time. I am one very happy Marvel comics fan indeed. :D

[GoktimusPrime]

Wow... that box is _beautiful_. I'm tired of waiting for Hasbro, but the price tag is pretty hefty so I'd better start saving up for it now! :)


They should sell the crown seperately for fans that didn't get it. I hate this sort of thing, let's just rip the collectors off a bit more shall we
Selling the crown separately wouldn't make business sense. Remember that the G1 Marvel comics weren't sold in Japan so very few fans would even be aware of King Grimlock. Cartoon accessories make more sense for TakaraTOMY's market as the cartoon was obviously aired in Japan.

Hasbro should definitely release their version with the crown, since it makes absolute sense for English-speaking markets. But I'm not going to hold my breath so I'll try and get this reissue - but being limited I don't know what my chances will be like; so I do hope that Hasbro pulls through just in case.


It's pretty stupid though, I can't imagine that there'd be a huge amount of people willing to buy a whole new piece just for the crown.
Not in Japan; so it makes sense for it to be a limited edition. In Anglophone markets tehre would be more people, since we did get the G1 Marvel comics where Grimlock, after being elected new Autobot commander, became corrupt with power and crowned himself as king.


It could be worse... They can give us a blue G2 version... (iceburn will you be getting one? :D)
Would you buy one if it were released as a limited e-Hobby or convention exclusive? ;) I wouldn't, but I wonder how many other people would. :)

[kup]

A beautiful box indeed - I am tempted to get it just for that.

http://i672.photobucket.com/albums/vv84/starsuperion/Transformers/grim.png

[Ode to a Grasshopper]

Am I the only one here who likes the apron and drinks tray?:(

At risk of speaking for others, IIRC Ironhide was looking for an MP Grimmy but being a young'un having trouble with the cost, if anyone with an old one would rather get this one and recoup part of the cost he might be interested subject to price - obviously check with him first though. 'Tis the beneficial wind that blows both ways etc.:)

[GoktimusPrime]

Am I the only one here who likes the apron and drinks tray?
It's hard NOT to prefer G1 comic Grimlock over G1 cartoon Grimlock!! G1 comic Grimlock was pure awesomesauce - thanks in no small part to the fact that he's Simon Furman's favourite Transformer. ;) G1 cartoon Grimlock on the other hand was a big stupid brute - who was alright in the pre-movie episodes, but after Transformers The Movie it seems that the Dinobots' IQs all dropped severely and they just became annoying comic relief characters. :(


At risk of speaking for others, IIRC Ironhide was looking for an MP Grimmy but being a young'un having trouble with the cost, if anyone with an old one would rather get this one and recoup part of the cost he might be interested subject to price - obviously check with him first though. 'Tis the beneficial wind that blows both ways etc.
Not a bad idea. :)

[kup]

I would have to consider if I want to sell my MP Grimlock in favor of this new one. There are aspects of the 'old' MP Grimlock that I like better than the new one and vice versa.

[GoktimusPrime]

...I think the original looks better. Not fond of the comic-like* blues they've used in place of black. If I were you kup, I'd keep the crown and box from this one and consider selling the basic toy loose. I'm sure Ironhide wouldn't mind buying a loose figure sans box and crown for a reduced price. :)

-----------
*even then only US comic-like; the UK comics used black. And we all know that Nel Yomtov's colouring in the US G1 comics was consistently crap anyway... what next? A US comic-accurate purple Soundwave reissue?!? Ewww... (-_-)

[TF76]

I like the box, it makes me want breakfast, he should have come with a bowl and spoon!. :p

I like both version just as much, still it will be a long time befor I can afford one.

Next MP will be Skywarp for me.

[rampagesss]

Yea the box looks great, but im happy with the Grimlock i have :D

[mknell]

hmmm now i will have to decide if I buy this one or the old one (which I'm still pricing via ebay to get a good deal lol) but I'm considering both

[reillyd]

The crown is so cool, as is the box. I must have this, as I missed out on Grims the first time around.

I couldn't find a link to the store that sells them though, only the price. I'd love to preorder him.

[Sky Shadow]

The crown is so cool, as is the box. I must have this, as I missed out on Grims the first time around.

I couldn't find a link to the store that sells them though, only the price. I'd love to preorder him.

