Investments can come in various shape or forms. The investment that are available in the world includes stock trading, FOREX, equity investing and many more. However, there is one form of investment that does not commonly trigger the attentions of many. This would be collectible investment. Collectible investment is defined investing in items that could have potential future value. Today’s topic we will discuss about the Bearbrick Malaysia – The 11 Most Expensive 1000% Bearbricks in Malaysia.
What’s the Medicom Bearbricks?
Medicom is the company that founded Bearbricks. They are a toy manufacturer that has been around since the early days of 1996. They are headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Bearbricks are their collectible toy design. The name is derived from its cartoon-ish style. Since it’s inception, collectors from all over the world have been wanting to get their hands on these.
The reason why Bearbricks are so expensive and rare is because they are only produced in limited quantities. This is even more so when it comes to their collaboration series. For example, in Malaysia they have collaborated with Royal Selangor Marketing. This is where they have made these Bearbricks out of pewter. For investment purposes, these Bearbricks can go for multiples of their original prices.
According to experts from Bearbrick Malaysia, these Bearbricks come in various forms and sizes. Here are the sizes they come in at:
| Bearbrick Sizes |
|---|
| 50% - These come in the form of keychains |
| 70% - Collectible items, typically used as lucky charms |
| 100% - Classic form of Bearbricks origin |
| 200% - One of the latest forms, released in the chogokin series |
| 400% - Second most common form (Collected by most collectors) |
| 1000% - The largest Bearbrick , typically used as collectible statues |
What are the 11 most expensive Bearbricks in Malaysia?
Let’s take a look at some their outstanding pieces and their re-sell values.
Swarovski x Colette Bearbrick
This piece was originally available in both 400% and 1000% sizes. It is basically the Colette Bearbrick pimped out with Swarovski crystals. This is to give it that stunning and luxurious look that we have come to recognise with the crystals. It was launched in 2009 as part of the “White Crystal Christmas” concept. During that time, it fetches a price of 14,000 sterling pounds. If you convert that to Ringgit Malaysia, that is above RM80, 000.
To add on to its rarity, it is currently unavailable in the market or even through third party resellers. This means that if and whenever the product is on the market, it will fetch a mouth-watering price. If we were to assume the average multiple of 10 times. If this piece ever reveals itself again, it could be worth almost RM1 million.
So, if you are in the market and spot it, snap it up quickly. This is for the simple reason that it could be worth so much more in the future.
Royal Selangor x Bearbrick
Let’s take a step back and look at a Bearbrick that is manufactured and sold majority in Malaysia. This piece is a collaboration with Royal Selangor and so the Bearbrick is made of solid pewter. Royal Selangor whom was born in 1885 from a young pewter smith’s dream and dedication, has now become a world leading player in the retail industry. They have since partnered with Bearbrick and launch a cluster of ranges. All of which, as expected are sold out on the retail stores.
The ranges include the below products which are sized 400%
- Bearbrick pewter, golden and pink
- Bearbrick arabesque (Gold, Magic, Classic and Black)
- Bearbrick steampunk
As with typical traditions of Royal Selangor, these pieces are only made in limited quantities. Let’s take example of the Bearbrick pink, the product was sold in retail at the price of RM4, 200. Currently, the price of the product is being sold at over RM13, 000. This shows a resale value of 3x.
If you are reading this and are residing in Malaysia, we highly recommend for you to keep an eye out for Royal Selangor. They have created at least 8 pieces with Medicom Toy. We don’t think it will stop there.
Readymade x A Bathing Ape x Bearbrick
This piece was released in the 2018. BAPE have released numerous Beabricks with Medicom Toy. However, we think that this piece definitely stands out amongst the crowds. The simple reason is because, it doesn’t wear the brand’s iconic shark hoodie but a real BAPE hoodie. This is exclusively done only for this piece.
In terms of rarity, BAPE Bearbricks already fetch a high price. This is because the brand is highly regarded as a quality streetwear brand. On top of which readymade is also jumping in to boost up the product’s rarity and value. During it’s release, the product was priced at 11,500 USD. This if converted to Malaysian Ringgit over RM45, 000.
Currently, the lowest in the market is going just over 17,000 USD which is about RM72, 000. However, we have found that this can go above 20,000 USD. So, we highly recommend that if you can find one at a lower price. Quickly snap it up and this could be your chance to start investing in collectibles.
Emotionally unavailable x Bearbrick
This is one Bearbrick that we are sure will fetch a massive price. This is because it so unique compared to the regular Bearbricks out there in the market. It is a red light-up 1000% figure. This will mark its 6th total collaboration. The lights internally are shown through a large dripping heart. The LED display can be turned on with a flick of a switch.
In fact, this Bearbrick is also only sold in the market for one day. Yes, you heard me right. They only placed this product out to sell for one day. The people who have managed to purchase it will be notified the day after if their purchase was successful. Well, when you have a product as exclusive as this, It’s like “ants to a picnic”.
