Here’s a first look at the new items coming from Master Replicas. These low resolution images are from the new Diamond Comics Previews Catalog. These items are not yet available for order from Master Replicas, but expect them to show up in the next few days (which is what happened last month with the Jango Fett Blasters). Until then, enjoy this look at the Emperor’s Cane and a Weathered Thermal Detonator.

Bounty Hunting Today: Underoos!
September 25, 2003 | 12:44 PM EST | Keri

As a kid growing up in the 70’s, I would’ve probably died for a pair of Underoos, which I never had, and now that I am an adult I have just about every Star Wars themed Underoos that was made! Of course I do not wear them, but they make a most interesting addition to a well-rounded collection.
Underoos were the “Underwear that was fun to wear”, and were made by Union Underwear in the 70’s and 80’s. The sets consisted of a top and bottom that recreated a character’s costume. There were Underoos for boys and girls alike, in Superhero designs like Wonder Woman, Spiderman, Superman, and there were Star Wars characters from ESB and ROTJ to choose from as well.
Of the many Star Wars characters, Boba Fett underoos are by far the most difficult to find, most expensive to buy, and the coolest ones that were made, I think. The ESB motifs included Darth Vader, Yoda, Luke X-Wing, Princess Leia Hoth, C-3PO, and today’s feature R2-D2. The ROTJ motifs include Chewbacca, Han Solo, and Wicket. Thermal Underoos also exist for Vader, Yoda, Han, Wicket and R2.
Today’s R2-D2 auction is a prime example of the condition most collectors search for: sealed in original shrink wrap and crisp corners on the envelope. Click on through to start your Underoos collection today!

R2-D2 Underoos

Jedi Knight Army
September 25, 2003 | 1:55 AM EST | Joseph

Still looking for the Jedi Knight Army? Jamstoys.com has them on sale for only $21.95. They also have the Clone Wars 2 Pack
Army of the Republic. To get there click here

Coming Soon!!!!
September 24, 2003 | 11:55 PM EST | Eddie K. AKA E2K13

Keep your eyes open because Yakface will soon be adding a Star Wars Lego Section…Oh yea! You heard me right! Star Wars Legos!!!
Coming Soon!!!!!

Clone Wars Cartoon Update
September 24, 2003 | 10:22 PM EST | Keri

YakReader Chris points out that in the promotional portfolio for the upcoming Clone Wars cartoon, there is a sketch for a certain assassin droid that appears to be IG-88 !!! This is an interesting development, and would be very cool if more of our beloved bounty hunters came back into the fray of the Clone Wars.

Click on through to the link below at iesb.com and look at the portfolio page with Count Dooku and Assaji Ventress to see IG-88:

Clone Wars Cartoon Portfolio

Geonosian War Room 2
September 24, 2003 | 3:23 PM EST | Mark

If you are still looking for the Geonosian War Room Scene 2, they are now in stock at Amazon.

Bounty Hunting Today: Bed Sheets
September 24, 2003 | 12:41 PM EST | Keri

Not only can you decorate your entire room with Star Wars, have Star Wars wallpaper and wear a Star Wars shirt and Star Wars boxers, but you can go to sleep on colorful bed sheets, snuggling up to your favorite trilogy & prequel characters.
Vintage sheets are quite easy to come by that have been gently used and still have a great fabric quality. It is much more difficult however to find vintage sheets sealed in a package, and these examples tend to fetch premium prices.
Many different and interesting designs were made for A New Hope, ESB, and ROTJ and it is fun and affordable to try to aqcuire every design.
Modern examples of classic trilogy characters were also made, and provide a more linear, graphic motif that actually fits in with the vintage sheets well. The sheets made for Ep.I are in my opinion the least colorful and exciting, but are still great to use for practical purposes. The Ep.II AOTC sheets were hard to find in stores, I personally never saw them until I saw them offered for auction on Ebay. The designs are more like the upcoming Clone Wars cartoon, with the Jedi seeming to be cel-shaded, bold and very colorful.
The sheets can be used for many different purposes, as tablecloths, wallhangings, curtains, slipcovers on furniture…the only limit to their use is your own imagination. Most sheets are Twin Sized, some are Full Sized so keep this in mind when buying. Below are examples from each film.

1977 Star Wars sheets

1979 Empire Strikes Back sheets

1983 Return of the Jedi sheets

Ep.I Sheets

Ep.II AOTC Sheets

Last Call on Jedi Training Remote
September 23, 2003 | 9:40 PM EST | Mark B

I just got an email tonight from Master Replicas announcing that the Jedi Training Remote is now down to less than 250 pieces left. If you’ve been waiting for this replica, don’t wait any longer, visit Master Replicas today. Several other items are also nearly sold out as well: Mace Windu Saber, Luke Skywalker Saber, Count Dooku, Darth Vader Empire Strikes Back, and Episode IV Obi Wan Kenobi. Don’t forget that Master Replicas is now offering a “Try before you buy” program where you can receive any of their fine collectibles and take 30 days to decide if you want to keep it. Details are on their website.

***Update – I just tried to order one of the Jedi Training Remotes myself, and it actually shows up in the cart as $139.96, which is over $100 off the normal price!

New Lego Snowspeeder Photos
September 23, 2003 | 8:37 PM EST | Bill

Team From Bricks to Bothans has posted a number of images and all the details about the upcoming Lego Snowspeeder. Click here to check it out.

Insider #72 Hitting Mailboxes
September 23, 2003 | 4:00 PM EST | Mark B

Brent in Alabama let us know that the Star Wars Insider Magazine issue #72 arrived in his mailbox today. Be on the lookout for it!

Clone Wars Cartoon News
September 23, 2003 | 3:58 PM EST | Keri

The upcoming Clone Wars cartoon, or “epic micro-series” not only looks cool, but bridges the gap between Ep. II and Ep. III, meaning that we may not see the Clone Wars in the film version of Ep. III. However, in November when the cartoon series airs we will at least be able to get some sort of Star Wars fix while waiting until the final film installment to be released in 2005.
Over at theforce.net you can download the full Clone Wars cartoon trailer as well as look at Plot Summaries for each episode. It is unclear at this time whether the cartoon will be a continuous series like Dexter’s Lab, etc. only ratings, time and Mr. George Lucas will tell.

