The articulated figure represents a character from the Dragon Ball GT anime series. It is produced by Bandai under the S.H.Figuarts line, known for its high level of detail and poseability. This particular collectible aims to faithfully recreate the character’s appearance and allow for a wide range of dynamic poses mimicking scenes from the source material.
The appeal of this collectible lies in its accurate representation of a powerful antagonist from the Dragon Ball universe. For collectors and fans, it provides a tangible representation of a significant character and a piece of the franchise’s history. The figure allows for physical interaction with the Dragon Ball GT narrative and enhances enjoyment of the series by providing a displayable object that embodies a key story element.
The articulation and included accessories significantly contribute to the value offered by the toy. The figure’s design considerations, quality, and available accessories, such as interchangeable hands and energy effect parts, enhance the collectors experience and ability to recreate iconic moments.
1. Articulation
Articulation is a crucial element of the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure, directly impacting its poseability and overall value as a collectible. The figure’s design prioritizes a wide range of motion to replicate dynamic stances seen in the Dragon Ball GT anime.
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Joint Design and Placement
The figure incorporates multiple points of articulation strategically placed throughout its body. These joints, often utilizing ball joints, swivel hinges, and rotating pegs, allow for movement in the neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists, torso, hips, knees, and ankles. The specific engineering of these joints determines the range of motion and stability of the figure in various poses. For example, double-jointed elbows and knees provide a greater degree of bend, enabling more extreme and natural-looking poses.
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Range of Motion Limitations
While designed for poseability, the figure’s articulation is subject to limitations. The sculpt of the character, particularly bulky armor or clothing elements, can restrict joint movement. The design must balance aesthetic accuracy with functional articulation. Overly tight joints can cause breakage, while excessively loose joints compromise stability.
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Impact on Display and Photography
The quality and range of articulation directly influence the figure’s display potential. A highly articulated figure allows collectors to recreate iconic scenes from the source material or create original poses. This capability is particularly important for collectors who engage in photography or diorama creation. The ability to achieve natural-looking poses enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the figure.
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Durability and Longevity
The articulation system’s durability is a key factor in the figure’s longevity. Repeated posing can stress the joints, leading to wear and tear. The material used for the joints, typically plastic, must be robust enough to withstand this stress. The design of the joints must also minimize the risk of breakage during posing.
The articulation present in the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure is a defining characteristic that distinguishes it from less poseable figures. This feature is central to the collector’s experience and contributes significantly to the figure’s overall value and desirability.
2. Accuracy
In the context of the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure, accuracy refers to the degree to which the figure replicates the character’s appearance from the Dragon Ball GT anime series. High accuracy is a primary objective in the figure’s design and production, contributing significantly to its value and appeal among collectors.
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Sculptural Fidelity
The figure’s sculpt must accurately represent the character’s proportions, body shape, and facial features. This includes the precise replication of details such as muscle definition, hair style, and the unique features of Super Android 17, such as the energy absorption ports on his hands. Deviations from the character’s established design can detract from the figure’s authenticity and collector appeal.
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Color Palette Representation
Accurate color representation is essential. The figure’s color scheme, including the shades of the character’s skin, clothing, and any energy effects, must align with the established color palette from the Dragon Ball GT series. Incorrect color choices can diminish the figure’s resemblance to the source material, reducing its desirability among purist collectors.
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Proportional Integrity
Maintaining accurate proportions is critical for capturing the character’s overall aesthetic. This involves ensuring the correct ratio between the head, torso, limbs, and other body parts. Disproportionate elements can result in an unnatural or distorted appearance, hindering the figure’s ability to effectively represent the character.
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Detailing and Texture
The level of detail incorporated into the figure’s sculpt and texture directly impacts its perceived accuracy. This includes the inclusion of subtle details such as wrinkles in clothing, battle damage, or the texture of the character’s skin. A high level of detail enhances the figure’s realism and strengthens its connection to the source material.
The pursuit of accuracy in the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure reflects the commitment to providing collectors with an authentic representation of a beloved character. The accuracy of the sculpt, color palette, proportions, and detailing are key factors in determining the figure’s success in capturing the essence of Super Android 17.
3. Accessories
Accessories are integral components of the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure, directly influencing its display options and overall value. These supplementary items enhance the figure’s ability to replicate scenes and poses from the Dragon Ball GT anime, enriching the collector’s experience. Their presence or absence, quality, and variety significantly impact the perceived completeness and desirability of the figure. Examples of such accessories include interchangeable hands, energy effect parts, and alternate facial expressions. Without these additions, the figure’s functionality and expressive potential are considerably limited.
