Good News...or...Bad News (9" Sold Online)

[vinylmationer]

Today at DisneyStore.com, we can purchase Clear 1 series, Urban 2 series and even all 6 Urban 2 9" figures. Will this be the end of collecting Vinylmation once it is become too mainstream??

[disneyfan168]

Bad News!:bang::mad: What were they thinking putting the 9'' on the website? I think this will turn away some of vinylmation's collectors. I think its ridiclous that they would put the 9'' on the website. They need to slow down the releases then make the 9'' parks only.

[alicetwasbrillig]

Fail. This is rather disappointing. I guess the only good news that we can get out of this is that Vinylmation seems to be a success since they are making it so available and doesn't look like they will stop releasing series anytime soon. (Or is that bad news too because now series are going to come out every other day?):doh:

[HT_NSU]

Yeah, I'm really hoping that they don't just start pumping these things out. I'm having enough trouble keeping up with the releases at it is.

If anything, they should just do the delayed release like they seem to be doing, and then as far as 9" go, only release the ones that have been out forever that they're trying to get rid of (Park 1/Urban 1).

[phino]

that's some good informational bad news! *thumbs down* BOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

[Dumbledork]

I'm hoping this doesn't go the way of the Beanie Baby craze where it suddenly exploded and there were so many that it burned itself out. I would much prefer that they stay only in the parks (but that could be because I live close enough to one that I can just go down there any time I wanted). I'm sure the people that don't live nearby are happy about this.

[BigAl_PT]

I've been against putting the figures online from the start. I do think that if they have excess of older figures, that they can then offer those on the website. But nothing that came out less than a month ago really. And I agree with disneyfan168, SLOW DOWN! They're trying to pump these out way too fast and it's already showing that it was an ill-advised move. They can't seem to get rid of the inventory that they have.

[Sledge]

Wow, just wow. This is all kinds of stupid. Those that truly must have them know how to get them, so all this really does is irritate us collectors.

And what the heck is a 'Tikki'? (In case its fixed by the time you read this, they had 'Tiki' spelt 'Tikki'.) :lol: I'm surprised that they refer to Russian Mouse as 'Robot'. Even though they are unofficial names, the receipts all refer to it as Mikki Mouse ( which us fans pretty much said "nah" to and went w/ Russian Mouse :lol: ) and we've already had a 'Robot Mickey' in Urban #1. It would be pretty cool if they decided to have official names for the pieces eventually.

[tito425]

Well, while I don't think that selling them online is the best move for the 9" OR the 3". At the same time I don't get what the big deal is. I see a lot of folks around here that call the Art of Disney and just order them by phone on release day and have them shipped to their homes. What's the difference???? Personally I think they should all be park exclusive, period. No online and no phone orders untill MAYBE 2 or 3 weeks after release like they do with other LE products like pins. But that's just me:bonk:

[Mouseman74]

All I can say is :doh::doh::doh::doh::doh::doh::doh:!!!

I wish they would talk to the collectors more at the events and/or give us surveys. Yes, they see they have a great thing going :thumbsup: and are trying to make the collectors happy by getting more out there, but they are now doing it way to quick. I think once they see that Urban 2 and Park 2 are sitting around way too long, they will rethink that strategy:idea::idea:. Less is truly more in the long run. They may sell more, but if they sit too long on the shelf they may have to discontinue them and sell them at the liquidation outlets which is something they won't really want to do:look::look:.

And the whole 9" upping the edition sizes will be the same as well. They did say they were still testing it trying to find that happy medium of not too many but not too few. They just need to go back to the smaller editions on some to keep the collectors happy with some hard to finds, and then they will have some that sell out and do a couple higher editions that sell out but slower to sell out. Then everyone will be happy!!:happy::happy::happy:

[BigAl_PT]

I can only hope that this may open their eyes to realize that they're releasing the series WAY too fast.

[LisainIL]

This makes me so sad. :cry:

I am in Illinois and I wish that had left it alone.
I would much rather purchase from the parks.

[DrAsaBreed]

Ug, not happy about this.

Being a park only product adds to mystery!

As a fellow Midwesterner I say "Boooo!"

[rotary2808]

I don't like it. I like the exclusivity of them only being in the parks. And I like the chase of finding what I can while I'm there. What's the point if I can just go online and buy all of them?

[WDWTigger72]

Well, To say the least this doesn't surprise me that they started moving towards selling all figures online including both the 3" and 9". The 3" Vinylmation figurines have never been limited edition, except the fact that they publish on the case once they are gone they are gone, so in this instance these probably should have been sold through Disney Store some time ago since they where never Limited Edition. The 9" Vinylmation figures I felt should have never been sold online because they are limited edition, and since they are park exclusive should follow the same rules as the limited edition pins. Fortunately, Both the 3" and 9" could be ordered via phone through DeliverEARS, and you could get the 3" via phone through WDW Mail Ordering....The 9" where a toss up depending on who you got on the phone sometimes they would allow it and sometimes they would not, but if you called some shops directly (Art of Disney, World of Disney, etc) you could get them successfully. As a non-local, I am happy they started putting these online although as said earlier, I knew the phone numbers or some locals that could purchase them for me anyways. My initial thought with some limited editions being park exclusive is that they favored the locals and the secondary markets such as ebay. My spreadsheet data that I have collected for months holds that statement pretty much true, although as the last few months passed and more series where published, and where Vinylmations can be purchased online the secondary markets are almost inline with purchasing through Disney Store, WDW Merchandising, DeliveEARS, etc. The good thing about ebay has always been you know exactly what your purchasing regarding the 3" Vinylmations, so if you have a favorite then this would be the best route. Along these lines, With the release of so many Vinylmations coming out this second half of the year, I see a lot of collectors starting to pick and choose their favorites instead of being a completist. These rapid releases are also creating more secondary market listings per day on ebay compared to previous series so you have more of a choice, and also they are staying on the shelves at WDW/Disneyland a lot longer than previous series. The solution we all have is that they shouldn't release them so quickly and she balance the releases a little better, although I think that is more the consumer talking in all of us. The corporate standpoint would be looking at their financial figures around Vinylmations, and pushing out as many as possible. This would be no different than pin collecting as others have stated and when Vinylmations where first released I saw them taking a similar path as pins. Don't be fooled if you don't think its already happening, especially after seeing the release schedule:

Park Series 1 = December 2008
Urban Series 1 = March 2009
Park Series 2 = May 2009
Clear Series 2 = July 2009
Urban Series 2 = July 2009

The slow releases above for Park Series 1 and Urban Series 1, and after that you have three series within 3 months...For the rest of the year, You have releases occuring for every single month except August 2009. The next step in the evolution would be to start releasing these every two weeks. So, Its unfortunate they have taken this route of rapid releases for making the $$$$, and makes sense for them to start selling these online so they can turn over inventory more quickly. I have babbled enough here regarding this, and now reading this over, it is truly too much babble LOL Anyways, I am glad they have started selling them online to make it a bit easier for me to get the pieces, especially if they keep their $5.00 shipping promotions going. If you enjoy collecting vinyl figures (including Vinylmations) it wouldn't matter whether Disney sold them online, after all every other vinyl producing company typically sells their figures online so why shouldn't Disney? Most companies will showcase their products at conferences and then will publish them online after wards...If you enjoy collecting Vinylmations it will not matter if you can purchase them online, because you would still collect them anways. If your initial intentions where to purchase them at the parks, and then push them out on ebay to make some extra $$$ and to possibly help pay for you collection, then the decision to sell these online are not good for you.

[phino]

i have to agree with you, they overdid it with that, i remember disney wanted to buy rights to it or something like that, which is why they stopped selling it here cuz of some conflict. then they started doing special plush dolls or something, i remember the ranger mickey (i think it was) that i woke up at 4am to pick it up at 5am with people already lined up for it. crazy! it really destroys the goto the resort and purchase, imo i think they are smelling, ::SNIFF SNIFF:: MONEY MONEY MONEY! CHING CHING CHING, that's all... :I


I'm hoping this doesn't go the way of the Beanie Baby craze where it suddenly exploded and there were so many that it burned itself out. I would much prefer that they stay only in the parks (but that could be because I live close enough to one that I can just go down there any time I wanted). I'm sure the people that don't live nearby are happy about this.

