Brickset news archive: August 2011
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Gimme LEGO turns one today
Posted by Huw, 31 Aug 2011 18:04. Filed under Miscellaneous.
As some of you already know, Brickset staff member DrDaveWatford has his own blog, Gimme LEGO, at which he eloquently writes about the trials and tribulations of being an AFOL, his favourite sets, and reports progress on his LEGO projects.
Well, today, it celebrates its first birthday, and to mark the occasion he's recently added some new features, including a Bargain Hunt page that I've mentioned before.
Apparently the blog was started for a bet with one of his mates, who thought nobody would read it and it wouldn't last. Clearly Dave's well and truly won the bet on both counts!
Congratulations Dave -- let's hope you can keep it going for another year and beyond.
9 comments, latest one posted 20 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1002 views
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30133 minifig is NOT new
Posted by Huw, 31 Aug 2011 13:54. Filed under New sets.
Following on from the heated debate we had earlier in the week about this set, I have some good news and bad.
The bad news is that despite the image on the bag showing a white Jack Sparrow face, it is in fact the plain, normal, face that's appeared in other sets.
The good news is that PotC minifig collectors won't now have to tear their hair out trying to get hold of it!
Thanks to keithkram for sending me one to photograph. I've now scanned the bag which clearly shows the white face. What a disappointment!
18 comments, latest one posted 20 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)955 views
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Robie House press release
Posted by Huw, 31 Aug 2011 11:39. Filed under New sets.
The LEGO Group today announces the LEGO® Architecture Robie House, an interpretation of Wright’s most famous Prairie style work. Designed by architectural artist Adam Reed Tucker, Robie House is a model of the Frederick C. Robie House located in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighbourhood.
The model will be available in LEGO Brand stores and online at www.LEGO.com from September 1, priced $199, €199.99 or £169.99.
With models developed in collaboration with architects, LEGO Architecture aims to inspire future architects, engineers and designers as well as architecture fans around the world. Fans of all ages can collect and construct iconic architectural sites, including: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Guggenheim Museum and Fallingwater, the Space Needle in Seattle, the Willis Tower and John Hancock Center in Chicago, New York’s Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center, The White House in Washington, D.C., Farnsworth House in Plano, Illinois and the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.
Each LEGO Architecture set contains a booklet featuring step-by-step building instructions that is prefaced by history, information and photographs of each iconic building, its design origin, its architect and its architectural features.
LEGO Architecture: Robie House is recommended for ages 16 and older and includes 2,276 pieces and a booklet with details on Robie House’s design and history.About Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House sparked a revolution in residential architecture that still reverberates today. The Robie House was the first historic property to be declared a National Historic Landmark based solely upon its architectural merit. Designated by the American Institute of Architects as one of the 10 most significant structures of the 20th century, the impressive home features dramatic overhangs which appear to defy gravity and continuous bands of stunning art glass which dissolve the barrier between interior and exterior. It is an American treasure and celebrated as one of Chicago’s most important buildings. The Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust presents guided tours of this architectural masterpiece located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago, offering a first-hand experience of its amazing contemporary spaces and interpretation of Wright’s innovative 1908 design.
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Click through on the image to see more pictures of the set.
15 comments, latest one posted 20 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1197 views
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Argos Watch
Posted by Huw, 30 Aug 2011 14:46. Filed under Shopping (UK).
If you're visiting the site from within the UK, you'll notice a new Argos box in the right hand menu.Brickset has been an Argos affiliate for some time but it's only just now that I thought I'd exploit their product feed and see if I could do something useful with it.
So, the box on the right currently shows how many LEGO products they sell and how many are reduced. They have some good reductions from time to time so keep an eye on that figure then click through to see everything that's reduced, something that normally takes a few clicks on the Argos site. Better still, it shows the best bargains at the top of the page, which is not possible on their site.
If this proves useful I'll look at ways to determine when new products are added. Remember, everything you buy -- LEGO or not -- or even just reserve at Argos resuts in a small kick-back to Brickset.
20 comments, latest one posted 20 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1462 views
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30% off most Star Wars sets at Amazon.co.uk
Posted by Huw, 30 Aug 2011 14:19. Filed under Shopping (UK).
Amazon has reduced the prices of most of the new Star Wars sets by around 30%, which makes them far more attractive. Here's a few to whet your appetite, you can find more in Amazon's LEGO store
.
