BE@RBRICK is the collectible bear figure by Japanese company Medicom Toy, introduced in 2001. Every BE@RBRICK has the same bear shape. What changes is the design, and the size. Sizes are shown as a percentage, which can be confusing at first. Here is how it works.
The three main sizes
- 100% – about 7 cm tall. The base size, small enough to collect a whole series.
- 400% – about 28 cm tall. Four times the 100%, and the most popular display size.
- 1000% – about 70 cm tall. A real statement piece, made in smaller numbers and priced accordingly.
Other sizes, such as 50% and 200%, appear from time to time, but 100%, 400% and 1000% are the ones you will see most.
100% + 400% sets
Many releases come as a set of a 400% and a matching 100% with the same design. It is the most common way to collect a collaboration, because you get the large display piece and the small version together. Examples are the 7-Eleven 400% + 100% set and the Harry Potter Gryffindor set.
Series and blind boxes
Medicom Toy also releases numbered BE@RBRICK Series. These are 100% figures sold in closed boxes, so you don't know which design you get. Each series includes hard-to-find secret figures, which makes them popular to trade.
Which size should you choose?
- Collecting many designs: 100% takes little space and is the most affordable.
- One piece on a shelf or desk: 400% shows the details of the design best.
- A centrepiece in a room: 1000% makes the biggest impression.
Keeping your BE@RBRICK in good condition
Keep the original box, as it adds to the value. Display your figures out of direct sunlight to prevent the colours from fading, and dust them with a soft, dry brush.
Collaborations
The same bear shape is used for collaborations with artists, fashion brands, museums and films. That is what makes BE@RBRICK so collectible: every release is a small piece of design. Browse our BE@RBRICK collection, from Japan exclusives to BAPE and Van Gogh Museum collaborations.