Interchangeable hands, for instance, facilitate the execution of signature poses, such as the character’s energy absorption stance or closed-fist combat posture. Energy effect parts, simulating energy blasts or aura emanations, amplify the visual impact of displays. Alternate facial expressions, depicting emotions ranging from stoicism to rage, allow for nuanced portrayal of the character’s personality and reactions. Bandai typically includes a selection of these accessories to maximize the figure’s display versatility and provide options for recreating specific moments from the anime. The quality of these pieces, in terms of sculpt, paint application, and material, directly contributes to the accessory’s effectiveness in enhancing the figure.
In conclusion, the inclusion and quality of accessories are critical determinants of the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure’s value and desirability. They enable collectors to fully realize the figure’s potential for dynamic display and accurate representation of the character. Conversely, a lack of accessories or poorly executed supplementary items can detract from the figure’s overall appeal, highlighting the significant role accessories play in the collectible’s perceived worth and functionality.
4. Sculpt
The sculpt of the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure is a foundational aspect determining its aesthetic quality and adherence to the source material. It dictates the figure’s shape, proportions, and the level of detail present. The quality of the sculpt directly influences the overall impression and value of the collectible.
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Proportional Accuracy
Proportional accuracy within the sculpt dictates how faithfully the figure replicates Super Android 17’s body structure and limb dimensions from the Dragon Ball GT anime. Accurate proportions are critical for conveying the character’s power and visual presence. Deviations can result in a distorted or unnatural appearance, diminishing the figure’s authenticity. Comparison to official character art is a key metric for assessing proportional accuracy in the sculpt.
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Surface Detailing
Surface detailing in the sculpt involves the inclusion of fine textures, panel lines, and other minute elements that contribute to the figure’s realism and visual complexity. Examples include replicating the texture of the character’s clothing or the subtle contours of the facial features. The presence of appropriate surface detailing enhances the perceived quality of the sculpt and improves the figure’s overall visual impact. It’s closely related to the manufacturing processes and mold creation.
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Facial Feature Representation
The sculpt’s ability to accurately represent Super Android 17’s facial features is a critical component. Capturing the character’s unique expression, including the shape of the eyes, nose, and mouth, is essential for conveying personality and attitude. Inaccurate facial features can significantly detract from the figure’s likeness and diminish its value to collectors. Subtle nuances are crucial in this facet.
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Dynamic Posing Considerations
The sculpt must consider the figure’s intended range of articulation and dynamic posing capabilities. The sculpt should allow for a natural appearance even when the figure is posed in extreme stances. The integration of joints and articulation points into the sculpt requires careful planning to minimize visual disruptions and maintain the figure’s aesthetic integrity across a wide range of poses. This is a crucial element for a line like S.H.Figuarts.
The sculpt of the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 directly impacts its success as a collectible. These attributes are interdependent, and the quality of each influences the overall aesthetic and desirability of the figure. Poor execution in any of these facets diminishes the figure’s ability to faithfully represent the character.
5. Paint application
Paint application is a critical aspect of the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure, significantly influencing its visual appeal and perceived quality. Accurate and meticulous paint application enhances the sculpt’s details, brings the character to life, and contributes to the figure’s overall value. Poor paint application, conversely, can detract from the figure’s aesthetic and diminish its collectibility.
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Color Accuracy and Matching
The accuracy of the colors used in the paint application is paramount. The colors must precisely match the character’s established color palette from the Dragon Ball GT anime. Discrepancies in color, even subtle variations, can significantly impact the figure’s resemblance to the source material and its acceptance among collectors. This requires precise color matching techniques and consistent application processes.
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Layering and Shading Techniques
The application of multiple layers of paint, including shading and highlighting techniques, adds depth and dimension to the figure. These techniques enhance the visual appeal of the sculpt by accentuating details and creating a sense of realism. Proper layering and shading contribute to the figure’s overall aesthetic quality and elevate it beyond a simple, flatly painted object. Panel lining, a common technique, also falls under this category.
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Coverage and Consistency
Consistent and even paint coverage is essential for a high-quality finish. The paint should be applied uniformly across the entire surface of the figure, without any visible streaks, blotches, or inconsistencies. Uneven coverage can detract from the figure’s appearance and indicate poor manufacturing quality. This is particularly important for large, flat surfaces on the figure.
