BIC Camera Top 5 Gunpla Must-Haves: Ultimate Japanese Model Kit Shopping Guide

BIC Camera stands as Japan's leading electronics retailer, offering an unparalleled selection of Gunpla (Gundam plastic models) at prices 30-50% lower than Singapore hobby shops. For Singaporean mecha enthusiasts and model kit collectors, BIC Camera provides access to the latest Bandai Spirits releases, exclusive limited editions, and essential building accessories unavailable in Southeast Asia.

Why BIC Camera is a Must-Visit for Singaporean Gunpla Builders

BIC Camera occupies multiple floors in major Tokyo districts like Akihabara, Shinjuku, and Ikebukuro, dedicating entire sections to Gunpla and model kits. The retailer stocks fresh releases within days of launch, maintains competitive tax-free pricing for tourists, and offers a selection depth that surpasses Singapore's combined hobby shop inventory.

Singapore's Gunpla market suffers from limited stock, delayed releases (often 2-3 months behind Japan), and significant markup due to import costs and distributor margins. A High Grade (HG) 1/144 kit priced at ¥1,280 ($11.50 SGD) in BIC Camera typically retails for $18-22 SGD in Singapore—representing a 40-60% premium that quickly compounds for serious collectors building multiple kits monthly.

Top 5 Gunpla at BIC Camera (Current Rankings)

1. Bandai Spirits Action Base 5 Black (¥468)

The Action Base 5 represents essential infrastructure for any Gunpla collection, providing stable display platforms for dynamic poses impossible with standard standing positions.

Singapore Comparison: Action Base 5 retails for $8-12 SGD in Singapore hobby shops. At ¥468 ($4.20 SGD), BIC Camera offers 50-65% savings.

2. HG 1/144 Gundam Aerial (¥1,280)

The Gundam Aerial serves as the protagonist mobile suit in The Witch from Mercury, featuring a distinctive blue and white color scheme.

Singapore Comparison: HG Gundam Aerial typically costs $18-22 SGD in Singapore. At ¥1,280 ($11.50 SGD), BIC Camera delivers 38-48% savings.

3. HG 1/144 Gundam Calibarn (¥1,280)

The Gundam Calibarn represents the series' final evolution mobile suit, featuring a sleek white and teal design with massive beam saber weapons.

Singapore Comparison: Calibarn commands $20-24 SGD in Singapore hobby shops. BIC Camera's ¥1,280 ($11.50 SGD) pricing offers 43-52% savings.

4. Bandai Spirits Action Base 5 Clear (¥447)

The clear variant of Action Base 5 provides an "invisible" display solution that minimizes visual distraction.

Singapore Comparison: Clear action bases cost $9-13 SGD in Singapore. At ¥447 ($4 SGD), BIC Camera offers 56-69% savings.

5. HG 1/144 Demi Barding (¥1,380)

The Demi Barding represents the series' mass-production mobile suit, featuring heavy armor plating and a utilitarian military aesthetic.

Singapore Comparison: HG Demi Barding retails for $19-23 SGD in Singapore. BIC Camera's ¥1,380 ($12.40 SGD) pricing delivers 35-46% savings.