9 comments, latest one posted 20 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1059 views
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Reminder: WIn £25 to spend at FireStar Toys
Posted by Huw, 29 Aug 2011 17:30. Filed under Brickset.
The FireStar Toys competition is still open. If you haven't entered yet, be sure to do so before it closes on 10th September. All you have to do is look at the mystery picture on the competition page and try to work out what it is.There's been a few correct entries so far but not as many as I thought there'd be, so have a go, you're in with a very good chance!
15 comments, latest one posted 20 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1110 views
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Another PotC Polybag, another Jack Sparrow minifig
Posted by Huw, 28 Aug 2011 15:17. Filed under New sets.
Just when you thought you'd completed your Pirates of the Caribbean minifig collection, Brickset member keithkram uncovers yet another PotC polybag containing Jack Sparrow with a different head.
Keith has some listed in his BrickLink store so if you're a PotC completest, head on over and grab one.
30 comments, latest one posted 20 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1115 views
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Brickset pick of the week: Earth Dragon Defence
Posted by Huw, 28 Aug 2011 12:43. Filed under Pick of the week.
This week I've selected another set that I've just built and which is available at a significant discount, in the UK at least.
Ninjago Earth Dragon Defence is one of the new Ninjago sets that has just been released. I first saw it at the London Toy Fair in January and thought it looked cool then. So, yesterday, while at the Milton Keynes LEGO store (helping to build the 'ribbon' models for the new London Stratford shop opening soon) I thought I'd treat myself.
Ever since the Vikings dragons appeared in 2005, I've had a soft-spot for LEGO dragons so I was pleased to see that so many were to feature in the Ninjago theme. I bought the Ice Dragon, 2260, earlier in the year and this is the only other NinjaGo set I've bought so far, not being a huge fan of the theme otherwise, particularly the cheap-and-nasty spinners.
The Earth Dragon isn't what you'd call a traditional dragon because it doesn't have wings. It's more of a giant lizard or pre-historic monster but I have to say, once built, it really is a fearsome looking thing. It's built mainly from brown and dark tan pieces and measures 15" (38cm) head-to-tail. Its front legs are fully poseable but its back ones are fixed. The spike-wielding tail can be swished from side-to-side. A ring of sand green aircraft tail pieces make up an armoured shield behind which Cole DX sits. Wyplash, the undead enemy in this set doesn't stand a chance against this thing...
The minifigs are so-so (you probably have them already if you have other Ninjago sets) but the creature is excellent and a sight to behold once built and I highly recommend it.
Price-wise in the UK, it's £30.99 which if I'm honest, is a little on the high side. Luckily though, you can currently get it at Amazon.co.uk for 31% off making it a much more reasonable £21.36.
In the USA it's $35, and while I haven't managed to find a saving online for you, that's a far more realistic price anyway. Amazon.com doesn't seem to stock it (but 3rd party sellers do) so you are probably better getting it directly from shop.LEGO.com or your local toy store.
By the way, last week's Pick of the Week: SpongeBob Herioc Heroes of the Deep is now even cheaper in the UK: £9.19 which is 34% off.
Update: looks like this article may have caused a bit of a rush on the set in the UK, the price is now back up to RRP :-(
16 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)942 views
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Save $25 Off $100+ LEGO Construction Purchase at Toys R Us
Posted by yellowcastle, 27 Aug 2011 18:11. Filed under Shopping (USA).
Valid Sunday 8/28 thru' Saturday 9/3, save $25 off a $100+ LEGO construction purchase or $10 off a $50+ LEGO construction purchase at Toys R Us. There are apparently no theme exclusions and unlike a BOGO sale, you can use several smaller sets to reach the threshold. As always, try and buy sets with little or no TRU mark-up over MSRP in order to maximize your savings.
34 comments, latest one posted 20 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1340 views
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Interview with a LEGO Certified Professional
Posted by Huw, 26 Aug 2011 08:34. Filed under Miscellaneous.
Ever wondered what a LEGO Certified Professional (LCP) does, how you become one and how to engage their services?A few weeks ago I met up with the UK's only LCP, Duncan Titmarsh of Bright Bricks, at his workshop in Surrey to find out. Read my exclusive interview for the answers to these questions.
Once you've done so, check out Bright Bricks' website where'll you'll find more photos of Duncan's excellent work and details of how to get in touch to commission your own masterpiece.