Here are links to the downloads below in Quicktime format:

Trailer 240×180 (0.6 mb)

Trailer 320×240(1.5 mb)

Still Need the Imperial Shuttle?
September 23, 2003 | 3:53 PM EST | Mark B

Yakface Reader Larry kindly pointed out that the Imperial Shuttle is now available in the Sears Holiday Wishbook. Cost is still $99.99.

Bounty Hunting Today: Towels
September 23, 2003 | 12:37 PM EST | Keri

Even though the summer season is coming to a close, Star Wars beach towels never go out of season! The bright eye-catching, colorfully brilliant graphic designs provide a unique backdrop to a collection or look great just hanging in a bathroom.
Star Wars towels have been available throughout the original trilogy all the way up to today. Classic characters like Vader and Boba Fett still dominate, but other favorites like Maul and Amidala can easily be found. The vintage towels have a certain charm to their striking 70s-80s predominately bold blue and gold coloring, while the modern designs provide images that are just as pleasing in a more computer generated manner. Below are examples of each to add to your collection.

ROTJ Heroes Towel

Boba Fett Towel

Lightspeed Passes Activating Soon
September 23, 2003 | 8:30 AM EST | Bill

Lisa Stevens, President of the Fan Club, gave an on-line radio interview on Sunday. Among the highlights, lightspeed passes (to purchase the upcoming Fan Club Exclusive Santa Yoda) will be “activating” in late September.

Also the 2004 Fan Club kits will include something (other than a figure) from Hasbro— sounds interesting. Artoosnews has the highlights from the interview.

D & S Newsfeed
September 23, 2003 | 8:26 AM EST | Bill

This just in from D & S Sci-fi Toy World :

New Items:

Armada Unicron
Transformers Universe Striker & Blackarachnia
Saga Screen Scenes War Room 1 & 2
Saga Screen Scenes Jedi Council 1 & 2
G.I. Joe Spy Troops Wave 8
Clone Wars Wave 1 – Figures Shipping Monday
Clone Wars Tank & Jedi Starfighter – Back in Stock
Anakin & Dooku Speeders – Back in Stock
Trek Exclusive 3-Pack – Back in Stock
Enterprise Trip Tucker

Click here to visit their site.

Unleashed In-Stock
September 22, 2003 | 9:55 PM EST | Mark

Here is the last wave of Unleashed, back in stock if you are looking for them…

Unleashed Darth Sidious
Unleashed Obi-Wan Kenobi
Unleashed Luke Skywalker

A Peek at Hasbro 2004
September 22, 2003 | 5:01 PM EST | Mark B

I was able to get a peek at the late 2003, early 2004 price lists today from Hasbro. Nothing really exciting to announce and not much that we haven’t heard of before. There were only a couple of new items that I saw on the list that I haven’t heard of coming yet. Under the 12″ Assortments, they list a Jawa 2-Pack, Garindan, and Classic Obi-Wan. Under Unleashed Figures, Chewbacca, Luke Skywalker X-Wing, and Clone Trooper are all listed. There are several other items that are listed as numbers with no names, so there is no telling what those are. The Wampa and Jabba the Hutt that have been seen earlier are part of a “3.75 inch Ultra Figure Assortment”. There are 2 other figures that will be part of that assortment, but have not been listed by name yet. As always, until you see an official announcement from Hasbro on these items, they are NOT official. Assortments and release dates can change at any time.

Distributoys Follow-up
September 22, 2003 | 2:31 PM EST | Jason

Just wanted to point out a few things as I just talked with
Ronnie Goldfinger from Distributoys. The vintage figures that
are being released on Amazon are indeed vintage figures, not
recasted vintage figures like the 1995 Exclusive ToysRus
Classic 4-pack. The Sets range from 10-20 sets of each, and
you should see the status on these sets go from pre-order status
to unavailable shortly as they have oversold their available
quantity.

If you do not have any of these vintage figures, the prices are
pretty good for complete figures in collectors condition. They will
come in clear cases with stands on the bottom for the figure. Apparently, TRU is interested in items to draw more collectors to the
site, and this is one of the reasons that led to the idea by
Distributoys to make these figures available on Amazon. They will
be making more sets available in the future, so keep checking back
is you need vintage figures.

Snowspeeder UCS
September 22, 2003 | 1:20 PM EST | Mark

Over at Rebelscum they have a nice image of the boxed LEGO UCS Snowspeeder due in 2004. Head on over to check it out.

Distributoys Info
September 22, 2003 | 1:14 PM EST | Mark

Over at Amazon as we pointed out a few days ago, they are taking orders for the product listed below. These are limited. Well I contact the company to find out more info. In a reply this is what we are able to learn.
Star Wars Vintage Collectible Action Figures: Bounty Hunters Collection (by DISTRIBUTOYS, INC) $39.99
Star Wars Vintage Collectible Action Figures: Good Guys Collection (by DISTRIBUTOYS, INC) $29.99
Star Wars Vintage Collectible Action Figures: Bespin Set (by DISTRIBUTOYS, INC) $39.99

Thank you for your interest in the Vintage Star Wars figures available at ToysRus.com/ Amazon.com. We have had many emails regarding these items and we are very excited to be able to bring something special to Star Wars collectors everywhere.

These limited edition sets are made up of Star Wars figures that were
released in the late 1970¹s and early 1980¹s. The figures in these
sets are “loose”², that¹s is to say, they are out of their original packaging but are still original, “collectible condition” action figures.

Kenner released many Star Wars action figures and many different action figures of the same characters. The following action figures are contained in each Limited Edition Vintage Star Wars Action Figure Set:

Good Guys Set-
Luke Skywalker in X-Wing Outfit
C3PO
Hoth Soldier

Bounty Hunters Set-
IG-88
Boba Fett
Dengar

Bespin Set-
Han Solo in Bespin Gear
Chewbacca
Lando Calrissian
Lobot
Storm Trooper

All sets come with the correct assortment of weapons and accessories.