[BlackHawkTraffic]

This certainly isn't a good thing, I mean there should be enough for everyone but I love the fact that it makes me go down to Downtown Disney or the Disney parks to buy them instead of simply buying them online.

[Open_at_the_close]

I myself do not collect the 9" figures; but I do think its a bad idea to start selling the Vinylmation figures online period, specifically the 9" figures. I understand that some people just cant frequent going to the parks and purchasing a case or a single box in person; but its been stated that there were ways around that already.

If the 3" figures and cases had to be sold online to "meet demand" then fine; but the 9" ones should still remain park exclusive.

I also do agree that they're releasing the series' pretty fast. Good thing I'm skipping out on the cutesters and aside from two or three from the holiday series I'm mainly waiting for Park 3 to come out.

[Sledge]

The next step in the evolution would be to start releasing these every two weeks.
Aw man, can you imagine if THAT happened. If they released one new 3" every two weeks (for $10) that would actually be sort of neat, but if they did it with a full series of 12 there would be so many angry people.

[Fab5Fan]

I guess the event exclusives will be really worth the big bucks now and the ones true collectors will still try to get their hands one, because not only do you have to be at the park/location, you have to be there on a certain date to get them as well, only with the DCL ones.

I'm trying to find something positive here :D

[WDWTigger72]

Aw man, can you imagine if THAT happened. If they released one new 3" every two weeks (for $10) that would actually be sort of neat, but if they did it with a full series of 12 there would be so many angry people.

Yeah, I could definitely see this happen down the line especially if these things continue to fly off the shelf. Based on the selling of Park Series 1 and Urban Series 1, I would presume that Park Series 2 should be selling out over the next month or two months based on the previous timeframes. Although, I don't know how many they have published compared to previous series so they may have upped their numbers on the 3" series. Disney is definitely known for burning out collectors with their releasing products to market, I am pretty sure that the pin collection phenomenon isn't the only one they have done that they have just released way too many...You can see certain pins (Limited Editions) in their shops for years now compared to being sold out in a few days/weeks like it was back in 2000/2001/2002. We shall see what happens with Vinylmation but I definitely see a similar pattern with these collectibles as everything else they have released...

[Charisma]

This is completely HORRIBLE!
I was ok with the 3inch getting sold in the store but the 9 inch also... umm no just no!
I think the Holiday series will be my last purchase simply because I just want all the 9 inch ones they are just too cute. After that im done with collecting them. They just wont feel as special... you know driving to the park to get them since they are suppose to be limited to the parks! Now they just like all the other merchandise. Plus they have raised the number for the 9 inch ones and I also have a problem with that. I mean I think its awesome that not everyone has the Mummy and I am sure those who do love that they are the few that do and thats why i liked these.

Oh well I will at least love the ones I have now and feel happy that not too many people have the ones we(fellow vinylmation members) all do.

Lets see what happens ... but this is really upsetting.

[vinylmationer]

I think the conclusion we are all kind of agree on is that these general releases will be more rapid and easier to get than before. But, I have no doubt that Disney will be releasing a lot more exclusive now such as NYCWoD, DCL, Disneyland, Disneyworld special which will only be sold at those locations to please a true collector/hardcore fan like us and keeping us happy that way.

One way or the other, money will be tight if you want to still collecting these addictive vinyls. I can't say NO to them myself! :doh:

[jeason]

Its a good thing for me. I live in KY and only go to DW twice a year. Buying on-line from the Disney Store allows me to get items cheaper (shipping only $5). I just got 5 clears ,5 urban II,9" Ham with eggs, and 9" Tiki. :yum::yum:

[Scarletwebslingr]

I don't care eitherway. I don't collect based on worth or LE number... simply on what interests me.

[wvugrrrl]

I'm rather conflicted about the whole thing. On the one hand, the online store does allow people who simply can't make trips to WDW the opportunity to buy these collectibles without being fleeced by online sellers (myself included in that category :look:). And, Disney shopping ships for $5 for every order over $89, so that's a MAJOR savings over AoD's $30 flat-rate minimum shipping charge, or the cost of a plane ticket to Orlando. Plus, (and I haven't tried it yet), there's the possibility of using a Disney Visa 10-15% discount off of the total. So there definitely are some advantages to the online shopping for those of us who aren't as mobile as others. :idea:

However, my problem with the online selling is that A) The vinyls seem to go up 2 weeks or so after they've been released in the parks. That's just not really very helpful if you're wanting to buy them right away. B) There's no guarantee that they're ALWAYS going to sell a certain series online. I'd assume that some of the LE 3"s, such as the Wall-E & Eve sets, or the Pool Ball sets are probably not going to be sold online, because I think the demand for them at the parks is going to be much higher, and they'll actually sell out. In fact, I think Disney's probably betting that's what's going to happen. As others have said, they're producing so many new series so quickly, with such huge batches, that they've had no choice other than to put them up on Disney Shopping - effectively exiling them to an internet wasteland, which is their own darn fault. And just wait until they start being put on Disney Outlet - I'm sure the collective outrage from just our own community here will be loud enough that it will echo thru the annuls of time! :fight:

Personally, I think the reason the 9" Urban 2's are online is because they're simply not selling as well as Disney thinks they should. Part of this is due to the much larger LE #'s, of course, but I think credit should be given to whomever said the releases have flooded the market so much that there simply isn't enough time/money for collector's to get them all. Plus, there's my own personal observation on eBay that the Urban series just doesn't sell as well as the Park's.

It will be interesting to see how the future of Vinylmation pans out. They're either going to completely destroy it, like they did with pins, or they'll wise up and truly make them collectibles. Here's hoping it's the latter, rather than the former.

[GTPDaddy]

Both.... but I must say that I am a little happy about it due to the fact I live in the Boston area and only get to go to Disney once a yr or 2. This will give me the chance to get the ones I like and want without paying jacked up prices on e-bay for the ones that are low limited numbers!!!

But I only get the ones I like and not based on LE #'s :clap:

[Layensid71]

There is way to much inventory out there, when you have park 2, clear and urban 2 on the shelves and you are going to relase holiday in a month, it dosnt make them special anymore, they shouldnt relase a new series until the current one sells out,I got heat for saying this before but when it comes down to it Park 1 in the long run will be the only set really worth anything, so dont buy them thinking they are going to have some great value to them, buy them because you enjoy them

---------- Post added at 05:21 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:21 PM ----------

Oh Bad News, sorry

[elclavo75]

Hi, I personally really don't care that they are selling both 9" and 3" Vinylmation online or that they are increasing the LE sizes for that matter. I collect Vinylmation because I like them...not because they are "limited" or because they are "park exclusive". If anything, I am leaning towards being happy they are all being sold online now as I am from Texas and $5 Disney Store shipping is a lot better than paying 25-50 dollars for shipping from WDW Mail Order. I do however agree that Disney should try to spread out releases a bit more though I doubt this will happen. Just my 2 cents.

[WDWTigger72]

Both.... but I must say that I am a little happy about it due to the fact I live in the Boston area and only get to go to Disney once a yr or 2. This will give me the chance to get the ones I like and want without paying jacked up prices on e-bay for the ones that are low limited numbers!!!

But I only get the ones I like and not based on LE #'s :clap:

Yay, Another bostonian that collects them, I thought maybe I was the only crazy person in all of Massachusetts that collected these :clap::clap::clap: Sorry, Side tracked for a minute...

Right now, The only data that I am missing from ebay is pretty much January/February/March and I am determined to get the vinylmation sales there. What a previous poster stated holds true regarding Park Series 1 still sells for the best on the secondary market, although slowly but surely Urban Series 1 is starting to creep up...The rest of the series all around have been selling pretty close for what they charged at the parks since I have full data on all the other series (excluding chasers)...Some of the other series if you sold online after ebay fees, paypal fees, etc you would pretty much break even...This could change a few years down the line if your willing to put them away for a while, and bring them out when the series is all gone, similar to what I am now seeing with Urban Series 1. Hopefully, I can find the data for the rest of Urban Series 1 and Park Series 1...