16 comments, latest one posted 20 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1487 views
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Super Star Destroyer now shipping
Posted by Huw, 26 Aug 2011 08:30. Filed under shop.LEGO.com (General).
Many of you have been waiting for this, now at last you can order it. The Super Star Destoyer is now available at shop.LEGO.com. Order it via these links and keep Brickset on-air:
39 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1218 views
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The 2012 LEGO Exclusives are...
Posted by Huw, 25 Aug 2011 08:46. Filed under Brickset.
...still a secret for now. LEGO asked me to remove the information so I have done so.
Just for the record, the information I published was obtained from a public source, a Dutch toy shop website. I therefore felt justified in publishing it given it was in the public domain. Whether it should have been is another matter, of course.
66 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1653 views
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Advent Calendars sets now listed at shop.LEGO.com
Posted by Grahame, 25 Aug 2011 05:11. Filed under shop.LEGO.com (General).
For North American customers, the Star Wars and City Advent Calendar sets are now listed at shop.LEGO.com, and priced at 39.99 and 34.99 USD respectively.
Update: City Advent Calendar now also showing for other markets.
15 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1132 views
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Volkswagen T1 Camper Van now showing at shop.LEGO.com
Posted by Grahame, 24 Aug 2011 00:45. Filed under shop.LEGO.com (General).
For European, Australian and New Zealand customers, the Volkswagen T1 Camper Van is now listed at shop.LEGO.com with pricing but without a release date as yet.
Update: Now also showing for Canada and the US (119.99 USD).
15 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1230 views
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Winter Village Post Office now showing at shop.LEGO.com
Posted by Grahame, 24 Aug 2011 00:39. Filed under shop.LEGO.com (General).
For European, Australian and New Zealand customers, the Winter Village Post Office is now listed at shop.LEGO.com with pricing but without a release date as yet.
Update: Now also showing for Canada and the US (69.99 USD).
14 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1110 views
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LEGOshop.com sales and deals
Posted by Huw, 22 Aug 2011 17:23. Filed under shop.LEGO.com (UK).
I'm not sure if this has just started or if I'm late to the party, but there's a half-decent sale on at LEGOshop.com featuring some decent sets for a change, including the pig farm for just £16.19 instead of £27, and some of last year's Atlantis for a similar discount.
8 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1543 views
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Brickset pick of the week: Heroic Heroes of the Deep
Posted by Huw, 20 Aug 2011 08:53. Filed under Pick of the week.
Welcome to the first in what will hopefully be a regular feature here at Brickset news: my personal 'pick of the week'. Each week (particularly on slow news weeks :-) ) I'll present a mini-review of a set that I've just built or have found at a bargain price on the Internet somewhere.
First up it's a set that meets both these criteria: one of the new SpongeBob sets, 3815, Heroic Heroes of the Deep. I have to confess to not being a big SBSP fan having never seen the cartoon. I bought this set and 3816, Glove World from Amazon this week mainly to keep my minifig collection complete. I wasn't expecting too much from it, but when I opened it, I was pleasantly surprised.
For starters, the minifigs are excellent. SpongeBob and Patrick are in colourful super hero costumes, and Plankton comes in some sort of diving machine (excuse my ignorance, as I said, I've never seen the cartoon :-) ). The main protagonists both feature cloth capes in rare colours, blue and green, and SpongeBob carries a red version of the collectable minifigure alien ray-gun which fires LEGO ice-cream.
The coolness doesn't stop there though; it's not obvious from the pictures (at least it wasn't to me) that the set features quite a few parts, including the ice-cream, in the new 'dark azure' blue colour used for the Alien Conquest minifigs. I hope this is the first of many apperances of this very nice colour.
Once built, the ship-on-wheels looks very colourful indeed and I'm sure very appealing to young fans of the cartoon. To make it even more tempting, it's currently 25% off at Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com. Order your copies below:
36 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)657 views
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News round-up
Posted by Huw, 20 Aug 2011 08:00. Filed under Brickset.
It's been an exceptionally slow week for news this week, I guess everyone is on holiday! Here are a few things worth mentioning:
- There's an interview with Christoph Bartnek - author of The Unofficial Minifigure Catalogue - over on the Wired website which is rather good, and if you are in any doubt as to whether you should buy the book, I suspect once you've read it, you'll conclude that you should. When you do so, make sure you use this link from Brickset to Amazon.com
and not the one at Wired :-) It's still reduced to $64.