We hope that you are as excited about these Limited Edition Vintage
Star Wars Action Figure Sets as we are. Please make sure that you check back with ToysRus.com/ Amazon.com often as we will be adding new sets all the time.

Thanks again.

Bounty Hunting Today: Calendars
September 22, 2003 | 12:14 PM EST | Keri

The New Year is fast approaching and of course a new calendar goes along with the resolutions. There have always been Star Wars calendars available since 1978 spanning the trilogy and more currently the prequels. While the vintage and outdated calendars are no longer useful for practical purposes, they are great to use for backdrops to displays. The artwork and dynamic photos make calendars yet another unique subset to the Star Wars collecting universe.

1978 Star Wars Calendar

2004 Classic Star Wars Calendar

Bounty Hunting Today: Frisbees!
September 21, 2003 | 12:54 PM EST | Keri

If you have ever asked the question “Did they ever make Star Wars Frisbees?” you’ve come to the right place! The fabulous flying discs were indeed adorned with Star Wars imagery, both vintage and modern. The classic vintage designs are simple, yet effective line-art which can provide a striking display when combined with other character collectibles.
Today’s feature is a vintage Pine-Sol Frisbee of the best co-pilot in the galaxy, the Wookie Chewbacca. If your mom bought Pine-Sol in the 1978, then chances are the label held the promise of mailing away for a Star Wars Frisbee. The Frisbees in the set include R2-D2, C-3PO, Stormtroopers, X-Wing Fighters, Chewbacca, and my personal favorite a McQuarrie-esque Darth Vader. The Pine-Sol Frisbees can be a little difficult to find, but with patience the entire set of 6 can be acquired. Click on through to start your Frisbee collection today!

Chewbacca Pine-Sol Frisbee

BEGUN THE CLONE WARS CONTEST HAS!
September 21, 2003 | 4:10 AM EST | Brandon

The Yakface.com Store Reports Clone Wars Contest Has Begun! To Find Out More Information Please Check Out Our Store Reports Page! Good Luck & Let The Hunting Begin!

Bounty Hunting Today: Retailers’ Mercahandise Catalogs
September 20, 2003 | 1:00 PM EST | Keri

The world of Ebay truly is a wonderous place where never before seen items are listed with seeming regularity. Retailers’ catalogs were given to stores to choose what product to order and to even get a sneak peek at new toys from movies not yet released. The US Versions were and are still handed out at Toy Fair in New York, and though hard to come by, are still attainable items to purchase. The most interesting aspect of Retailers’ catalogs are the photos of our favorite Star Wars toys, most in prototype form, and some items that were never even produced. Today’s featured auctions uncover another look into the world of Kenner’s Star Wars Merchandising power in its glory days.
Foreign items, often so unique and different from the US counterparts are always welcomed additions to any well-rounded collection. Toltoys was the Austrailian division of Kenner and produced the Cardboard (Chipboard) Death Star Playset which we never saw in the US. The auctions spotlighted today are Toltoys retailers catalogs from 1978, 1979 and 1980. Not only are the photos and layout unique, these catalogs offer the Kenner/Toltoys Lineup in the 1970s-80s, which included Stretch Armstrong, Strawberry Shortcake, Dr. Who and the infamous 18″ doll from the movie Alien.

1978 Toltoys Retailers’ Catalog

1979 Toltoys Retailers’ Catalog

1980 Toltoys Retailers’ Catalog

More New Items…
September 20, 2003 | 9:26 AM EST | Mark

Here is a list of new items in stock at Amazon…

Han Solo (Hoth Rescue)
Star Wars Vintage Collectible Action Figures: Bounty Hunters Collection (by DISTRIBUTOYS, INC) Anyone have any ideas what this is??? It is $39.99
Star Wars Vintage Collectible Action Figures: Good Guys Collection (by DISTRIBUTOYS, INC) Same thing $29.99
Star Wars Vintage Collectible Action Figures: Bespin Set (by DISTRIBUTOYS, INC) Same thing $39.99

Reminder regarding Star Wars Fan Club
September 19, 2003 | 3:01 PM EST | Jason

As one patron of Yakface has pointed out to us, the only form of
payment of credit cards has to be Visa or Mastercard. If you
try to use any other kind of credit card, your order will be
cancelled. Best to try and find someone you know who might order
those exclusives for you, if you don’t have a Visa or MC.

Bounty Hunting Today: Funmeal Trays
September 19, 2003 | 11:54 AM EST | Keri

Back in 1978, Burger Chef produced some of the earliest and now hardest to find classic Star Wars kids meal items. Before the onslaught of Special Edition and Episode I plastic toys, kids were more than happy to punch out and make their very own Droid, TIE, or X-Wing. The Funmeals Trays are brightly colored cardstock and have great artwork photos, and an overall cool 70s design. There are 7 different trays with various games and activities which include a Flight Game with Spinner, Darth Vader Card Game, Landspeeder, R2 Droid Puppet, TIE Fighter, C-3PO Droid Puppet and today’s featured auction of an X-Wing Fighter. The X-Wing Fighter Tray is an excellent representation of the mint/unfolded condition collectors dream of finding.

X-Wing Burger Chef Funmeal Tray

Always be sure to view a seller’s other items on Ebay, they may have many more auctions and possibly a website where similar items may easily be found.

Episode III Character Revealed!!!
September 19, 2003 | 1:49 AM EST | Joseph

The Force.Net has posted pics of an Episode III character that will be in the latest Star Wars movie.. WARNING heavy spoilers apply. If you do not want to know do not click the above link.

Test Drive a New Lightsaber
September 18, 2003 | 10:16 PM EST | Mark B

Master Replicas has a new program they just announced today. It is the 30 day test drive. Pretty easy program, they will send you a Star Wars collectible, you try it out for 30 days, if you don’t like it, you send it back – your charge – $1 for processing. Very cool if you wanted to buy one of these items but wanted to see or handle one first. Head on over and pick one up at Master Replicas

Hasbro Jedi Master Points on Ebay
September 18, 2003 | 9:31 PM EST | Keri

YakReader Mark sent in an interesting auction on ebay for 2,400 Hasbro Jedi Master Points. 2,400 is a lot of points that could be very useful for Hasbro’s upcoming auctions, especially if you collect unopened action figures and vehicles. Be warned this large amount of points has a rather high bounty.