It's http://www.toyhobby.jp/ but, as Griffin quoted, it will be "available for pre-order between August 1 and September 11".

[kurdt_the_goat]

Unless their policy has changed since Henkei Thrust/Dirge came out, Toy Hobby won't have overseas shipping.

[Lord_Zed]

Well its hardly suprising they have to push the mould as much as they can. but as for the crown, yeah I would have liked it better than the tray but its still just a simple piece of plastic. We all new from the old pics a crown would eventualy be released.

I certainly have NO regrets whatsoever about buying Grimlock already.

The colours are novel, I like the original better he's more toy accurate but the new one is still interesting and different which is good. it reminds me of the comic pack Destro Hasbro released from the Gi Joe line. He was wearing purple/blue to match his first miscoloured apperance in the comic.

So if Japan acknowledges the G1 comic, does this mean we will someday get a Purple Soundwave repaint? :D

[Sky Shadow]

So if Japan acknowledges the G1 comic, does this mean we will someday get a Purple Soundwave repaint? :D

If so, it will be the only Soundwave toy I'll ever buy. :)

[TheDirtyDigger]

Cool box but I don't like the paint apps on the figure. I'm gunna buy this and keep the packaging but throw out the toy.

[TF76]

Cool box but I don't like the paint apps on the figure. I'm gunna buy this and keep the packaging but throw out the toy.

It's ok give it to me I'll throw it out for you...:p

[Sky Shadow]

Cool box but I don't like the paint apps on the figure. I'm gunna buy this and keep the packaging but throw out the toy.

I did that with Transmetal Cheetor and Energon Storm Jet.

[Saintly]

love the box! don't worry about toy! :)

[kup]

So if Japan acknowledges the G1 comic, does this mean we will someday get a Purple Soundwave repaint? :D

With a mouth!

http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/transformers/images/4/44/Soundwave_uscomics.jpg

(Don't panic, cartoon only fans - it only happened in a couple of issues :) )

[Kyle]

A beautiful box indeed - I am tempted to get it just for that.

http://i672.photobucket.com/albums/vv84/starsuperion/Transformers/grim.png

After looking at this pic... I think I might get this new one so I can keep the old one in dino mode and the new one in bot mode...

[tron07]

my grimlock is still misb

[blackie]

OMG IT HAS A NEW HAT
box is a waste of money tho

[dirge]

OMG IT HAS A NEW HAT


Gold!

I don't have MP Grimlock, and still don't want it. I just can't justify to myself spending $150-200 on something that doesn't (IMO) represent a massive improvement over the G1 toy. New hat or not.

[blackie]

Gold!

I don't have MP Grimlock, and still don't want it. I just can't justify to myself spending $150-200 on something that doesn't (IMO) represent a massive improvement over the G1 toy. New hat or not.

BUTBUTBUTBUTBUT
IT HAS A NEW HAT

:P

[Sky Shadow]

OMG IT HAS A NEW HAT

Wow. The only time ever where a Malibu Stacy reference would truly be pertinent and it took forty posts before someone thought to do it. Bravo, Blackie, bravo.

[kup]

The new Hat kicks ass.

[Lord_Zed]

I actualy find the new paintjob more interesting than the hat, granted I don't like it as much as the original, but it is different enough to be interesting much like MP Magnus, and as already stated I already have Grimlock and really enjoy the mould.

So If I could get Grimlock mk2 at the same price I paid for MP Magnus then I would get him in a heart beat. However I doubt that's ever going to happen.

[Tropisetron]

BBTS has it preordered for USD250!

That's the most expensive MP ever!

[griffin]

More pics on the two official JP sites involving this LTD ED figure:
http://www.takaratomy.co.jp/products/TF/event/mp08x.html
http://www.toyhobby.jp/html/pickup/0907/index.html

[blackie]

ewww its blue
i wouldnt buy this even for the new hat :P

[Zippo]

Ew, the blue has to go.

[Sky Shadow]

Are you guys colourblind? It's not blue, it's Nel Yomtov Black. ;)

(My Primus, I want that thing even more now.)

