WIP XM Studios Factory Production Pics!!!

[loricstone]

Hey everyone, I don't recall any pics being posted of the WIP pics of the next three characters to be shipped in the next 4 months from XM Studios. Since many don't visit Facebook, I though this would be a great place to get the excitement rolling along. Is that a Magneto I see????

http://i62.tinypic.com/28bvbpk.jpg
http://i57.tinypic.com/30rl0y9.jpg
http://i59.tinypic.com/29y48e9.jpg

I can't stress enough how huge Hulk is peeps!! He is awesome!!!
http://i61.tinypic.com/2a68h6w.jpg
http://i59.tinypic.com/25je4go.jpg
http://i57.tinypic.com/ddouq1.jpg
http://i59.tinypic.com/se9934.jpg

[nbr3bagshotrow]

Which one of those people is in charge of QC?

[madmanny]

More please

[loricstone]

http://i58.tinypic.com/2en3w3c.jpg
http://i62.tinypic.com/fkcndi.jpg
http://i62.tinypic.com/2958n6s.jpg
http://i61.tinypic.com/2rnj52c.jpg

I hope XM posts more future WIP factory production pics. I, like some, enjoy seeing the development process of statue production! Grats and a thank you to the folks working on bringing awesome collectibles to the home!

I stare and appreciate my Captain America and Hulk statues everyday! The paint apps are so rich and vibrant on XM products! A sight to behold. Next up....IM MK 42 to start trickling into homes the beginning of next month.

[DynamicMenace]

Hey everyone, I don't recall any pics being posted of the WIP pics of the next three characters to be shipped in the next 4 months from XM Studios. Since many don't visit Facebook, I though this would be a great place to get the excitement rolling along. Is that a Magneto I see????

http://i62.tinypic.com/28bvbpk.jpg
http://i57.tinypic.com/30rl0y9.jpg
http://i59.tinypic.com/29y48e9.jpg

I can't stress enough how huge Hulk is peeps!! He is awesome!!!
http://i61.tinypic.com/2a68h6w.jpg
http://i59.tinypic.com/25je4go.jpg
http://i57.tinypic.com/ddouq1.jpg
http://i59.tinypic.com/se9934.jpg

Which one of those people is in charge of QC?

what i want to know is, what is that Boba Fett head with bunny ears go to? its in the second from the bottom image in the bin right above the one that has the BW torsos in.

[keewan]

what i want to know is, what is that Boba Fett head with bunny ears go to? its in the second from the bottom image in the bin right above the one that has the BW torsos in.

2nd pic from top also seem to show SS GH or KH, no wonder that one came out ok...

[StatueArt]

It shows all the painstaking hand-made process.....:redface:

[SONICobra]

nice to see mags in the works, hulk looks huge!

[StatueArt]

nice to see mags in the works, hulk looks huge!

Its 23kg, can you imagine?:redface: I had a hard time lifting it:doh!:

[DynamicMenace]

2nd pic from top also seem to show SS GH or KH, no wonder that one came out ok...

you do realize that SS and XM (not to mention other companies) use the same factories to make their statues right?

this factory very well could be Ownage.
im pretty sure thats def not the XM guys themselves.

[keewan]

you do realize that SS and XM (not to mention other companies) use the same factories to make their statues right?

this factory very well could be Ownage.
im pretty sure thats def not the XM guys themselves.

I know :p That the difference is XM check their statues before sending it out.

[kevin2323]

you do realize that SS and XM (not to mention other companies) use the same factories to make their statues right?

this factory very well could be Ownage.
im pretty sure thats def not the XM guys themselves.

Same factory but different quality control. ...very different

[khrisc]

VERY..very different..LOL

[built2shred]

what i want to know is, what is that Boba Fett head with bunny ears go to? its in the second from the bottom image in the bin right above the one that has the BW torsos in.

:laugh:

Maybe Disney execs get a Boba Fett with Mouse Ears as a bonus :)

[EnShinNoi]

That Hulk looks half scale next to that woman :laugh:

[Thor57]

I thought Mr. Sosa said one of the differences is that the XM crew go to the factory various times during production to check up on things. Not sure if SS does that. I'm not saying they dont, I just dont know if they do or not.

[khrisc]

I thought Mr. Sosa said one of the differences is that the XM crew go to the factory various times during production to check up on things. Not sure if SS does that. I'm not saying they dont, I just dont know if they do or not.

Geez..SS earns a lot they should at least be able to hire people to go to the factories to check..how hard is it to QC cross eyes LOL

[StatueArt]

Heard XM even conduct courses for the factory painters to ensure they apply the same techniques or something like that?

When you are small, you are always more focus and produce better end products I guess:confused:

[jye318]

Maybe xm pay more lol

[Spidey976]

So many questions that have already been answered ...lol. Yes XM pays their workers more than the going rate, but they only use one factory. They also have sent their master painters over to the factories to teach the workers how to achieve the same results on their production pieces as they did on their prototypes. Now, what impresses me even more is that when asked by the factory workers if they could use the same techniques on products from other companies, XM said to for it. So yeah the GHulk owners may easily have benefited from the XM techniques. XM has the best attitude when it comes to this one; they want everyone to have AMAZING collectible no matter what company makes them, and they are will to share their techniques to do that. Finally, if I am not mistaken, EVERY piece is sent back to the XM facility in Singapore where it is inspected, and if their are any paint issues an XM master fixes them right then and there. All these awesome attitudes and XMs smaller size allow them to bring these amazing pieces to their fans, and thier general attitude may very well raise the quality of other companies as well. Honestly, I have never heard of a company allowing their workers to improve the products of their competitors just so that the customers as a whole could get a better product. All in all XM is all full of awesome.

[risingstar]

So many questions that have already been answered ...lol. Yes XM pays their workers more than the going rate, but they only use one factory. They also have sent their master painters over to the factories to teach the workers how to achieve the same results on their production pieces as they did on their prototypes. Now, what impresses me even more is that when asked by the factory workers if they could use the same techniques on products from other companies, XM said to for it. So yeah the GHulk owners may easily have benefited from the XM techniques. XM has the best attitude when it comes to this one; they want everyone to have AMAZING collectible no matter what company makes them, and they are will to share their techniques to do that. Finally, if I am not mistaken, EVERY piece is sent back to the XM facility in Singapore where it is inspected, and if their are any paint issues an XM master fixes them right then and there. All these awesome attitudes and XMs smaller size allow them to bring these amazing pieces to their fans, and thier general attitude may very well raise the quality of other companies as well. Honestly, I have never heard of a company allowing their workers to improve the products of their competitors just so that the customers as a whole could get a better product. All in all XM is all full of awesome.



While this all sounds great, the proof will ultimately be found in the pudding. We all want production pieces to match the prototype. After 5-10 XM pieces, I think we'll get a better sense of where things truly are, and should consistent higher quality turn out to be the case, we'll all benefit.

[risingstar]

Edit :)

[AC_808]

Wait, I missed a step. How'd we get to Wonder Woman?

[AC_808]

Oh wait, did you mean Black Widow?

[Spidey976]

While this all sounds great, the proof will ultimately be found in the pudding. We all want production pieces to match the prototype. After 5-10 XM pieces, I think we'll get a better sense of where things truly are, and should consistent higher quality turn out to be the case, we'll all benefit.

I do agree that the proof will only come out over time, but this info came from the guys at XM and Erick... So this is what they are committed to. They have the philosophy that it is better to be good thank big, and that is encouraging.

[Python]

Is that Boba Fett wearing bunny ears??

[KayOrzz]

It's by Fool's Paradise. Boba Keiko.

[Python]

It's by Fool's Paradise. Boba Keiko.


I just looked it up.... It's even weirder than I imagined!

[XM STUDIOS]

So many questions that have already been answered ...lol. Yes XM pays their workers more than the going rate, but they only use one factory. They also have sent their master painters over to the factories to teach the workers how to achieve the same results on their production pieces as they did on their prototypes. Now, what impresses me even more is that when asked by the factory workers if they could use the same techniques on products from other companies, XM said to for it. So yeah the GHulk owners may easily have benefited from the XM techniques. XM has the best attitude when it comes to this one; they want everyone to have AMAZING collectible no matter what company makes them, and they are will to share their techniques to do that. Finally, if I am not mistaken, EVERY piece is sent back to the XM facility in Singapore where it is inspected, and if their are any paint issues an XM master fixes them right then and there. All these awesome attitudes and XMs smaller size allow them to bring these amazing pieces to their fans, and thier general attitude may very well raise the quality of other companies as well. Honestly, I have never heard of a company allowing their workers to improve the products of their competitors just so that the customers as a whole could get a better product. All in all XM is all full of awesome.