2,400 Hasbro Jedi Master Points

Bounty Hunting Today: Prototypes
September 18, 2003 | 12:23 PM EST | Keri

Prototypes offer a fascinating look into the pre-production phases of items before they are completed, packaged and on store shelves. Some collectors specialize in prototypes of one particular area, such as Original Kenner artwork, or other collectors that wish to seek out the infamous Kenner Rocket-Firing Boba Fett. Prototypes, while often expensive, with some patience and perserverance can be attained for reasonable amounts at Ebay auctions. Spotlighted today are two interesting examples of affordable prototypes.
Before Attakus and Gentle Giant produced detailed busts of our favorite Star Wars characters, a company called Illusive Concepts produced several Maquettes. Maquettes, from the French word meaning puppet, are used in the pre-production of films to create a representation in 3-D of a creature/alien on a small scale before it is made in latex or now CGI form. Illusive Concepts created a line of Star Wars Maquettes in limited numbers for sale in 1995, which included Yoda, Boba Fett, Chewbacca bust, Jabba the Hutt, Han in Carbonite and today’s featured auction of Admiral Ackbar. If you already own the production Admiral Ackbar Maquette, you can see the prototype version here:

Admiral Ackbar Maquette

Also currently on listed on Ebay is a C-3PO Prototype from the recent Hasbro Playskool line. C-3PO is cast in a milky-white plastic, common to most action figure prototypes, and is great for the collector just beginning a prototype collection.

Playskool C-3PO Prototype

As with any item on Ebay, it is always a good idea to check the seller’s feedback and to ask the seller any questions you may have regarding the origins of an item.

Episode III: It’s A Wrap!!!
September 18, 2003 | 12:51 AM EST | Joseph

Principal photography wraps on Episode III at 6:42pm on Wednesday September 17, 2003. Click here for the latest update.

New Unleashed Wave!!! 
September 18, 2003 | 12:48 AM EST | Joseph

The Unleashed Wave with Boba Fett, Han Solo, and Yoda. Are now available atKebco Toys. You can get there by clicking here.

Hailfire Droid In Stock!
September 17, 2003 | 10:19 PM EST | Mark

New in stock at Amazon is the Hasbro Hailfire Droid at $21.99
and the Geonosian Starfighter with Pilot at $21.99

Episode III Images
September 17, 2003 | 9:15 PM EST | Joseph

artoosnews.com has a link to new Episode III pics. Be warned for spoilers if you don’t want to know what Anakin looks like in EP III.

New Master Replicas Items Confirmed
September 17, 2003 | 3:54 PM EST | Mark B

Next week, comic book shops will receive the Previews Catalog from Diamond Comics. Like last month with the set of Jango Fett blasters , this month there are 2 new Master Replicas items available. Both will retail for around $210. These have both been rumored for some time, but it looks like they will ship late in January – get ready for: Emperor Palpatine’s Cane, and (ohhhh, I gotta have one of these!) a Weathered Thermal Detonator!

Rare Items on Ebay
September 17, 2003 | 1:43 PM EST | Jason

I don’t normally do this but if you ever wanted to complete your
collection with the Rare Long Picture Carded figures or just have a look at something really rare, someone on Ebay has the entire set on auction. This person also has some other really rare pieces as well, but I think this is the highlight. Click here to see it.

Bounty Hunting Today: Trilogy Wallpaper
September 17, 2003 | 12:19 PM EST | Keri

What better way to provide a beautiful backdrop for your prized collection than to cover the walls with your favorite heroes, villians and scroundrels? Star Wars Wallpaper has been made since 1977 with gorgeous artwork, capturing key moments of each of the three films. Featured today however is a modern example of Classic Trilogy Wallpaper that was available only in England, made by the company Vymura in 1997 to coincide with the release of the Special Edition Trilogy in theaters. This wallpaper is quite hard to come by, especially unused, and has a unique design, making it a perfect counterpart to the POTF2 line we enjoy today.

Star Wars Trilogy Wallpaper

Star Wars in ’04?
September 17, 2003 | 12:03 PM EST | Mark B

No George Lucas isn’t running for President, but the rumor mill is heating up again about the classic Star Wars Trilogy coming to DVD in 2004. The Digital Bits seems to have the original story about Lucasfilms being very pleased with the format that the Indiana Jones movies have for DVD (One disc for each movie, One disc for extras). Lucas has said that there isn’t a lot of bonus material available for the original movies, so maybe throw it all together in one disc and make a 4 disc set? Again, this is only a rumor, but one we could all hope for!! What better way to start the hype for Episode III than to release the classic trilogy on DVD in time for the holidays 2004?

More Clones
September 17, 2003 | 11:13 AM EST | Mark B

The Cartoon Network has a teaser page up for the new Star Wars Clone Wars series coming soon! You’ll find it here! Kind of a cool image of Anakin and the text “The Epic Micro-Series – Coming this Fall”. Get those Tivos ready!!!!

LEGO Dagobah X-Wing
September 17, 2003 | 7:05 AM EST | Mark

If you ordered the NEW Dagobah X-Wing, it is now shipping. So watch your doorsteps…

Arena Playset on Sale @ Amazon
September 16, 2003 | 7:31 PM EST | Steve

Amazon has the Star Wars Arena Playset on sale for $39.98. Probably a good time to pick this item up …

Force Heretic III: Reunion
September 16, 2003 | 5:25 PM EST | Mark B

I was just about to sit down and write my review for Yakface on the last book in the Force Heretic Trilogy: Force Heretic III: Reunion when I changed my mind. I can sum it up for you pretty quick here. WHAT!?!?!?! Nothing, I mean nothing frustrates me more than finishing a book and saying “what was the point of that?”. Ok, I understand capitalizing on the Star Wars name, but come on, what happened to the quality George? I wasted 1200 pages and countless hours reading this stuff? Hey guys, I can sum it up to you in a couple of sentences. “Let’s go find Zenoma Secot and see if it will help us fight the Yuzhaan Vong while everyone else is busy actually fighting them. Great we found it, will it help us? Yes!” END OF STORY.