[paaron46]

I'll play the devil's advocate here and say that it's good they're being sold online, for the fact that it will inevitably bring down some of the outrageous Ebay prices if people want to actually sell their figures.

[Qsk50]

I just hope they dont start releasing them faster than I can buy them!
If they go the same route as the pins, thats just way too much for me.

[alicetwasbrillig]

I'm hoping these won't head down the same road as the pins. But I don't think that that will actually happen because if you think about it the pins are able to be changed into something more mass marketable and less collector's item just because of the fact that they can be worn on lanyards, hats, etc. I see the pins as somewhat of a form of expression in the park now. People wear their favorite characters, rides, etc. You can't wear Vinylmations. And they are not mean to be toys so I don't see them getting as big as pins.

The day that they make a Vinylmation lanyard, I would really begin to worry!

[Mouseman74]

I'm hoping these won't head down the same road as the pins. But I don't think that that will actually happen because if you think about it the pins are able to be changed into something more mass marketable and less collector's item just because of the fact that they can be worn on lanyards, hats, etc. I see the pins as somewhat of a form of expression in the park now. People wear their favorite characters, rides, etc. You can't wear Vinylmations. And they are not mean to be toys so I don't see them getting as big as pins.

The day that they make a Vinylmation lanyard, I would really begin to worry!

Well they do have the vinylmation pins so a vinylmation lanyard could be made...hmmmmm:idea:.

[alicetwasbrillig]

Well they do have the vinylmation pins so a vinylmation lanyard could be made...hmmmmm:idea:.

Lol very good point. I meant one with pockets for the figures or something... Oh no, I shouldn't have posted that on the internet. Some Disney Marketing person will see it and decide it's a grand idea :bonk:

[Mouseman74]

Lol very good point. I meant one with pockets for the figures or something... Oh no, I shouldn't have posted that on the internet. Some Disney Marketing person will see it and decide it's a grand idea :bonk:

Hmmm, I can't really see it being a lanyard. More of some kind of carrying case where the vinyl and the card can be protected. Or a little backpack maybe. :idea: (copyright mouseman74)

[WDWTigger72]

Lol very good point. I meant one with pockets for the figures or something... Oh no, I shouldn't have posted that on the internet. Some Disney Marketing person will see it and decide it's a grand idea :bonk:

I think this may have been discussed before, maybe on the old forums, where cast members would have some sort of a pocket lanyard thingy to hold the vinylmations for trading. I think it was more of an idea someone threw out there for Vinylmation trading, but Vinylmation trading in general is just around the corner as someone commented on the Urban Series 2 signing event as Steve Miller I believe was there.

[chris5138522]

Today at DisneyStore.com, we can purchase Clear 1 series, Urban 2 series and even all 6 Urban 2 9" figures. Will this be the end of collecting Vinylmation once it is become too mainstream??

Bad idea..... well i guess the 9" ones should sell out online then some what fast

[Zephyr]

I'm along with the thought that it doesn't really effect me since I only get what I really like. I'm a bit of a completist, but I can't keep up with these. I do have a feeling that they will go the way of the beanie babies come 4-5 years, but hey, I still have the beanies I really like, and I cherish them.

On subject, over all, I think it makes 'em less of a collector item. But I think the rapid release of them is what's gonna hurt them in the long run. I would have been happy with 4 sets a year, once a quarter.

[SherKhan72]

First things first, I knew this was going to happen!!! :mad::mad::mad:
I knew from the start that when Disney sees this as a huge hit, they will mass produce it to milk as much money as they can. Can I blame Disney for this? I can't because it's business. Disney is not only here to please us, they are here to make money or else they would close. It's basically revenue, when it boils down to it. Now, the question is, will Disney listen to us "guest" and actually do something about it? I'd like to believe so. Maybe back in the days when Walt was alive, Disney will definitely listen to us. CEO after CEO after CEO and how the market has changed, they'll have their ears open, and out the other.
I really enjoyed the feeling of anticipation for the next series when it comes out. As crazy as it may sound like, I really enjoy the feeling of "let down" and "upset" because the series has been delayed. Like I've stated before in one of my post, I didn't really start collecting till Urban Series 2 came out, and that's because they didn't have anymore Park Series 1 on the shelves. Disney will slowly realize that people really can't keep up if they keep releasing every other month. I wouldn't be surprise if I start seeing them at Character Store because they have so much left overs. :shrug:
I think releasing it online store is bad, BUT, it's good for the people who lives to far away. I didn't mind the 3". But now that the 9" is released online :doh:. If they are releasing it online after two weeks or so, it comes out in the park, then that's not that bad, but I still rather have them not sell it online.
I believe this is Disney's version of "beanie babies" because TY didn't want to sell their company when Disney wanted to buy them and then Disney started making their own and it was a hit for a bit, I still have my shaking Flubber (only sold at The Disney Store, that means you had to go there and buy it, stand in line, like it was at Rainforest Cafe), then it just died.
So, my answer to this thread, IT'S A BAD IDEA!!! :(:(:(:shrug::shrug:

[Brava_Centauri]

I feel two ways. First, the main reason I feel it's a bad idea is because now it would appear that the parks will get even less quantity of the 9" pieces. Then you have to wonder, will the online sale of 9" continue with further releases? I ask because the urban series 2 9" are all still available for sale at the parks but is that because they made a high quantity of each or because the everyday regular park guest isn't really interested in purchasing them? Whenever I go to the parks I don't really see many guests purchasing the vinyls. The Park series' have been a bit more popular then the urbans to say the least. I think vinyls have a core audience and now Disney is trying hard to expand it past that to an even wider range of people.

I think that this shows us that most likey there will never be another 9" released in a series with a limited edition number as low as mummy. I'm not talking about Shag or special pieces like that, I'm refering to an actual 9" piece in an upcoming series. If there was a low edition 9" piece coming out in a new series there would virtually be no way it could be sold online as they would only be able to sell a few before selling out their quantity. If the online sales continue look for the limited edition numbers to stay quite high.

Now here's the other way that I feel. I purchase the vinyls because foremost I enjoy collecting them. Even if these weren't limited edition pieces and were around every day I would still collect them because I really like a lot of the designs. I think it's a fun hobby and they also look nice next to other disney collectables! The coolest thing about vinyls is we get collectables representing restaurants, rides and disney things in general that we normally wouldn't have collectables of such as Sci-Fi Dine In and SMRT-1. That is why I collect the vinyls. Not to try and hold on to them and sell them for a large profit. That's not what I have in mind. So with that aspect, the online sale doesn't really matter to me.

I have to agree with mostly everyone else though about the releases. Disney is really pushing these far too fast! They need to slow down. The main problem is as I stated earlier. Vinyls certainly have a hardcore audience that will purchase a ton of the pieces but now they've got to the point where they have so many products out and only so big an audience. It's one of the reasons why there are tons of vinyls just sitting in the park stores not being purchased. They need to slow it down and really try and make every release an event! Park 1's release was certainly an event and so was Urban 1's, especially with the low edition for mummy. I do think they'll eventually run it into the ground but that could all change with how the upcoming releases sell. Holiday, Cutesters and especially Park 3 should be huge! Park 3 is arguably the best series yet and should attract even more new customers with the great designs.

Also on a completely unrelated note, I couldn't help but notice on that disneystore site that all snowglobes are 50% off! I just bought a Darkwing Duck snowglobe for only $20.00 marked down from $60.00. I saved $40.00 bucks! C'mon there have to be some Darkwing Duck fans here! :wave:

[HT_NSU]

I ask because the urban series 2 9" are all still available for sale at the parks but is that because they made a high quantity of each or because the everyday regular park guest isn't really interested in purchasing them? Whenever I go to the parks I don't really see many guests purchasing the vinyls.

