TIE Interceptor Pilot
sw0035b · Star Wars
Ultimate Collector Series / Classic Era · 2000 (included with set 7181)
Figure ID
sw0035b
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2000 (included with set 7181)
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While the character is basic, this specific variant with the white Imperial logo on the helmet was exclusive to the first UCS TIE Interceptor.
Head
Classic LEGO yellow head with a standard 'smile' face. In this era, Star Wars pilots did not yet have unique fleshy faces or detailed pilot headsets.
Torso
Black torso with basic life support system printing (gray and blue buttons/hoses) on the front. No back printing, which was standard for the year 2000.
Legs
Plain black legs without printing, attached to a black hip piece.
Accessories
None typically included for the pilot within the UCS set; however, pilots from this era occasionally carried a small black blaster pistol (part 4349).
Color Scheme
Monochromatic black suit with subtle gray and blue technical highlights on the torso. The helmet features a white Imperial insignia.
Printing Details
Simple pad printing on the torso front and the helmet forehead. High durability but low detail compared to modern 'digital' style prints.
Variants
The sw0035 variant has a different helmet logo alignment; sw0035b features the distinct crisp Imperial logo. Later versions (sw0268+) introduced flesh-toned heads and leg printing.
Condition Notes
The helmet logo is prone to rubbing off. The black plastic shows scratches and dust easily. Check for 'neck cracks' in the black torso piece.
Estimated Value
Used: $15 - $25; New/Mint: $35+. The value is driven by its status as the original UCS pilot.
Price (New)
The set it came in (7181) retailed for $99.99 in 2000. It was not sold individually.
Compatible Sets
7181 TIE Interceptor (Ultimate Collector Series)
Character Background
TIE Interceptor pilots were the elite of the Imperial Navy, chosen for their superior skill to fly the faster, more lethal dagger-shaped expansion of the TIE line.
Design Notes
Represents the 'Second Wave' of Star Wars minifigures where helmets used a dedicated mold instead of simple printed heads. It is a bridge between classic and modern design.
Similar Minifigures
sw0035 (TIE Pilot), sw0036 (Stormtrooper - yellow head), sw0139 (TIE Pilot with silver logo).
Collectibility
High for 'completionist' Star Wars collectors and fans of the original UCS line. It represents the origins of LEGO's high-end collector sets.
History
Released during the first year of the Ultimate Collector Series. It marked a time when LEGO began catering specifically to adult collectors with larger, more complex builds.
Interesting Facts
Despite being an 'Interceptor' pilot, the torso print is identical to standard TIE pilots of the era. The actual ship in the image is a modified version of the 7181 or a MOC based on its color scheme.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed inside the cockpit of the UCS TIE Interceptor or on a stand labeled with the ship's 2000-era plaque.
Modification Potential
Commonly modified by swapping the yellow head for a 'rebel scout' head to give the pilot a more realistic oxygen mask look.
Overall Assessment
A nostalgic and essential piece of LEGO Star Wars history. While visually simple, its connection to the 2000 UCS Interceptor makes it a standout for vintage enthusiasts.