OMG it has a Transformers Universe profile on the back of the box! <squee>

[Linthart]

I can't decide if I love it or hate it. The colour scheme is a little weird but at the same time it's a legitimate vintage comicaccurate repaint which I'm a sucker for

[reillyd]

BBTS has it preordered for USD250!

That's the most expensive MP ever!

Way out of most people's budgets, but the box is SO cool!

Does anyone know of an alternate (cheaper) way of ordering him, or have contacts? I tried google translate on the site, but couldn't get the shopping card to work via the page translator

[Linthart]

Way out of most people's budgets, but the box is SO cool!

Does anyone know of an alternate (cheaper) way of ordering him, or have contacts? I tried google translate on the site, but couldn't get the shopping card to work via the page translator

I guess we'd just have to get someone in japan to order them for us.
Effectively making it retail + local shipping + international shipping

[reillyd]

Found a post on tfw2005 about a service called Celga that acts as a buyer and shipper. Looked at their website, and it says

"Unfortunately, shopping directly from Japan means shopping in Japanese, another barrier to overcome. And most Japanese sellers won't ship overseas, and then there are the issues of paying in yen....the issues just keep piling up, making your dream item seem almost impossible.

But what if someone could take care of all those issues for you, where all you'd have to do is find what you wanted and let them handle it from there?

That's exactly what we do here at Celga! As a deputy service, we can place bids for you on Japanese auctions, shop on Japanese websites, handle all those persnickety little details, then ship your items to you, all for a very reasonable fee!"


Does anyone know anything about them, or has used them before? They say they accept Amex, Mastercard and Paypal. which gives you a little consumer protection, but I'd feel more confident using it if someone else has had a positive experience

[reillyd]

Also read about another one mentioned on tfw2005, called Tokyo Hunter

"Tokyo Hunter

Proxy buying service for hard-to-find, vintage, and limited edition items, latest news on Japan exclusive hobby collectibles, Tokyo Hunter eBay auction listings, and coverage of hobby events in Tokyo!"

There's an entry specifically for MP Grimlock on his site at http://tokyohunter.blogspot.com/2009/08/takara-tomy-masterpiece-mp-8x-king.html

[Linthart]

Good suggestion but I can't see that fee being reasonable. I was thinking more along the lines of a friend of contact in japan

[Stompy]

I'm not versed in Grimlocks "canon" and my quirkier side actually prefer the drinks and tray over the crown. Plus I think the colours work better ont he original release. Nice to have an option though.

[kup]

Are you guys colourblind? It's not blue, it's Nel Yomtov Black. ;)

(My Primus, I want that thing even more now.)

OMG it has a Transformers Universe profile on the back of the box! <squee>

+1,000,000

[Lord_Zed]

ewww its blue
i wouldnt buy this even for the new hat :P

To much black in a comic looks bad, so ywah Grimlock is blue/black.

I still like it, its a nice repaint of a favoured toy of mine. I would definately consider it if it weren't so overpriced online and hard to get.

[Gutsman Heavy]

I'd be all over this is it were easier/cheaper to obtain!

[GoktimusPrime]

I'd be all over this is it were easier/cheaper to obtain!
+10, especially on the price. I would already have the first MP Grimlock if it were cheaper. I'm still undecided on this Grimmie... part of me is still insisting on waiting for Hasbro.

My choices are:
+ Don't trust Hasbro, get this one but pay more with the assurance that I'll have an MP Grimlock.
+ Trust Hasbro and if they pull through, hopefully get one cheaper (there's a good chance that Hasbro will still charge big bucks for their version too)
+ Trust Hasbro and if they don't pull through, I'm screwed.

Also don't know if Hasbro will include the hatcrown, which as someone who loves G1 comic Grimlock but dislikes post-movie cartoon Grimlock (which is what the apron and tray represents), would really want. Graaargh!

I'm really in two minds about this, but I think the tight-wad* in me will end up making me trust Hasbro.

---------------------
*which has become tighter since becoming a parent

[liegeprime]

Malibu Stacey ... with a new gold hat:D:D

[reillyd]

Also don't know if Hasbro will include the hatcrown, which as someone who loves G1 comic Grimlock but dislikes post-movie cartoon Grimlock (which is what the apron and tray represents), would really want. Graaargh!


If I might point out a third option which may make "Wait for Hasbro" easier?
Igear are releasing a crown for Grimlock, which you could buy and then add to your Hasbro version.

