In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped

Posted by El Duque Mar 26, 2013 at 12:11pm CDT 29,807 views

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Takara Tomy's TFYUKI has updated his twitter account with some updated images of their soon to be released Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus!

We also have an update from site sponsor TFsource:

Here is an Encore Fortress Maximus Update - be sure to read through! Preorder yours at TFsource here:
http://tfsource.com/encore/fortress-maximus/
http://tfsource.com/encore/fortress-max ... y-release/

Today Takara pulled back all of the Fort Max stock for a second QC inspection. Due to this some stock did not pass, and Takara has to do a new run. This will not be finished until the end of April. The good news - TFsource will receive all of our stock on schedule shipping out later this week. Many shops will not.

The bad news - all of the first run of Fort Max will be double-taped. Some collectors are very particular about this, so be aware all stock we receive will be double-taped. It's unavoidable due to the circumstances, but also a check to show that the product passed the QC check. Takara did not release any information on what the QC issues are that caused this.

Re: In Hand Images Of Encore Fortress Maximus

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Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by Deruji Mar 26, 2013

Text in 2nd picture: "The sticker sheet was folded into two halves."

Text in 3rd picture: "The styrofoam block is missing."

Text in 4th picture: "The eyes are painted."

EDIT: checked original tweets for exact context

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by Optimum Supreme Mar 26, 2013

Nice to hear at least one of the companies making Transformers cares about QC.

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by Bounti76 Mar 26, 2013

I'm not a serious MISB collector, so could someone tell me....double taping? Does that just mean the box is sealed at various points with two applications of tape? How does that affect the toy's value?

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by Burn Mar 26, 2013

Optimum Supreme wrote:Nice to hear at least one of the companies making Transformers cares about QC.

Given the size and cost of him TT have no choice BUT to make sure there aren't any QC issues with him.

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by gothsaurus Mar 26, 2013

Guessing that means it was taped.... RE-OPENED to re-inspect... the re-sealed with a second piece of tape. To MISB collectors, it would appear that their MISB item was opened, thus ruining it's resale value.

If you're planning on keeping it MISB, best to get the re-issue sealed one. Planning on opening it, this early run is for YOU!

:grin:

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by RhA Mar 26, 2013

I'm cracking that thing open AND I DESERVE IT.

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by Cybertronian Mar 26, 2013

Deruji wrote:Text in 2nd picture: "The sticker sheet was folded into two halves."

Text in 3rd picture: "The styrofoam block is missing."

Text in 4th picture: "The eyes are painted."

EDIT: checked original tweets for exact context

Thank you, Deruji. You told me exactly what I wanted to know. I may not be able to pre-order, but I hope the price isn't UNGODLY when I do finally get to buy one.
-- Cybertronian.

P.S.: (Fantasizes of a new centerpiece for my dream model railroad layout. Lionel... meet FM!)

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by Cybertronian Mar 26, 2013

RhA wrote:I'm cracking that thing open AND I DESERVE IT.

RhA, if this were Facebook (or Twitter), I'd "like" your comment. ;)^

I couldn't agree more.

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by gothsaurus Mar 26, 2013

I hope everyone post pictures after getting theirs! Would love to see that Lionel train set run around Fort Max!

As for me, I'm going to try to figure out a good way to combine two of them (i.e. old one and reissue) into an attractive, believable city mode. Any inspiration you know about? I managed a great combined G1 metroplex city from two, but haven't seen or heard of anyone tackling one from Fort Max.

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by RK_Striker_JK_5 Mar 26, 2013

Cybertronian wrote:
RhA wrote:I'm cracking that thing open AND I DESERVE IT.

RhA, if this were Facebook (or Twitter), I'd "like" your comment. I couldn't agree more.

I'd 'like' it as well. I've waited so long for a Fort Max. No way in HELL am I keeping mine in the box!

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by KNM2012 Mar 26, 2013

gothsaurus wrote:Guessing that means it was taped.... RE-OPENED to re-inspect... the re-sealed with a second piece of tape. To MISB collectors, it would appear that their MISB item was opened, thus ruining it's resale value.

If you're planning on keeping it MISB, best to get the re-issue sealed one. Planning on opening it, this early run is for YOU!

From a strict MISB collector, I see this as such. However... I was given good news from Jeremy at TFsource. It appears that this is only affecting the early bird orders, not the other release. However, if you still want a single taped MISB piece, it is best to email the store requesting one... Instead of just holding off.