The asking price for this product during the one day buying period was at 950USD. That is about RM4, 000 ringgit. However, even on Shopee, you can find that the product is now fetching for price upwards of RM10, 000. This is in fact is still a bargain. We foresee that this product would increase in value in the not-so-distant future. So, don’t waste time and quickly get yours.
Bait x Bearbrick Gold Bar 100%
We understand you must be thinking. With prices like these, how is anyone going to enter the market to start investing. Well, we got you covered there. There are Bearbricks that fetch much lower prices than their counterparts. However, as all investments the smaller the bet, the smaller the return.
Bait, whom are a sneaker boutique store have collaborated with Medicom on more than one occasion and this collaboration comes in the form of a golden Bearbrick piece. The “Gold Bar” editions will be housed in commemorative co-branded boxes and retail for 120USD (translated to RM515) for the 400% piece.
To give you some insider tips, we found that on e-bay the product is going for just under 185USD which is translated to RM784. Although, we do see on some auction sites, prices are going for above at less 50% more of that. We suggest for an entry into the market. This is one to keep your eye on.
CLOT X Nike Black Silk X Bearbrick
This Bearbrick is definitely one for the record books. This in fact is also their second edition of the CLOT, Nike and Medicom partnership. Introducing their Black Silk 1000% Bearbrick. The Black Silk continues to convey the idea of externalism and internalism.
This in actuality brings more than just meets the eye. The silk layer of the Bearbrick can actually be removed to reveal more internal layers. This is where when you remove the Black Silk, it will then reveal a blue silk layer. If you remove that as well, it will reveal a rose gold layer.
We do not recommend if you ever get your hands on this piece to remove the layers. As we all know with collectibles, the less you touch it. The more it retains its value. Currently, the lowest amount we see in the market is close to RM1, 900. However, we do see opportunity for growth. So, find it and snap it up.
Yue Minjun “Qiu Tu” Bearbrick
This piece was introduced in 2008 and till today, you can still see it at auctions fetching amazing prices. This one-off design was created by Chinese contemporary artist Yue Minjun. The piece itself sits with others that celebrated Chinese artists.
It would be wrong of us to not mention Yue, as he is the main driving brand and force behind the piece. He’s realistic self-depictions frozen in laughter is captured ecstatically by the piece. This gives a real-life element to the piece which reflects the artist. The name of the artist definitely also contributes to its price as well.
This is an extremely rare piece and only for those who are serious about Bearbrick collectibles. It has a history being one of the most expensive Bearbrick ever sold. It was auctioned for 6 million dollars at one point in time. So, if you are reading this and have millions to spend in future value collectibles. Well, this is the collectible for you.
Chanel x Bearbrick
After so many collaborations that Bearbrick has done over the years. This is piece is definitely one that is always on the list of any collector. Karl Lagerfield designed this model back in 2006. There was only a total of 1,000 pieces made and most of them are exclusively housed at Chanel boutiques.
Only a handful has ever surfaced on the retail market. One of which was sold in a charity auction along with other Bearbricks made by other brands. This piece is modelled to look like the founder of Chanel, Coco Chanel. It rocks her classic outfit of a Chanel jacket and pearls. If you ever want a piece that gives new meaning to the word “priceless”. Then this is the piece for you.
From what we have found, there are no active biddings or sale for this Bearbrick in the market as of yet. However, do keep a close eye out for it on “StockX” or “TheRealReal”. There has been rumours that this product has been surfaced there before and could make an appearance again.
Baccarat x Bearbrick
Baccarat Crystal has also collaborated with Bearbrick before. Yes, you heard that right. The French manufacturer of crystal whom is recognized as a being a market leader in creating high-end and exclusive products. Through this collaboration, wonders can only be made from such a renowned crystal manufacturer and hip and trendy toy manufacturer.
Through this collaboration, a fully crystalized Bearbrick is born. You’ll be challenged significantly to find a product that has a more high-end feel compared to this. It is specially customized for Not-in-Paris 3. It is limited edition and comes in a 200% sizing. Aside from which, it also sports a custom laser-etched branding on its body. It comes in both white and black colours
The best part about this product is that it is currently still being sold in the retail market. So, if you want to starting getting in on the act of collecting collectibles. Here is your chance. It is currently being sold at 290 euro in the official Baccarat store which is about RM1, 400. We suggest you quickly get yours before the price skyrockets.
Karimoku 1000% Bearbrick
It is a well- known fact that whenever anyone collaborates with Karimoku. The aesthetics of the piece will definitely be out of this world. This is currently an ongoing collaboration and has just been released this year. Karimoku is a Japanese wood furniture organization. Medicom and Karimoku go a long way back, the most sought after of their collabs is their very first 1000% Bearbrick.
The current figure is crafted completely from walnut wood in Japan. In fact, what makes these Bearbricks even more valuable is that they are made-to-order. So, it actually requires approximately 4 months from product purchase for you to receive your item. Additionally, it can also be considered one of the items that is most sought after.
For example, a 1000% Karimoku Bearbrick was recently sold for 13,000 USD and the lowest asking price for this Bearbrick that we see here is 40,000 USD. Imagine the future value of this very piece. If we are talking about averages, you may go home with a very respectable return on investment.