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Durability and Finish
The durability of the paint finish is a practical consideration. The paint must be resistant to scratching, chipping, and fading over time. A protective clear coat is often applied to enhance the paint’s durability and provide a smooth, glossy, or matte finish, depending on the character’s design. This ensures the figure’s longevity and maintains its aesthetic appeal over years of display.
These elements collectively determine the success of the paint application on the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure. The integration of color accuracy, layering techniques, consistent coverage, and durability is what makes this piece visually appealing and valued by collectors. The paint job can either add or subtract value from an already expensive piece of plastic.
6. Rarity
The rarity of the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure significantly influences its market value and desirability among collectors. Limited production runs, exclusive releases, and regional availability are primary factors contributing to its scarcity. A figure with a lower production volume relative to demand creates a situation where the acquisition becomes more challenging, consequently driving up prices in the secondary market. Examples include convention exclusives or web exclusives which, by their nature, are produced in smaller quantities and made available only during a specific timeframe or through limited channels. This restricted accessibility directly translates into increased demand and higher resale values.
The relationship between the release window and current availability further contributes to rarity. Figures released years prior are naturally less accessible than more recent products due to diminished stock and the complexities of locating them. Over time, damage, loss, and attrition contribute to the decreasing number of figures in circulation, thereby escalating the price of well-preserved, complete examples. Certain distribution limitations and exclusive partnerships with specific retailers can also greatly affect the figure’s global reach, making it scarcer for international collectors. This artificially increased scarcity, coupled with sustained demand, amplifies the figure’s value as a collectible.
Understanding the elements that contribute to the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure’s rarity allows collectors to make informed decisions about their purchases and investments. Recognizing the impact of production volumes, release timing, and regional availability can inform acquisition strategies and help anticipate potential value appreciation. While rarity is a major driving factor, it is often combined with other elements, such as condition and completeness of the packaging, that may add to the overall collectibility and value.
7. Price
The price of an S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure is a multifaceted variable influenced by numerous factors. It reflects the perceived value, availability, and desirability of the collectible within the market.
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Production Costs and Licensing Fees
The base price of the figure is significantly influenced by the initial costs of production. Materials, manufacturing labor, and painting processes all contribute to the fundamental cost. Additionally, Bandai must pay licensing fees to Toei Animation and other rights holders for the use of the Dragon Ball intellectual property. These combined expenses create a foundation upon which the retail price is built. Consequently, complex designs and intricate detailing increase the production costs and therefore, the final price.
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Retailer Markups and Distribution Channels
The journey from the manufacturer to the consumer involves various intermediaries, each adding their margin. Distributors, wholesalers, and retailers each apply a markup to cover their operational costs and generate profit. The type of retailer, whether an online marketplace or a physical store, and their geographic location can also affect the final price. Specialized collectible shops and import retailers generally command higher prices due to their expertise and niche focus.
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Secondary Market Dynamics and Speculation
Once the figure enters the secondary market, its price is subject to the forces of supply and demand. Scarcity, condition, and completeness significantly impact resale value. Limited edition figures or those in mint condition with original packaging often fetch prices far exceeding the original retail price. Speculation, driven by collectors anticipating future value appreciation, can also inflate prices, particularly for figures perceived to have long-term investment potential.
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Economic Factors and Currency Exchange Rates
Broader economic conditions, such as inflation rates and consumer spending habits, can influence the price of the figure. Fluctuations in currency exchange rates also play a role, particularly for international buyers and sellers. A strengthening yen against other currencies, for example, can increase the price of Japanese imports, including S.H.Figuarts figures.
In conclusion, the final price of an S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure is not solely determined by the initial production costs. A network of interconnected variables, including retailer markups, secondary market dynamics, and macroeconomic factors, collectively dictate the figure’s value in the hands of collectors. Prospective buyers should consider these factors to make informed purchasing decisions.
8. Packaging
The packaging of an S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure is more than a mere container. It is an integral element that influences the perceived value, preservation, and collectibility of the item.
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Protective Functionality
The primary function of the packaging is to protect the figure and its accessories during shipping and storage. The packaging typically consists of a cardboard box and a plastic tray or blister that securely holds the figure and prevents damage from impacts, vibrations, and environmental factors like humidity. Robust packaging ensures that the figure arrives in mint condition, preserving its value. Poorly designed packaging can lead to damage, decreasing the item’s worth.
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Aesthetic Design and Branding
The packaging’s design is a crucial marketing tool that showcases the figure and its features. High-quality graphics, character artwork, and the S.H.Figuarts logo are incorporated to create an appealing visual presentation. The packaging often highlights the figure’s key selling points, such as its articulation and included accessories. Consistent branding across the S.H.Figuarts line contributes to the overall collectibility and appeal.
