7 Happy Reasons Why People Collect Toys

Singapore harbours a thriving community of toy collectors. The city’s diverse culture and passion for pop culture have given rise to a number of specialty toy stores catering to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re a fan of anime, superheroes, or vintage collectibles, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest in Singapore’s toy stores. Here are seven reasons why people love collecting toys!

Nostalgia and Emotional Connection
Many people collect toys that remind them of their childhood, evoking fond memories and a sense of comfort. These toys can serve as tangible links to the past, providing a sense of continuity and stability.

Thrill of the Hunt
The process of searching for rare or unique toys can be exciting and rewarding. Collectors often enjoy the challenge of finding specific items, whether it’s scouring flea markets, online auctions, or specialty stores.

Personalization and Self-Expression
Collecting toys allows individuals to express their interests and personality. By curating a collection of items that reflect their passions, collectors can create a personalized space that is both visually appealing and emotionally satisfying.

Sense of Achievement and Mastery
Completing a collection can be a significant accomplishment, providing a sense of pride and satisfaction. Collectors may take pleasure in organizing and displaying their toys in a way that showcases their knowledge and expertise.

Social Connection and Community
Collecting often brings people together, fostering a sense of community and shared interest. Collectors may join clubs, attend conventions, or participate in online forums to connect with others who share their passion.

Timeless Appeal of Classic Toys
Some toys have enduring appeal, remaining popular for generations. Collecting classic toys can be a way to preserve a piece of history and appreciate the craftsmanship and design of earlier eras.

Investment Potential
While not the primary motivation for most collectors, some toys may appreciate in value over time, making collecting a potential investment opportunity. However, it’s important to note that the value of collectibles can fluctuate, and investing in toys should be considered carefully.

Ultimately, the reasons for collecting toys are as diverse as the collectors themselves. Whether it’s nostalgia, the thrill of the hunt, or simply a love of beautiful objects, collecting can be a rewarding and fulfilling hobby.

Key Consideration Factors

When choosing the right toy, several factors must be considered to ensure that you’re getting the best of the lot. Here are the key considerations:

• Quality and Craftsmanship:
  • Sculpting: Look for figures with well-defined details, accurate facial features, and proper proportions.
  • Paint Application: The paint job should be clean, even, and free of smudges or runs. Pay attention to the accuracy of the colours used.
  • Articulation: If the figure has points of articulation, ensure they are smooth and don’t feel loose or stiff.
  • Materials: High-quality materials like PVC or ABS plastic are more durable and less prone to damage.
• Licensing and Authenticity:
  • Official Licence: Look for figures from reputable manufacturers with official licences from the relevant IP owners. This ensures authenticity and accuracy.
  • Box and Packaging: The original box and packaging can significantly impact the figure’s value. Make sure it’s in good condition and includes any accessories or paperwork.
• Rarity and Limited Editions:
  • Production Run: Limited edition figures are generally more valuable due to their scarcity.
  • Exclusive Releases: Figures released exclusively at conventions or specific retailers can command higher prices.
• Character Popularity and Relevance:
  • Iconic Characters: Figures of popular and iconic characters tend to hold their value better.
  • Current Trends: Figures based on popular movies, TV shows, or video games can see increased demand and value.
• Condition:
  • Mint Condition: Figures that are in mint condition, unopened in their original packaging, are the most valuable.
  • Opened Figures: Even opened figures can be valuable if they are well-maintained and complete with all accessories.
• Personal Preference:
  • Collect What You Love: Ultimately, the best collectible figurines are the ones you enjoy owning and displaying. Choose characters and themes that resonate with you.

By considering these factors, you can make informed decisions when collecting toy figurines and build a valuable and enjoyable collection.

Here are 10 Collectible Toy Stores you should check out!

1. Dew Toy Store / Oh My Primus

Dew Toy Store & Oh My Primus is a business run by collectors for collectors. They prioritise customer satisfaction by offering quality toys at competitive prices, coupled with timely communication, swift shipping, and secure packaging. Their commitment to honesty and transparency ensures a positive and enduring relationship with their customers. They hope to share the joy of collecting with their customers, making it as rewarding an experience as it has been for them.

2. PLAY-e

Play-E began its humble journey as a small kiosk in Ang Mo Kio. Over the years, the company has grown significantly, expanding its product range and customer base. Today, Play-E stands as a leading retailer, offering a vast selection of games and toys to cater to people of all ages. Their commitment to providing quality products and exceptional customer service has contributed to their success and solidified their position as a go-to destination for gaming and toy enthusiasts.

3. The Falcon’s Hangar Pte Ltd

The Falcon’s Hangar is a popular toy store in Singapore, specialising in collectible toys and figures. It carries a wide range of products, including Transformers, Zoids, Saint Seiya, Star Wars, Gundam model kits, and more. The store caters to both local and international customers, offering both in-store shopping and online purchasing options.

4. ActionCity

ActionCity has carved out a unique niche in the hearts of its customers by forming exclusive partnerships with renowned global brands. Collaborations with iconic names like Hot Toys, Medicom Toy, tokidoki, and POP MART allow ActionCity to offer a curated selection of highly sought-after collectibles and lifestyle products.

5. GK Figure

GK Figure Official is a leading online store specialising in figurines, catering to collectors worldwide. With a vast selection of products, they offer international shipping to countries including the United States, Canada, Singapore, Japan, Europe, Australia, and various Asian nations.

6. The Collector Base

The Collector Base is an online platform dedicated to serving collectors worldwide. They offer a curated selection of premium collectibles and accessories at competitive prices. Beyond product sales, they prioritise exceptional customer service, providing seamless order processing and support to ensure a smooth shopping experience.

7. Chronicles Inc

Chronicles Inc is a store specialising in figurines and collectibles, particularly those from the anime world. They aim to provide their customers with the latest offerings in the industry, allowing collectors to expand and enhance their collections with exciting new additions.

8. La Tendo

La Tendo offers a wide range of products, including figurines, action figures, plushies, apparel, and more. The store is known for its extensive collection of anime merchandise, particularly from popular series like One Piece, Dragon Ball, and Naruto. La Tendo also carries limited edition items and exclusive releases, making it a must-visit destination for anime fans and collectors.

9. Fat Toys Corner

Fat Toys Corner has an impressive collection of the latest and most sought-after toys, particularly specialising in collectibles like Kamen Rider figures, Transformers, and other popular franchises. It offers a wide range of products, from affordable basic toys to high-end, limited-edition collectibles.

10. Robo Robo

Robo Robo is a specialty toy store that specialises in sourcing hard-to-find Japanese toys. They offer a diverse selection of products from renowned brands like Hasbro, Takara Tomy, and Bandai, including popular franchises such as Transformers and Soul of Chogokin. The store is known for its exceptional customer service, with knowledgeable staff who are always willing to assist customers in finding the perfect toy.

Conclusion

Singapore’s toy culture extends beyond brick-and-mortar stores. Numerous online retailers and community forums cater to the needs of collectors. These platforms provide opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts, trade collectibles, and stay up-to-date on the latest releases.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, Singapore offers a vibrant and diverse toy scene. With its wide range of stores and online resources, you’re sure to find the perfect collectible to add to your collection.