Pit Droid (Poggle the Lesser's Pet)
sw0493 · Star Wars
Episode II: Attack of the Clones · 2013 (Released in Set 75017 Duel on Geonosis)
Figure ID
sw0493
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2013 (Released in Set 75017 Duel on Geonosis)
Rarity
Uncommon. This specific printing variant only appeared in a single set that had a relatively short shelf life, making it harder to find than the generic brick-built Pit Droids.
Head
Tan molded head piece unique to this character design, featuring circular 'eye' sensors, a characteristic elongated snout, and small ear-like protrusions. Includes black and grey printed details representing mechanical vents and weathering.
Torso
Tan torso with complex printing on the front and back. Design includes mechanical plating, exposed wiring in red and blue at the waistline, and tan hands. The printing is highly detailed, representing the DUM-series droid chassis.
Legs
Tan legs with Dark Brown hip piece. Feet and shins feature grey and black mechanical printing to simulate the joints and actuators of a droid's legs.
Accessories
Original set version did not include handheld accessories for this figure, as it served as a background character for the Geonosian arena scene.
Color Scheme
Primary color is Tan with Dark Brown, Grey, Red, and Blue accents. This 'desert' color scheme is intended to match the aesthetic of Geonosis and Tatooine.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the head, torso (front and back), and legs (front). The thin wire details on the waist or 'stomach' area are particularly sharp for the 2013 era.
Variants
There are several brick-built versions of Pit Droids, but this molded 'minifigure-style' version is distinct. There are no known color variants of this specific sw0493 mold/print combination.
Condition Notes
The tan plastic is prone to minor UV yellowing over time. Check for 'neck' cracks on the torso and ensure the head mold hasn't lost its clutch power on the neck stud.
Estimated Value
Used: $8.00 - $12.00 USD. New: $15.00+ USD. The value has remained relatively stable but sees occasional spikes when Poggle the Lesser or Geonosian sets trend.
Price (New)
The set it appeared in (75017) originally retailed for $39.99 USD in 2013.
Compatible Sets
75017 Duel on Geonosis (2013)
Character Background
This figure represents one of the DUM-series pit droids found on Geonosis, specifically associated with the Archduke Poggle the Lesser. They are repair droids known for their folded-up standby mode.
Design Notes
This figure is notable for using a standard minifigure torso/leg setup rather than being brick-built, which is unusual for Pit Droids in the LEGO Star Wars line. This allowed for much more intricate mechanical printing.
Similar Minifigures
sw0492 Poggle the Lesser, sw0490 Padmé Amidala (Geonosis Outfit), and the brick-built Pit Droids from set 7101 or 75085.
Collectibility
Moderate. It is a 'completionist' figure for fans of the Geonosis Battle or collectors of the Episode II wave. Its unique mold makes it more desirable than generic droids.
History
Prior to 2013, Pit Droids were almost exclusively brick-built using Technic or small plates. This represented a brief experiment in giving them dedicated minifigure-scale molds.
Interesting Facts
Despite being a droid, it uses a standard human-style torso, which makes it look slightly more 'organic' in its proportions than the film version, though the printing compensates for this.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed alongside Poggle the Lesser or Count Dooku in a Geonosis arena MOC. Use a tan baseplate to blend with the color scheme.
Modification Potential
The head piece is excellent for custom droid builds or 'junk-tech' MOCs. The torso with exposed wires is also popular for post-apocalyptic or cyberpunk customs.
Overall Assessment
A unique and highly detailed figure that captures a niche part of Star Wars lore. Rated 7/10 for its excellent printing and set-exclusive status.