Bearbrick x KAWS TENSION
Once again, coming in with a latest release that happened in year 2021. Kaws is back with his first Bearbrick release since over 15 years ago. The highly awaited Bearbrick was initially planned to only be released via a lottery system with pick-up only within Tokyo areas. However, since then it has been confirmed to be available on the KAWS website.
The Bearbrick is decorated with one of KAWS most iconic TENSION print designs of 2021. It shows bright flashes of bright colours and sharp lines. The figure stands at 27.5 inches tall and is sizing is at 1000%. We saved the best for last on this occasion. This piece which is basically co-branded with KAWS is said to have extreme resell value in coming years.
It is currently being retailed at 640USD; however, we can already see the minimum for this product going to 6,377USD already and it has only been less than half a year since its release. We will leave it to your imagination from here on out to imagine how much value it will bring forth in the coming years.
Investment Guide
Now, with such a large variety of Bearbricks to choose from, it is not surprising that new investor or collectors find it difficult to enter the market. Fret not, experts from Bearbrick Malaysia are here to do our level best to make it as simple for you to join this niche collectors’ market. The main thing to look out for is the authenticity of the product. As in every collector’s market, authenticity is the deal breaker. Here are our 3 tips on what to look for when it comes to determining authenticity
Packaging
Packaging can be easily replicated by any parties in the market. However, based on a source online. It seems the packaging name Bearbrick can sometimes be easily forgotten and written as Babybear. This is obviously a distinct feature. However, a simple identifier that we can share is Medicom’s holographic sticker.
It is well known that the holographic sticker till date has not been replicated and will probably be quite difficult to do so as well. Nonetheless, do keep an eye out for this detail as it is an important trade to Medicom.
Material
The real version of Bearbricks are mostly made of Vinyl. This is of course unless it is a collaboration piece with other brands such as Swarovski or Clot. However, fake bears typically cannot use Vinyl as they would want to keep cost low. Thus, a rubber material is used.
The second distinct feature would be its finishing and its texture. The fake piece is made of rubber, so if you apply pressure the product will then bend inwards. It will frighten every collector at the sight of this. It also has a matte finishing. On the other hand, an original piece will be solid when you apply pressure and it has a gloss finishing. This gives it that high-end exclusive feel.
Shape
This is a feature that serious collectors will be able to identify easily. However, if you are new to this trade, it may be difficult for you to identify. So, here are some features you can narrow down on. Fun fact, all Bearbricks have the same silhouette and shape. Firstly, have a look at the ears. On the authentic piece, the ears are sharper at the top compared to the fakes. Traditionally, the fake pieces tend to have a rounder ear lop.
The second feature would be the bears cheeks. The authentic feature will have rounder and fuller cheeks. This gives the bear its more authentic and chubbier look. While the fakes tend to be more less round and slimmer down. The third feature would be its nose, the authentic piece will showcase a sharper nose.
Lastly, its legs. The fake pieces tend to have holes at the bottom as this will allow the bears to stand. However, the authentic pieces are fully sealed and solid thus not requiring this hollow feature. Also, the authentic bears usually have the Medicom logo engraved on the bottom right foot and the bottom left foot is left for other brand collaborators when applicable.
Last but not least on our investment guide is definitely in terms of the source of origin. We always recommend for you to get your products from reputable sources or better yet from the original source. We do understand though that with Bearbricks, sometimes when you go to the original source, it is already sold out.
So, always look at reviews of the seller and the products they are selling. The prices are usually within the ranges of their respective categories. A good rule of thumb to remember, if the deal is too good to be true, it probably isn’t true.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
I am a new budding collector; how do I get started?
Experts from Bearbrick Malaysia recommend going for lower tier pieces that are within the RM1, 000 to RM3, 000 range and move on from there. It will be well to note that investment all take time especially when it comes to collector’s items. Think of it as aging of fine wine.
I have a huge amount of capital, what should I go for?
We recommend going for collaboration pieces. This is because these pieces tend to attract a crowd that are not just Bearbrick or Medicom centric but also to that specific brand. Imagine yourself buying a BAPE piece, the number of people who purchases street wear from BAPE may also be looking at that Bearbrick you have.
How long do I have to wait before I get my investment back?
This is a truly dependable question. According to an expert from Bearbrick Malaysia, we would typically put it down to 3-5 years. This is to induce rarity and lack of resellers in the market. The lesser the reseller, the higher your values go.
Conclusion
In summary, the Bearbrick that we have shown above is our take on the most valuable and rare products in the market. However, there may be many more in the market that has yet to surface. The Bearbrick investment game is certainly an interesting one which has just not too long ago became a trend.
We foresee this trend going upwards even with the pandemic looming upon us. So, get those capital funds ready and start investing in a niche that is bound to pay you off. Share this article Bearbrick Malaysia – The 11 Most Expensive 1000% Bearbricks in Malaysia to your friends, we would be very grateful.