- Argos continue their 3-for-2 offer on all Cars merchandise, including LEGO. The sets are ridiculously overpriced at full retail so if you can team up with other people and buy three of the same set to get them at one third off, it makes the prices a bit more realistic.
- I received the 2012 LEGO calendar that's for sale at Amazon.co.uk
this week and I have to say I'm a bit disappointed. Unlike the charity one from a few years ago which featured excellently staged photos of minifigs in funny situations, this one is full of stock advertising photos that have appeared in catalogues and posters before. The only interesting thing about it is that the publisher, Workman Publishing, is holding a competition whereby you can submit photos for inclusion in next year's calendar. Apparently, information will be available on their website, but it isn't there yet.
- Fancy a bargain? Our very own DrDaveWatford scours Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk every day and posts the best bargains that he finds over on his blog Gimme LEGO. As you know some of Amazon's offers can be very short lived so it's become an essential visit for me on a daily basis to find out what he's uncovered.
16 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1108 views
- There's an interview with Christoph Bartnek - author of The Unofficial Minifigure Catalogue - over on the Wired website which is rather good, and if you are in any doubt as to whether you should buy the book, I suspect once you've read it, you'll conclude that you should. When you do so, make sure you use this link from Brickset to Amazon.com
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LEGO Universe - now free to download, with a 'Free To Play Zone'
Posted by bluemoose, 15 Aug 2011 19:37. Filed under Miscellaneous.
From Lego -
"Let Your Imagination Run Wild in LEGO® Universe: Free to play launches
The Battle has Begun!Team up with friends to Save the Universe as Gates Open to Unlimited Free to Play ZoneAugust 15, 2011 - LEGO® Universe, the MMOG (massively-multiplayer online game), is now welcoming new players to traverse the LEGO brick-building digital universe with its newly introduced Free to Play Zone. Fans will be able to enjoy the game for free for as long as they like, with the option to upgrade to a membership account at any time (for $10 USD per month) and receive full game access.The LEGO Universe free-to-play experience offers a selection of game content, including two adventure zones and one player property area for building your own virtual LEGO models as well as access to thousands of other players’ properties. Paying members will have access to all areas in the full game, along with membership benefits such as competitions and community events. In addition to the 15+ robust adventure zones and instances as well as 5+ property worlds currently in-game, access to new expansions, like major Ninjago content coming later this year, will require players to register for full membership.Here’s a list of all the cool stuff Free to Play players can do in LEGO Universe:· Custom build one LEGO hero· Interact with in-game friends· Collect up to 10,000 coins· Earn Universe Score to level up· Play through The Venture Explorer· Play through Avant Gardens· Join the Nexus Force· Sample Faction Gear· Play the Survival mini-game· Claim the Avant Gardens Block Yard Property· Fight the Spider Queen· Place LEGO models you have collected· Build LEGO models of your own· Bring LEGO models to life· Visit thousands of other players’ PropertiesAnd here’s the list of full membership benefits:If you haven't played LEGO Universe yet, now is the time! Not only can you play for free, but the game is now easier to access; available via free digital download only. Log in today, and see just how far your creativity can go to save Imagination in LEGO Universe. Read more in the full Free to Play announcement, and answer the call at:
34 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)2311 views
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VW Camper Van price correction
Posted by Huw, 15 Aug 2011 13:46. Filed under Brickset.
We've been advised that the correct price for the camper van in the USA is $119.99 and not $99.99 as previously posted.
That makes the European prices even better comparatively...
25 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)998 views
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Win £25 to spend at FireStar Toys!
Posted by Huw, 15 Aug 2011 13:31. Filed under Brickset.
Brickset has teamed up with FireStar Toys to bring you a chance to win £25 (about US$40) to spend at the FireStar website.All you have to do is look at the mystery picture on the competition page and try and work out what it is. To give you a clue, I can tell you that it's LEGO-related and for sale at FireStar :-)
Entry is open to everyone: FireStar ship worldwide. The competition is open until 10th September, and the winner will be drawn at random from the correct entries received by then. Please read the full Ts&Cs on the competion page before entering. Good luck!
41 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1080 views
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Up to 30% off on LEGO city sets
Posted by rocao, 15 Aug 2011 03:38. Filed under Shopping (USA).
