Microman Eras

The Microman Eras

Microman toys were first released in 1974 by Japanese toy company TAKARA as a smaller 10cm version of their popular 8" & 12" fully articulated doll line - the Henshin Cyborg which debuted in 1972. Takara's Henshin (transforming) Cyborg was actually a spin off from Takara Combat Joe line, which interestingly was a licensed product from another popular well known dolls for boys - the GI Joe. Henshin Cyborg used Combat Joe's body molded in clear plastic to expose the gleaming inner cybernetic implants and the "atomic engine". (This was mainly the reason for the clear plastic body, chrome head and chest plate on the first series Microman figures.)

The original marketing concept was to make Microman a miniature version of the Henshin Cyborg so this way variety of play-sets and vehicles could be produced for them at reasonable price, since the cost to design and produce vehicles and play-sets for the 12" dolls was very prohibitive not to mention would not be very practical for the Japanese market, where living spaces were always at a premium and parents were never too keen on large size toys that took up a lot of room.

Thanks

Over the years, many great folks have contributed to this hobby of ours. First and foremost I will mention Paul Lorphanpaibul, who worked tirelessly building the original version of this site, starting way back in 1998. His insight and knowledge helped establish Micro Forever as the go to resource for fans of this amazing toyline. Additionally, some of the toy photos are stellar, and really highlight the great design features Takara accomplished.

I've tried to stay true to Paul's writing and analysis in this revised site, but added some multi device compatibility (responsive design). Their were also some gaps in the photographic and toy description records, so I've made an effort to get more information on these toys and, where possible, add new photos, - some from my own collection, some from auctions, some generously granted from Minoru Sashida, owner of the Oriental Technologies website, and of course some loaned by one of the most knowledgeable and generous of our members, Mr. Tom Vigneau!

Some other mentions of folks who have really filled in knowledge gaps and taken a big part in building this hobby include: Bryan Wilkinson, Geoff Gayan, Ray Miller, Minouru Sashida and more.

Jim Valentino