[Sky Shadow]

Also don't know if Hasbro will include the hatcrown, which as someone who loves G1 comic Grimlock but dislikes post-movie cartoon Grimlock (which is what the apron and tray represents), would really want.

Really? I thought the apron and tray were a subversive political statement from TakaraTomy, representing the fact that even after 68 million years, tyrannosauruses still don't have the vote and are still literally waiting on their human masters while 'waiting' for suffrage.

Hmm... I guess we'll have to agree to disagree. :p

[kup]

If I might point out a third option which may make "Wait for Hasbro" easier?
Igear are releasing a crown for Grimlock, which you could buy and then add to your Hasbro version.

The awesome comic tribute is what makes this release appealing to me. Even though Hasbro may include a crown in their release, I very much doubt that the Marvel comics tribute would be so well done.

There is also the factor that its so unusual for Takara to give us such an excellent comic tribute particularly when that continuity is not well known in that market.

[reillyd]

I'm not advocating either of these services, but I did manage to find a good review/comparison of Celga and another one called Crescent at http://community.livejournal.com/egl/9611203.html

There are many opinions, some great, some not so positive, but at least a few of them are Australians who have had experience with it.

I know its a fricking fortune, but this is probably one of the coolest comic homages Takara/Hasbro have ever released.

[GoktimusPrime]

If I might point out a third option which may make "Wait for Hasbro" easier?
That was the second option that I stated in my last post.

Igear are releasing a crown for Grimlock, which you could buy and then add to your Hasbro version.
Nope. Don't buy unlicensed stuff.

[reillyd]

Well here's hoping Hasbro decides to release the crown. Given the US familiarity with the Marvel run, its a possibility.

[kup]

Well here's hoping Hasbro decides to release the crown. Given the US familiarity with the Marvel run, its a possibility.

I think its a distinct possibility given that there is already a mold for it but I have to also keep in mind that its also remotely possible that someone at Hasbro (you know who ;)) may decide that people like cartoon Grimlock better and we get the waiter kit instead - At least in its first Hasbro release.

[heroic_decepticon]

hmmmm... the re-release will not come with the transfer device. I guess its really a toss up between the cartoon G1 or the comic G1 in terms of which one to get (for those who have not bought this piece yet).

At the moment, I'm not too fond of 'zoids blue' parts of the re-release.... maybe its just me.

[kup]

hmmmm... the re-release will not come with the transfer device. I guess its really a toss up between the cartoon G1 or the comic G1 in terms of which one to get (for those who have not bought this piece yet).

At the moment, I'm not too fond of 'zoids blue' parts of the re-release.... maybe its just me.

The colors are mostly something that only a comic fan would appreciate so if you regard the G1 cartoon higher than the comics then you should probably go for the first release.

This new release its very comic centric so its designed to appeal mainly to comic fans.

[heroic_decepticon]

The colors are mostly something that only a comic fan would appreciate so if you regard the G1 cartoon higher than the comics then you should probably go for the first release.

This new release its very comic centric so its designed to appeal mainly to comic fans.

Agree with you there. Although, I'm not sure even die-hard comic fans will be too thrilled to shell out the bucks needed to get this baby (especially if they've already purchased the first release).

I will probably go for a replica crown since that appears to be the key difference between the second and first release other than the sweet packaging.

[GoktimusPrime]

At the moment, I'm not too fond of 'zoids blue' parts of the re-release.... maybe its just me.
Me too. They're emulating the way that Nel Yomtov used to colour Grimlock in the G1 comics, but of course he was a _crap_ colourist. (-_-) They should've used Grimlock's UK comic colours IMO which is pretty much toy-accurate, but I guess they wanted to make it look more distinct from the first release.


Although, I'm not sure even die-hard comic fans will be too thrilled to shell out the bucks needed to get this baby (especially if they've already purchased the first release).
If I already had the first release I totally would _not_ care about this version. Even now I'm not caring that much. Might just wait for Hasbro.

[kup]

Me too. They're emulating the way that Nel Yomtov used to colour Grimlock in the G1 comics, but of course he was a _crap_ colourist. (-_-) They should've used Grimlock's UK comic colours IMO which is pretty much toy-accurate, but I guess they wanted to make it look more distinct from the first release.

