Darth Vader (Light-Up Lightsaber)
sw0117 · Star Wars
Ultimate Collector Series / Episode VI · 2005 - Featured in set 7260 Wookiee Catamaran and 7263 TIE Fighter
Figure ID
sw0117
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2005 - Featured in set 7260 Wookiee Catamaran and 7263 TIE Fighter
Rarity
Rare. This was part of a short-lived experimental line of light-up figures (2005-2006) which were expensive to produce and non-repairable.
Head
Black Darth Vader Helmet (Two-piece style was not yet invented; this uses the classic one-piece mold). The head underneath is a solid light bluish gray block integrated with the electronics.
Torso
Unique Light-Up Torso. Features Darth Vader's control panel printing. The torso is thicker than standard figures to house the battery and wiring. The left hand is black; the right hand is a fixed light bluish gray hilt used to activate the LED.
Legs
Standard black legs and hips. These are detachable, which is rare for light-up figures of this era, though they lack printing.
Accessories
Includes a Trans-Red lightsaber blade that fits into the built-in hilt on the right arm. Originally came with a black fabric cape with a starched feel.
Color Scheme
Monochromatic black with light bluish gray accents on the hilt and control panel. The ignited blade is Trans-Red.
Printing Details
Pad printing on the front torso only. The detail is simplified compared to modern Vader figures but crisp for 2005 standards. No back or leg printing.
Variants
There are no major print variants of sw0117, but it is often confused with sw0121 (Luminara Unduli) or sw0120 (Mace Windu) from the same light-up series.
Condition Notes
The primary concern is the battery. The batteries are non-replaceable without cutting the torso open. Corrosion and 'dead' LEDs significantly lower value. Check for cape fraying and 'swing' looseness in the light-up arm.
Estimated Value
$100 - $180 USD (Working condition); $50 - $85 USD (Non-working). Mint in sealed set versions can drive prices significantly higher.
Price (New)
Set 7263 (TIE Fighter) retailed for $20.00; Set 7260 (Wookiee Catamaran) retailed for $50.00.
Compatible Sets
7260 Wookiee Catamaran (2005), 7263 TIE Fighter (2005).
Character Background
Darth Vader, the iconic Sith Lord and fallen Jedi Anakin Skywalker. This version specifically represents his appearance in the original trilogy era.
Design Notes
A technical marvel for its time. Pushing down on the head completes the internal circuit, lighting the LED in the arm. The torso is permanently glued shut to protect the electronics.
Similar Minifigures
sw0131 (Darth Vader with Chrome Hilt), sw0120 (Light-up Mace Windu), sw0121 (Light-up Luminara Unduli).
Collectibility
High. It is a 'holy grail' for Star Wars collectors due to the unique electronic gimmick that LEGO has never revisited in this scale.
History
Debuted in 2005 to coincide with Revenge of the Sith sets. The light-up series was discontinued quickly due to high production costs and the inability to replace batteries.
Interesting Facts
Because the battery is not meant to be replaced, most functioning sw0117 figures are running on 18-year-old power cells. It is the only Vader figure where the lightsaber hilt is part of the arm.
Display Suggestions
Display in a UV-protected case to prevent the black plastic from becoming brittle. Looks best in a dark environment or 'Force Duel' vignette to showcase the LED.
Modification Potential
Low. Attempting to modify or repair the battery usually results in permanent damage to the torso seams. Purists value the 'factory seal' of the torso electronics.
Overall Assessment
An essential piece of LEGO Star Wars history. While the design is dated, the 'Light-Up' feature makes it a unique engineering milestone. Rating: 9/10 for collectors.
Notes
Light up Figure