I think part of the reason you don't see more of the park guests buying these is because a lot of them have no idea what they are. I've noticed a trend on these boards that a lot of people who do their initial "welcome" post say that they were at the parks, saw them and either 1-Bought one to see what it was or 2-Ignored it because they didn't know what it was only to go home, discover it and then kick themslves because now they are forced to go through eBay or other means to get something they could have easily picked up on vacation (I myself, fall into this group)

I was also talking to some friends of mine just last night who recently got back from the parks and I was telling them about my vinyls that just came in and they asked what they were. When I started to describe them, they said "Oh, we saw those while we were there. I didn't know what that was."

Not that any of this really adds to what you were saying...it's just an observation I have. I think that as more and more people discover these little guys, you'll start to see more guests purchasing them.


Also on a completely unrelated note, I couldn't help but notice on that disneystore site that all snowglobes are 50% off! I just bought a Darkwing Duck snowglobe for only $20.00 marked down from $60.00. I saved $40.00 bucks! C'mon there have to be some Darkwing Duck fans here! :wave:

Definitely have Darwing Duck fans here! :thumbsup:

[Sledge]

SOLD OUT. When I checked it around noon today, the Sailor Art and Hearts & Bones were both sold out. This isn't at all surprising considering they had the lowest LE sizes. Looks like the eBayers are already getting involved.

[alicetwasbrillig]

SOLD OUT. When I checked it around noon today, the Sailor Art and Hearts & Bones were both sold out. This isn't at all surprising considering they had the lowest LE sizes. Looks like the eBayers are already getting involved.

Well that certainly isn't going to make Disney realize that they are releasing too fast :doh:

But, those two figures must still be in the Parks. Is it possible that they are putting a very low quantity aside for online sale in hopes of gaining awareness? Maybe they wanted them to sell out fast so it looks like they are really hard to find.

[Sledge]

I just really hope it is awhile before we see more taken out of the parks and put online.

[Brava_Centauri]

I think part of the reason you don't see more of the park guests buying these is because a lot of them have no idea what they are.

Yeah you're right. Come to think of it, at some of the vinyl locations in the parks they actually have a cast member nearby ready to explain what the vinyls are to anyone who asks. Mousegear at Epcot in particular comes to mind.

Also regarding the two 9" pieces already selling out. I'm surprised it didn't happen sooner with some people buying them basically for their limited edition numbers. I may be in the minority but those two were my least favorite designs from Urban 2. Those were the only two that I didn't purchase as I really couldn't justify spending $80 on two pieces I didn't like. I wonder how many of the 9" are able to be sold online? I just hope that the online sales don't take too many pieces away from the parks. I'm pretty sure that all 6 9" are still available at the parks. They were all in stock at a few of the downtown disney stores this past sunday.

[Mouseman74]

Yeah you're right. Come to think of it, at some of the vinyl locations in the parks they actually have a cast member nearby ready to explain what the vinyls are to anyone who asks. Mousegear at Epcot in particular comes to mind.

Also regarding the two 9" pieces already selling out. I'm surprised it didn't happen sooner with some people buying them basically for their limited edition numbers. I may be in the minority but those two were my least favorite designs from Urban 2. Those were the only two that I didn't purchase as I really couldn't justify spending $80 on two pieces I didn't like. I wonder how many of the 9" are able to be sold online? I just hope that the online sales don't take too many pieces away from the parks. I'm pretty sure that all 6 9" are still available at the parks. They were all in stock at a few of the downtown disney stores this past sunday.

The Cast Member at some locations where the vinylmation is sold is also there to make sure people aren't opening them to see what is inside or trying to find specific ones like the chaser. More of a vinylmation watchdog :flex:.

[Sledge]

The Cast Member at some locations where the vinylmation is sold is also there to make sure people aren't opening them to see what is inside or trying to find specific ones like the chaser. More of a vinylmation watchdog :flex:.
Exactly. Unfortunately, if you get to talking to them, you'll find that very few actually know what they are talking about. For some reason I've been given lots of misinformation that the average guest wouldn't know was wrong.

It is a lot of fun to talk to those that DO understand Vinylmation. I especially love it when they tell me "You should check out VinylNation.net." I get that every so often and a few times have let them know "Not a fan. Can't stand the owner." :lol: In all seriousness, that is pretty cool when they plug VN. :)

[Brava_Centauri]

It is a lot of fun to talk to those that DO understand Vinylmation. I especially love it when they tell me "You should check out VinylNation.net." I get that every so often and a few times have let them know "Not a fan. Can't stand the owner." :lol: In all seriousness, that is pretty cool when they plug VN. :)

I remember when Park 1 was in stores and the buzz was going around. Everyone was going crazy! When someone would buy a single box everyone in the store would stand around and want to see what they got. It was a really fun time. I remember often getting into conversations with people about series 1 then too. People would just come up to you and ask which one you were hoping to get and then if you actually opened it in your box everyone would celebrate (not really a big celebration but a smile.)

I don't know. I kind of feel like the buzz has died down a bit. I mean, I don't really see people opening up boxes and everyone waiting in anticipation to see what they got anymore but it really was like that at one time. Park 1 I guess was just such a new concept and so fun when buying right in the parks.

Also, I have seen some of the workers at mousegear trying to explain the concept of vinylmation to people as they pass by but yeah, now that you mention it makes sense that they would be trying to make sure that no one tampers with the boxes, especially with the boxes at mousegear right out in the open instead of being behind a counter like at some stores.

[Mouseman74]

Exactly. Unfortunately, if you get to talking to them, you'll find that very few actually know what they are talking about. For some reason I've been given lots of misinformation that the average guest wouldn't know was wrong.

It is a lot of fun to talk to those that DO understand Vinylmation. I especially love it when they tell me "You should check out VinylNation.net." I get that every so often and a few times have let them know "Not a fan. Can't stand the owner." :lol: In all seriousness, that is pretty cool when they plug VN. :)

LOL. Now that is funny!!:rofl::rofl: Yeah, they use a deployment system so it is a random Cast Member who ends up at the display, not a "who knows anything about it and has an interest in it" and put them there. Most of what they learn is from the Guests who buy the pieces that know about them, which is why when they do hear something they tend to repeat it a lot cause then it makes them seem knowledgable.

I know there are quite a few Cast Members on the board from both coasts and being one myself, I know how little information gets out to the areas in terms of educating the Cast on things. They try to do little pre/post shift meetings but they only talk the topic so much and if the Cast don't have an interest in it, it goes in one ear and out the other. Would be nice if they did have more interested Cast who they could put there to really talk about it and sell it.

---------- Post added at 02:17 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:08 PM ----------


I don't know. I kind of feel like the buzz has died down a bit. I mean, I don't really see people opening up boxes and everyone waiting in anticipation to see what they got anymore but it really was like that at one time. Park 1 I guess was just such a new concept and so fun when buying right in the parks.

I still see the excitement in the stores to a degree. If the Cast Member does know about it they are asking when you are purchasing if you want help opening them or they are curious to see what you are getting. You are just now seeing all the new college program kids who haven't learned anything about it just starting to work and they haven't learned to ask when you are purchasing vinylmation if you want to open it. I do still see a lot of people buying them and getting excited about what they got.

[tropicalaqua]

how many of the 9 inchers for Sailor Art and Hearts & Bones were sold online (quantity that they put on the site)?

and does anyone know what is the percentage do cast members get for purchasing items (such as vinyls)?

[Open_at_the_close]

how many of the 9 inchers for Sailor Art and Hearts & Bones were sold online (quantity that they put on the site)?

and does anyone know what is the percentage do cast members get for purchasing items (such as vinyls)?

Do you mean what discount do they get? I believe it depends on how long you've been working for the company. My cousin gets 20% off I think while her friend, who has worked longer then her gets 30% if I remember correctly.

I just read that the 9" figs are sold out; but does that mean they're sold out online? Because I was at DL on Wednesday and atleast in the store next to the Starcade they still had the shelf full of 9" figures.

**edit** I just read that its the heart and bones and sailor art. But again those where well in stock in the store I went into.

[GTPDaddy]

I just read that the 9" figs are sold out; but does that mean they're sold out online? Because I was at DL on Wednesday and atleast in the store next to the Starcade they still had the shelf full of 9" figures.

