Be@rbrick Collectibles: Brand History & Top 30 Must-Have Figures
If you’ve ever seen a little bear-shaped figure that seems to pop up in art galleries, high-end fashion boutiques, or celebrity homes, chances are you’ve encountered a Be@rbrick. These unique designer toys have become a global sensation, combining elements of street culture, pop art, and high fashion into a collectible that’s as much a work of art as it is a toy. But what exactly makes Be@rbrick so special? In this article, we’re diving into the fascinating history behind the brand and breaking down the top 30 must-have Be@rbrick figures that every collector dreams of owning.
Table of Contents
- What Is Be@rbrick and Why Are They So Popular?
- Be@rbrick Brand History: From Humble Beginnings to Global Fame
- Understanding the Be@rbrick Series: Size, Design, and Collaboration
- Why Be@rbrick Figures Are Considered Designer Toys
- Top 30 Must-Have Be@rbrick Figures: A Collector's Dream
- Limited Edition Be@rbrick: What Makes Them So Exclusive?
- Be@rbrick Collecting Tips: How to Start Your Own Collection
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What Is Be@rbrick and Why Are They So Popular?
Ever looked at a bear-shaped figure and thought, "What’s the deal with this?" That’s Be@rbrick for you. Be@rbricks are more than just cute bear figures; they’ve become a global sensation among art lovers, toy collectors, and even celebrities. These little guys are unique designer toys, merging pop culture, art, and fashion into one irresistible collectible.
So why are they so popular? It’s simple: Be@rbricks blend art with collectibles. Whether you're a casual fan or a hardcore collector, there's something undeniably cool about owning a piece of art you can hold in your hands (or display on a shelf).
Be@rbrick Brand History: From Humble Beginnings to Global Fame
Be@rbrick was created by Medicom Toy, a Japanese company founded in 1996. The first Be@rbrick figure debuted in 2001, and it quickly grabbed the attention of toy lovers worldwide. The original design was inspired by the company's earlier creation, Kubrick, but the bear shape gave Be@rbrick a fresh, quirky appeal.
Fast forward to today, and Be@rbrick has become a symbol of street art, high-end fashion, and everything in between. From limited editions to collaborations with brands like Nike and artists like Kaws, Be@rbrick has found its place at the intersection of art, culture, and fashion.
Understanding the Be@rbrick Series: Size, Design, and Collaboration
Be@rbricks come in different sizes, ranging from the tiny 100% to the massive 1000% figures. Each size has its charm, but the most popular tend to be the 400% and 1000% Be@rbricks, especially for those looking to make a statement.
What makes them even cooler is the collaboration aspect. Every few months, Medicom Toy drops new Be@rbrick collections featuring partnerships with famous artists, designers, and brands. These collaborations push the boundaries of design, making each release feel fresh and unique.
Why Be@rbrick Figures Are Considered Designer Toys
Be@rbricks are not just toys; they are art pieces. With collaborations with high-profile designers and artists like Takashi Murakami and Jean-Michel Basquiat, Be@rbricks transcend the toy category. Many collectors view them as miniature sculptures that blur the lines between art and play.
Think of them like vinyl canvases for artists to experiment with. Whether it’s a subtle design or a bold pattern, each Be@rbrick is a reflection of contemporary art trends. No wonder they’ve become a favorite among collectors and art aficionados.
How Be@rbrick Collectibles Became a Must-Have for Collectors
If you’re wondering why collectors go crazy over these bear-shaped figures, it’s because Be@rbricks are more than just cool designs—they represent a piece of cultural history. Limited edition releases create a sense of urgency. If you miss out, you might never get another chance to snag that particular figure. Some Be@rbricks even appreciate in value over time. So, while you're enjoying your collection, you could also be sitting on a small fortune.
Top 30 Must-Have Be@rbrick Figures: A Collector's Dream
When it comes to Be@rbrick collecting, some figures stand out more than others. Whether it’s because of their rare designs, iconic collaborations, or sheer size, these top 30 Be@rbrick figures are the ones every collector dreams of owning. Let's dive deeper into what makes each of these figures a true gem in the world of designer toys.
1. Medicom Toy 400% Original Be@rbrick
This is where it all started. The original 400% Be@rbrick from Medicom Toy is an essential piece for any serious collector. It captures the simplicity and charm of the early designs, making it a timeless classic.
2. Bearbrick x Kaws Chompers
A collaboration with Kaws is always going to turn heads, and the "Chompers" design is no exception. The combination of Kaws’ iconic teeth design and the Be@rbrick form makes this figure a standout. It’s a perfect example of street art meeting collectible culture.
3. Bearbrick x Bape 1000% Camo Shark
Fans of A Bathing Ape (Bape) will love this one. Featuring Bape's iconic camouflage and shark hoodie design, this 1000% Be@rbrick is massive, both in size and popularity. It’s a must-have for fans of streetwear and toy art alike.
