Takanuva (Nuva Head Component)
bb0158 · Bionicle
Mistika · 2008
Figure ID
bb0158
Theme
Bionicle
Year Released
2008
Rarity
Uncommon. This component was exclusive to the large-scale Takanuva titan set released at the end of the original Bionicle run.
Head
Technically, this part is a 32mm decorated sphere (item 62489) that serves as the internal 'brain' or head core for the large Takanuva figure. It features metallic gold printing with black outlines to represent the Mask of Light's energy.
Torso
Not applicable. This is a head/orb component for a large-scale titan build roughly 12 inches tall.
Legs
Not applicable. The full figure used complex Technic and Bionicle limb assemblies.
Accessories
The full figure included a Power Lance and Twin Light Shields, though they are not pictured here.
Color Scheme
Pearl Copper base with Metallic Gold and Black printing. This represents the character's 'Shadow Leech' infection and transformation during the 2008 storyline.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on a curved surface. Features a central gold sun-like motif with runes and geometric patterns radiating outward.
Variants
Standard Bionicle spheres (Zamor Spheres) come in many solid and marbled colors (e.g., lime, trans-blue, silver), but this specific printed pattern is unique to the 2008 Takanuva.
Condition Notes
Prone to 'play wear' scratches that can flake the metallic gold ink. The Pearl Copper plastic is durable but can show bite marks or deep scuffs if handled roughly.
Estimated Value
The individual sphere is worth approximately $5 - $10 USD. The complete Takanuva figure (8699) is valued between $130 - $180 USD used.
Price (New)
The set 8699 Takanuva originally retailed for $34.99 USD in 2008.
Compatible Sets
8699-1 Takanuva (2008 Bionicle Titan Build).
Character Background
Takanuva, the Toa of Light, was partially drained of his light by a Shadow Leech, causing him to grow in size and shift into 'Twilight' colors (Copper/Grey) during the Mistika/Phantoka arc.
Design Notes
This part is a repaint of the Zamor Sphere launcher ammo, repurposed here as a structural head element to fill the gap behind his large mask.
Similar Minifigures
Other 2008 Titans like 8697 Toa Mata Nui or 8953 Icarax, and smaller Toa Nuva minifigures (meduim-scale).
Collectibility
High. The 2008 Takanuva is a fan-favorite character version, and the printed orb is a distinct piece for those looking to complete the set or MOC builders.
History
Released during the 'Mistika' wave, the final year of the original Bionicle universe's core storyline before the 2009 Bara Magna soft-reboot.
Interesting Facts
Though it looks like a simple marble, this is one of the few Zamor-style spheres to ever receive custom graphic printing rather than just marbling.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed inside the 8699 Takanuva build behind the Avohkii mask, or on a specialized Technic axle stand for part collectors.
Modification Potential
Highly used in MOCs (My Own Creations) as 'power sources,' 'mystical orbs,' or specialized mechanical joints due to its unique printing.
Overall Assessment
An essential specialty part for Bionicle historians. While just a sphere, the unique printing makes it a standout piece of LEGO's mid-2000s experimental phase.