Optimus Prime — still going strong.

Art, Toys

Transformers were invented in Japan by Takara Tomy sometime in the ’80s. I played with transformers religiously in my childhood (that never really ended), and I am delighted to see that the tradition of worshipping spacefaring, sentient super awesome robots is a long-lasting one. I never would have thought that in my adult years I would see little kids playing with the most popular toys of the ’80s. I really wish I’d saved some of the very well-made Transformer action figures my mother bought for me with her hard-earned money. I remember having one that transformed into some sort of space-gun with lights in it. Naturally, I disassembled it to take a look inside. My mum threw a hissy fit unlike any I’d ever seen before. Now, she just accepts that I’m brilliant in my own, slightly retarded way.

optimusprimediecast

Recently, I’ve opened my eyes to premium quality die cast collectible Transformers. They are sculptural art, really. On some models, you can open the front to expose the inner workings of the robot. The details are stunning! If anyone says I own toys, I’ll just refer to the ¥88000 (Japanese Yen) price tag. What toy costs nearly NZ$ 1000?! I have to say, just looking at one makes my neurons fire serotonin until I’m down on the floor looking for my credit card. Shut up and take my money!