Don't get me wrong - I agree the color is crap but they are still comic accurate as far as the G1 comics are concerned and that's the 'abstract' appeal for me. I also see the thoughtfulness from the designers at TakTom in executing such a focused comic centric repaint when they shouldn't be doing it at all as the Marvel US comics are hardly something widely known in Japan.

So the appeal for it is mostly in the 'sentimental', 'thoughtfulness' department than the actual aesthetics (although that box kicks butt)

Sentimental value if you will.

[Paulbot]

Me too. They're emulating the way that Nel Yomtov used to colour Grimlock in the G1 comics, but of course he was a _crap_ colourist. (-_-) They should've used Grimlock's UK comic colours IMO which is pretty much toy-accurate, but I guess they wanted to make it look more distinct from the first release.

How many times do comic fans have to explain that Marvel US did not colour anything in black in the 80s. Nothing. Spider-Man's famous black costume? Get this... it was blue! Their colour printing process did not allow black to be used as a colour, so apart from things being completely inked in, nothing was ever black in any Marvel comic. Bag out Yomtov for Purple Soundwave all you like, but not for this. :rolleyes:

[GoktimusPrime]

Hmmm... never really noticed that before. But admittedly I never read comics in the 1980s other than Transformers. It wasn't until the G1 comics finished in the early 1990s that I started reading other comics (and discovered manga) to fill the empty void in my life at that time! :p

I suppose it's more of the inker's fault - they should've inked in more blacks so that the colourist doesn't need to fill it in with blue. Looking at the image of Spiderman in G1 (http://tfwiki.net/w2/images2/f/f4/MarvelUS-03.jpg) his costume is mostly black, but now that you point it out I can see that it's mostly from the inker, and that Yomtov has had to fill in the edges with blue.

Now I know, and knowing is half the battle! :D

[kup]

For me the really tragic Yomtov coloring begins to get into force in the latter US issues but some mid run issues are also notably bad. During most of its run the coloring wasn't good but it wasn't exactly horrible.

[heroic_decepticon]

I remember that colouring for comics back then was generally nothing to call home about. Transformers UK was pretty cutting edge in terms of colouring, but that's one of the rare exceptions.

[JuzMel]

Didn't see this being mentioned on this thread (sorry if there is), but doesn't BBTS or RK have a pre-order on some MP Grimlock upgrade kit which includes a Crown, a Beer Mug and also a Mini-Thrust? I think I'd prefer to get that upgrade kit if I wanted him to have a crown.

I'm happy and prefer the colours on my current Grimmy. :) The box? Meh who cares about the box? If you can get me that image, I'll print a nice box out for you. :D :D :D

[heroic_decepticon]

I'm happy and prefer the colours on my current Grimmy. :) The box? Meh who cares about the box? If you can get me that image, I'll print a nice box out for you. :D :D :D

good call! :D

[heroic_decepticon]

this just in, the guy I get most of my toys from in Singapore is selling this piece for SGD$280 (discounted from the original price of SGD$320). I expect the US sites to be selling this for even more...

http://eshop.tfh.com.sg/product_details.php?prod_id=434

[canofwhoopass_87]

Yeh the price is pretty hectic on this thing. Did they just drop the apron, necktie, tray, glasses, and transfer device; throw in a crown and new "mp-08X" labelled box and market it for $100US more than the first release?

[Tober]

MP-8 was 13000JPY. MP-8X is 13650JPY - roughly $170AUD. Problem is the 3rd party export/scalper fees :(. And because it's an exclusive we can't group and bulk order.

[Jetfire]

I don't have a G1 MP yet, have been looking at prices lately but then this one looks sweet.. more than the hat, the colouring and sword look awesome, and then there's.. that hat, .. and the box..

Heh. I think this Grimlock looks sweet.

[heroic_decepticon]

Heh. I think this Grimlock looks sweet.

the ONE flaw with MP Grimlock........ (amongst others)

http://inlinethumb17.webshots.com/8208/2116776770100811158S500x500Q85.jpg http://inlinethumb14.webshots.com/44109/2818826260100811158S425x425Q85.jpg


http://inlinethumb12.webshots.com/27659/2847367590100811158S500x500Q85.jpg

wouldn't even have bothered if it wasn't for the fact that I exchanged my MP-03 for MP-08.