We do not take other companies as a competitors . We look at what they are good in and learn from them . We also offer to exchange our experience with Iron studio and ARH studio. This industry can only bloom when everyone is doing at their best.

[DynamicMenace]

It's by Fool's Paradise. Boba Keiko.

yeah, i knew it was something like that.

[built2shred]

WTF !!! :hilarious:

I seriously doubt Disney is licensing this stuff :)


http://www.lacitedesnuages.be/boutique/images_produits/fpk3koa-z.jpg

http://truteknologyfiles.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/dsc03034.jpg

[Spidey976]

We do not take other companies as a competitors . We look at what they are good in and learn from them . We also offer to exchange our experience with Iron studio and ARH studio. This industry can only bloom when everyone is doing at their best.

See that is why you are so full of awesome:buttrock:. Honestly, I really do hope to see everyone elivate their craft based on this philosophy.

[XM STUDIOS]

See that is why you are so full of awesome:buttrock:. Honestly, I really do hope to see everyone elivate their craft based on this philosophy.

But sad that not all companies think like we do. :(

[built2shred]

We do not take other companies as a competitors . We look at what they are good in and learn from them . We also offer to exchange our experience with Iron studio and ARH studio. This industry can only bloom when everyone is doing at their best.

Dude statue collecting 101, having the ability to say neener neener neener my statue is better then yours :)

I guess your philosophy is more uplifting, although not as much fun.....

[Spidey976]

But sad that not all companies think like we do. :(

This is true. Have you been getting much push back from other companies???

[XM STUDIOS]

This is true. Have you been getting much push back from other companies???

Haha it something that we should not be discussing here.

[Bullseye]

The Hulk looks huge. Is that 1/3 scale?

[loricstone]

We do not take other companies as a competitors . We look at what they are good in and learn from them . We also offer to exchange our experience with Iron studio and ARH studio. This industry can only bloom when everyone is doing at their best.

Well if you could share how to package statues the way XM does it that would help them even much more. Lord knows they need it.

BTW, speaking of packaging....XM asked people on their facebook page about trying to find even better ways of packaging future statues. Any more info or decisions on that?

I think the packaging is fine as it is...but interested to see if XM is planning any future changes. Thanks.

[Spidey976]

Dude statue collecting 101, having the ability to say neener neener neener my statue is better then yours :)

I guess your philosophy is more uplifting, although not as much fun.....

Smarter even. Think about it. While some of the die hard XM and SSC fans have been taking runs at each other XM itself has stayed out of it. They say nothing bad about other companies, and burn NO bridges, and don't do anything to alienate even the diehard SSC faithful. Smart if you ask me.

[built2shred]

The Hulk looks huge. Is that 1/3 scale?

It's 1/4 scale.... based on specs Marvel gave XM...

[Bullseye]

Maybe the girl is small but it looks much bigger than previous 1/4 Hulks released.

[keewan]

The Hulk looks huge. Is that 1/3 scale?

No, it's 1/4, but it's standing up, that woman is just tiny, it's about the same height as Hulk Maquette without the height of the base. It is really great in person.

Here is a pic of 38" 3 year old for comparison.

http://i856.photobucket.com/albums/ab128/SilentMonkee/Misc/WP_20140818_031.jpg

[loricstone]

Maybe the girl is small but it looks much bigger than previous 1/4 Hulks released.

He is huge...even bigger than Gladiator Hulk from SS. GH is standing pretty much upright while the XM Hulk is bent at the knees. He is definitely bigger and wider in girth too. And heavier as well.

If anyone sees this guy in person they will have a much different impression than what they have seen from pics.

I don't know why that is...but it just is. In fact, I am going to take a couple pics of XM Hulk directly facing off against SS GH....just for size purposes. Keep in mind...XM Hulk is standing on a relatively flat base and is crouched.

[XM STUDIOS]

He is huge...even bigger than Gladiator Hulk from SS. GH is standing pretty much upright while the XM Hulk is bent at the knees. He is definitely bigger and wider in girth too. And heavier as well.

If anyone sees this guy in person they will have a much different impression than what they have seen from pics.

I don't know why that is...but it just is.

This hulk is just one statue that you need to own it to love it . The size is correct at 1/4 .

[XM STUDIOS]

Well if you could share how to package statues the way XM does it that would help them even much more. Lord knows they need it.

BTW, speaking of packaging....XM asked people on their facebook page about trying to find even better ways of packaging future statues. Any more info or decisions on that?

I think the packaging is fine as it is...but interested to see if XM is planning any future changes. Thanks.

Seem like everyone like the grey form we have .So we will keep to it.

[Demona]

Does Hulk have a set size when "hulked out"? And what size would that be?

I always thought he could kinda grow to various sizes (within reason), but that comes from various artists taking liberty with him.

[Thor57]

No, it's 1/4, but it's standing up, that woman is just tiny, it's about the same height as Hulk Maquette without the height of the base. It is really great in person.

Here is a pic of 38" 3 year old for comparison.

http://i856.photobucket.com/albums/ab128/SilentMonkee/Misc/WP_20140818_031.jpg

That poor boy.........Hulk is about to punch him in the head.

[loricstone]

This hulk is just one statue that you need to own it to love it . The size is correct at 1/4 .

You are right! I do own it.....see!!!!!:D

http://i62.tinypic.com/2rxtd94.jpg
http://i59.tinypic.com/28wl3r9.jpg
http://i59.tinypic.com/whntzc.jpg
http://i57.tinypic.com/2ujl9uf.jpg

HINT HINT!!!! XM....TF G1 license = Superior Products.....please!!!!!
http://i59.tinypic.com/27x3qdt.jpg

[loricstone]

More factory production pics from XM Studios themselves!!!

http://i60.tinypic.com/a0xyqw.jpg
http://i62.tinypic.com/2zi39t4.jpg
http://i62.tinypic.com/1z71o5y.jpg
http://i59.tinypic.com/256bjvd.jpg
http://i62.tinypic.com/oumebp.jpg

Dare I say...even the painter is excited about Magneto. Yeah, I'd be gushing with joy too if I was close to it.

http://i60.tinypic.com/28tdend.jpg

[Stiler]

Man, I wish more companies but that kind of quality and sharing behind them like XM does.

Wish I could afford them too lol!

800 bucks is just too much for my wallet for a single statue :(, but it's very nice to see XM keeping quality a top priority and sharing their techniques with other statue makers.

[wizard-comics]

Man, I wish more companies but that kind of quality and sharing behind them like XM does.

Wish I could afford them too lol!

800 bucks is just too much for my wallet for a single statue :(, but it's very nice to see XM keeping quality a top priority and sharing their techniques with other statue makers.

X2 - nice to see what goes on behind the scenes

[w00tw00t]

love these type of post. more pics plz =)

[AC_808]

Damn! It's exciting to see Mag's throne getting painted. Makes it even that much harder to wait.

[ZKULPTOR]

So many questions that have already been answered ...lol. Yes XM pays their workers more than the going rate, but they only use one factory. They also have sent their master painters over to the factories to teach the workers how to achieve the same results on their production pieces as they did on their prototypes. Now, what impresses me even more is that when asked by the factory workers if they could use the same techniques on products from other companies, XM said to for it. So yeah the GHulk owners may easily have benefited from the XM techniques. XM has the best attitude when it comes to this one; they want everyone to have AMAZING collectible no matter what company makes them, and they are will to share their techniques to do that. Finally, if I am not mistaken, EVERY piece is sent back to the XM facility in Singapore where it is inspected, and if their are any paint issues an XM master fixes them right then and there. All these awesome attitudes and XMs smaller size allow them to bring these amazing pieces to their fans, and thier general attitude may very well raise the quality of other companies as well. Honestly, I have never heard of a company allowing their workers to improve the products of their competitors just so that the customers as a whole could get a better product. All in all XM is all full of awesome.
XM indeed pays more to the the workers, I plan to do the same with my own pre-painted product. It is the least you can do for these amazing talented people.
And yes the owners of XM are amazing painters ans share all their techniques with the factory painters, plus they pay them extra to keep the same team, so quality is consistent across the board, I met one of the factory owners and he LOVES these guys, and why wouldn't he? they take care of him and his crew.
This is why XM's product is the same as the paint master prototypes in quality or even better, I kid you not.
And this is why I believe XM will be the biggest thing to happen to statues since Bowen started this whole industry...believe it... and it is a good thing as it may force others to try to keep up.