**edit** I just read that its the heart and bones and sailor art. But again those where well in stock in the store I went into.

yes... just online. Im guessing they only have a limited number they can sell online and them 2 being the lowest of LE#'s you knew it wouldnt take long. I guess ill have to look on ebay for the Sailor Art! damn it!! :bonk:

[HT_NSU]

yes... just online. Im guessing they only have a limited number they can sell online and them 2 being the lowest of LE#'s you knew it wouldnt take long. I guess ill have to look on ebay for the Sailor Art! damn it!! :bonk:

You might want to call World of Disney, NY or the parks before you turn to eBay. If they're still available there, then you can probably get it a lot cheaper.

I would check WoD, NY first. They have probably just gotten there stock in because they usually get them two weeks after the parks. The S & H through them is fairly reasonable too.

There is a thread in the "general discussion" area (i think) that has the phone numbers listed.

[JEP]

Also on a completely unrelated note, I couldn't help but notice on that disneystore site that all snowglobes are 50% off! I just bought a Darkwing Duck snowglobe for only $20.00 marked down from $60.00. I saved $40.00 bucks! C'mon there have to be some Darkwing Duck fans here! :wave:

He's my next custom Vinylmation. :thumbsup:

[vinylFLIP]

Hey everyone....it looks like these aren't sold out because I saw them online this morning....check it out:

http://www.disneystore.com/disney-parks/vinylmation/c/70998/?Dr=&Dn=

[Sledge]

Oh geez. Looks like they made more available online. Chances are that this means they are pulling from locations that might not be selling as well.

[vinylFLIP]

Yeah probably to make room for new stuff

[Qsk50]

Hey everyone....it looks like these aren't sold out because I saw them online this morning....check it out:

http://www.disneystore.com/disney-parks/vinylmation/c/70998/?Dr=&Dn=

Guess they must not be doing so hot at the parks :shrug:
This is all so new that they are still working out their
marketing strategy.
I wonder what will happen with the next release :look:

[HT_NSU]

Hopefully they'll realize that they need to slow down with these releases. I think the majority of the people who are collecting these can't afford to be completist or even just get some of the figures they want because they're being released too quickly.

[vinylFLIP]

Hopefully they'll realize that they need to slow down with these releases. I think the majority of the people who are collecting these can't afford to be completist or even just get some of the figures they want because they're being released too quickly.

I totally agree.

Also make us make want more with supply and demand. I don't want to see vinylmations flooding the market. But then again it's all about money in the long run.

[Mouseman74]

I totally agree.

Also make us make want more with supply and demand. I don't want to see vinylmations flooding the market. But then again it's all about money in the long run.

They realize they are still in the testing stages. At the last Artist Party the product developer admitted that they are still trying to find the happy medium with the edition sizes, they want to be able to sell through what they make, but then make enough to satisfy demand. It will take a few series for them to find that balancing point.

The same goes for the release schedule. Park 1 and Urban 1 sold out so fast and there was a long gap before the next series was released with nothing on the shelves that they upped production numbers. Now that they have gotten them out quicker, they will evaluate and go off how fast they sell out. I wouldn't be surprised to see them slow down again but probably not until next year when they can react accordingly. The next couple of series are done deals and orders are placed and will be received and they won't want to sit on them in the warehouse and not sell them.

It's a very new and young collectible for Disney and it takes time to get the balance just right to make everyone happy.

[vinylFLIP]

They realize they are still in the testing stages. At the last Artist Party the product developer admitted that they are still trying to find the happy medium with the edition sizes, they want to be able to sell through what they make, but then make enough to satisfy demand. It will take a few series for them to find that balancing point.

The same goes for the release schedule. Park 1 and Urban 1 sold out so fast and there was a long gap before the next series was released with nothing on the shelves that they upped production numbers. Now that they have gotten them out quicker, they will evaluate and go off how fast they sell out. I wouldn't be surprised to see them slow down again but probably not until next year when they can react accordingly. The next couple of series are done deals and orders are placed and will be received and they won't want to sit on them in the warehouse and not sell them.

It's a very new and young collectible for Disney and it takes time to get the balance just right to make everyone happy.

I love it then. Since I'm new to this I gotta focus on Park 1 and Urban 1 because they're some of the first series, limited and can become more valuable.

The only thing I'm concerned about is counterfeits eventually appearing once the demand increases even more. It's bound to happen once crooks see the money they can scam people out of. Take a look at pins.....so sad.

Disney has to watch their sell through rate and I predict chasers are going to be much harder to find and not as predictable when you buy cases. Sets will be harder to put together therefore making collectors buy more to get what they really want. Disney will try tease us to death in my opinion and it seems to be working....hahahahaha.

[Mouseman74]

Just for those that have been watching the progress of the sale of vinylmation on disneyshopping.com, currently "Ham & Eggs" and "Bowling Pin" 9" are both out of stock. Let's see how long till they get more in stock.:rolleyes:

[WDWTigger72]

Just for those that have been watching the progress of the sale of vinylmation on disneyshopping.com, currently "Ham & Eggs" and "Bowling Pin" 9" are both out of stock. Let's see how long till they get more in stock.:rolleyes:

The "Sailor Tatoo Art" and "Heart & Bones" can be added back to the list once again, as these look to be sold out once again at the Disney Store online.

[Mortimer]

The "Sailor Tatoo Art" and "Heart & Bones" can be added back to the list once again, as these look to be sold out once again at the Disney Store online.

I just returned from a vacation in Canada (of course, just when Urban 2 gets released). Is anyone seeing these at DL? I looked at the vinyltracker thread but didn't see any recent reports. I wasn't going to collect any more 9 inchers but with designs like this, I might.

[VintageOne]

This has turned into one massive thread concerning several issues at once, so I'm offering up a few opinions and some insights:
1) I find humor in the person who keeps defending Disney - not so much because of what he says, but because its like he works for the company. Let's not kid ourselves, we're all Disney fans if we collect VM's, but we don't want to see a good thing turn bad. Let's not make statements about Disney making adjustments unless we have FACTS that this is the case.
2) No issues with them selling online, because getting to a Park is EXPENSIVE if you don't live near one. My issue is with the over-production and supply, which dilutes the market...it's not about the money, but anyone who collects anything and pays good money for it wants to know that their investment will not decline.
3) The fact that they are now selling them in the hotels is another indication of OVER PRODUCTION on these most recent series. Let's hope that trend doesn't continue.
4) I have found most CMs in the stores have no clue what VMs are. I also think they are not easy to find in most locations that sell them, and when you do its easy to pass them by with the brown sign. They aren't promoted strongly enough as a true, affordable collectible, and those stores are packed with lots of people and lots of visual distractions. They need to promote them at the pin trading locations, etc.
5) Its great Disney CMs know about this site, they SHOULD promote it...lets all do our part to keep this great collectible going strong (but not so strong they become worthless).

[DLRich]

I just returned from a vacation in Canada (of course, just when Urban 2 gets released). Is anyone seeing these at DL? I looked at the vinyltracker thread but didn't see any recent reports. I wasn't going to collect any more 9 inchers but with designs like this, I might.

I was at Disneyland today and saw all 6 of the 9" Urban 2 still available. StarTraders seemed to have the best selection of them left within Disneyland itself.

[Mouseman74]

This has turned into one massive thread concerning several issues at once, so I'm offering up a few opinions and some insights:
1) I find humor in the person who keeps defending Disney - not so much because of what he says, but because its like he works for the company. Let's not kid ourselves, we're all Disney fans if we collect VM's, but we don't want to see a good thing turn bad. Let's not make statements about Disney making adjustments unless we have FACTS that this is the case.
2) No issues with them selling online, because getting to a Park is EXPENSIVE if you don't live near one. My issue is with the over-production and supply, which dilutes the market...it's not about the money, but anyone who collects anything and pays good money for it wants to know that their investment will not decline.
3) The fact that they are now selling them in the hotels is another indication of OVER PRODUCTION on these most recent series. Let's hope that trend doesn't continue.
4) I have found most CMs in the stores have no clue what VMs are. I also think they are not easy to find in most locations that sell them, and when you do its easy to pass them by with the brown sign. They aren't promoted strongly enough as a true, affordable collectible, and those stores are packed with lots of people and lots of visual distractions. They need to promote them at the pin trading locations, etc.
5) Its great Disney CMs know about this site, they SHOULD promote it...lets all do our part to keep this great collectible going strong (but not so strong they become worthless).