[jaydisc]

I think the flaw is more with OP :p

[blackie]

maybe the cartoon is flawed?.....:p

[heroic_decepticon]

I think the flaw is more with OP :p

how so? he's 1:24 scale and in scale with the BTs/Alts. Unless, I'm off tangent for a reason I'm unaware of, I would have thought Op is to scale and proportionate.


maybe the cartoon is flawed?.....

flawed in many aspects perhaps, but the Dinobots being larger than most Autobots, even Optimus Prime, is one aspect that was consistent.

[jaydisc]

how so? he's 1:24 scale and in scale with the BTs/Alts. Unless, I'm off tangent for a reason I'm unaware of, I would have thought Op is to scale and proportionate.

My comment was really just me expressing my preference of Grimlock over OP as a toy and display piece.

I find Prime to be too big, clunky, and cartoony and I find design (http://itfdb.com/temporary/tf/r_mp4convoy045.jpg) aspects (http://itfdb.com/temporary/tf/r_mp4convoy031.jpg) of his alt mode to be unforgivable at that scale and price point.

[GoktimusPrime]

There's never been a Grimlock toy that's taller than the Optimus of its series/era. The only arguable exception being Deluxe Beast Wars Grimlock who is taller than Basic Optimus Primal/Convobat (but is shorter than every other Optimus Primal).

The size/scale doesn't bother me so much... really more the price. MP Grimlock is about the same size as an MP Seeker (w/o stand) and so should be around the same price. I don't think that the LED gimmick isn't worth the significantly hefty price hike IMHO.

[Sky Shadow]

flawed in many aspects perhaps, but the Dinobots being larger than most Autobots, even Optimus Prime, is one aspect that was consistent.

If that's the look you want, you could always try standing Masterpiece Grimlock beside G1 Optimus Prime.

[kup]

If that's the look you want, you could always try standing Masterpiece Grimlock beside G1 Optimus Prime.

I think that's another problem as the other 'G1' Primes are too small including Classics.

[Lord_Zed]

My comment was really just me expressing my preference of Grimlock over OP as a toy and display piece.

I find Prime to be too big, clunky, and cartoony and I find design (http://itfdb.com/temporary/tf/r_mp4convoy045.jpg) aspects (http://itfdb.com/temporary/tf/r_mp4convoy031.jpg) of his alt mode to be unforgivable at that scale and price point.

+1

I really like Prime, but I think like Grimlock more.

[hanprimus]

Problem solved! (not promoting any unofficial product here :p)

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee35/keztnah/mp01s.jpg

[sifun]

omg. WANT

[heroic_decepticon]

My comment was really just me expressing my preference of Grimlock over OP as a toy and display piece.

I find Prime to be too big, clunky, and cartoony and I find design (http://itfdb.com/temporary/tf/r_mp4convoy045.jpg) aspects (http://itfdb.com/temporary/tf/r_mp4convoy031.jpg) of his alt mode to be unforgivable at that scale and price point.

I take your point for the first photo. Still that's easily solved with some red/blue paint. What's the issue with the second photo? headlights?

I think the intention for MP Prime was to make a transformable Prime that could as closely resemble his G1 image as possible, which could be why it was 'cartoony'. I don't think MP Prime's vehicle mode is supposed to be anywhere near as accurate as say the vehicle modes of the BTs/Alts because for the latter, and I'm pretty sure about this, the designers' starting point is the vehicle... the robot mode might suffer and be ungainly, but the vehicle mode had to look as near 100% accurate with the real deal as possible (since there were official licenses from actual car companies for these). On the other hand, the starting point in design terms for MP Prime is probably the robot mode. That was the focus; that was why we got such an accurate representation of Prime in robot mode (no kibble, no gaping holes, etc), which heretofore never existed.

While MP Grimlock is a very sweet piece, he just does not have the authority of a Dinobot Commander when put next to MP Prime. In essence, that's my issue with the piece. :D

[jaydisc]

I take your point for the first photo. Still that's easily solved with some red/blue paint. What's the issue with the second photo? headlights?