Jedi Academy Released Today
September 16, 2003 | 5:16 PM EST | Mark B

Just a heads up that the newest Star Wars video game was released today for Windows based PCs. Jedi Academy is a must have if you are a fan of the Star Wars video games. Its a new first person game along the storyline of the previous Jedi Knight games. Some of the new highlights include being able to customize your character, and customize your lightsaber. Can’t wait to get mine!

Bounty Hunting Today: ROTJ Stormtrooper
September 16, 2003 | 11:53 AM EST | Keri

What can be so unusual about a Kenner 1983 ROTJ Stormtrooper MOC you ask? While this toy is well-known and a favorite to most collectors, this particular specimen stands out as a one of a kind item which would complement AFA Professionally Graded carded figures. Also, by purchasing this item, you can help out a great cause The Pennsylvania Star Wars Collecting Society. Please note the unique “silver” seal and grading system on the figure.
ROTJ Stormtrooper MOC

Back In Stock
September 16, 2003 | 6:06 AM EST | Mark

These two figures have shown up back in stock…
Wat Tambor
Coleman Trebor

Dawn of the Bounty Hunting…
September 15, 2003 | 11:04 PM EST | Keri

Please allow myself to introduce myself. My name is Keri and I have been collecting Star Wars for over 10 years now, with my main concentration on vintage misc. items such as suncatchers, socks, underpants, anything and everything that is unusual and/or offbeat which illustrate just how deeply that amazing galaxy far, far away is embedded in our pop culture pysche as a whole. My earliest memory is of watching Star Wars back in ’77 sitting on my Father’s lap in the theater when i was 2 years old, and the impact of the film has never left me.
I will be writing a daily feature entitled Bounty Hunting spotlighting an interesting Star Wars item up for auction on Ebay.
Please stay tuned for something out of the ordinary everyday!

New LEGO Items
September 15, 2003 | 9:31 PM EST | Mark

Here are a couple of new LEGO items for 2004. Thanks to FBTB.net for the update.

“First up we have a new UCS Snowspeeder – due in November from LEGO Direct. I’m working on gathering final details, so stay tuned on that one. Also, for those of you who are getting your Cloud City sets (and Marty sends word they are shipping in Australia) you’ll find a surprise on the back – an image of another redesigned set for July of 2004…

A new Millennium Falcon.”

Click here to see the Millennium Falcon

Geonosian Fighter
September 15, 2003 | 9:55 AM EST | Mark

The Clone Wars Geonosian Fighter has been found at several retail outlet stores. So if you going to pick one of these up, the hunt is now on.

Jedi Master Points
September 15, 2003 | 9:54 AM EST | Mark

Here is the latest update from today on Hasbro’s site.

Sep 15, 2003
Republic News
Jedi Master Points Update

The final details for our Jedi Master Points program are almost in place! We expect the program to launch the beginning of October and we will get back to you shortly as to when the information will be posted on our website www.starwars.hasbro.com.

Stay tuned!

Interesting Amazon Response…
September 14, 2003 | 8:55 PM EST | Mark

I emailed Amazon and asked about the 4-packs that say they are in stock and will ship within 24 hours, yet I ordered mine back when they first came available for pre-order. This was their response…..

Greetings from Amazon.com.

I’ve checked your order, and I can confirm that we still expect to
ship it by the date listed in Your Account: September 22.

The estimated date of shipment was calculated at the time you placed
your order and is based on the proximity of inventory to the
delivery address you provided, as well as how quickly we can obtain
and assemble items for shipment.

We will send you an e-mail at the time of shipment. Please contact
us again if you do not receive a shipment confirmation by September
23.

Please note, we are not able to ship it to you until its official
release date, September 20. Many manufacturers, publishers, and
record labels restrict retailers from selling or shipping their
products until the official release date.

Musing Around In September…
September 14, 2003 | 8:46 PM EST | Mark

John has finally been able to find some time to help out some fellow collectors. Stop in and check what he has to answer, and when you are done, send in your own question..

September 14 QNA

Clone Wars ARC Trooper review!
September 14, 2003 | 7:58 PM EST | Michael

The new value packs of Clone Wars figures are now hitting Wal-marts! Check out this review of the new ARC Trooper from one of these packs.

Deluxe C3PO And Pod Prototypes
September 14, 2003 | 5:22 PM EST | Bill

Photos have surfaced on Ebay of the upcoming Deluxe C-3PO and Escape Pod Prototypes. You can see the photos, including a comparison between the “finished” version shown by Hasbro earlier this summer, and the proto, here.

The auction can be found here.

The Winner Is…
September 14, 2003 | 3:06 PM EST | Bill

Congratulations to the winner of our free Ultarama contest, Jeff Guille. Be sure to enter our next drawing for a free Ultarama right here. Remember your entry needs to include not only your name, but also your address. Good luck!

New IVintage Fact Sheets At StarConstrux
September 14, 2003 | 1:13 PM EST | Bill

This just in from StarConstrux :

You will find now iserts for all Star Wars figures of the vintage series in our download-area. On this insert you will find a picture of the figure on card and all infos about variations of this figure.

Just print it ….. fold it ….. ready to go! We hope to improve your collection with this little gimmick!

Click here to check it out!

Attention DC Collectors
September 13, 2003 | 10:38 PM EST | Bill

The DC Metro Area Star Wars Collecting Club held just had its first meeting today and reports that it was a great success, with 19 members present. The group is off to a great start. If you are interested in joining the group Email them at JediNerdz@yahoo.com.

Screen Scenes Wave 1 Sold Out
September 13, 2003 | 9:29 PM EST | Bill

New Force Comics has posted that Hasbro is reporting they have SOLD OUT of Wave 1 of the Screen Scenes. There will be a third wave shipping soon, along with Wave 2. Don’t resort to Ebay yet! The third wave will have 1 of each of the 4 scenes (Geonosian War Room I and II and Jedi High Council I and II).