Amazon.com has matched the price on some sets included in this week's Toys R Us promotion of up to 30% off on LEGO city sets. If you happen to live in a state that doesn't collect sales tax on Amazon purchases, the savings will eclipse those offered by TRU.
Some notable sets are:
- 3368 Space Center - $48.99 (30% off)
- 7208 City Fire Station - $59.49 (26% off)
- 7498 Police Station - $76.99 (23% off)
Toys R Us has more selection than Amazon, and there are some instances where Toys R Us actually beats the Amazon price, so you'll also want to cross-check the list at Toys R Us. The most notable one was 4644 Marina. Please note that if you go into a Toys R Us brick and mortar store, you should not assume that the prices will be the same as the online prices, as they have a habit of marking them up in-store.
Also, remember to check your Rewards Bucks as they just recently issued credit from the previous offering period.
5 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1015 views
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Worldwide series 5 availability
Posted by Huw, 14 Aug 2011 11:07. Filed under New sets.
kylejohnson11 has still set up a series 5 availability map using Google Maps. Check it out and put your pin in the map when you've found them near you.
81 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1241 views
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2012 rumour round-up
Posted by Huw, 13 Aug 2011 16:42. Filed under New sets.
Smashing Bricks has scoured the Internet for rumours of 2012 sets and summarised them in one post. I won't repeat it here so head on over and see what you'll be spending your hard-earned on next year.
73 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1373 views
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VW Camper Van press release
Posted by Huw, 13 Aug 2011 16:30. Filed under New sets.
10220 Volkswagen T1 Camper Van
Ages 16+. 1,322 pieces.
US $99.99, CA $129.99, DE €99.99 , UK £79.99 , DK 799 DKK, available from October.
This authentic camper van is a replica of the classic Volkswagen Camper Van from 1962. Every iconic feature is here! On the outside, the terrific detailing includes 'V' shape three-way color split at the front, rounded roof and window frames, opening 'splittie' safari windshield, opening doors, iconic pop-up roof with textile curtain surround, roof rack, rear side air intake vents and lots more! The detailing is equally impressive on the inside, from the authentic VW air-cooled flat four cylinder boxer engine, front cabin bench seat, gear stick, angled dashboard and iconic spherical speedometer, to custom LEGO® features like folding rear bench seat, folding dinette table, closet with mirror and even a painting!
- Features 11 windows, authentic plaid-print textile curtains and wing mirror!
- Rear door opens to reveal detailed engine!
- Interior also features rear bench seat that transforms into a bed, ‘Make LEGO Models, Not War’ T-shirt and rear shelf with plant!
- Measures 11.8" (30cm) long and 5.5" (14cm) high!
Visit the set details page for photos of the interior, which looks excellent. The video on YouTube has been available for some time but if you have't seen it it's worth a look.
October's going to be an expensive month. Much like the rest of the year then!
34 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1055 views
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Harry Potter and trolley shows up in TRU
Posted by Huw, 12 Aug 2011 11:48. Filed under Shopping (USA).
Ace at FBTB reports that this polybag can be bought in TRU for $4.99. It's nothing to get excited about but if you're an Harry Potter completist you'll want to add it to your collection.
21 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)965 views
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Another Canadian Store ... and it's in Toronto too
Posted by bluemoose, 12 Aug 2011 01:28. Filed under Shopping (Canada).
It's bound to cause more gnashing of teeth and complaints (the news of a new store always does this from those who don't live nearby... please, let it go...), but I'm happy to report that Canada is getting another LEGO Brand Retail store. This one is also in Toronto, at Fairview Mall, about 35km/22 miles (as the car drives) from the existing Toronto store at Sherway Gardens.
News from the mall here:
http://www.fairviewmall.ca/en/directory/Pages/ComingSoon.aspx
News from LEGO jobs site here:
http://jobsatlego.com/ca/toronto/retail/assistant-manager-lego-brand-retail-fairview-jobs
10 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1243 views
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Series 5 box distribution
Posted by Huw, 10 Aug 2011 17:06. Filed under New sets.
Bonzo312 has analysed a case of Series 5 minifigs and reports that the make-up is as follows:
- 3 Graduates
- 3 Gladiators
- 5 Royal Guards
- 3 Ice Fishermen
- 4 Cave Women
- 4 Lizard Men
- 5 Zookeepers
- 4 Lumberjacks
- 4 Small Clowns
- 4 Fitness Instructors
- 4 Detectives
- 3 Evil Dwarves
- 5 Boxers
- 3 Egyptian Queens
- 3 Gangsters
- 3 Snowboarder Guys
So there are at least three full sets in each box which wasn't the case with some series 4 boxes.