And yes they allow the painters to do stuff with the same techniques for other companies...that's how cool this company and its owners are. There are other philanthropic things this awesome company does for others but it is not something they like to talk about so I won't either :)
Trust me your statues are in good hands, plus there's so many more new licenses (Some are HUGE some not so big but well established) coming up that it will blow your socks off... :)

[Spidey976]

XM indeed pays more to the the workers, I plan to do the same with my own pre-painted product. It is the least you can do for these amazing talented people.
And yes the owners of XM are amazing painters ans share all their techniques with the factory painters, plus they pay them extra to keep the same team, so quality is consistent across the board, I met one of the factory owners and he LOVES these guys, and why wouldn't he? they take care of him and his crew.
This is why XM's product is the same as the paint master prototypes in quality or even better, I kid you not.
And this is why I believe XM will be the biggest thing to happen to statues since Bowen started this whole industry...believe it... and it is a good thing as it may force others to try to keep up.

And yes they allow the painters to do stuff with the same techniques for other companies...that's how cool this company and its owners are. There are other philanthropic things this awesome company does for others but it is not something they like to talk about so I won't either :)
Trust me your statues are in good hands, plus there's so many more new licenses (Some are HUGE some not so big but well established) coming up that it will blow your socks off... :)

Lol ... I got most of my info from you Star Lord...lol. When you posted right around the Singapore Con... lol. Honestly, I have become an ubber fan.... I just wish I had an ubber fans wallet... lol

[built2shred]

I plan to do the same with my own pre-painted product


Hold the Tuna Boats !!!!!!

What do you mean by your own pre-painted products?!? I thought you were only doing kits, Need more info !!!! :)

[ZKULPTOR]

Lol ... I got most of my info from you Star Lord...lol. When you posted right around the Singapore Con... lol. Honestly, I have become an ubber fan.... I just wish I had an ubber fans wallet... lol
I am your fan brother :)
Hold the Tuna Boats !!!!!!

What do you mean by your own pre-painted products?!? I thought you were only doing kits, Need more info !!!! :)
ye, this is has taken a few years but things are perfectly aligned for this to happen :):muahaha:

[Sharkey]

Edited

Trust me your statues are in good hands, plus there's so many more new licenses (Some are HUGE some not so big but well established) coming up that it will blow your socks off... :)

Darn it Eric!!!! Don't be taunting us! I had just about forgotten about that stuff (made the waiting sooooo much easier), but now it is right up in my face again :doh!:.

ye, this is has taken a few years but things are perfectly aligned for this to happen :):muahaha:

OMG! I can't wait to see this! I was sad at first because I do not have the time/skills for kits, but hearing that you are doing painted pieces!!! OMG :flash:...

[Webb]

Which one of those people is in charge of QC?

http://messageinabottleblog.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/old_chinese_man1_a.jpg

[Bobfrog]

XM indeed pays more to the the workers, I plan to do the same with my own pre-painted product. It is the least you can do for these amazing talented people.
And yes the owners of XM are amazing painters ans share all their techniques with the factory painters, plus they pay them extra to keep the same team, so quality is consistent across the board, I met one of the factory owners and he LOVES these guys, and why wouldn't he? they take care of him and his crew.
This is why XM's product is the same as the paint master prototypes in quality or even better, I kid you not.
And this is why I believe XM will be the biggest thing to happen to statues since Bowen started this whole industry...believe it... and it is a good thing as it may force others to try to keep up.

And yes they allow the painters to do stuff with the same techniques for other companies...that's how cool this company and its owners are. There are other philanthropic things this awesome company does for others but it is not something they like to talk about so I won't either :)
Trust me your statues are in good hands, plus there's so many more new licenses (Some are HUGE some not so big but well established) coming up that it will blow your socks off... :)

Not only consistent but if they keep the same team then as they go on you could hope that they even get better and better so having a higher ES# might be a good thing (at least I hope as I'm getting a high # n mine).

Very excited to see what you got Erick. Painted or unpainted I'll be picking up what I can.

And you gotta look into that Aquaman throne!

[kirthew]

XM indeed pays more to the the workers, I plan to do the same with my own pre-painted product. It is the least you can do for these amazing talented people.
And yes the owners of XM are amazing painters ans share all their techniques with the factory painters, plus they pay them extra to keep the same team, so quality is consistent across the board, I met one of the factory owners and he LOVES these guys, and why wouldn't he? they take care of him and his crew.
This is why XM's product is the same as the paint master prototypes in quality or even better, I kid you not.
And this is why I believe XM will be the biggest thing to happen to statues since Bowen started this whole industry...believe it... and it is a good thing as it may force others to try to keep up.

And yes they allow the painters to do stuff with the same techniques for other companies...that's how cool this company and its owners are. There are other philanthropic things this awesome company does for others but it is not something they like to talk about so I won't either :)
Trust me your statues are in good hands, plus there's so many more new licenses (Some are HUGE some not so big but well established) coming up that it will blow your socks off... :)

If they are really wanting to change the industry like Bowen did, then I think they need to get a wholesaler in the states and cut down the shipping cost from Singapore.

I would be very interested in the statues if they were not going to cost me $600 out of pocket. That is just me, perhaps I am wrong.

[risingstar]

The shipping costs for the Thanos alone could run over $300, or so I've been told.

[JorgeLoyo]

If they are really wanting to change the industry like Bowen did, then I think they need to get a wholesaler in the states and cut down the shipping cost from Singapore.

I would be very interested in the statues if they were not going to cost me $600 out of pocket. That is just me, perhaps I am wrong.

I really don't think they need to do anything different from what they are doing atm, ALL their pieces are selling out (quite fast), a wholesaler in the states would be great for US buyers but with an ES that will always be lower than 1000 they really don't "need" to broaden their market imho

[kirthew]

I really don't think they need to do anything different from what they are doing atm, ALL their pieces are selling out (quite fast), a wholesaler in the states would be great for US buyers but with an ES that will always be lower than 1000 they really don't "need" to broaden their market imho

I disagree. Right now they are doing A-listers. The A-Listers are going to end quickly and pretty soon they will have to do more B-Listers. When those characters come up, then you are going to want a much broader market to sell to.

I have been a statue collector for almost 15 years now, and I have stayed away from XM because of the shipping costs. The cost of the statue is the cost of the statue, but paying $150 to $300 (For Thanos theoritically) is not going to get me to purchase no matter how amazing the scuplt is. Again, maybe I am just wrong and it is time for Americans to have to pay what the rest of the world pays for US based statues.

[KELPIE]

Again, maybe I am just wrong and it is time for Americans to have to pay what the rest of the world pays for US based statues.

Yup.

:battherapy:

[Bobfrog]

I'd have to agree with those saying they are changing the industry. Doesn't necessarily have to be the industry in the US. Nethertheless what they are doing has and will continue to be felt there and hopefully will have a good knock on effect for everyone.

They've obviously got a good following and that will only get bigger as they go on so even b-listers are likely to get a decent reception. Ant man, although not necessarily a b-lister is not on the top of many people's lists but you saw a lot of people saying they were picking him up because of the quality which speaks volumes imho.

Bout time the rest of the world got some lovin :)

[SONICobra]

I have been a statue collector for almost 15 years now, and I have stayed away from XM because of the shipping costs. The cost of the statue is the cost of the statue, but paying $150 to $300 (For Thanos theoritically) is not going to get me to purchase no matter how amazing the scuplt is. Again, maybe I am just wrong and it is time for Americans to have to pay what the rest of the world pays for US based statues.

in all fairness, these statues are not meant for you or any of us in the states to buy - so its kind of a moot point to compare their prices to companies that are licensed to sell in the US.

but just like anything, beauty is in the eye of the beholder - theres folks buying an xm hulk over a sideshow for ~$300+/- more. worth it? to them it is and thats great that someone made a hulk statue that they love. spending the extra $$$ for something you love over spending a little less for something you just think is ok is always a win in my book :thumbs2:

[built2shred]

It's kind of funny but someone up in the SS section saw that they were working on SS Gladiator Hulk in this same factory and everyone was saying that G-Hulk has been one of SS best statues they've done in awhile QC wise.... I just had to chuckle because XM generosity is already making a difference in SS QC with statues made in the same place as XM's.... win win...

