~ What is JAPAN VERSION ? Is JAPAN VERSION better?

What is Japan versions? Why many people ask about Japan version? Is Japan verion better? Have you asked or heard other collectors mention about Japan version for toys? OK, let me give a clearer picture what Japan version actually means. "Japan version" mostly applied to Bandai brand figures. It was used to describe a Kamen Rider toys product line called Super Imaginative Chogokin a.k.a. S.I.C. It was later used to described other toy lines such as Figuarts. Actually, Japan version toys also made in China. The stock that supply to Japan region is called Japan version. There were rumors back in year 2006 mentioned that Japan version has stricter quality control in terms of paint application and finishing. Based on my own experience, generally Japan version has better QC but still not 100% guarantee the stocks from Japan is perfect. Some has flaws too. How do you identified Japan version stock? Basically, Japan stock has no additional white stickers and Bandai region hologram sticker on the box. Recent stocks released by Bandai Japan has double tapes on the box, I guessed these are the sign of QC by QC department. However, the finishing is still not as good as the old released figures that I observed.

~ Spiderman meets Kamen Rider Shauta (Random)

Spidey: "Doc !? Is that you?" :P :P

~ S.I.C Masked Kamen Rider J Toei Limited Authentic Original

I bought this item quite sometime ago. I think it was mid of last year. Around year 2007 I wanted to purhase this but afraid of fake product. The price was around RM350+ last time. Please be aware that there is fake product in the market. It is quite hard to identify the item according to some collectors comments. The packaging and item is quite similar to the genuine unit. I heard that the bootleg or fake product has bad white paint job on the face. The red marking in the box has different number and box has more tapes. Authentic item has retape marking as well. Other than that is box color has slightly lighter color tone but you have to compare to the real one only you can notice it. I like this figure very much. It has nice "bug eyes" and shinny metallic green body color. However, Rider J has limited articulations as it was released by using the same ZO base mold. Rider J also does not comes with much accessories. I wish Bandai could include the "J" signature hand. Recommended price of getting this is RM300-RM350.

~ S.I.C SIC Kamen Masked Rider Gatakiriba OOO

~ SIC Kamen Masked Rider Another Black RX ( Hobby Japan Limited )

Today, finally I am able to display this RX in the cabinet. Procrastination delaying me from customizing additional add on for this RX. Today, I am able to finish the cape within half an hour or more. Then, I added on a black chain on his left arm. I love the outcome.

I am surprise to see he looks strong and bigger compare to new SIC. 

~ SIC Kiwami Horse Orphnoch Gallop mode Kamen Rider FAIZ 555

~ SIC Kiwami Kamen Rider Ryuki

The contents. He comes with appropriate amount of accessories. 

The design of the Kiwami version looks better than the big SIC version. It has more altered design but not so monstrous looks. Surprisingly his color scheme and painting done by Bandai looks good. No color or details missing compared to the larger SIC.

 

Side view. 

Back view. 

Let us see how good is his articulations and pose-ability. He can pose nicely but has limitation due to his shoulder armor joints and no waist joint. 

Final advent !!! A hand holding the advent card is provided. I am glad Bandai design it this way. Otherwise, I can't imagine how am going to make sure the hand hold the card properly. The card might get lost too.

 

Slash !!!One of the complain about this figure is the hand cannot hold the sword firmly. It will keeps on swing down, take me quite some time adjust it until it fit my desire pose.  

This is actually based on Ryuga Final Advent pose. :P

Rider Kick !!!