Now that the Ugly Duckling is not running his website any more, it's harder to track where these are available. They've been in the UK for a couple of weeks (in WHS at least) and in the Netherlands (where Bonzo312 is) and I suspect other parts of Europe, but I haven't heard reports of anyone in the USA finding them yet.
84 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1983 views
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LEGO Store to go East...
Posted by Vidiator, 10 Aug 2011 12:01. Filed under Miscellaneous.
...not too far - but it could be a little revolution!According to serious sources inside LEGO Germany, the LEGO Group plans to open the first LEGO Store in Eastern Germany (beside Berlin). Although there are no hints as to the the city, it is expected that only the state of Saxony could be the correct place for this, because it has the most international importance and the best economic structure (both are very important in connection with the right purchasing power according to LEGO). In addition to this, Saxony is home to Leipzig and Dresden - two cities with each more than 500,000 inhabitants.
Personally, I would prefer Leipzig (and not just because I live there). The city has a clear and efficient structure (short distances), great traffic infrastructure (e.g. one of the biggest train stations in the world and the Airport Leipzig/Halle is an important carrier place in Central Europe, particularly with cargo) and lots of international and business flair (e.g. the Leipzig Trade Fair is the oldest trade fair in the world) - not to forget the many, many tourists!
To its credit, Dresden (as capital of Saxony), similar to Leipzig, has lots of cultural attractions and rich industrial infrastructure.
Both cities have much more to offer than for example, existing LEGO Store "cities" Wiesbaden and Oberhausen together. So it now seems only a question of time before the LEGO Group focuses on Eastern Germany.
So what do you think? Is it justified that Eastern Germany has been waiting so long for its own LEGO Store while Western Germany has aready eight LEGO Stores? And which city do you think will win the race to be home to the first LEGO Store in Eastern Germany?
17 comments, latest one posted 20 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1390 views
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Christmas is coming...
Posted by Vidiator, 10 Aug 2011 10:43. Filed under New sets.
Although still summer time (in some parts of the world), the new LEGO advent calendars are already being listed nearly everywhere.
But until their release in September/October, you can spend waiting time by enjoying some high-res pictures...
7958-1: Star Wars Advent Calendar
These pictures should also be added to the Brickset database soon...
40 comments, latest one posted 20 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1268 views
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2012 Star Wars rumours
Posted by Huw, 09 Aug 2011 17:51. Filed under New sets.
We don't usually post unsubstantiated rumous about forthcoming sets but this particular one seems to be gathering some weight given that the likes of Jedi News is publishing it.
So, the rumour is, verbatim, that there will be a new range of ‘planets’ sets. These will each include a hollow planet, a buildable mini vehicle and a mini-figure.
- 9674 Naboo Starfighter and Naboo Pilot
- 9675 Sebulba’s Podracer and Sebulba
- 9676 TIE Interceptor and TIE Pilot
Notable on this new list is that the battle packs will now mix heroes and villains into one box…- 9488 ARC Troopers vs. Commando Droids
- 9489 Endor Rebel (x2) vs. Scout Trooper & Stormtrooper
- 9491 Geonosian Cannon
- 9490 Droid Escape
- 9492 TIE Fighter
- 9493 X-Wing
- 3866 Battle of Hoth (LEGO Games)
Now I have no idea whether any of this is true but it makes good reading on a slow news week.
(via Toys N Bricks and Eurobricks)
48 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1540 views
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Summer Scholarship for Minifigure Taxonomy
Posted by Huw, 08 Aug 2011 10:14. Filed under Miscellaneous.
Fancy doing something interesting during the southern hemisphere summer? Chrstoph Bartneck, author of the Unofficial LEGO Minifigure Catalog emailed to say that he's been able to organise a scholarship for a student to work on a taxonomy for minifigures. The student would spend the summer (November-February) in New Zealand to work on it. The University of Canterbury has allocated 5000 NZD for the project. He adds that 'I hope that a younger AFOL, who is still studying, might be interested.'
If you fancy combining your love of LEGO and software (like I do) this could be the ideal opportunity for you.
Find out more at the university website.