[built2shred]

I disagree. Right now they are doing A-listers. The A-Listers are going to end quickly and pretty soon they will have to do more B-Listers. When those characters come up, then you are going to want a much broader market to sell to.

I have been a statue collector for almost 15 years now, and I have stayed away from XM because of the shipping costs. The cost of the statue is the cost of the statue, but paying $150 to $300 (For Thanos theoritically) is not going to get me to purchase no matter how amazing the scuplt is. Again, maybe I am just wrong and it is time for Americans to have to pay what the rest of the world pays for US based statues.

The extra $300-$400 I pay over other companies is worth it to be one of only 500 people in the world to own Capt. or Hulk... and on top of that a high quality piece to boot...

[nbr3bagshotrow]

The extra $300-$400 I pay over other companies is worth it to be one of only 500 people in the world to own Capt. or Hulk... and on top of that a high quality piece to boot...
I knew that's how you were.

[supermetroid]

lol

[built2shred]

I knew that's how you were.


http://www.smarterwebstrategies.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/dr-evil.jpg

[Hellsbells51]

I understand people dont think XM needs to change a thing when it comes to shipping out of the US, but why not? If they listen to their customers, then let your voices be heard. Least they can say is no. While they may not need to expand their customer base or are contractually limited, it would be cool if they researched ways to make it work for their next contract.

People might say, why bend the rules for those filthy Americans...? Well, we created these dang characters...you`re welcome! :tongue:

[Bobfrog]

why the assumption then that they haven't been looking into...I think it's been made pretty clear that they have been if you've followed the ask XM thread. Simple fact is that SS have the license for what they are producing right now and they are looking into other licenses with worldwide distribution rights.

As for the US, I don't think anyone begrudges anyone there wanting a US license but when it gets asked about constantly when the XM guys have stated several times that they have looked into/ are still looking into it, it becomes a wee bit tedious. They're intelligent guys (seemingly :p) and know the blatantly obvious fact that the US is the cash cow for this type of collectible so it will come in time, u guys just have to wait a little longer that's all.

And just to point out that I'm in not much of a different position right now, not living in one of the four licensed regions.

Fingers crossed that the rest of the coming licenses are worldwide for everyone's sake.

[Hellsbells51]

why the assumption then that they haven't been looking into...I think it's been made pretty clear that they have been if you've followed the ask XM thread. Simple fact is that SS have the license for what they are producing right now and they are looking into other licenses with worldwide distribution rights.

As for the US, I don't think anyone begrudges anyone there wanting a US license but when it gets asked about constantly when the XM guys have stated several times that they have looked into/ are still looking into it, it becomes a wee bit tedious. They're intelligent guys (seemingly :p) and know the blatantly obvious fact that the US is the cash cow for this type of collectible so it will come in time, u guys just have to wait a little longer that's all.

And just to point out that I'm in not much of a different position right now, not living in one of the four licensed regions.

Fingers crossed that the rest of the coming licenses are worldwide for everyone's sake.

Cool, thanks for the info as I don`t follow the Ask XM thread much. Not assuming they haven`t been looking, just more hoping they are exploring options. Good to hear they are! And yes, I do hope they eventually provide worldwide...sorry didn`t mean to leave out the international brothas! :thumbs2:

[Bobfrog]

No worries mate. it'll come eventually. The new license(s) they are about to announce are worldwide so that's good news for all.

As for us international brothas, well we often get forgotten about :bawling:

boo hoo :)

[khrisc]

i dont get it..if XM can directly sell to the US will it bring that much difference in price of shipping? They still need to ship it anyway..i live in one of the countries XM is licensed to sell but i still pay for around $140 additional for shipping (based on Capt)..so just around $60 difference to ship to US seems the same to me considering the distance..we dont get XM pieces for retail price same as the one indicated in their site.

And..we can also say the same with SS exclusives they are very expensive to ship to this part of the world and with the QC issues of SS..we are out of luck here same way you feel about XM pieces.

[loricstone]

I understand people dont think XM needs to change a thing when it comes to shipping out of the US, but why not? If they listen to their customers, then let your voices be heard. Least they can say is no. While they may not need to expand their customer base or are contractually limited, it would be cool if they researched ways to make it work for their next contract.

People might say, why bend the rules for those filthy Americans...? Well, we created these dang characters...you`re welcome! :tongue:

Some not all.

[Hellsbells51]

Yeah, you guys do seem to be left out...Lol!

As far as distributing out of the US, well, if XM provides me a warehouse to work out of I can work some magic on the US side of the house! My background is logistics. Plus I`m from San Diego home of the world famous SDCC so I can set up shop there and take over the con! Not to mention Wondercon in Anaheim, CA and others like in Las Vegas and Phoenix. I live halfway between LA and San Diego so it`d be cheaper to get a warehouse in my location and fairly close to the ports. I have a buddy with a truck driving license to swoop up the shipments at the port and we can provide inspection/QC at the warehouse...just sayin!

Also, Erick is not too far away....:dork:

[Hellsbells51]

Some not all.

How about, most...not all. Only about 99% of the Marvel U.

Just messin` around fellas...don`t take me serious here...haha!

[Bobfrog]

Yeah, you guys do seem to be left out...Lol!

As far as distributing out of the US, well, if XM provides me a warehouse to work out of I can work some magic on the US side of the house! My background is logistics. Plus I`m from San Diego home of the world famous SDCC so I can set up shop there and take over the con! Not to mention Wondercon in Anaheim, CA and others like in Las Vegas and Phoenix. I live halfway between LA and San Diego so it`d be cheaper to get a warehouse in my location and fairly close to the ports. I have a buddy with a truck driving license to swoop up the shipments at the port and we can provide inspection/QC at the warehouse...just sayin!

Also, Erick is not too far away....:dork:

lol, can I come and work for you?

[XMAN]

He is huge...even bigger than Gladiator Hulk from SS. GH is standing pretty much upright while the XM Hulk is bent at the knees. He is definitely bigger and wider in girth too. And heavier as well. .

From your pics....XM's Hulk looks like Gladiator Hulk's Big brother......

[Hellsbells51]

i dont get it..if XM can directly sell to the US will it bring that much difference in price of shipping? They still need to ship it anyway..i live in one of the countries XM is licensed to sell but i still pay for around $140 additional for shipping (based on Capt)..so just around $60 difference to ship to US seems the same to me considering the distance..we dont get XM pieces for retail price same as the one indicated in their site.

And..we can also say the same with SS exclusives they are very expensive to ship to this part of the world and with the QC issues of SS..we are out of luck here same way you feel about XM pieces.

It all depends on the statue. Something huge like Thanos is already being rumored to cost $300 in shipping to US...factor in customs duties and it could increase more. A direct US distribution would eliminate customs duties all while reducing shipping costs by possibly $100-$200. Savings of $100-$300 would make a world of a difference for those on the fence about pricing. Although it probably would mean XM would prob have to eat more costs getting this US distribution so it would likely increase pricing of the statues. Not sure it would make business sense in the end, but its worth looking into.

[Hellsbells51]

lol, can I come and work for you?

Sure, we can use a janitor! :p

[khrisc]

It all depends on the statue. Something huge like Thanos is already being rumored to cost $300 in shipping to US...factor in customs duties and it could increase more. A direct US distribution would eliminate customs duties all while reducing shipping costs by possibly $100-$200. Savings of $100-$300 would make a world of a difference for those on the fence about pricing. Although it probably would mean XM would prob have to eat more costs getting this US distribution so it would likely increase pricing of the statues. Not sure it would make business sense in the end, but its worth looking into.

i just find it weird they are licensed to sell here but the price i think will be just the same if i import it myself from SG directly. Or maybe our local distributor just priced it high..i dunno :)

[Spidey976]

So I am going to try and make this clear. Currently XM can not have a direct distributor in North America because they do not have a license to sell their products here. Pure and simple. They CAN NOT do it, and I can not see that changing anytime soon with any of their Marvel based pieces unless Disney and Marvel yank their licenses away from SSC which isn't going to happen soon. XM can not get a company to sell there pieces here directly, and there is no way around that. The retailers com Singapore who are selling to the guys here are the same guys who are selling to any of the US based webretailers. XM sells to the retailers and the retailers sell to other retailers. Anything else and they risk their Marvel License all together... Savy??