Amazon Gets More…..
September 13, 2003 | 9:06 AM EST | Mark

Here are even more items including the speeder bikes I never thought I would find..

Darth Tyranus’s Speeder Bike
Anakin’s Swoop Bike
Wat Tambor
SP-4 & JN-66 (Research Droids)
Coleman Trebor
Waitress Droid (WA-7)
Lt. Faytonni
Darth Sidious
Ashla and Jempa
Luke Skywalker – A New Hope
Darth Vader – A New Hope

More Value Pack Details
September 12, 2003 | 7:22 PM EST | Bill

As the Wal-Mart value packs hit more and more stores, we’re getting more details to aid you in your search. The value packs come in their own display, so it is very likely that you will not see these on the usual Star Wars pegs, but rather on an endcap or middle of the aisle display. Also the prices from across the county vary by a few cents, but they are all under 5 bux— the same price as a single figure. Be sure to Email our store reports section with your finds!

FX Master Replicas Discounts
September 12, 2003 | 7:16 PM EST | Bill

The Official Site’s Hyperspace section is offering some nice discounts to members on the upcoming FX Master Replicas Luke and Vader’s lightsabers. Members can save $10.00 on each saber plus get free shipping.

Amazon Update
September 12, 2003 | 6:59 AM EST | Mark

Here are some new Items at Amazon.com….

Mace Windu (Arena Confrontation) (NEW)
Star Wars 3.75″ Hoth 4 Pack Now IN STOCK
Darth Vader (Throne Room Duel)
Luke Skywalker (Throne Room Duel)
Anakin Skywalker (Secret Ceremony)
Obi-Wan Kenobi (Acklay Battle)
Chewbacca (Munock Hunt)
Darth Tyranus (Geonosian Escape)
Boba Fett (Pit of Carkoon)
Snowtrooper (The Battle of Hoth)

Think E3
September 11, 2003 | 10:50 PM EST | Bill

Interesting… very interesting. From time to time a surprise appears in our “news” box. We got this one tonight. It is an awsome logo–which is also an official E3 logo…our benefactor could not say which company produced it. It certainly makes you wonder what’s to come.

Action Figure Collector’s Guide… Part 9
September 11, 2003 | 4:15 PM EST | Jair

Figure’s Name: Ben (Obi-Wan) Kenobi

Released: 1978

Type of Cardbacks: SW 12 Back, SW 21 Back, ESB, ROTJ (two cards).

Estimated Price: SW 12 Back=$430.00, SW 21 Back=$170.00, ESB=$110.00, ROTJ=$53.00, LOOSE=$22.00

You can view the the figure by clicking HERE. It’s th one on the right.

Even though Obi Wan appears only in A New Hope in human form, the figure was released that way in all other Cardbacks.

There is a variation of color for this figure, you can find it with white or grey hair.

Just as the Vader and Luke figures, this one was available with Telescoping lightsaber in the very beginig.

First Look – Biker Scout Bust
September 11, 2003 | 3:11 PM EST | Mark B

The Official Star Wars Website has a story today about the new Biker Scout Bust that will be out in January from Gentle Giant. The story also has information about the second of the Koto Clone Trooper that will now be released in the USA thanks to Dark Horse comics.

When They Say Value, They Mean VALUE!!!!
September 10, 2003 | 8:32 PM EST | Bill

The best Star Wars deal of the year, maybe in several years is at Wal-Mart. The figure value packs (with 1 clone wars figure, and 1 clone color variation) are really $4.77 at Wal-Mart– that’s right 2 figures for $4.77 at REGULAR retail!

Action Figure Collector’s Guide… Part 8
September 10, 2003 | 11:44 AM EST | Jair

Figure’s Name: Han Solo

Released: 1978

Type of Cardbacks: SW 12 Back, SW 21 Back, ESB, ROTJ (Two Pics).

Estimated Price: SW 12 Back=$690.00, SW 21 Back=$580.00, ESB=$350.00, ROTJ=$175.00, LOOSE=$38.00

You can view the the figure by clicking HERE. It’s the one on the left.

This figure has an important variation. It was first made with a small head, which was later replaced for the larger, George Harrison like head. A few small head Solos made it to Empire cards, this because of unsold figures in Star Wars cards that were returned to Kenner. You can view the variation in the bottom-left corner of the picture.

This figure came out with two different Jedi cards.

Jango Fett Blasters Now on Sale!
September 10, 2003 | 11:05 AM EST | Mark B

Master Replicas now has the set of Jango Fett Blasters on sale. Order Now from Master Replicas, there are only 1500 available and over half have already been ordered.

Clone Wars Value Packs Really $4.77 at Wal-Mart
September 10, 2003 | 8:28 AM EST | Bill

Yak Reader Toymaster scored the new Clone Wars Value Packs. Here’s his report:

“Just picked up all three Clone Wars Value Packs at my local Wal-Mart in Nashville, Tennessee. The ARC Trooper is packed with a Clone Trooper; Anakin comes with a Clone Trooper Lieutenant; and Yoda comes with a Clone Trooper Commander. These figures are all on double-wide cards, not in clam shells like the K-Mart packs from last year. The card backs are all the same. The best part is the two-packs are only $4.77 each.”

Now Arriving YELLOW Clone Pack
September 10, 2003 | 12:27 AM EST | Bill

Yak Reader Moonbase7 contacted us tonight to report finding the Yellow Clone variant of the Clone Trooper 3 packs at his local Target in Northern California. Remember there’s still a red variant after this one.

Cheap Figures At KB
September 9, 2003 | 10:18 PM EST | Bill

This just in from Yak Reader Shannon:

“We have the Saga line of figures here in Columbus, Ohio at KB Toys for $1.99 and the Saga value 4-packs for 9.99. Not bad!”

