Figure of the Day: Day 908: Watto

WATTO with Datapad
Episode I Collection 2
Item No.: Asst. 84093 No. 84095
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Torch, datapad, CommTech Chip
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99
Availability: May 3, 1999
Appearances: The Phantom Menace

Bio: The owner of slaves, Anakin and Shmi Skywalker, and a notorious gambler, Watto is a Toydarian junk dealer who supplies the denizens of Mos Espa with all manner of mechanical odds and ends. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' table.

Commentary: Arguably the best-sculpted figure in the early days of the Episode I action figure series, Watto has really only one thing going against him, and that's his paint job-- which is also good. Most fans were so taken by the incredible detail on his skin that nobody realized the portly green Toydarian should have actually been blue. There's not a lot to the figure, beyond looking good. His tiny, thin arms are strong enough to not easily bend out of shape, and the same can be said about his legs. He has simulated suction cup-like feet and more wrinkles than you'll see on pretty much any figure that doesn't have "the Hutt" as his last name. Each body part is loaded with textures, making this figure look like it stepped off a model shop desk more than an action figure aisle. It shows that a tremendous effort was spent on its creation, especially when compared to some of the other figures of his day. Also, those that would come later. Even though he can only move at the neck, shoulders, and hips, he's pretty much perfect as it is. Additional articulation would hurt his look-- so if you like what you see, odds are you'll enjoy this figure. Oh, and his torch plugs into his belt, making him one of the very first figures to have such functionality with his accessories.

Collector's Notes: Like most Collection 2 figures released in 1999, this figure was a slow seller. If you want one, odds are you can probably find someone to give you one for essentially nothing. It's just that common. I'd suggest getting the blue version from 2008, which came with a droid as a Wal-Mart exclusive, if you're just simply looking for the best version.

Day 908: December 5, 2008