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Information and Authenticity
The packaging provides essential information about the figure, including its name, character origin, manufacturer details, and copyright information. It also serves as a means of verifying the figure’s authenticity. Official Bandai packaging includes security features, such as holographic stickers or unique serial numbers, to deter counterfeiting. The absence of these elements may indicate a fake product.
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Collectibility and Resale Value
The condition of the packaging significantly affects the figure’s collectibility and resale value. Figures with unopened, pristine packaging command higher prices than those with damaged or missing packaging. Collectors often prioritize keeping the packaging in excellent condition as it is considered part of the overall collectible. The box becomes a component of the item being collected and adds to the figures presentation and resale value on secondary markets.
The packaging of the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17, therefore, is not simply disposable. It is a protective shell, a marketing tool, a source of authenticity, and a critical factor in determining the figure’s long-term value and appeal to collectors.
Frequently Asked Questions About S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17
This section addresses common queries and misconceptions surrounding the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 action figure, providing concise and informative answers.
Question 1: Is the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure prone to joint breakage?
While the figure is designed for poseability, excessive force applied to the joints can lead to breakage. Handle the figure with care and avoid forcing joints beyond their natural range of motion.
Question 2: How can the authenticity of an S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 be verified?
Examine the packaging for official Bandai trademarks, holographic stickers, and accurate product details. Compare the figure’s sculpt and paint application to official product images to identify potential inconsistencies.
Question 3: What is the typical scale of the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 relative to other figures?
The figure is generally produced in a scale that is consistent with other S.H.Figuarts Dragon Ball figures, typically around 1/12 scale or approximately 6 inches in height. Verify dimensions against product specifications.
Question 4: Are there known variations or re-releases of the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure?
Research if there have been any special editions, recolors, or re-releases of the figure. Such variations can impact the figure’s rarity and market value.
Question 5: What accessories are typically included with the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure?
Expect to find interchangeable hands, faceplates with alternate expressions, and energy effect parts. Confirm the presence of these accessories when purchasing, especially on the secondary market.
Question 6: How should the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure be stored to prevent damage?
Store the figure in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Consider using a display case or acid-free archival materials to protect the figure from dust and environmental damage.
This FAQ provides essential information for collectors and prospective buyers of the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17. Addressing these common concerns helps to ensure a satisfactory collecting experience.
Proceed to the next section for information regarding comparisons with similar collectibles.
Tips for S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 Acquisition and Maintenance
The following recommendations aim to assist collectors in acquiring and preserving the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure in optimal condition.
Tip 1: Research Market Value Prior to Purchase. Conduct thorough research on current market prices across multiple platforms, including online marketplaces and auction sites. This will establish a baseline for fair pricing and prevent overpayment.
Tip 2: Inspect Condition Prior to Purchase. Carefully examine photographs or, if possible, inspect the figure in person before purchase. Look for signs of damage, wear, or missing accessories, as these factors significantly impact value.
Tip 3: Verify Authenticity. Authenticate the figure by comparing its packaging and markings against official product images. Be wary of suspiciously low prices, which may indicate a counterfeit item.
Tip 4: Handle Joints with Caution. Exercise caution when posing the figure to avoid joint breakage. Consult online resources or video tutorials for recommended posing techniques.
Tip 5: Store in a Controlled Environment. Store the figure in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and degradation of materials.
Tip 6: Dust Regularly with a Soft Brush. Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove dust and debris regularly, maintaining the figure’s appearance.
Tip 7: Retain Original Packaging. Preserving the original packaging in good condition enhances the figure’s collectibility and resale value.
These tips provide practical guidance for collectors seeking to acquire and maintain an S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure, helping to ensure long-term satisfaction.
The next section will conclude this comprehensive review of the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17.
Conclusion
The preceding analysis has explored various facets of the S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 figure, examining its articulation, accuracy, accessories, sculpt, paint application, rarity, price, and packaging. Each of these characteristics contributes to the figure’s overall value and appeal to collectors. Understanding these elements is crucial for informed acquisition and long-term preservation of the collectible.
The S.H.Figuarts Super Android 17 represents a significant entry in the Dragon Ball figure market. Its worth extends beyond mere monetary value; it embodies a tangible connection to the Dragon Ball GT series for dedicated enthusiasts. Continued care and responsible stewardship of this figure will ensure its enduring relevance and appreciation among collectors for years to come. Further study into similar articulated figures can provide greater comprehension in the domain of high-end collectibles.