17 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)959 views
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Neuschwanstein Castle as a LEGO Architecture set?
Posted by rocao, 07 Aug 2011 13:33. Filed under New sets.
Brickset member bricknation delivers the scoop again by discovering a model of Neuschwanstein Castle in the background of a photo from the manual of 21010 Robie House. Could this be a prototype for a future LEGO architecture set? Since this photo is from the manual of the Robie House set that was available for purchase at the LEGO Discovery Center, I'm considering it released information and not pre-release, until TLG convinces us otherwise.
You may recognize the castle as it has been the subject of several great MOCs due to its visually stunning architecture.
Update: ibes007 has identified the model as a non-LEGO model that was available for retail, and it does seem to be the case. Quite an interesting gaffe for it to show up in a LEGO manual.
27 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)2084 views
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7958 Star Wars Advent Calendar listed on ToysRUs.com
Posted by rocao, 07 Aug 2011 13:16. Filed under Shopping (USA).
7958 Star Wars Advent Calendar is now listed online at ToysRUs.com. It's currently marked as "out of stock for shipping" but "available in stores". If it follows the pattern of recent newly released sets (Star Wars, Red Cargo Train), then it should be available for shipping soon. An interesting conflict to this is that brickset member BothSidesOfTheBrick called a local Northern CA Toys R Us store and was told that the set would not be available in stores and will only be sold online. As we well know, customer service is often misinformed, so if you happen to find it in a local store, let us know!
Thanks to BothSidesOfTheBrick for the heads up!
14 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1231 views
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21011 Brandenburg Gate, take two
Posted by Huw, 06 Aug 2011 14:07. Filed under New sets.
Thanks to forum member bricknation who purchased this set legitimately in the retail shop at the LEGOLand Discovery Centre, Manchester, UK , we posted the first picture of this two weeks ago.
It turned out that it should not have been on sale yet and a September announcement was planned, but rather than just plug the source of the retail leak and accept that it was now in the public domain, LEGO asked Brickset to remove the image. I felt it was an unreasonable request given the circumstances, but as I had just started my vacation and intent on 'getting away from it all' for a couple of weeks, I removed it for the sake of a quiet life.
Now, in a interesting turn of events, it's actually pictured and announced on the September store calendar, as shown in the Toys N Bricks forum. I have therefore reinstated the picture here.
When things like this happen, do you think it reasonable for LEGO to treat the fan community like this (and should we obey their every command?), or should they instead look to tighten their internal processes to prevent them in the future?
Update: Bricknation has now posted an excellent review of the set at EuroBricks.
32 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1260 views
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Winter Village Post Office press release
Posted by Huw, 05 Aug 2011 18:06. Filed under New sets.
We had a sneak preview of this in the LEGO Collector book a few weeks ago. Now, today, it's been officially announced for a 1st October release:
10222 Winter Village Post Office, 820 pieces, US $59.99, CA $79.99, DE €59.99 , UK £49.99
Continuing the winter scene series, the Winter Village Post Office is the perfect snow-covered setting. In the cozy post office, the worker is hard at work sorting all the mail into containers and sacks, while upstairs, there's just time for the postman to take a break before setting off in the traditional post car with all the letters and gifts. From the pavilion outside, musicians fill the air with music, while children take in the wintry atmosphere by the park bench before throwing snowballs at each other - the musicians had better get ready to duck!
- Includes 7 minifigures: female post office worker, male postman, female, 2 kids and 2 musicians and a dog!
- Post office features dark-green split roof with snow, fireplace, light brick, table, coffee mug, and lamp post and mailboxes outside!
- Also features evergreen tree and assorted minifigure accessories.
Click on the image for more details and to see the images provided with the release.
44 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1134 views
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Brickmaster books are now out
Posted by Huw, 05 Aug 2011 09:23. Filed under Shopping (UK).
The two new DK Brickmaster books are now available, and the Minifigure catalogue is now listed at Amazon.co.uk:
I don't yet have the DK books but I think they are waiting for me at work, having been delivered whilst I was away. I'll review when I have them.
8 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1240 views
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Brickmaster books are now out
Posted by Huw, 05 Aug 2011 09:09. Filed under Shopping (USA).
The two new DK Brickmaster books are now available, and the Minifigure catalogue is still reduced at Amazon:
I don't yet have the DK books but I think they are waiting for me at work, having been delivered whilst I was away. I'll review when I have them.