4. Bearbrick x Andy Warhol 400% Marilyn Monroe
What happens when pop art meets Be@rbrick? The result is this beautiful tribute to Andy Warhol’s famous Marilyn Monroe series. This figure captures the essence of Warhol’s colorful art style, turning the bear into a canvas of pop culture history.
5. Bearbrick x Star Wars Darth Vader 1000%
For the Star Wars fans out there, this Darth Vader Be@rbrick is a dream come true. A full 1000%, this figure represents the Sith Lord in all his glory. It's an epic blend of cinema and designer toys.
6. Bearbrick x Jean-Michel Basquiat 400%
Jean-Michel Basquiat’s raw and expressive art style is a perfect match for Be@rbrick’s playful yet artistic nature. This 400% figure is adorned with Basquiat’s signature imagery, making it a true collector’s piece for art enthusiasts.
7. Bearbrick x Fragment Design 1000%
Hiroshi Fujiwara’s Fragment Design has always been on the cutting edge of streetwear and culture. This 1000% Be@rbrick brings Fujiwara’s minimalist and modern aesthetic to the forefront. The lightning bolt logo, paired with the sleek black design, makes it a favorite among collectors.
8. Bearbrick x Supreme 1000% Red Box Logo
When Supreme, the king of streetwear, teamed up with Be@rbrick, the result was this instantly iconic 1000% figure. Featuring the classic red box logo, this Be@rbrick is highly sought after by both Supreme fans and Be@rbrick collectors.
9. Bearbrick x The Simpsons 400% Homer
Who doesn’t love The Simpsons? This 400% Homer Simpson Be@rbrick captures the essence of everyone's favorite animated dad. The simple yet iconic design makes this figure a fun and nostalgic addition to any collection.
10. Bearbrick x Nike SB Dunk Low 400% Elephant Print
Sneakerheads, this one’s for you. The collaboration with Nike’s SB Dunk Low line resulted in this 400% Be@rbrick featuring the iconic elephant print pattern. It’s the perfect crossover between sneakers and collectibles.
11. Bearbrick x Chanel 1000%
Chanel, the epitome of luxury fashion, partnered with Be@rbrick to create a 1000% figure that oozes sophistication. The black-and-white color scheme and iconic Chanel logo make this Be@rbrick a must-have for fashion-forward collectors.
12. Bearbrick x Disney Mickey Mouse 400% Steamboat Willie
A tribute to the early days of Disney, this 400% Be@rbrick celebrates Steamboat Willie, Mickey Mouse’s first appearance. The vintage black-and-white design is a nostalgic trip down memory lane for Disney fans and toy collectors alike.
13. Bearbrick x Marvel Iron Man 1000%
For fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this Iron Man Be@rbrick is a showstopper. At 1000%, it’s a larger-than-life tribute to one of the most iconic superheroes of all time. The metallic finish and detailed design make it a prized possession for Marvel and toy fans alike.
14. Bearbrick x Coca-Cola 400%
A symbol of global culture, Coca-Cola joined forces with Be@rbrick to create this refreshing 400% figure. The classic red-and-white branding makes this Be@rbrick an iconic piece of pop culture that collectors adore.
15. Bearbrick x Futura 1000%
Futura, the legendary graffiti artist, put his own spin on Be@rbrick with this 1000% figure. The abstract, graffiti-like design gives this bear an edgy, urban vibe, making it a must-have for street art lovers.
16. Bearbrick x Daft Punk 400%
Music meets art in this 400% Be@rbrick collaboration with the iconic electronic duo Daft Punk. The silver and gold helmet designs capture the duo’s futuristic style and are a must for music fans and collectors alike.
17. Bearbrick x Evangelion 1000% Unit-01
Anime fans, this one’s for you. Inspired by Neon Genesis Evangelion, this 1000% Be@rbrick depicts the Unit-01 in all its mecha glory. It’s a striking piece that stands out in any collection.
18. Bearbrick x Hello Kitty 400%
Hello Kitty fans will love this 400% Be@rbrick collaboration. The cute and recognizable Hello Kitty face, paired with Be@rbrick’s iconic bear shape, makes for a delightful collectible that fans of kawaii culture adore.
19. Bearbrick x Tokyo 2020 Olympics 400%
In honor of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Be@rbrick released a special edition 400% figure with the official Olympic branding. It’s a unique collectible that celebrates global unity and sport.
20. Bearbrick x Michael Jackson 400% Thriller
Paying tribute to one of the greatest entertainers of all time, this 400% Be@rbrick captures Michael Jackson in his iconic Thriller outfit. It’s a must-have for music and pop culture enthusiasts.