Wow. I agree that everyone is entitled to their opinions, good or bad, right or wrong. How we state these opinions is what we need to be more aware of as some comments can be taken very negatively and may upset or hurt other peoples feelings. Everyone can agree there is 2 sides to every coin, but we need to be open to both sides.

With that said, here are my opinions regarding some of what you said. I do not mean or intend for these to be taken as an attack toward you or anyone, but I am trying to state how I interpreted your statements and if I am wrong, please let me know, but these are the impressions I got.

1. Anyone is able to attend the Artist Parties and are free to ask the Product Developer questions. Now, if he gives us information and it is passed onto this board, are we calling the person who got the information and/or the Product Developer wrong because we did not get an official document to send out to all the vinylnation board members to prove that they are testing the numbers? To say that they need proof or facts, comes across a bit harsh as then how do we take any information we receive then? Is it true? Is it false? Are we being lied to? You can either take what is given as information at face value, and can either believe it or not.:shrug::shrug:

And to one other point, in your statement of us needing facts that they are making adjustments, where is the facts that they are NOT making adjustments? Seems to go both ways to me??:shrug::shrug:

2. This has been discussed and is a valid concern for those looking for their collection to have a monetary value versus a personal value. Those that are collecting the vinyls for personal reasons are happy as it increases their chances to get the ones they want to add to their collection, while those wanting to build a monetary value to their collection are upset cause they don't see their pieces increasing in value on markets like ebay. I don't see where there will ever be a total happy medium to this debate as someone is going to lose out either way.

Over production, yes it can be bad for any company. But how does a company determine where the level of production should stop unless they test it to see where that level is??:shrug::shrug:

3. Is this really a case of over production? If you were a business, wouldn't you want to get more of your product visable to the public in hopes of attracting more business and driving sales? Or is it a more sound business strategy to limit the number of locations selling your product and keep sales to a minimum?:shrug::shrug:

4. Again, another topic that has been discussed numerous times regarding product knowledge on the Cast Members. It does seem that it has been agreed that not all of the Cast have sufficient knowledge on vinylmation. They do not get the training we would like to see them have to answer the questions of anyone inquiring or wanting further information on this product line.

The second part of this regarding promoting it again goes back to #3, limiting the locations then that sell the product and minimize sales, or maximize sales and increase awareness of the product by getting it out to more locations? To really be successful there should be additional training for the Cast Members in these locations to be more knowledgable on the product and be able to answer questions better.

Also, they have started to move the product to some pin trading locations like Disney's Pin Traders at Downtown Disney. This location works due them having an area with shelving and register area to have them displayed, but other locations like Pin Traders at Epcot, are not really set up for a product line like this as the whole location is pretty much made for pegs.

5. :agree:Agreed, word of mouth is a great way to advertise, whether it be the product line or this wonderful site!

And one last thing. The statement made about the person defending Disney because they work for the company. Again, this seems a bit like a personal attack. This forum is to be an open place for everyone to come and state their opions, but at the same time maintain a certain level of decorum and respect for their fellow board members. There should no personal attacks (direct or indirect) on anyone based on any criteria, as it will only lead to people :fight::fight::fight:.

Again, I apologize if I have offended anyone, but in some of the statements that were made I did take some offense as I try my best to gather information and the call for proof did come across as negative to me. :nono:

[VintageOne]

Wow. I agree that everyone is entitled to their opinions, good or bad, right or wrong. How we state these opinions is what we need to be more aware of as some comments can be taken very negatively and may upset or hurt other peoples feelings. Everyone can agree there is 2 sides to every coin, but we need to be open to both sides.

With that said, here are my opinions regarding some of what you said. I do not mean or intend for these to be taken as an attack toward you or anyone, but I am trying to state how I interpreted your statements and if I am wrong, please let me know, but these are the impressions I got.

1. Anyone is able to attend the Artist Parties and are free to ask the Product Developer questions. Now, if he gives us information and it is passed onto this board, are we calling the person who got the information and/or the Product Developer wrong because we did not get an official document to send out to all the vinylnation board members to prove that they are testing the numbers? To say that they need proof or facts, comes across a bit harsh as then how do we take any information we receive then? Is it true? Is it false? Are we being lied to? You can either take what is given as information at face value, and can either believe it or not.:shrug::shrug:

And to one other point, in your statement of us needing facts that they are making adjustments, where is the facts that they are NOT making adjustments? Seems to go both ways to me??:shrug::shrug:

2. This has been discussed and is a valid concern for those looking for their collection to have a monetary value versus a personal value. Those that are collecting the vinyls for personal reasons are happy as it increases their chances to get the ones they want to add to their collection, while those wanting to build a monetary value to their collection are upset cause they don't see their pieces increasing in value on markets like ebay. I don't see where there will ever be a total happy medium to this debate as someone is going to lose out either way.

Over production, yes it can be bad for any company. But how does a company determine where the level of production should stop unless they test it to see where that level is??:shrug::shrug:

3. Is this really a case of over production? If you were a business, wouldn't you want to get more of your product visable to the public in hopes of attracting more business and driving sales? Or is it a more sound business strategy to limit the number of locations selling your product and keep sales to a minimum?:shrug::shrug:

4. Again, another topic that has been discussed numerous times regarding product knowledge on the Cast Members. It does seem that it has been agreed that not all of the Cast have sufficient knowledge on vinylmation. They do not get the training we would like to see them have to answer the questions of anyone inquiring or wanting further information on this product line.

The second part of this regarding promoting it again goes back to #3, limiting the locations then that sell the product and minimize sales, or maximize sales and increase awareness of the product by getting it out to more locations? To really be successful there should be additional training for the Cast Members in these locations to be more knowledgable on the product and be able to answer questions better.

Also, they have started to move the product to some pin trading locations like Disney's Pin Traders at Downtown Disney. This location works due them having an area with shelving and register area to have them displayed, but other locations like Pin Traders at Epcot, are not really set up for a product line like this as the whole location is pretty much made for pegs.

5. :agree:Agreed, word of mouth is a great way to advertise, whether it be the product line or this wonderful site!

And one last thing. The statement made about the person defending Disney because they work for the company. Again, this seems a bit like a personal attack. This forum is to be an open place for everyone to come and state their opions, but at the same time maintain a certain level of decorum and respect for their fellow board members. There should no personal attacks (direct or indirect) on anyone based on any criteria, as it will only lead to people :fight::fight::fight:.

Again, I apologize if I have offended anyone, but in some of the statements that were made I did take some offense as I try my best to gather information and the call for proof did come across as negative to me. :nono:


1) Easy - no offense was meant, and I didn't mean to make it personal. I suppose you have a valid point if you got your information directly from a CM at the artist party who is involved, so looking back on my comments I can see where they could have been taken the wrong way. I'll take the hit on that one and try to rephrase my comments in the future.
2) I was just stating my opinion - and you are most certainly entitled to yours as well. However, the response kind of implies me being in it for the money - which most people on here are not on its face. My point was, while people want to complete their collections, nobody wants to collect something everyone has, or has no value, or it wouldn't really be a collection. And to answer your question, how does a company determine production? By watching their hourly, daily and weekly sales and sell-through - I think General Motors can attest to this. Don't mean to smarmy, but you're asking someone who has an MBA and has been in business a long time.
3) Since you asked, and its an opinion because this is an open forum - Yes its really a case of over-production. As mentioned, hopefully they learn from this go-round and hit that sweet spot on the next ones. Again, its bad when you're stuck with excess inventory and have to either leave it on the lot, dilute it by adding locations or marking it down significantly. Whoops, there's that GM reference again (no offense if you work for or drive a GM, just an example)
4) I think I agree with you!
5) Two in a row!

