Blythe DollsThey were developed by a premiere design company called Marvin Glass and Associates, intending to add innovation to the already saturated doll market. Unfortunately, the dolls were only produced from 1972 to 1973 because of lagging sales. Market researchers suggested that perhaps the eyes that change colors were scary for young children. Recently, however, there has been a rebirth of the Blythe dolls. The original Blythe Kenner dolls are worth quite a bit of money now, as so few were actually made. Other companies have been reproducing the dolls in recent years, beginning with the Takara company in Japan. The Japanese company became interested in the dolls as the result of a photograph exhibition by Gina Gallan in 1999. The company was so amazed by the pictures, that they began to instantly develop plans to market the dolls. Since then, Hasbro and Ashton Drake companies have also started making Blythe dolls. For collectors and hobbyists, vintage Blythe Kenner dolls can present quite a challenge. Even dolls in fair condition can cost several hundred dollars...in good or excellent condition, the prices rise to over $1000. Blythe Kenner dolls in mint condition sell for $2000+ in online auctions. Blythes produced since the year 2000 are a little less expensive, ranging from $35 to $350 depending on the condition and style of the doll. One original 1972 doll missing its legs is currently selling for almost $500 on Ebay. In 2001, a set of Neo-Blythe dolls appeared on the market. The limited edition Parco dolls sold out in less than an hour, making it an incredibly sought after collectible. Other names soon followed including Rosie Red, Hollywood and Miss Anniversary Blythe dolls. Hobbyists continue to seek out all the names to round out their collections, but they don’t stop there! A fashion line for Blythe dolls appeared at the 2001 fashion show in Japan creating a whole new line of must-haves for collectors. At present time, there are thirty-seven Neo-Blythe dolls and forty-eight petite Blythes manufactured. People who collect these dolls describe themselves as cultish, advertising on the internet and seeking out other Blythe lovers in discussion forums. The trick for collectors ia knowing what you want. The original Blythe Kenner dolls from 1972 were 11.5 of 12 inches tall. The petite Blythe dolls are under six inches. Supposedly, the original dolls had a small marking of seven lines on her back that some collectors take as a mark of authenticity. Neo-Blythes are less expensive but still hard to find. Collectors mainly find these dolls online, or if they are really lucky, at a yard sale. The Blythe doll, once a scary skinny doll with a giant head and weirdly changing eyes, has risen to collector’s heaven. Those hobbyists seeking these special dolls have a challenge ahead, but it can certainly be rewarding when the perfect doll is found. |