Darth Vader (Tan/Light Flesh Head, Arm Printing, Spongy Cape)
sw0824 · Star Wars
Original Trilogy / Episode IV A New Hope · 2017 - Released in the 75159 Death Star and later updated in various sets
Figure ID
sw0824
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2017 - Released in the 75159 Death Star and later updated in various sets
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. While the character is common, this specific arm-printed variant is highly sought after and restricted to more expensive sets.
Head
Light Flesh head with Anakin Skywalker's scarred face printing, featuring scarred eyebrows and a neutral expression. It is covered by a two-piece helmet consisting of a neck collar and the top mask.
Torso
Black torso with detailed life support systems printing including silver, red, and green buttons. This variant features highly detailed arm printing showing the sleeve texture.
Legs
Black legs with printing that continues the tunic's robe lines and belt details from the torso.
Accessories
Red lightsaber with a chrome or metallic silver hilt. A soft, spongy black fabric cape that resists creasing better than the older starched versions.
Color Scheme
Dominantly Black with light flesh head, metallic silver accents, and small red/green control panel indicators. Trans-red lightsaber blade.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso (front and back), legs, and specifically the arms, which was a significant upgrade for this era's Vader minifigures.
Variants
Numerous. Early versions (1999) had a one-piece helmet; newer versions have the two-piece helmet. Other versions lack the arm printing (sw0585) or have white heads (older versions).
Condition Notes
Prone to cape fraying at the edges and scratches on the highly reflective helmet. Arm printing can wear if handled frequently. Check for 'cape bite' at the neck post.
Estimated Value
Used: $35.00 - $50.00 USD; New: $55.00 - $70.00 USD. Value varies based on helmet condition and cape softness.
Price (New)
N/A - Primarily available in the 75159 Death Star ($499.99 retail) or the 75183 Darth Vader Transformation ($24.99 retail - though sw0824 specifically appeared in larger sets).
Compatible Sets
75159 Death Star (2016), 75183 Darth Vader Transformation (2017), 75291 Death Star Final Duel (2020 variant).
Character Background
The primary antagonist of the original Star Wars trilogy, Sith Lord, and former Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker. This figure represents his appearance in the original trilogy.
Design Notes
The two-piece helmet (introduced in 2015) was a major milestone, allowing for the cinematic 'unmasking' scene. The arm printing was a premium detail added to justify the character's inclusion in high-price sets.
Similar Minifigures
sw0636 (Rebels version), sw0585 (No arm printing), sw1130 (20th Anniversary version with back printing).
Collectibility
High. Serious Star Wars collectors specifically look for 'arm-printed' Vader as the 'definitive' standard-scale version of the character.
History
Vader has existed since the first year of LEGO Star Wars (1999). This 2017-era version represents the peak of detail before the character was slightly simplified again in some 2020+ waves.
Interesting Facts
The two-piece helmet is so precisely molded that the top part friction-fits perfectly onto the collar to prevent rattling, a feat of modern LEGO tolerance.
Display Suggestions
Display in a UV-protected case to prevent the black plastic from fading. Ideal when placed on a meditation chamber MOC or next to a Luke Skywalker Jedi Master figure.
Modification Potential
Excellent for purist customs; the arm-printed torsos are often used by fans to upgrade older helmet styles or to create custom 'Battle Damaged' versions.
Overall Assessment
A top-tier minifigure and a must-have for Star Wars fans. The inclusion of arm printing makes it the 'Imperial Standard' for many collectors. Quality: 9/10.