Pre-Order From Entertainment Earth
September 9, 2003 | 1:44 PM EST | Mark

Be sure to check our our Star Wars Super-Section for an always
up-to-date and comprehensive list of the newest Hasbro Star Wars items:http://www.entertainmentearth.com/spotlight.asp?themename=Star+Wars+Super%2DSection%21

More new Hasbro Star Wars items have just been posted and are available for pre-order now:

Clone Wars Assortment 4 (Item# HS84845D, $77.99)
http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HS84845D
Star Wars Clone Wars Multi-Pack Assortment 3. Case of 6 figure packs includes: 2x Spider Droid (NEW), 1x Durge with Speeder Bike, 1x Clone Trooper with Speeder Bike, 1x Army of the Republic Clone Trooper 3-Pack, 1x Separatist Forces Droid Army 3-Pack (subject to change). Note: The color of Clone Troopers in the Clone Trooper Army sets are shipped at random. Colors pictured may or may not be available and are subject to change without notice. We do not accept orders for color variations.

Yoda & Anakin Lightsabers (Item# HS84751AB, $53.99)
http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HS84751AB
New for 2003! Star Wars Electronic Lightsabers Assortment with new
vertical packaging! Includes two individually packaged lightsabers. 1x Yoda – Clone Wars and 1x Anakin – Clone Wars (subject to change).

KBToys Sale
September 9, 2003 | 7:45 AM EST | Mark

Action Figures are $2.49 each plus here are some other deals..
Jedi StarFighter with Obi-Wan $14.99
12″ Clone Trooper (Red and Yellow) $12.99 each
Jedi Starfighter $9.99
25th Anniversary Sets $4.99
Plus more…

Here is a nice coupon for KBToys.com…

$10 off $50
coupon code SEARSKBTOY – expires December 31

Here are a couple of things that you may be interested in….
LEGO Star Wars: AT-AT Walker $99.99
R2-D2 Interactive Astrometric Droid $69.99

Want To See Separatists Costumes In E3?
September 8, 2003 | 8:20 PM EST | Bill

The Official Site’s Hyperspace section has updated with some very nice pics as part of today’s set diary. If you haven’t subscribed to Hyperspace, this might be the time to do it, especially if you’re a customizer and would like to “have” some E3 figures early!

The NZ Connexion
September 7, 2003 | 1:40 PM EST | Bill

This just in from This just in from SWNZ:
We have a growing, permanent section, within the SWNZ website, called “the NZ Connexion”, which tells the stories of New Zealand contributors to the Star Wars Universe (actors and artists). Amongst the New Zealand actors to appear in the Star Wars films is Bodie Taylor, who played the maturing clones in Episode 2, and who has just recently returned to New Zealand, having completed filming in Sydney for Episode 3. StarWars.com confirms that he returns in the role of “a clone”. Despite the fact that his Star Wars career spans two films, not much information is available about Bodie on the internet (even the official SW website itself has a fairly lightweight biography).

Well, we found a pretty reliable source of information from which to generate Bodie’s biography: the article on the man behind the clonetrooper mask is written by a guest contributor, Bodie Taylor himself.

Click here to check out SWNZ or here to check out the Bodie Taylor article

Heads Up
September 5, 2003 | 8:26 PM EST | Bill

Yak Reader Iceburgh sent in this report:

Just to let people know who had problems trying to get the bounty hunter on Tuesday. If you got kicked off, at the last step of ordering, when you confirm you payment, and didn’t get confirmation screen. There is a chance you credit card has gotten billed. Mine got billed twice, because I retried it since I did not get confirmation screen. Just a heads up!

UPDATE:

Yak Reader Dave had the same experience:

Same thing happened with mine – double billing and two orders. I am hoping I get 4 of them instead of the 2 (limit) I tried to order again the next day and it said I had ordered my limit. I will let you know what happens ie: charge reversal ( refund ) or whether I get the 4 Fetts.

Action Figure Collector’s Guide… Part 7 (Finally)
September 5, 2003 | 6:47 PM EST | Jair

Figure’s Name: Stormtrooper

Released: 1978

Type of Cardbacks: SW 12 Back, SW 21 Back, ESB, ROTJ (Two Pics.), POTF.

Estimated Price: SW 12 Back=$330.00, SW 21 Back=$170.00, ESB=$98.00, ROTJ=$60.00, POTF=$275.00 LOOSE=$18.00

You can view the the figure by clicking HERE. It’s the one on the left.

The Stormtrooper is a fan favorite action figure, and it was available almost everywhere and anytime during the Star Wars hype of the late 70’s and early 80’s.

Update from Master Replicas
September 4, 2003 | 9:43 AM EST | Mark B

I received an email this morning from Master Replicas with an update on a couple of their products. The signature edition Luke Skywalker saber is now SOLD OUT. The Mace Windu Limited Edition (without signature) is down to only about 10% left (roughly 175 of them). The Mace Windu is definitely on my MUST HAVE list. Visit Master Replicas to order today!

D & S Newsfeed
September 4, 2003 | 8:46 AM EST | Bill

This just in from D & S Toys.com!
New Items In Stock!

New Armada Powerlinx, Overload, Tidal Wave, Hot Shot, more…
Bounty Hunter 4-Pack with Swoop
Classic Star Wars T-Shirts
Indiana Jones Toys
Trek Exclusive 3-Pack
Gold Shirt Kirk Exclusive
Enterprise Trip Tucker
Classic Enterprise
Classic Phaser
Jango Fett, Clone Trooper, Boba Fett, Biker Scout Masks for Halloween
Star Tours G2-9T, Disney Star Wars Parade Vehicle
Throne Room Vader & Luke
12″ Leia & Speeder Bike, A-Wing
Unleashed Padme, Tryanus, Luke
Simpsons Series 13
Tie Fighter with Figure Exclusive

Dutch Star Wars Con
September 3, 2003 | 8:19 PM EST | Bill

STAR WARS CONVENTION IN THE NETHERLANDS
Unique public appearance by Star Wars producer and director

Nieuwegein, The Netherlands, September 3 2003 – On Saturday, September 27 2003 the Dutch Star Wars Fan Club presents in association with eBay.nl the ECHO BASE CHARITY CON 2003. All proceeds of this event will be donated to the Dutch branch of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a foundation that grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength, and joy.