In summary - yes, I see the error of my ways in terms of the indirect reference to a person, which in this case was you. Not well thought out on my part, so as stated that is my fault and I apologize. Its obvious from some of your responses that my comments bothered you, and again it wasn't my intent to make it personal. We can certainly agree to disagree, and diversity of opinions is what makes any open forum great, so long as they aren't personal...shake on it?

[Mouseman74]

In summary - yes, I see the error of my ways in terms of the indirect reference to a person, which in this case was you. Not well thought out on my part, so as stated that is my fault and I apologize. Its obvious from some of your responses that my comments bothered you, and again it wasn't my intent to make it personal. We can certainly agree to disagree, and diversity of opinions is what makes any open forum great, so long as they aren't personal...shake on it?

I accept your apology and apologize as well. I love vinylnation and am proud to be a member of this board and want this to be a positive experience for everyone!:happy::happy:

[Brava_Centauri]

Getting back on topic, I believe that all of the 9 inch pieces may be sold out online. I can't seem to find them on the site.

[MaxGoof]

I'm not sure I really understand some of the concerns about these being sold online?

I don't see a problem with setting aside a quantity of the items to be sold online. I can call and order merchandise from WDW or DL anyway, so they might as well be online and save their employees at the parks the trouble of fielding tons of calls about them.

The 9" figures, although being sold online, are still being limited to less than 1,000 pieces produced. That's incredibly small! And judging based on the fact that every single 9" is sold out online, they seem to be doing quite well.

While more sets were produced of Urban 2, Park 2, and Color 1, Vinylmation is just taking off and getting really popular. Even at the increased quantities, I think that at least the Park and Urban sets will be scarce and desirable in a couple months. The color series doesn't have much artistic value to it, in my opinion, so it remains to be seen how that series will do.

I think selling limited quantities online through the Disney Store is a really good idea to attract new collectors. This is a LONG way from the Beanie Babies craze of the 90's where one could purchase Beanie Babies from every card store, luggage store, grocery store, and deli in town.

[Open_at_the_close]

I'm not sure I really understand some of the concerns about these being sold online?

I don't see a problem with setting aside a quantity of the items to be sold online. I can call and order merchandise from WDW or DL anyway, so they might as well be online and save their employees at the parks the trouble of fielding tons of calls about them.

The 9" figures, although being sold online, are still being limited to less than 1,000 pieces produced. That's incredibly small! And judging based on the fact that every single 9" is sold out online, they seem to be doing quite well.

While more sets were produced of Urban 2, Park 2, and Color 1, Vinylmation is just taking off and getting really popular. Even at the increased quantities, I think that at least the Park and Urban sets will be scarce and desirable in a couple months. The color series doesn't have much artistic value to it, in my opinion, so it remains to be seen how that series will do.

I think selling limited quantities online through the Disney Store is a really good idea to attract new collectors. This is a LONG way from the Beanie Babies craze of the 90's where one could purchase Beanie Babies from every card store, luggage store, grocery store, and deli in town.

Its a possability that its already been mentioned before but I dont knowif theres a limit to how many you can purchase online or if its just per call or household. The issue with that is that obviously some have noticed the potential profit they can get by just buying in bulk for the sole purpose of hiking the priceup to re-sell.

It's people that are doing that, that are making it harder for those who actually want to collect them and not sell them. I mean I understand that the option to buy them online is good and convenient for some but I guess as long as its carefully regulated on Disney's end then everything should work out fine.

[hskrshawn]

The 9" Vinylmations (Urban 2) are no longer for sale at Disney Store.com. Only the blank 9" are available.

[Apollo]

Interesting... I wonder if they received complaints. Or perhaps quantities are low... Whatever the cause may be, it will make them harder to collect now, which kind of adds more fun to the whole experience.

[MaxGoof]

They actually haven't been available since late last week. I'm sure that the items have been removed because they sold out. With only 400-800 of each 9" to split between WDW, DL, WoD NYC, and the internet, that's really not many to allocate to the online store.

[WDWTigger72]

There is another thread somewhere on this forums regarding the 9" vinylmations selling out at the Disney Store. Ah!!! Found the thread a few below yours the title is kind of misleading as it states nothing about them selling vinylmation in the Disney Store, you actually have to go into the thread:

http://www.vinylnation.net/forums/showthread.php?t=806

TIMELINE
=========
08/07/2009 = Sailor Tattoo Art, Heart & Bones (Sold Out & Later Replenished)
08/15/2009 = Ham & Eggs, Bowling Pin (Sold Out)
08/15/2009 = Sailor Tattoo Art, Heart & Bones (Sold Out)

Not sure when the last two where sold out, but I know its been at least a few days to even a week. When I went away for two days and checked last Thursday they where all sold out. I did visit the NYC World of Disney Store on friday, and there where plenty still available....I also believe these are still readily available at the parks, so I would assume the Disney Store will probably replenish there supply.

UPDATE: MaxGoof beat me to the punch, Thanks!

[phino]

hmm. interesting. btw, like your quote WDWTigger72. i need to read more on the timeline

[WDWTigger72]

hmm. interesting. btw, like your quote WDWTigger72. i need to read more on the timeline

LOL, Thanks! I always see newer members asking do you think Disney will make more of the Vinylmation Park Series 1, so after answering the question so many times by others I just decided to place the direct quote from the Vinylmation website in my siggie :lol:

[ardolphin13]

I saw some today 8/25 at DTD...Art of Disney store.

[smallpkgtnt]

I just seen online tonight about the Disney.com in regards to Vinylmation. Well, the only 9' I seen was the blank one. I do like that you can buy them on the website. However, it takes the fun out of picking them out for yourselves. You can see how many are left in the box and decide which one is calling to you when you buy them at Disney. Benefit is if you can't make it to Disney you can buy them online and hopefully finish your series.

[Panzee]

LOL, Thanks! I always see newer members asking do you think Disney will make more of the Vinylmation Park Series 1, so after answering the question so many times by others I just decided to place the direct quote from the Vinylmation website in my siggie :lol:

nice :thumbsup:.. you should somehow put on there "we don't know the exact release date" and "we don't know how many are made" :lol:

[mesaguy]

I agree, there coming out too fast for me to keep up.....

Remember what Ty did with beanie babies, in the beginning, he only sold 12 of each style beanie per store, then he got greedy and flooded the market! They're worthless now:bonk:

[mt1234]

i feel like its bad news because everyone will have access to "limited" 9" figures but at the same time its fair to those who do not have access to any disney resort or store that sells vinyl figures.

[WDWTigger72]

Just another friendly bump for a timeline more than anything, but the Urban Series 2 "Bowling Pin" and "Tikki Mouse" (9") are back for sale online at Disney Store.

[Qsk50]

New Holiday 1 Series 3" already available at Disneystore.com
http://www.disneystore.com/disney/store/DSIProductDisplay?storeId=10051&productId=1254968&categoryId=70998&catalogFromSearch=10002&catalogId=10002&langId=-1

Plus, they still have $5 shipping :happy:

[HT_NSU]

New Holiday 1 Series 3" already available at Disneystore.com
http://www.disneystore.com/disney/store/DSIProductDisplay?storeId=10051&productId=1254968&categoryId=70998&catalogFromSearch=10002&catalogId=10002&langId=-1

Plus, they still have $5 shipping :happy:

I wonder if they're going to put up the 9" soon? I really want a Skeleton Dance! Plus I'm going to order a bunch of blanks, so it'd be nice to just place one big order.

[tito425]

Not sure if this has been asked yet, but for those who have bought the 9" figures online from DS.com, what condition did they arrive in? I'm kind of....let's call it 'picky' :lol: when it comes to box condition when I can be, so I'm just curious. Thanks in advance!

[Qsk50]

My box arrived in good condition but its really a gamble since
once it leaves their hands its up to how much TLC the UPS man gives
your box.

[Dalechick88]

The last order I received was my Tiki 9" and Robot 9". The Tiki box was very good (and I always try to pick out a box thats not messed up.) The second box was about a7/10. Definitely better than when I called disneyland and they shipped it out to me. They charge 40.00 and one of them had a cut along the entire side of the box, very disappointed.