Now does that mean that things can't change. No, but they have to be cagey and they have to go for licenses that others aren't if they want to sell directly to North American customers. So look at the ENTIRE list of licenses held by SSC for 1/4 statues and just consider ALL of them off limits for direct distribution. SSC could block just about anything XM does unless XM convinces the copyright holders to go with them instead. However, unless XM ups their ESes they can not make as much money for those same copyright holders as SSC can. So once again I would consider most of SSCs monopolies safe.... For now.

I am sorry if I sound overly harsh, but those are just the realities of the situation. I like you hope things change, but for now pushing and pushing for answers isn't going to change anything because even if XM had a solid lead on ANY US licenses they should keep that info to themselves so as not to risk SSC trying to block it before the contracts are signed.

[KayOrzz]

So I am going to try and make this clear. Currently XM can not have a direct distributor in North America because they do not have a license to sell their products here. Pure and simple. They CAN NOT do it, and I can not see that changing anytime soon with any of their Marvel based pieces unless Disney and Marvel yank their licenses away from SSC which isn't going to happen soon. XM can not get a company to sell there pieces here directly, and there is no way around that. The retailers com Singapore who are selling to the guys here are the same guys who are selling to any of the US based webretailers. XM sells to the retailers and the retailers sell to other retailers. Anything else and they risk their Marvel License all together... Savy??

Now does that mean that things can't change. No, but they have to be cagey and they have to go for licenses that others aren't if they want to sell directly to North American customers. So look at the ENTIRE list of licenses held by SSC for 1/4 statues and just consider ALL of them off limits for direct distribution. SSC could block just about anything XM does unless XM convinces the copyright holders to go with them instead. However, unless XM ups their ESes they can not make as much money for those same copyright holders as SSC can. So once again I would consider most of SSCs monopolies safe.... For now.

I am sorry if I sound overly harsh, but those are just the realities of the situation. I like you hope things change, but for now pushing and pushing for answers isn't going to change anything because even if XM had a solid lead on ANY US licenses they should keep that info to themselves so as not to risk SSC trying to block it before the contracts are signed.

:goodpost::iagree:

[Spidey976]

:goodpost::iagree:

Thanks m8.

[xenopus]

Seriously, I think as long as they keep the ES low, maintain their QC standards and work on popular licenses, they are able to charge whatever they deem fit. Hardcore collectors will fall for these no matter what.
I just hope they don't let their reputation get into their head and start to mass produce like hot toys is doing now.

[vorpoll]

Seriously, I think as long as they keep the ES low, maintain their QC standards and work on popular licenses, they are able to charge whatever they deem fit. Hardcore collectors will fall for these no matter what.
I just hope they don't let their reputation get into their head and start to mass produce like hot toys is doing now.

Everything they preach speaks to the fact they wont let that happen

[shorudan]

Everything they preach speaks to the fact they wont let that happen

Not over my watch.

[kirthew]

I think Spidey makes a lot of good points. I did not post my opinion to start a fight. I just stated how I felt. I read a comment by Erik saying that XM Studios is going to change the statue industry like Bowen Designs did. That is great. I hope it happens. I dont think it will happen unless you cater to the American Marketplace though.

I run a small vapor shop, and the hottest thing in our market is mechanical mods. Some of the best mods come from the Philippines. They don't make them over there to cater to their own market. They make them to cater to the American Market. The buying power of the typical American consumer is so much more than that of the typical Filipino.

I might be naive and stupid, but I have to assume it is the same for the typical Singapore consumer. That the American market could support this exclusive product much better than the Singapore Market.

[toty21]

I think Spidey makes a lot of good points. I did not post my opinion to start a fight. I just stated how I felt. I read a comment by Erik saying that XM Studios is going to change the statue industry like Bowen Designs did. That is great. I hope it happens. I dont think it will happen unless you cater to the American Marketplace though.

I run a small vapor shop, and the hottest thing in our market is mechanical mods. Some of the best mods come from the Philippines. They don't make them over there to cater to their own market. They make them to cater to the American Market. The buying power of the typical American consumer is so much more than that of the typical Filipino.

I might be naive and stupid, but I have to assume it is the same for the typical Singapore consumer. That the American market could support this exclusive product much better than the Singapore Market.

This sounds very logical.

[Collection King 13]

WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :eek: I may have to pick up that Hulk

[Spidey976]

Not over my watch.

Didn't think it would :drinking:
I think Spidey makes a lot of good points. I did not post my opinion to start a fight. I just stated how I felt. I read a comment by Erik saying that XM Studios is going to change the statue industry like Bowen Designs did. That is great. I hope it happens. I dont think it will happen unless you cater to the American Marketplace though.

I run a small vapor shop, and the hottest thing in our market is mechanical mods. Some of the best mods come from the Philippines. They don't make them over there to cater to their own market. They make them to cater to the American Market. The buying power of the typical American consumer is so much more than that of the typical Filipino.

I might be naive and stupid, but I have to assume it is the same for the typical Singapore consumer. That the American market could support this exclusive product much better than the Singapore Market.

You are assuming that the American Market isn't helping to drive these though. Do you have any idea how many North American orders the guys here are getting?? I can tell you they get 100s of emails a day when POs are coming up, and that a lot are from the guys here and on the Freaks boards. Throw in the FB groups and I wouldn't be surprised if 1/2 of the XM pieces made are coming to North America. People are just more willing to pay to play with these is all. XM has been picking up steam here and in SSF for over a year now so I am guessing that XM has been catering to us within the LIMITS of their licenses. They just don't have a "shop" persay. They have guys like Mark and Kenny.

[kirthew]

Didn't think it would :drinking:


You are assuming that the American Market isn't helping to drive these though. Do you have any idea how many North American orders the guys here are getting?? I can tell you they get 100s of emails a day when POs are coming up, and that a lot are from the guys here and on the Freaks boards. Throw in the FB groups and I wouldn't be surprised if 1/2 of the XM pieces made are coming to North America. People are just more willing to pay to play with these is all. XM has been picking up steam here and in SSF for over a year now so I am guessing that XM has been catering to us within the LIMITS of their licenses. They just don't have a "shop" persay. They have guys like Mark and Kenny.

I have to assume that the American Market they have right now is a fraction of what they could have if the shipping for a statue was not $100 to $300.

It is great that you have a die hard fanbase that is driving the sales of the statues. But what happens when a character is released and 25% of that fan base decides they don't need it. Where are those statues going to get sold and how quickly. Are they going to be instant sell outs? Or are they going to have to sit in a warehouse, taking up valuable space and capital.

Take for example. I listened to some customers of mine and purchased 20 Mods, assuming it was going to be a hot little item. I have not sold a single one and now I am sitting on $2000 in capital that I would love to be using for other things in my small business. This is on a small scale compared to XM Studios, but it is the same concept. If a statue doesn't sell, it could be devastating.

[Spidey976]

I have to assume that the American Market they have right now is a fraction of what they could have if the shipping for a statue was not $100 to $300.

It is great that you have a die hard fanbase that is driving the sales of the statues. But what happens when a character is released and 25% of that fan base decides they don't need it. Where are those statues going to get sold and how quickly. Are they going to be instant sell outs? Or are they going to have to sit in a warehouse, taking up valuable space and capital.

Take for example. I listened to some customers of mine and purchased 20 Mods, assuming it was going to be a hot little item. I have not sold a single one and now I am sitting on $2000 in capital that I would love to be using for other things in my small business. This is on a small scale compared to XM Studios, but it is the same concept. If a statue doesn't sell, it could be devastating.

