Many of the hottest trends in pop culture collectibles are now coming from Asia, and American kids and adults alike are busy snapping up all the latest imported action figures and toys, when they can find them. One popular category of collectibles is called Hong Kong Vinyls, and they're a big hit with collectors.
Peter Kato is the manager of Toy Tokyo, a New York City toy store offering unique and rare toys, from vinyl figures and wind-ups to anime action figures, at the best possible prices. Here Kato introduces us to the world of Hong Kong Vinyl:
- 3-D graffiti.
Hong Kong Vinyls are stylized cartoon-like figures made of colorful vinyl that first appeared in Hong Kong. Many of these figures are 3-D representations of graffiti or characters from Anime (Japanese animated Television shows and films). Hong Kong Vinyl figures have a strong connection with street culture, fashion, music and media.
- A wide price range.
According to Kato, the price range of these figures go all the way from $29 dollars up to $300 dollars.
- Buy overseas and online.
You can buy vinyl figures in Hong Kong and Japan. You can also find these toys at specialty import shops or by searching online websites with the phrase "Hong Kong Vinyl."
- Inspect for damage.
The vinyl used in making these toys can be sensitive, so be look out for blemishes, dirt marks and scratches. You'll want to keep these collectibles looking their best, as they are as much works of art as they are toys.
For more information about collectible toys and figures, check out the following organizations or websites:
Toy Tokyo
www.toytokyo.com
Ningyoushi
www.ningyoushi.com
Kid Robot
www.kidrobot.com
Cool Japanese Toys
www.cooljapanesetoys.com
The Wound & Wound Toy Co.
www.thewoundandwound.com
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