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by Ravage XK Mar 27, 2013

I'm a fan of G1 and have bought as many reissues as I can but I just can't get excited about Fort Max and I don't know why.

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by Bowspearer Mar 27, 2013

KUMA-NIN Maximus wrote:From a strict MISB collector, I see this as such.

Not necessarily, but alot depends on how thoughtful TakaraTomy are here.

If TakaraTomy are just using standard tape to retape the box then your point is spot on.

However I'm reminded of how customs approaches retaping packages, where the tape is printed with writing stating that the box has been opened and inspected by them. Brown goods companies have done the same with things like DVD players. If TakaraTomy have properly thought things through on this and if the run is large enough to justify it, then there's no reason why TakaraTomy couldn't use tape with writing on it to that effect - especially if other items, such as an Encore Overlord are released down the track (if the demand for Fort Max proves high enough, it's a definite possibility) where the same process will happen.

If they were to go down this road, then technically they have remained sealed from before leaving the manufacturer and therefore should be classed as MISB as it could be proven that the retaping had been done by the manufacturer themselves.

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by El Duque Mar 27, 2013

Site sponsor Robotkingdom has posted some additional shots of Takara Tomy's Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus. These images include the packaging, an up close of the head, the commemorative coin, and promotional phone earplug jack plug. Check out the images mirrored below.

Regarding its FREE premium, we are happy to announce that all encore23 preorder will be included the Fotress Maximus phone plug and exclusive coins !!! But the exclusive coins has been limted and it will be "first come first serve" til it runs out, and the free exclusive coins will not be offered after 31March orders.

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by Flux Convoy Mar 27, 2013

I could not have anticipated the level of excitement I felt seeing those pics. Looking forward to him in the next few weeks.

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by KNM2012 Mar 27, 2013

Bowspearer wrote:
KUMA-NIN Maximus wrote:From a strict MISB collector, I see this as such.

Not necessarily, but alot depends on how thoughtful TakaraTomy are here.

If TakaraTomy are just using standard tape to retape the box then your point is spot on.

However I'm reminded of how customs approaches retaping packages, where the tape is printed with writing stating that the box has been opened and inspected by them. Brown goods companies have done the same with things like DVD players. If TakaraTomy have properly thought things through on this and if the run is large enough to justify it, then there's no reason why TakaraTomy couldn't use tape with writing on it to that effect - especially if other items, such as an Encore Overlord are released down the track (if the demand for Fort Max proves high enough, it's a definite possibility) where the same process will happen.

If they were to go down this road, then technically they have remained sealed from before leaving the manufacturer and therefore should be classed as MISB as it could be proven that the retaping had been done by the manufacturer themselves.

You missed the point I was making. Customs does not inspect packages shipped by major companies. They only check out specific packages that are sent to people and stores that do not pass the first part - namely x-rays (if the info I was given is still up to date).

Meaning that unless you live in a country where they open up every package, regardless of the business, this is not an issue. Because the stores will be shipping them MISB and it is highly unlikely the double tape "ordeal" (which, as I stated, only applies to the early shipments) is just going to have them using the same tape and double tape it. And that is not an issue unless you plan to submit it to AFA.

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by Rated X Mar 27, 2013

After seeing the classics Metroplex coming out later this year, this re-issue seems to be a little less awesome.

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by Burn Mar 27, 2013

Rated X wrote:Edit: double post.

I think it's time to allow people to delete their own posts. Was there ever a logical reason as to why we cant ?

In case someone decides to get abusive before a Moderator can deal with it.

Back on topic ... had to pay an extra $32 as due to his size, he has to come EMS to Australia.

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by Desslok2201 Mar 27, 2013

Does anyone else think it's strange that the headphone plug is marked Hasbro for a release that they won't / can't sell?

Re: In-Package Images: Takara Tomy Transformers Encore #23 Fortress Maximus - Initial Run Will Be Double Taped (view post)

Comment by MGrotusque Mar 27, 2013

Rated X wrote:After seeing the classics Metroplex coming out later this year, this re-issue seems to be a little less awesome.

Agreed. My interest is invested in Metroplex. FM is a monumental release mind you but i'm more stoked on Metro. That F@*!er is gonna be awesome! Least i hope so anyways.

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