IMO, G1 Prime's alt mode is simply a red box on a blue plank with wheels. It doesn't seem tough from an engineering perspective. The second pic shows how there are these large concave areas of what should be a flush facia. I find it unforgivable.

But I do agree that the robot mode was the 1st priority and its likeness to G1 fiction is unmatched.

[reillyd]

TFSource has listed a preorder for Grims if you don't fancy 250 at BBTS.
http://www.tfsource.com/products/view/product_id/839/

[Tober]

I'm waiting to hear back from Overdrive as to how much they will charge for it. They said they would get back to me today but Japan is on holiday for a while.

Meanwhile F2F is offering it for 15000JPY which is about USD$150 (AUD$188) + shipping which is the best deal I've seen so far.

I'll do a group order if there is enough interest.

[GoktimusPrime]

IMO, G1 Prime's alt mode is simply a red box on a blue plank with wheels. It doesn't seem tough from an engineering perspective. The second pic shows how there are these large concave areas of what should be a flush facia. I find it unforgivable.
By 1983 standards (when the mould was initially released as Diaclone) I think it's pretty good. IIRC either Battle Convoy (Optimus Prime) and/or Powered Convoy (Ultra Magnus) won a design award. I think I read about that in one of Frederik Schodt's books about manga, possibly "Manga! Manga! The World of Japanese Comics" but I'm not entirely sure.

[kup]

I'm waiting to hear back from Overdrive as to how much they will charge for it. They said they would get back to me today but Japan is on holiday for a while.

Meanwhile F2F is offering it for 15000JPY which is about USD$150 (AUD$188) + shipping which is the best deal I've seen so far.

I'll do a group order if there is enough interest.

I'll get back to you on that one.

[Sky Shadow]

I'm waiting to hear back from Overdrive as to how much they will charge for it. They said they would get back to me today but Japan is on holiday for a while.

Meanwhile F2F is offering it for 15000JPY which is about USD$150 (AUD$188) + shipping which is the best deal I've seen so far.

I'll do a group order if there is enough interest.

I would like to be in on that order, please Mr. Tober sir. :)

[mknell]

I'm waiting to hear back from Overdrive as to how much they will charge for it. They said they would get back to me today but Japan is on holiday for a while.

Meanwhile F2F is offering it for 15000JPY which is about USD$150 (AUD$188) + shipping which is the best deal I've seen so far.

I'll do a group order if there is enough interest.

Very nice deal indeed well if I have money by then I'd like to be in on this too

[gamblor916]

I'm waiting to hear back from Overdrive as to how much they will charge for it. They said they would get back to me today but Japan is on holiday for a while.

Meanwhile F2F is offering it for 15000JPY which is about USD$150 (AUD$188) + shipping which is the best deal I've seen so far.

I'll do a group order if there is enough interest.

If you can get this organised you can count me in too :)

[GoktimusPrime]

Tober: include me please. :)

[Tober]

I didn't hear from Overdrive yesterday so I'll wait till next week when the holiday is over before trying again.

[GoktimusPrime]

changed my mind - count me out. Gah! I just can't make up my mind!! Best not to include me. I'll wait for Hasbro. :)

[kup]

If a group order happens please include me.

[Deonasis]

Tober, I am very interested in MP08-X. Count me in on a group order please.

[Linthart]

I didn't hear from Overdrive yesterday so I'll wait till next week when the holiday is over before trying again.

Hey tober what is this holiday? i'm also waiting to hear from a merchant in japan about another item and he seems to be MIA lately.
a public holiday would certaily be mind easer

do tell.. :D

[Sky Shadow]

I think that's another problem as the other 'G1' Primes are too small including Classics.

Hmm... even Powermaster Prime with his armour on?

[kup]

Hmm... even Powermaster Prime with his armour on?

Or Star Convoy but wouldn't they look a bit odd next to MP Grimlock :p

[Tober]

Hey tober what is this holiday? i'm also waiting to hear from a merchant in japan about another item and he seems to be MIA lately.
a public holiday would certaily be mind easer

do tell.. :D

It's the Obon Festival (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bon_Festival). The times tend to vary but I know that HLJ and Overdrive were not processing orders last week.


Obon is an annual Buddhist event for commemorating one's ancestors. It is believed that each year during obon, the ancestors' spirits return to this world in order to visit their relatives.