All good points, but remember that the guys have limits imposed on them, and they themselves can't be seen as trying to cercumvent those limits. They themselves can NOT sell directly to an North American retailer PERIOD. So they can't have an XMNA shop no matter how much we want one. Maybe with future licenses and as they get more power in the industry, but it can't happen now, and it doesn't matter how much sense it would make for us. It isn't legal.

Also, don't forget the old saying "you gotta dance with the one that brought ya" . Guys like Mark and Kenny are friends of the guys at XM, and have helped to bring them a long way. Mark and Kenny do make money off of their North America sales, and XM isn't going to undercut them.

[kirthew]

All good points, but remember that the guys have limits imposed on them, and they themselves can't be seen as trying to cercumvent those limits. They themselves can NOT sell directly to an North American retailer PERIOD. So they can't have an XMNA shop no matter how much we want one. Maybe with future licenses and as they get more power in the industry, but it can't happen now, and it doesn't matter how much sense it would make for us. It isn't legal.

Also, don't forget the old saying "you gotta dance with the one that brought ya" . Guys like Mark and Kenny are friends of the guys at XM, and have helped to bring them a long way. Mark and Kenny do make money off of their North America sales, and XM isn't going to undercut them.

I dont know who Mark and Kenny are. You can PM me the answer :)

[Thor57]

Excellent points Spidey. I've got 4 on pre order with Mark, and as long as those go down without a hitch, as I have full faith they will, he'll be my go to source for XM products. As long as he's willing to do business, I am too!

[built2shred]

I have to assume that the American Market they have right now is a fraction of what they could have if the shipping for a statue was not $100 to $300.

It is great that you have a die hard fanbase that is driving the sales of the statues. But what happens when a character is released and 25% of that fan base decides they don't need it. Where are those statues going to get sold and how quickly. Are they going to be instant sell outs? Or are they going to have to sit in a warehouse, taking up valuable space and capital.

Take for example. I listened to some customers of mine and purchased 20 Mods, assuming it was going to be a hot little item. I have not sold a single one and now I am sitting on $2000 in capital that I would love to be using for other things in my small business. This is on a small scale compared to XM Studios, but it is the same concept. If a statue doesn't sell, it could be devastating.

If a character is less popular there going to have a lower Edition Size... If there's major hype then it's going to probably have a max size of 900+ (since XM won't go over 999 ES)...

I also think Eric's words are more meant in the quality of the statue their going to put out vs trying to match statue for statue against a bigger company like SS.

Besides with their promise of never doing a Edition Size over 999, having an American license would be pointless IMO because they wouldn't make enough statues to meet the demand. Sure the price of the statue would be less but odds are I would be competing with thousands of more people trying to get it and I would probably end up missing out a lot of the times...

[jye318]

I really love how xm did on the Es, a little more is not gonna hurts, just don't be like ss, 9000es for batman is a joke , is that even a limited edition ?

[gaijin]

I wonder what's the edition size for Hasbro toys ... be shocking if lower than SS :itsb:


I really love how xm did on the Es, a little more is not gonna hurts, just don't be like ss, 9000es for batman is a joke , is that even a limited edition ?

[jye318]

I wonder what's the edition size for Hasbro toys ... be shocking if lower than SS :itsb:

Hasbro toys are all limited edition? I am sure ss call all their statues limited edition

[Remember Me?]

Let's not get into SS vs. XM anymore. It's not worth mentioning.

[Bobfrog]

I have to assume that the American Market they have right now is a fraction of what they could have if the shipping for a statue was not $100 to $300.

It is great that you have a die hard fanbase that is driving the sales of the statues. But what happens when a character is released and 25% of that fan base decides they don't need it. Where are those statues going to get sold and how quickly. Are they going to be instant sell outs? Or are they going to have to sit in a warehouse, taking up valuable space and capital.

Take for example. I listened to some customers of mine and purchased 20 Mods, assuming it was going to be a hot little item. I have not sold a single one and now I am sitting on $2000 in capital that I would love to be using for other things in my small business. This is on a small scale compared to XM Studios, but it is the same concept. If a statue doesn't sell, it could be devastating.

Hopefully they would do the clever thing and not produce the entire line in one go unless they have indication from preorders and retailer requests that it is going to be a sellout (or near to). that way they won't have too much tied up in capital. might be however that it is just easier for them to produce the entire line for logistics reasons i.e. paint set up, molds etc so that may well be irrelevant.

[Lawnknome]

Yeah, you guys do seem to be left out...Lol!

As far as distributing out of the US, well, if XM provides me a warehouse to work out of I can work some magic on the US side of the house! My background is logistics. Plus I`m from San Diego home of the world famous SDCC so I can set up shop there and take over the con! Not to mention Wondercon in Anaheim, CA and others like in Las Vegas and Phoenix. I live halfway between LA and San Diego so it`d be cheaper to get a warehouse in my location and fairly close to the ports. I have a buddy with a truck driving license to swoop up the shipments at the port and we can provide inspection/QC at the warehouse...just sayin!

Also, Erick is not too far away....:dork:

As much as this sounds awesome, for some reason I feel this might be shady.

[Spidey976]

As much as this sounds awesome, for some reason I feel this might be shady.

They can't sell to Americans, including Retailers, at ALL so this wouldn't just be shady it would be cost them their license completely. Now could Kayorzz (Mark) or TCSC (Kenny) set up something like that with someone in North Amwerica? Yeah maybe. However, why would they. So maybe they would get a slightly better deal shipping the products over in bulk, but then you would have to ship it out from a warehouse, which may sit empty on occasion depending on how many statues are shipping and how many are coming to NA, and you have added a middle man who has to get PAID. Not to mention the overhead for the warehouse. Any shipping savings you would get would be little to nonexistent... Heck it may cost you more money.

You have to keep in mind that SSC get overseas/domestic shipping discounts because they ship in numbers that XM will never match, and they don't want to. If you look at just the Batman PF from SSC you will realize it has a bigger ES than all of the XM statues currently on PO, and maybe more that all of the upcoming ones too. That is just ONE statue with an ES of 9500, and I wouldn't be surprised if SSC has shipped 50 000-70 000 statues this year. So they get a brake on shipping that XM can't hope to get.

Could XM get a wholesaler in NA? Yeah it is possible, but not with any of their current licenses at this time, and as I said before not with any license that SSC holds. Not until either A) XM gets a North American contract for a different license all together (say Spawn, or Invincible), B) they get big enough to bring the hammer down and WIN the Marvel North American License away from SSC. However for the later to happen you HAVE to know they would have to be making more statues with higher ESes in order to satisfy the same type of sales numbers SSC does. I really don't think they are interested in that.

[nbr3bagshotrow]

They can't sell to Americans, including Retailers, at ALL so this wouldn't just be shady it would be cost them their license completely. Now could Kayorzz (Mark) or TCSC (Kenny) set up something like that with someone in North Amwerica? Yeah maybe. However, why would they. So maybe they would get a slightly better deal shipping the products over in bulk, but then you would have to ship it out from a warehouse, which may sit empty on occasion depending on how many statues are shipping and how many are coming to NA, and you have added a middle man who has to get PAID. Not to mention the overhead for the warehouse. Any shipping savings you would get would be little to nonexistent... Heck it may cost you more money.

You have to keep in mind that SSC get overseas/domestic shipping discounts because they ship in numbers that XM will never match, and they don't want to. If you look at just the Batman PF from SSC you will realize it has a bigger ES than all of the XM statues currently on PO, and maybe more that all of the upcoming ones too. That is just ONE statue with an ES of 9500, and I wouldn't be surprised if SSC has shipped 50 000-70 000 statues this year. So they get a brake on shipping that XM can't hope to get.

Could XM get a wholesaler in NA? Yeah it is possible, but not with any of their current licenses at this time, and as I said before not with any license that SSC holds. Not until either A) XM gets a North American contract for a different license all together (say Spawn, or Invincible), B) they get big enough to bring the hammer down and WIN the Marvel North American License away from SSC. However for the later to happen you HAVE to know they would have to be making more statues with higher ESes in order to satisfy the same type of sales numbers SSC does. I really don't think they are interested in that.

:goodpost:

Just like all the international Bowen fans, who always griped about Bowen not having an international license and it costing them so much money to get them in their country, we Americans are just going to have to bite our lips and deal just like the our foreign counterparts have had to do for years.