7 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)952 views
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I'm back from my travels...
Posted by Huw, 05 Aug 2011 09:04. Filed under Miscellaneous.
I'd like to thank the other admins and news correspondents for keeping the news fresh whilst I was away and for all of you for emailing it in. I'm not going to post much of it here now since most is time-expired but if I come across anything not already posted in the comments to the article below I'll do so.
9 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)789 views
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Canberra Brick Expo 2011 is on this weekend!
Posted by jpmanalo, 04 Aug 2011 06:17. Filed under Events (Australia).
This weekend Australia's national capital, Canberra, will be playing host to Brick Expo 2011. After last year's massive attendance, Brick Expo's organisers have decided to spread this year's event over two days - Saturday 6 August and Sunday 7 August.Here are the event details:
- Where? Corinna Ballroom, Canberra Southern Cross Club - Woden, 92-96 Corinna Street, Phillip, ACT, 2606, Australia
- When? 10:00am to 5:00pm, Saturday 6th August 2011 and 10:00am to 4:00pm, Sunday 7th August 2011
- Admission? $2.50 per Child/Concession, $5.00 per Adult and $10.00 per Family.
- All proceeds from Brick Expo will assist Brick Expo's major charity, PaTCH, to purchase much needed medical equipment for the Paediatrics Department at the Canberra Hospital.
More information is available from the Brick Expo website.
I'll be in attendance at Brick Expo again this year along with other members of SydLUG - so if you see me in the crowd, feel free to stop to say "Hello" and/or have a chat about all things LEGO!
5 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)602 views
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Video of Volkswagen T1 Camper Van and Winter Village Post Office
Posted by rocao, 03 Aug 2011 20:11. Filed under New sets.
New videos introducing 10220 Volkswagen T1 Camper Van and 10222 Winter Village Post Office have recently been uploaded to the LEGOClubTV channel on YouTube.
It was love at first sight when I saw the first photo of 10220 Camper Van, but having just watched the video, I'm salivating now! Both sets are listed as being available for purchase directly from shop.LEGO.com and LEGO stores on October 1st.
Thanks to Brickset member thebrickster for the heads up!
27 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1031 views
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Free Exclusive Mini Hogwarts Express
Posted by Grahame, 02 Aug 2011 19:01. Filed under shop.LEGO.com (General).
Free exclusive Mini Hogwarts Express when you buy Diagon Alley from shop.LEGO.com but be in quick before they're all gone!
24 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)926 views
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Additional discount on sale items at LEGO shop website and in stores
Posted by rocao, 01 Aug 2011 19:16. Filed under shop.LEGO.com (General).
Coinciding with the release of the 2nd half sets, LEGO has made a further reduction to some of their sale items. Toy Story sets and some LEGO games are 40% off. Unfortunately there's currently not a free shipping promotion, but if you're fortunate enough to live near a LEGO brand store, you should be able to find these items in stock, as well.
The Prince of Persia sets -- which contain some excellent parts -- have not been reduced further yet, but I'll be on the lookout and update when they do (if there's any left after I buy them).
6 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1248 views
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2nd-half 2011 sets now available online and in stores
Posted by rocao, 01 Aug 2011 18:49. Filed under shop.LEGO.com (General).
New LEGO sets for the 2nd-half of the 2011 calendar year are now available online at shop.lego.com and in LEGO brand stores. The sets primarily span the Hero Factory, Ninjago, Technic, and Duplo themes.
Some notable additions are the 8110 Technic MB Unimog, which finally confirms the suspected price of USD 199.99, and a new LEGO board game called LEGO Champion, which looks to be a family style game in the same vein of Creationary.
To easily browse the new sets, visit http://shop.lego.com (or click the link in the top right corner) and click the "What's New" section of the Shop Features on the right hand navigation pane.
Also, since it's August 1st, you can expect to see big box retailers like Target and Wal-Mart refresh their displays with this latest stock which will carry us through to the holiday season.
8 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1099 views
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What's the news?
Posted by Huw, 01 Aug 2011 08:24. Filed under Brickset.
I'm currently on vacation with just my iPad and a very expensive Internet connection so I'm sorry that news has been slow these last couple of days. I think bluemoose is overseas as well. If you know anything newsworthy worth telling everyone, please leave a comment here.
84 comments, latest one posted 21 months ago. (Commenting has ended on this article)1769 views
