In our third “Collector Interview” feature, we actually get to sit down with Richie Shia of DBZ Collectors United and talk about where it all began as well as where he plans on things going. It was a great sit down and this guy’s collection of Dragon Ball figures is one of the most extensive collections I’ve seen of any genre.
KS: So Richie, when did your connection with the Dragon Ball television series start? Did you grow up with it, or…?
Richie: Yes, my first exposure to the series occurred when i was around the age of 7. my father is prior military, and we were stationed at kadena AB japan (same base i am at this moment ironically). i remember watching it for the first time at one of the youth centers i regularly went to and the virginia beach strippers. Super Android 13 was on the big screen, and the first sight that started it all was SSJ Goku performing the Genki Dama. i was instantly intrigued.
Unfortunately, the remainder of my time in japan, i was left to just guess what was going on as i did not understand any japanese.
my true obsession of the series started when it first aired on Toonami, English dub.
KS: So, did you collect dragon ball items during those times as well?
Richie: i did not, i only followed the series. my initial figure purchase happened the day i returned to japan in August 2014.
KS: So, what was it that brought you back to Japan?
Richie: i am currently serving as an Active Duty Airman in the US Air Force. i was fortunate enough to receive this assignment after years of attempts
KS: That’s amazing! And, of course thank you for your service! What about being in Japan made you start collecting? Is there more of an abundance of memorabilia over there?
Richie: Thank you for your continued support. I actually told myself i would commit to dbz collecting the day i received orders to japan back in Feb 2014. prior to receiving orders, i had attended the New York Comic Con for the very first time. this was honestly my first exposure to any high quality figures and statues. i was simply astonished to what i saw.
receiving my orders to go overseas was my kick starter as i already knew that japan was the motherland of my favorite anime series of all time.
KS: Do you remember the first Dragon Ball item that you got?
Richie: Absolutely.. Scultures 3 Goku…or at the time to me, “Adventurous Goku”. i had never seen him wear those clothes before and i found it very interesting. in addition, my wife really enjoyed the pose and idea behind the figure. It was an instant purchase.
KS: Nice! Speaking of your wife, is she pretty supportive of your collecting? Does she collect as well?
Richie: At first, not so much. She did not understand my sudden desire to collect these “toys” . she thought it would just be a phase that would pass by. but after several huge purchases, she knew i was hooked. she now helps me haul, create custom stands, and assists by placing figures in the display cases. her support and understanding is forever grateful.
unfortunately, she is not a collector herself. Maybe one day she will give in. [Smiley Emoticon]
KS: That’d be great, but the support is still awesome and it makes things so much easier! Now, anyone who looks at the picture will know that your collection is absolutely gigantic… how did it get to that point? Did you make it a goal, or did it just sort of happen?
Richie: When i first started out, i lurked DBZ collectors groups and was always taken back by how many figures existed. after several initial purchases, it just turned into something i couldn’t control. i was out on some “Shia Hauls” at least 5 times out of the week. each haul ranging from $50-300. after 6 months of collecting was when i decided i wanted to hunt down some of the rarest pieces in all of dbz collecting. though, i have accomplished on obtaining some of my personal grails, i still have a lot more to go until i am content.
KS: As of now, what would you say your most prized item is?
Richie: I have several, but the following pieces are at the top of my list:
Zeem Black Oozaru Vs Goku (20 pieces world wide)
Zeem Arlia Oozaru Vs Goku (50 pieces world wide)
1986 Epoch DX Battle of Muscle Tower (considering its old age, i only know of 5 other towers in others’ collections)
KS: And what would you say your biggest grail is in terms of what you’re searching for?
Richie: Personally, the biggest grail has already been obtained (Zeem Black Oozaru vs Goku), however, there are several other grails i consider top tier status:
-dvd diorama tower set
-mekke selection set #2
-Tokyo toy festival
-double chance ichiban kuji angel wing goku
the list goes on, but these are my my priority for the time being.
KS: Absolutely! We’ve went over some of your favorite places to shop in the previous article, but are there any other gems you’ve found out there for finding hot items?
Richie: Yes; Japan is known for its “re-use” stores. think “thrift stores” back in the states. however, these stores out here sell anime figures. some of my gems that were near impossible to find at the local main stores, have actually been discovered at a re-use store. its a complete hit or miss, but when it hits, its a home run.
KS: Very cool! Now, are there any other toylines you collect even if not as heavily?
Richie: To be honest, i collect all lines. doesnt matter the scale/value/detail. if its a dragon ball figure, and its in front of my face, i will buy it.
This includes:
-SCultures
-MSP
-HQDX
-Gashapons
-Charapuchi
-Ichiban Kuji
-WCF
-Vinyls
-Figuarts Zero
-DOD
-Museum collection
-Amazing Arts
-Desktop Mccoy
-Soul of Hyper
-DXF
… etc
However, the one line i have yet to get into is SHF. i do not own one piece from that figure line. (you can add this in the interview or skip it, im only stating this for “fun fact” purposes)
KS: I meant, other anime series.
Richie: Though i am a fan of other anime like “Yu Yu Hakusho” and “SlamDunk”, my collection is dedicated to only Dragon Ball.
KS: Very cool! Well, nothing wrong with that at all! Do you have any advice for anyone new to collecting these?
Richie: Collect items that you actually like and within your financial means. Do not collect an item just because it is popular/main stream. At the end of the day, its YOUR money, YOUR interests, and YOUR collection. Don’t let anyone sway you otherwise.
KS: Well, that’s definitely good advice if I do say so myself. Where can we find more of your haul updates?
Richie: Come check out our Facebook Group DBZ Collectors United. The group holds some of the BEST collections from around the world. All of my time in regards to DBZ Collecting is spent there. In addition, i have just started a Youtube channel where i plan to do figure reviews and haul showcasing.
/Interview
I’d like to again thank Richie for his time and make sure to check out his group and Youtube channel as well as checking out his collection pics below and letting us know what you think in the comments!