[DynamicMenace]

thats true N, its either put up or shut up.

and as for the price for me and a piece that really hasn't been a Must have . im shutting up. :)

for now,.

[khrisc]

:goodpost:

Just like all the international Bowen fans, who always griped about Bowen not having an international license and it costing them so much money to get them in their country, we Americans are just going to have to bite our lips and deal just like the our foreign counterparts have had to do for years.

Agreed!! hell it costs us a lot to ship Exclusives from SS to this side of the world (Asia)

[StatueArt]

:goodpost:

Just like all the international Bowen fans, who always griped about Bowen not having an international license and it costing them so much money to get them in their country, we Americans are just going to have to bite our lips and deal just like the our foreign counterparts have had to do for years.

Yeap, I guess my bowen and ssc cost me a boom over the years....now switching to xm is my best choice :radior:

[khrisc]

Thats what I was saying before..BBTS is selling Hawkeye and Antman for $700..if i buy from our local distributor here in the Philippines..i get it for only around $33 dollars cheaper..i live in one of the countries that XM has license to sell but the price is almost the same..not really cheaper considering shipping to US is much farther from SG than from SG to PH. So i dont get the complain of some people for XM to get US license. BBTS is already selling it cheap..or our local retailer is overpricing..i dunno..

[keewan]

Thats what I was saying before..BBTS is selling Hawkeye and Antman for $700..if i buy from our local distributor here in the Philippines..i get it for only around $33 dollars cheaper..i live in one of the countries that XM has license to sell but the price is almost the same..not really cheaper considering shipping to US is much farther from SG than from SG to PH. So i dont get the complain of some people for XM to get US license. BBTS is already selling it cheap..or our local retailer is overpricing..i dunno..

BBTS is using boat. Most of us are using FedEx.

It's a huge difference if you ship many of these at once by boat over here then use ground shipping.

[khrisc]

BBTS is using boat. Most of us are using FedEx.

It's a huge difference if you ship many of these at once by boat over here then use ground shipping.

i think my local retailer also uses boat..my Hulk hasnt even arrived yet :(

[Sharkey]

How much cheaper is it by boat, and could we do that as a cheaper (slower) route than FedEx? Or would it not be advised?

[Hellsbells51]

As much as this sounds awesome, for some reason I feel this might be shady.

They can't sell to Americans, including Retailers, at ALL so this wouldn't just be shady it would be cost them their license completely. Now could Kayorzz (Mark) or TCSC (Kenny) set up something like that with someone in North Amwerica? Yeah maybe. However, why would they. So maybe they would get a slightly better deal shipping the products over in bulk, but then you would have to ship it out from a warehouse, which may sit empty on occasion depending on how many statues are shipping and how many are coming to NA, and you have added a middle man who has to get PAID. Not to mention the overhead for the warehouse. Any shipping savings you would get would be little to nonexistent... Heck it may cost you more money.

You have to keep in mind that SSC get overseas/domestic shipping discounts because they ship in numbers that XM will never match, and they don't want to. If you look at just the Batman PF from SSC you will realize it has a bigger ES than all of the XM statues currently on PO, and maybe more that all of the upcoming ones too. That is just ONE statue with an ES of 9500, and I wouldn't be surprised if SSC has shipped 50 000-70 000 statues this year. So they get a brake on shipping that XM can't hope to get.

Could XM get a wholesaler in NA? Yeah it is possible, but not with any of their current licenses at this time, and as I said before not with any license that SSC holds. Not until either A) XM gets a North American contract for a different license all together (say Spawn, or Invincible), B) they get big enough to bring the hammer down and WIN the Marvel North American License away from SSC. However for the later to happen you HAVE to know they would have to be making more statues with higher ESes in order to satisfy the same type of sales numbers SSC does. I really don't think they are interested in that.

Fellas, I think we are taking this a bit too literal. I just came up with a rough idea...lol! I think at this point it's obvious XM cannot sell directly to North America (or others outside of their contract terms). If you read a couple posts back I mentioned that any US distributer possibility would likely have to be considered for the next contract negotiations. Now that Spidey976 spelled out the terms of Sideshow and XM, I see how it is highly unlikely not gonna happen. Thanks for the insight though!

[Hellsbells51]

:goodpost:

Just like all the international Bowen fans, who always griped about Bowen not having an international license and it costing them so much money to get them in their country, we Americans are just going to have to bite our lips and deal just like the our foreign counterparts have had to do for years.

Your suppose to be on our side...lol! :soapb:

On a serious note, I hear you. I have my connection to XM statues regardless, but honestly...what I think most of us (that want US distribution) just want to see is if there's anyway to bring down costs. Again, we know that's not gonna happen with the current contract, but trying to figure a way to cut costs for their customers in the future would be cool. I think that's all most of us are asking for...I know I am. Who wouldn't like to save $$$ so they could buy more!?

[nbr3bagshotrow]

Your suppose to be on our side...lol! :soapb:

On a serious note, I hear you. I have my connection to XM statues regardless, but honestly...what I think most of us (that want US distribution) just want to see is if there's anyway to bring down costs. Again, we know that's not gonna happen with the current contract, but trying to figure a way to cut costs for their customers in the future would be cool. I think that's all most of us are asking for...I know I am. Who wouldn't like to save $$$ so they could buy more!?
The only way to save more would be to get a US group together to get some kind of reduced shipping deal to a place where one person would ship to all the others in the group at little to no cost. Shipping is the only way to reduce the costs on these witout a US reseller.

[Hellsbells51]

Thats what I was saying before..BBTS is selling Hawkeye and Antman for $700..if i buy from our local distributor here in the Philippines..i get it for only around $33 dollars cheaper..i live in one of the countries that XM has license to sell but the price is almost the same..not really cheaper considering shipping to US is much farther from SG than from SG to PH. So i dont get the complain of some people for XM to get US license. BBTS is already selling it cheap..or our local retailer is overpricing..i dunno..

The complaint is to hopefully get these cheaper somehow someway. If that means US distribution...that would be ideal, but don't see it happening anytime soon. While BBTS and others may have good prices it's really hard trying to lock some of them up with their limited quantities. A US distribution would likely open the allotment quantity.

Plus, for any other upcoming licenses it may come in handy.

BTW, who do you go through in Philippines? I have cousins out there that could be my back up plan if I miss out on something...lol!

[khrisc]

The complaint is to hopefully get these cheaper somehow someway. If that means US distribution...that would be ideal, but don't see it happening anytime soon. While BBTS and others may have good prices it's really hard trying to lock some of them up with their limited quantities. A US distribution would likely open the allotment quantity.

Plus, for any other upcoming licenses it may come in handy.

BTW, who do you go through in Philippines? I have cousins out there that could be my back up plan if I miss out on something...lol!

I dont think you can..believe it or not our allocation here is so small..i asked the local distributor (Greattoys) during Wolverine PO time around how many and someone there told me they just have 12 Wolverines..12! thats why im confused with the setup of XM distribution here..it is not really cheaper than US and we have little allocation.

[Hellsbells51]

The only way to save more would be to get a US group together to get some kind of reduced shipping deal to a place where one person would ship to all the others in the group at little to no cost. Shipping is the only way to reduce the costs on these witout a US reseller.

That's kinda what my idea was all about except it would be a professional environment solely for US distribution and whatever other uses (like convention marketing) XM can benefit from.

I dont think you can..believe it or not our allocation here is so small..i asked the local distributor (Greattoys) during Wolverine PO time around how many and someone there told me they just have 12 Wolverines..12! thats why im confused with the setup of XM distribution here..it is not really cheaper than US and we have little allocation.

Yeah that sucks. Maybe the amount is determined by the demand in the Philippines...? I was thinking on statues I missed out on like Magneto...maybe my cousins could send it in a balikbayan box! So I wouldn't have to pay shipping! Lol!

[keewan]

I dont think you can..believe it or not our allocation here is so small..i asked the local distributor (Greattoys) during Wolverine PO time around how many and someone there told me they just have 12 Wolverines..12! thats why im confused with the setup of XM distribution here..it is not really cheaper than US and we have little allocation.

Their allocation of high demand character is base on their past order history, you should ask them how many Cap, Hulk, Mk42, BW they ordered, I am willing to bet each of those number is below 12.

[khrisc]

So I wouldn't have to pay shipping! Lol!

