Darth Vader (Arm Printing, Spongy Cape)
sw1135 · Star Wars
The Skywalker Saga / Original Trilogy · 2021 (First appearance in 75296, following the 2020 sw1029 mold update)
Figure ID
sw1135
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2021 (First appearance in 75296, following the 2020 sw1029 mold update)
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While the character is iconic, this specific version contains expensive arm printing and was initially exclusive to higher-priced or specific 'Adult Collector' sets.
Head
Two-piece helmet system (top and chin mask) in black. Underneath is a light nougat head with detailed scarring, white pupils, and a stern expression, specifically designed to match his appearance in Return of the Jedi.
Torso
Black torso with highly detailed life-support panel printing (red and green buttons) and light grey chain link. Most notably, this version features intricate grey printing on both arms to represent the segmented suit sleeves.
Legs
Black legs and hips with subtle grey printing on the crotch and robes, extending down to the shins to depict the layered fabric of his Sith robes.
Accessories
Includes a black 'spongy' soft fabric cape and a red lightsaber with a metallic silver hilt (though the saber is not visible in the hand in the photo).
Color Scheme
Monochromatic black with metallic silver, light grey, red, and green accents on the control panels. Flesh tones on the internal head piece are light nougat.
Printing Details
Premium quality high-definition pad printing. Includes 360-degree printing context with rare arm prints that align with the shoulder transitions. This is considered the 'Ultimate' version of the Vader print.
Variants
Variants include sw0209 (classic), sw0636 (Rebels), and sw1029 (standard modern). This sw1135 variant is distinguished primarily by the inclusion of the arm printing which many modern Vaders lack.
Condition Notes
The spongy cape is prone to fraying at the neck holes if removed frequently. Check for 'arm cracks' on the torso sides and ensure the two-piece helmet clicks together firmly without loose movement.
Estimated Value
New: $45.00 - $55.00 USD. Used Complete: $30.00 - $40.00 USD. Value is heavily dictated by the presence of the specific arm-printed torso.
Price (New)
N/A (Figure exclusive to sets). Featured in the Darth Vader Meditation Chamber (75296) which retailed for $69.99.
Compatible Sets
75296 Darth Vader Meditation Chamber, 75347 TIE Bomber, and 75352 Emperor's Throne Room Diorama.
Character Background
Anakin Skywalker, the fallen Jedi Knight and Dark Lord of the Sith. This version represents his look during the height of the Galactic Empire, specifically the detailed aesthetic seen in the 4K remasters of the Original Trilogy.
Design Notes
Uses the 2015-style two-part helmet mold. The addition of arm printing in 2021 was a response to long-standing fan requests for 'UCS quality' figures in retail sets.
Similar Minifigures
sw1029 (same head/legs/helmet but no arm printing), sw1273 (Death Star II version), and sw0636 (the stylized Rebels version).
Collectibility
High. This is currently regarded as the 'definitive' Darth Vader minifigure for play-scale sets. The presence of arm printing makes it a target for completionists.
History
Vader has existed in LEGO since 1999. He transitioned from a one-piece helmet to a two-piece helmet in 2015, and finally received arm printing in 2020/2021 with this wave of figures.
Interesting Facts
The head print underneath features a very specific 'back-of-the-head' scar print that is medically accurate to the film's prosthetics. The spongy cape material was introduced to prevent the permanent creasing common in the older starched-fabric capes.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed in a specialized LED case or a Diorama set like the 75352 Throne Room. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent the light nougat head from yellowing inside the helmet.
Modification Potential
Commonly modified with custom 'dark red' chrome blades or third-party wired capes for dynamic posing, though the purist version is already near-perfect.
Overall Assessment
10/10. This is the pinnacle of LEGO Darth Vader design. For any collector, it is the recommended version to own due to the superior printing detail and the improved cape texture.