Tuesday 14 May 2013

A closer look at some rare Star Wars collectables [AUCTION PREVIEW] - by Kayleigh Francis

Our next toy auction on 18th May is a big one for Star Wars fans. We have almost 200 Star Wars lots, with items for every type of collector. We’ve picked a couple of interesting lots for a closer look:


This Hasbro Star Wars Unleashed figure is one of the modern Star Wars toys that is harder to find. This Darth Vader features a removable helmet to reveal Anakin Skywalker underneath. (Lot 399)



This Paploo figure is one of the 'last 17', one of the very last action figures to be released in the original Kenner line as interest in Star Wars faded. The last 17 are now some of the most sought after figures. This figure has been graded by the Action Figure Authority (AFA) which increases its value, as collectors can be certain that it’s in excellent condition. (Lot 405)




The Palitoy Death Star set greatly differed from its plastic Kenner counterpart. Having fragile cardboard pieces it’s difficult to find complete and in good condition. It’s an item that many American collectors wish for, as it was never released in the USA. (Lot 406)



Mara Jade, Luke Skywalker’s wife, has not featured in any Star Wars films, but is a character in the Expanded Universe books, comic books and games. Despite this, she’s very popular and Master Replicas honoured her with this lightsaber. (Lot 526)



Boba Fett, although a relatively minor character in the films, has become a cult figure. This highly detailed sculpture from Compulsion Gallery is a limited edition and has been signed by Jeremy Bulloch, the actor who played the bounty hunter. (Lot 573)


Check out the rest of our catalogue for more items. We hope to see you on the 18th.

By Kayleigh Francis

Thursday 9 May 2013

007 Underwater Battle From Thunderball [STAR LOT] - by Nell Hilditch

Check out this scarce Triang James Bond Underwater Battle game, featured in our next toy auction on May 18th!

Lot 330, estimate £140-£180



The game is based on the underwater battle scene between Largo and James Bond in the 'Thunderball' film. The set is very difficult to find complete as there are many small parts, however this set is near complete with only a few power packs/body parts missing!


























See you all on May 18th! - Nell Hilditch

Wednesday 1 May 2013

Calling all Barbie collectors [FEATURED COLLECTION] - By Nell Hilditch

Featured in our toy auction on May 18th we have a fantastic selection of vintage Barbie dolls and outfits!





The previous owner, who grew up in America, was taught to take great care of her Barbie's clothing and accessories. She recalls how her mother would follow in her tracks, picking up the odd shoe or necklace - and thank goodness she did! 
Almost fifty years on and the collection has fallen in to our hands to be auctioned off. It is estimated that there are well over 100,000 Barbie collectors across the world, with many websites and forums dedicated to the queen of elegance, and we are delighted to have this collection in our next sale.   
Whilst the outfits are not boxed, there are many complete or near complete ensembles, including the Commuter Set, #916, c.1959-'60. This is a very sought after set and it is not often that collectors come across the complete outfit (Barbie's tiny bracelet is the only thing missing!). The set consists of:
navy cardigan suit jacket and matching sheath skirt;
blue and white nylon body blouse;
white satin body blouse;
silk hat;
cardboard hat box marked 'Barbie TM' with cord handle;
double strand crystal necklace;
short white gloves;
open toe heels.


Barbie will be flying high in this American Airline Stewardess outfit, #984, c.1961-'64:




The set consists of:

navy jacket with 'silver' wings, and matching sheath skirt;
white nylon body blouse;
navy hat with wings;
black shoulder purse;
navy flight bag;
open toe heels.


Barbie will be ready for picnics in the sun, in this Plantation Belle set, #966, c.1959-'61:




The set consists of:

pink sheer dress with lace and braid trim;
white full half slip with ruffles and bow;
large hat;
pink straw purse with sequins and beads;
pearl necklace;
pink open toe shoes.


And she'll be skipping down the aisle in this Wedding Day outfit, #972, c.1959-'62:





Consisting of:

detailed bridal gown in white satin with an overlay of flocked and silver glitter tulle, and a full double tiered skirt with train and long sleeve tulle bodice;
white veil with a ring of pearls;
blue sheer garter with flower accents;
short white gloves;
pearl necklace.


Do not miss all this and more in our May 18th toy auction, at 10am!


By Nell Hilditch