Umm..im not sure but i think it would be more expensive..it is cheaper if its direct from SG..read my previous posts..BBTS can get Antman and Hawkeye for $700 and with conversion we get it here for just around $33 cheaper :(

[Thor57]

Anyone who's received XM from Mark or Kenny. Do you know if they used plane or boat for shipping?

[AC_808]

That's kinda what my idea was all about except it would be a professional environment solely for US distribution and whatever other uses (like convention marketing) XM can benefit from.



Yeah that sucks. Maybe the amount is determined by the demand in the Philippines...? I was thinking on statues I missed out on like Magneto...maybe my cousins could send it in a balikbayan box! So I wouldn't have to pay shipping! Lol!

Oh man! Have you seen "balikbayan box" by Mikey Bustos on YouTube? It's sorta old, but still hilarious! Lol

[The Mule]

Anyone who's received XM from Mark or Kenny. Do you know if they used plane or boat for shipping?

I'd say, plane. I recall people saying it took like 2/3 days from Singapore to the US.

[Bobfrog]

Anyone who's received XM from Mark or Kenny. Do you know if they used plane or boat for shipping?

Yeah, I'm thinking air. I'm only in Aus and it left SG 5:54 pm on a saturday, got to sydney just after midnight on the sunday. Not sure how long a ship would take but I'm guessing longer than that.

[KayOrzz]

I use FedEx International Economy mostly (4-6 days). But can use Priority shipping too (1-3 days). I'm looking into sea freight options now.

[nbr3bagshotrow]

Yeah, I'm thinking air. I'm only in Aus and it left SG 5:54 pm on a saturday, got to sydney just after midnight on the sunday. Not sure how long a ship would take but I'm guessing longer than that.

Problem with shipping by boat is someones got to pay to get it from XM to the boat and then from the boat to you.

[Thor57]

I use FedEx International Economy mostly (4-6 days). But can use Priority shipping too (1-3 days). I'm looking into sea freight options now.

Definitely don't need priority. I've waited so long on these, a few days won't matter, especially at a massive up charge.

[Viper245]

I would be fine with shipping by boat if it means the kind of savings you get with BBTS. The extra wait wouldn't bother me in the least. I am not sure who would take control of the shipment once the boat reached the US and get it to the collector though. The nice thing about ordering from BBTS is they take care of all of that.

[keewan]

Problem with shipping by boat is someones got to pay to get it from XM to the boat and then from the boat to you.

In some countries, it's actually an option at the post office to ship something by boat, and it's being delivered by the post office at the destination. Sadly Singapore doesn't seem like it's one of them.

[loricstone]

Anyone who's received XM from Mark or Kenny. Do you know if they used plane or boat for shipping?

plane

[SideShowJoe]

Anyone who's received XM from Mark or Kenny. Do you know if they used plane or boat for shipping?

plane

Tatoo Rings bell: De plane de plane!!

Sarah Joe

[loricstone]

More factory pics peeps!!! Mags is coming along....coming along indeed!!!:eplus2:

http://i59.tinypic.com/29dyfm9.jpg
http://i57.tinypic.com/2mh7a5z.jpg
http://i62.tinypic.com/2mwrsz7.jpg
http://i59.tinypic.com/2wgy5w1.jpg

[DynamicMenace]

attack on titan colossus in the background in the second image.

[Sharkey]

God I can't wait!

[AC_808]

Mags can't get here soon enough! Its time ....

[furycat]

is that attack on titan statue
Produced by GoodSmile Company and designed by famed figure sculptor Takayuki Takeya

... if it is that factory is producing high quality statue.

[Sharkey]

is that attack on titan statue
Produced by GoodSmile Company and designed by famed figure sculptor Takayuki Takeya

... if it is that factory is producing high quality statue.

Yep it is! Can't wait for March to get mine, that thing is going to be massive though!

[Bobfrog]

the silicone layers on those molds are so thin! Not sure but think I can make out another layer ontop of it (presumably a hard outer casing). I'd love to see see how they do this from start to finish. Got a few pieces I need to cast myself and silicone sure ain't cheap!

Fingers crossed they get Mags out sooner than stated on their site. As long as they do a great job though I'm not bothered if it doesn't get to me before xmas.

[Bmutha]

I can't wait to see the finished production piece, incorporating the teased changes with cape etc. I want this piece in hand so badly!

[marker2037]

I never saw these teased changes, only heard talk about it. Is there teaser pics somewhere?

[SideShowJoe]

the silicone layers on those molds are so thin! Not sure but think I can make out another layer ontop of it (presumably a hard outer casing). I'd love to see see how they do this from start to finish. Got a few pieces I need to cast myself and silicone sure ain't cheap!

Fingers crossed they get Mags out sooner than stated on their site. As long as they do a great job though I'm not bothered if it doesn't get to me before xmas.

It may get done around christmas but i don't feel it will be in my hands until January - February shipping from Singapore to USA will take a few weeks for sure, either way i don't care how long it takes! Magneto will be mine, all mine soon enough! Muahhahahhaha

Im actually going to get a special display case and pedestal just for this Magneto piece as i want this piece to be MINT and perfect condition as long as i own it….

Sarah joe

[Bmutha]

I never saw these teased changes, only heard talk about it. Is there teaser pics somewhere?

They are probably in this thread somewhere, or you can check their Facebook page...they made some mods to the cape, but they haven't shown the end result yet.

[Sharkey]

It may get done around christmas but i don't feel it will be in my hands until January - February shipping from Singapore to USA will take a few weeks for sure, either way i don't care how long it takes! Magneto will be mine, all mine soon enough! Muahhahahhaha

Im actually going to get a special display case and pedestal just for this Magneto piece as i want this piece to be MINT and perfect condition as long as i own it….

Sarah joe

Yea I am fine with a small delay. I've got other bills come up so I could do for some breathing room.

[marker2037]

They are probably in this thread somewhere, or you can check their Facebook page...they made some mods to the cape, but they haven't shown the end result yet.

I'll just wait for new pics lol

[loricstone]

http://i62.tinypic.com/5u0ne1.jpg
http://i57.tinypic.com/2cqy4jp.jpg
http://i58.tinypic.com/2nq5g5i.jpg
http://i59.tinypic.com/2hgxzrk.jpg
http://i60.tinypic.com/vwq4om.jpg
http://i59.tinypic.com/157z0aw.jpg
http://i58.tinypic.com/2j6psl.jpg
http://i60.tinypic.com/2r2tdo2.jpg

[loricstone]

http://i59.tinypic.com/29ygo6x.jpg
http://i62.tinypic.com/zmnqk9.jpg
http://i58.tinypic.com/20kcehc.jpg
http://i62.tinypic.com/24dq7vp.jpg
http://i58.tinypic.com/2s8o4th.jpg
http://i58.tinypic.com/otdkwy.jpg
http://i58.tinypic.com/a13c7l.jpg
http://i58.tinypic.com/2a9qn8j.jpg

[loricstone]

http://i61.tinypic.com/672xll.jpg
http://i59.tinypic.com/2lsgso4.jpg
http://i59.tinypic.com/5flw8p.jpg
http://i58.tinypic.com/2vcf97d.jpg

[Bmutha]

Love these behind the scenes pics!

[Smooth Criminal]

Awesome cant wait for mags!

[AC_808]

Whoa! I have to check this thread more often ...more pics are posted here than the other threads. Very nice!!

[Spidey976]

Hmmmm.. all the work in progress pics are off their facebook page. Maybe to much complaining about how the workers need better chairs... lol

[AC_808]

Hope you're not talking to me. That wasn't me that complained...

[Spidey976]

Hope you're not talking to me. That wasn't me that complained...

Did I quote you m8... lol

[AC_808]

Nope! But you posted right after me...

Lol! Needed to sure, is all ...

[Spidey976]

Nope! But you posted right after me...

Lol! Needed to sure, is all ...

:hilarious: nope just on observation.. lol

[Bmutha]

Hmmmm.. all the work in progress pics are off their facebook page. Maybe to much complaining about how the workers need better chairs... lol

That's strange...could be some kind of privacy issue with showing workers' faces???

[Spidey976]

That's strange...could be some kind of privacy issue with showing workers' faces???

Yeah it could be... or they might have shown something they didn't intend to.

[m0delista]

Please show more !THX