To make this event as successful as possible, a large number of cast- and crew members of the five Star Wars films will travel to The Netherlands, amongst which two absolute legends in Star Wars history: two-time Oscar nominated producer GARY KURTZ (producer of Star Wars and The Empire Strikes Back) and Saturn Award winning director IRVIN KERSHNER (The Empire Strikes Back, and other blockbusters such as Bond-film Never Say Never Again and Robocop 2). Mr. Kershner has never attended such an event before making this a world premiere!

Next to these very special guests, the following people will also attend the Echo Base Charity Con 2003:

PETER DIAMOND (stunt coordinator on Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi), PAUL BLAKE (Greedo in Star Wars), RUSTY GOFFE (various roles in Star Wars), JOHN HOLLIS (Lobot in The Empire Strikes Back), KENNETH COLLEY (Admiral Piett in The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi), MICHAEL CARTER (Bib Fortuna in Return of the Jedi), JEROME BLAKE (performed no less than six parts in The Phantom Menace and can also be seen in Attack of the Clones), ALAN RUSCOE (multiple parts in The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones), and JOHN COPPINGER (worked behind and in front of the camera in Return of the Jedi and The Phantom Menace).

These guests have not only appeared in the Star Wars films but can also be seen in films like The Fifth Element, The Mummy and the James Bond-, Indiana Jones- and Harry Potter movies.

Fans can meet the guests, ask them questions, pose for photos and get their autographs. There will also be a wide variety of merchandise for sale, a charity auction with lots of exclusive items, a costume contest and lots more.

The exclusive Convention poster was made by official Star Wars artists Joe Corroney and Jeff Carlisle.

The event will be held on September 27, 2003 at the “NBC Blokhoeve” in Nieuwegein (near Utrecht), and is opened from 10.00 to 17.00. The location is within a short distance of Amsterdam. For more info, the latest news, travel directions etc. please visit www.echobase.nl/con/english or e-mail info@swfanclub.nl

The Fan Club Phone Number
September 3, 2003 | 8:17 PM EST | Bill

Yak Reader Bill found the phone number for the Fan Club to order your Silver Fetts if you’re having technical difficulties on the net:

“I just wanted to let everyone know that, it might be easier to order the Silver Fett’s by calling 1-425-289-0060. This is the new Star Wars Insider hotline. It only took me a couple of minutes to order my 2 Fett’s.”

Jedi Warriors 4-Pack
September 3, 2003 | 8:47 AM EST | Mark

You can now pre-order the 3 3/4″ Jedi Warriors 4-Pack at Amazon.com. Price is $19.99

Deluxe Durge With Speederbike
September 3, 2003 | 12:31 AM EST | Joseph

POTF2.com has pics of the upcoming Deluxe Durge with Speederbike. You can check them out by clicking here

Not All Amazon Screen Scene Orders Canceled
September 2, 2003 | 9:11 PM EST | Bill

Yak Reader Nick sent in this report:

I e-mailed Amazon about my screen scene 2 order and this was their response. A bit different from what other people have run into. I placed my initial order on 8/21 so maybe it’s only more recent orders that have been screwed.
________________________________________
Thank you for writing to us at Amazon.com.

First, let me apologize for any frustration that may have resulted
from this order.

After reviewing your order, I see that we still expect to receive
these items. If we are notified by our supplier that these items are
no longer available, we will contact you via e-mail. Due to the
delay in shipping these orders, I have upgraded your shipping to Two-
Day Delivery at no additional charge.

I hope this information is helpful. We appreciate your business and
thank you for shopping at Amazon.com.

Best regards,

Silver Fett Day
September 2, 2003 | 9:07 PM EST | Bill

Today’s the day to order your Silver Fett from the Fan Club. Yak Reader FHD sent in this report about his efforts:

They opened ordering for the Silver Boba Fett today. I started trying to get one at 12:00 PST, and it took me an hour and a half, but I finally got Pazio to take my order for 2 Boba Fett figures. The system is infuriating to use. You have to log in, and then go back to the main page. Then 3 times it booted me off at the last step. Anyhow – keep trying, you will get in.

From the reports we’ve been getting the site is running a little slow with the initial rush, but they are still taking orders. Here’s the link to order. Remember you have to be a fan club member and there is a limit of 2.

Carded Silver Clone Trooper
September 2, 2003 | 8:32 AM EST | Mark

Check out this thread over at POTF2.com for some nice carded shots of the upcoming Silver edition of the Clone Trooper.

New Yoda Carded Images
September 2, 2003 | 8:30 AM EST | Mark

Check out This thread over at POTF2.com for great images of the holiday Yoda carded.

They’re Back!
September 1, 2003 | 11:33 AM EST | Bill

This just in from Star Construx:

StarconstruX is back in business ….. after a break of 1/2 year we present a page update and a new strategy. There are new figures made by Lars Intemann and Harald Flügge for example 3 different Rancor Keeper, AT-AT Driver, Ewok and Clonetrooper. Markus Gerlach made Jabbas Throne Room and the Arena from Episode2 and there are new
“Visitors Customs” for example “Arrival of the Emperor” and finally our new strategy: After a rest period of 1/2 of a year the StarconstruX team created a new concept for the internet appearance of StarconstruX.

Finally, after a lot of requests we will open the “Material” section of our site. This part of the site will introduce to you the materials that we use for our dioramas and we will try to answer the most frequently asked questions on the basis of samples. The biggest change is the fact that you won`t be able to order dioramas anymore !

We know that some of you will be pissed about that ……… but we would like create dioramas that we want to build ………. not the 16th Executer XXL diorama and not the 12th Mos Eislay diorama. Of course all open orders and confirmed request retain their validity.

All single steps of the building phase of our new dioramas will be shown weekly (update every Sunday) on our site. Of course you will be able to buy all finished dioramas ….. you will find more infos about that with every new diorama on our site.

We think that this new concept is going to be an add-on because we will have the time for completely new dioramas and we will be able to answer your questions, solve your problems and take care of your wishes.

Check their site out here! Also we have some of their dioramas, including the new Jabba’s Palace in our diorama section here.