21. Bearbrick x Stussy 1000%
Streetwear brand Stussy brought its bold, laid-back style to this 1000% Be@rbrick. The oversized figure features the classic Stussy logo and embodies the brand’s cool California vibe.
22. Bearbrick x Medicom Toy 100% Anniversary Gold Chrome
A special edition released to celebrate Medicom Toy’s anniversary, this gold chrome 100% Be@rbrick is a tiny but shiny tribute to the brand’s history and success.
23. Bearbrick x Undefeated 400%
Undefeated, a favorite in the streetwear world, teamed up with Be@rbrick to create this military-inspired 400% figure. The camo design and bold branding make it a standout piece.
24. Bearbrick x Bounty Hunter 1000% Skull Kun
Bounty Hunter brought its signature edgy style to Be@rbrick with this 1000% figure. Featuring the iconic Skull Kun design, this figure is perfect for fans of Japanese streetwear and toy art.
25. Bearbrick x DC Comics Batman 400%
The Dark Knight gets the Be@rbrick treatment in this 400% Batman figure. It’s a must-have for comic book lovers and Be@rbrick collectors alike, showcasing the caped crusader in all his glory.
26. Bearbrick x Fragment Design Pikachu 400%
This collaboration between Fragment Design and Pokémon resulted in a Pikachu Be@rbrick that combines cuteness with a sleek design. It’s a delightful addition for Pokémon fans.
27. Bearbrick x Space Invaders 1000%
Retro gaming meets collectible art in this 1000% Be@rbrick collaboration with Space Invaders. The pixelated design brings the classic arcade game to life in a fun and nostalgic way.
28. Bearbrick x Moncler 1000%
Moncler, known for its high-end outerwear, brought its luxury fashion aesthetic to this 1000% Be@rbrick. The sleek, shiny design embodies the brand’s commitment to quality and style.
29. Bearbrick x Coca-Cola Polar Bear 400%
The Coca-Cola polar bear is an iconic symbol of wintertime, and this 400% Be@rbrick figure captures its charming appeal. It’s a fun and festive piece that adds a splash of cheer to any collection.
30. Bearbrick x Hajime Sorayama 1000%
Hajime Sorayama’s futuristic, metallic designs shine brightly on this 1000% Be@rbrick figure. Known for his sexy robot artworks, Sorayama’s influence makes this a truly unique and sought-after figure in the Be@rbrick world.
Each of these Be@rbrick figures represents a blend of art, culture, and creativity, making them must-haves for collectors who appreciate both design and nostalgia. Whether you're a fan of pop culture, streetwear.
Limited Edition Be@rbrick: What Makes Them So Exclusive?
The allure of Be@rbrick collectibles lies in their limited editions. Once a figure is sold out, it’s gone for good. Some designs are produced in runs as small as 100 pieces, making them incredibly hard to get. This exclusivity is what drives up their value and makes them such sought-after items.
Why Be@rbrick Figures Are Considered Art
We’ve touched on it earlier, but it’s worth repeating: Be@rbricks are art. Each figure tells a story, whether it’s a nod to pop culture, a reinterpretation of famous artwork, or a fresh new design from a hot artist. They’re like pieces of a living art gallery, constantly evolving with each new release.
Be@rbrick Collecting Tips: How to Start Your Own Collection
Want to start your own collection? First, decide on your budget. Be@rbrick prices can range from affordable (for smaller figures) to thousands of dollars for rare, limited editions. Start with a few pieces you love, and build from there.
Look for reputable sellers and always verify authenticity. There are a lot of knock-offs out there, so it’s essential to buy from trusted sources.
Conclusion
Be@rbrick figures have made their mark on the world of art, fashion, and collecting. Whether you’re new to the scene or a seasoned collector, these quirky bear-shaped figures offer something for everyone. They’re more than just toys—they’re a way to own a piece of modern art, history, and culture. So, why not start your own collection today?
FAQs
- What sizes do Be@rbrick figures come in?
Be@rbrick figures range in size from 35mm (100%) to 700mm (1000%). The most popular sizes are 400% and 1000%.
- Why are Be@rbrick figures so expensive?
The price of Be@rbricks often reflects their limited edition status and collaborations with famous artists, which drives up demand and value.
- Are Be@rbrick figures a good investment?
Some Be@rbrick figures can appreciate in value, especially limited edition releases, making them a solid investment for collectors.
- Where can I buy authentic Be@rbrick figures?
Authentic Be@rbrick figures can be purchased from reputable retailers like Medicom Toy’s official store, specialty toy shops, and online marketplaces like StockX or eBay.
- What makes Be@rbrick figures different from other collectibles?
Be@rbrick figures stand out due to their unique bear shape, artist collaborations, and limited edition releases, blending the worlds of art and collectibles.