Traditionally, lanterns are hang in front of houses to guide the ancestors' spirits, obon dances (bon odori) are performed, graves are visited and food offerings are made at house altars and temples.

At the end of Obon, floating lanterns are put into rivers, lakes and seas in order to guide the spirits back into their world. The customs followed vary strongly from region to region.

Obon is celebrated from the 13th to the 15th day of the 7th month of the year, which is July according to the solar calendar. However, since the 7th month of the year roughly coincides with August rather than July according to the formerly used lunar calendar, Obon is still celebrated in mid August in many regions of Japan, while it is celebrated in mid July in other regions.

The Obon week in mid August is one of Japan's three major holiday seasons, accompanied by intensive domestic and international travel activities and increased accommodation rates.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I'll give Overdrive till Wednesday to get back to me. On Thursday I'll cantact Ryan (F2F) and ask him for a quote.

[kurdt_the_goat]

Japan went back to work today so your replies should be forthcoming :)

[Tober]

Hai. Domo arigato. :)

[Tober]

Overdrive just got back to me. They have declined doing a group order matching F2F's price.

I've emailed Ryan at F2F and am awaiting his shipping quote response for 6 orders.

I'll start a proper group order thread when I get his reply (probably on Tuesday night :rolleyes: ) to re-gauge interest.

[kup]

I am still in :)

[Kyle]

Overdrive just got back to me. They have declined doing a group order matching F2F's price.

I've emailed Ryan at F2F and am awaiting his shipping quote response for 6 orders.

I'll start a proper group order thread when I get his reply (probably on Tuesday night :rolleyes: ) to re-gauge interest.

Please put my name down for two haha. Cheers. :D

[Tober]

Seriously, I'd wait for Ryan's shipping response first... He tends to mark-up shipping heavily :mad: Which is why I'd have preferred to go with Overdrive instead.

[heroic_decepticon]

I am still in :)

you have to, if not your Grimlock crown is not going to have a head to sit on...

[willocrew]

changed my mind - count me out. Gah! I just can't make up my mind!! Best not to include me. I'll wait for Hasbro. :)

Me to. The price is just too expensive at the moment.

[kup]

you have to, if not your Grimlock crown is not going to have a head to sit on...

But I have the first release :)

[Tober]

A group order has been started here:

Masterpiece MP-8X King Grimlock (Sydney) (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?t=5554)

Please confirm your interest there. :)

[griffin]

Figure has apparently been released now, so those who ordered it can expect it soon.
http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/takara-mp8x-king-grimlock-released-in-japan/17526/

[griffin]

Some comparisson photos with the first version of MP Grimlock.
http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/updated-more-images-of-mp08x-king-grimlock-out-of-box/17552/
THe grey is more metallic/silver.

[loophole]

Some comparisson photos with the first version of MP Grimlock.
http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/updated-more-images-of-mp08x-king-grimlock-out-of-box/17552/
THe grey is more metallic/silver.

that actually looks quite nice, i actually prefer the comic recolour over the standard version.

[GoktimusPrime]

I prefer the Hasbro version.








in theory... hurry up Hasbro!!


The Comic version's colours do look a lot nicer than I thought they would. I think the silver-grey and golds look nicer, but overall I prefer the colours on the original (I'm not a fan of the Yomtov-inspired blues).

[heroic_decepticon]

it looks pretty horrid (sorry :( )

[kup]

Nostalgia and appreciation for the comics may have a lot to do with it but I think it looks AWESOME!!

[roller]

it looks pretty horrid (sorry :( )

its too late for sorry HD....


the damage has been done

[5FDP]

Not sure if this has been posted here yet, but it was front-paged on TFW (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/toy-fair-38/transformers-collectors-club-members-only-toyfair-2010-gallery-169157/) and reported on the The Transformers Collector's Club site.

It has been confirmed that Masterpiece Grimlock will be a TRU release in the States and it will include the crown that came with the MP08X release :D

Great news for anyone that missed out or passed on King Grimlock (including myself) because of the $200 and above price tag.

[5FDP]

Sorry, I got a bit excited and didn't realise it was already mentioned over in this thread (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?t=6917&page=7).... :o