[Brava_Centauri]

New Holiday 1 Series 3" already available at Disneystore.com
http://www.disneystore.com/disney/store/DSIProductDisplay?storeId=10051&productId=1254968&categoryId=70998&catalogFromSearch=10002&catalogId=10002&langId=-1

Plus, they still have $5 shipping :happy:

Man, they certainly didn't waste any time getting them online. Wonder when the 9" will turn up. I have to wonder if this series will sell better then some of the previous ones being it's D23 release and all the new Disney fans being intoduced to this product for the first time at the expo. Makes me wonder how they'll distribute the 9" pieces.

[Qsk50]

I think you are right, these seem to be more popular
than some of the other 9"

[Brava_Centauri]

I think you are right, these seem to be more popular
than some of the other 9"


At Art Of Disney in the village this morning the initial display of 9" figures that they had appeared to be about halfway gone at 10 am. I would imagine they must have more in the back but the initial display of 9" was selling pretty decently. The woman ahead of me bought 2 of every piece, a total of 8.

[wvugrrrl]

According to the Disney Shopping site, the Holiday vinyls aren't due to be shipped for 3 weeks. Wonder if we can expect to see the 9" figures up by then, if at all?

[HT_NSU]

Yeah, I was wondering about that myself. I really want a Skeleton Dance, but I was going to wait to see if it goes up online soon to save on shipping. But if it's going to be three + weeks before it ships, I think I'll have to call the parks. I'm not very patient... :tap:

[BigAl_PT]

According to the Disney Shopping site, the Holiday vinyls aren't due to be shipped for 3 weeks. Wonder if we can expect to see the 9" figures up by then, if at all?
Yeah, that's why I intend on ordering from one of the in-park stores instead of online. WAY too long to wait for the figures.

[wvugrrrl]

I wouldn't even mind waiting that long for the figures, and just ordering everything all at once, but I get the feeling that Disney Shopping just gets the 9" figures that just sit on the shelves in the stores. Who even knows what would be left, if anything?

http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t337/joeythetuna/rant.jpg Again, Disney - either sell everything online or nothing! Quit wasting my time! http://pages.prodigy.net/rogerlori1/emoticons/soapbox.gif

[disneyfan168]

I wouldn't even mind waiting that long for the figures, and just ordering everything all at once, but I get the feeling that Disney Shopping just gets the 9" figures that just sit on the shelves in the stores. Who even knows what would be left, if anything?

http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t337/joeythetuna/rant.jpg Again, Disney - either sell everything online or nothing! Quit wasting my time! http://pages.prodigy.net/rogerlori1/emoticons/soapbox.gif

:look: :lol: I agree, its nice to order everything at once.

[BigAl_PT]

I wouldn't even mind waiting that long for the figures, and just ordering everything all at once, but I get the feeling that Disney Shopping just gets the 9" figures that just sit on the shelves in the stores. Who even knows what would be left, if anything?

http://i513.photobucket.com/albums/t337/joeythetuna/rant.jpg Again, Disney - either sell everything online or nothing! Quit wasting my time! http://pages.prodigy.net/rogerlori1/emoticons/soapbox.gif
It's the waiting that gets me. I figure if I can place an order and they can charge my card right away, then they should be able to send me my figures! :mad:

[MaxGoof]

I'm actually very curious to see if they will sell the 9" Holiday series online at all. The sales and popularity of the series at D23 and DLR this weekend seems to be out of this world, which makes me wonder if they'll have enough to spread around like that at all?

[jflores]

I can't to the parks but once a year, i like to be able to order. Will this hurt the collectors, yes. Does Disney need to slow it down and maybe rethink their inks to keep VM viable, probably.

[jmuboy]

Online sales will definitely lead to lower value of the collection.

[BigAl_PT]

Online sales will definitely lead to lower value of the collection.
I agree. I think this means that they're making more of each series and reducing the rarity of the collections.

[HT_NSU]

I agree. I think this means that they're making more of each series and reducing the rarity of the collections.

I don't know about that. If you watch the items, they go in and out of stock frequently. I'm thinking maybe they're not making more, rather pulling from available stock that would other-wise go to the parks? :shrug:

[WDWTigger72]

Online sales will definitely lead to lower value of the collection.

This has yet to be proven regarding to lower values and I have seen the argument before without any backing as to why. For example, If a specific Vinylmation is limited edition 500, then it doesn't matter whether its sold online, WDW, Disneyland, NYC World Of Disney, Paris, etc...It will still be a limited edition of 500 and still cost only $39.95. Now, If the argument was more that the amount of (9") Vinylmations produced are leading to lower value I would definitely go with that one:

SERIES |# | EDITION SIZE
Park Series 1 | 6 | 2600
Park Series 2 | 6 | 2900
Urban Series 2 | 6 | 3150
Urban Series 1 | 4 | 1500
Holiday Series 1 | 4 | 2500

I re-arranged them so that series that had only 4 vinyls and 6 vinyls where grouped together, also they are still in order as far as they are released, and as you can see the edition sizes have grown. This is really the only argument that I personally can see about bringing down the value of Vinylmation collectibles.

The argument is still there though for the secondary market regarding ebay, and if they where sold only at the parks or stores then people may only pick them up on ebay instead of calling WDW, DL, WOD, etc. This would probably lead to higher secondary market prices because there would be a lot more bidders on a single item. Plus, People seem to forget that there are many collectors of other items out there gallery of light, pins, statues, etc for Disney items....Many of these collectors before Vinylnation already knew about the WDW merchandising and DeliverEARS phone numbers so they would go that route all the time. I am always up for a good civil debate (and sometimes non-civil LOL), but serioiusly, I have seen lots of opinions thrown out there without factual backup.

[BigAl_PT]

This has yet to be proven regarding to lower values and I have seen the argument before without any backing as to why. For example, If a specific Vinylmation is limited edition 500, then it doesn't matter whether its sold online, WDW, Disneyland, NYC World Of Disney, Paris, etc...It will still be a limited edition of 500 and still cost only $39.95. Now, If the argument was more that the amount of (9") Vinylmations produced are leading to lower value I would definitely go with that one:

SERIES |# | EDITION SIZE
Park Series 1 | 6 | 2600
Park Series 2 | 6 | 2900
Urban Series 2 | 6 | 3150
Urban Series 1 | 4 | 1500
Holiday Series 1 | 4 | 2500

I re-arranged them so that series that had only 4 vinyls and 6 vinyls where grouped together, also they are still in order as far as they are released, and as you can see the edition sizes have grown. This is really the only argument that I personally can see about bringing down the value of Vinylmation collectibles.

The argument is still there though for the secondary market regarding ebay, and if they where sold only at the parks or stores then people may only pick them up on ebay instead of calling WDW, DL, WOD, etc. This would probably lead to higher secondary market prices because there would be a lot more bidders on a single item. Plus, People seem to forget that there are many collectors of other items out there gallery of light, pins, statues, etc for Disney items....Many of these collectors before Vinylnation already knew about the WDW merchandising and DeliverEARS phone numbers so they would go that route all the time. I am always up for a good civil debate (and sometimes non-civil LOL), but serioiusly, I have seen lots of opinions thrown out there without factual backup.
Yeah, if they only produced 500 or 650 of a 9" figure, it doesn't matter where they sell it. That won't affect the value in the long-run. But I still think that making the 3" figures available online is a result of over-productoin of the 3" figures.

[Qsk50]

The Holiday 9" have yet to make an appearance at Disneystore.com
Any news on these being sold out at the parks?

[tropicalaqua]

I agree. I think this means that they're making more of each series and reducing the rarity of the collections.

I also agree, plus they are going crazy with all the new releases. And then people wouldn't want to collect it anymore because it's not as special.

[butterfly_kiss]

wow, this is terrible. now they are going to have too many in production. and they wont be as valuable, or made right. there would be more room for error. well lets hope they have a set quota on how much they can sell online. well lets just see what happens.