Adam Savage Unboxes The Batmobile from Batman (1966)!
Adam Savage and Norman unbox a 1:6 scale 1968 Batmobile from Jazz Inc. Dioramas, which features subtle differences from the 1966 version including a satin finish instead of glossy and pink pinstriping instead of red. The detailed collectible includes working lights, electronics, and various Batman gadgets while highlighting the evolution of the iconic TV show car.
Summary
Adam Savage and Norman unbox a highly detailed 1:6 scale replica of the 1968 Batmobile from the classic Adam West Batman TV series, manufactured by Jazz Inc. Dioramas. The discussion begins with nostalgia about the 1966-1968 Batman show's cultural impact, establishing it as a foundational pop culture reference alongside Spider-Man and Star Trek. They explain that this is actually a variant of the original 1966 Batmobile - Jazz Inc. created this 1968 version as a loophole after their original 1966 model sold out and they promised collectors they wouldn't remake it. The 1968 version features approximately 40 differences from the original, including a more satin finish instead of high gloss, pink pinstriping instead of red, dimensional bat logos without white borders, and pink seat belts. The historical context reveals the Batmobile was created by customizer George Barris from a 1955 Lincoln Futura concept car, establishing many design elements that would influence future Batmobiles including the fin design and rocket/turbine features. The unboxing reveals extensive detail work including working electronics with multiple lighting effects (headlights, interior blinking lights, radar dish, flame effect), removable components like antennas and steering wheel, detailed interior with labeled gadgets like the bat phone and mobile crime computer, and hub caps that can rotate independently of the tires. The creators emphasize the craftsmanship required for consistent finishes across large injection-molded pieces and praise Jazz Inc.'s community-building approach with collectors through live streams and feedback sessions. They note these collectibles are expensive but maintain value by never being remade, and discuss Jazz Inc.'s expanding Batman product line including upcoming Catwoman figures and Batcave accessories.
Key Insights
- Adam Savage identifies the 1966 Batman show as one of three foundational franchises of his childhood pop culture experience, alongside Spider-Man and Star Trek
- Jazz Inc. created the 1968 Batmobile as a loophole after promising collectors they would never remake the sold-out 1966 version, with approximately 40 documented differences between the variants
- George Barris created the original Batmobile by modifying a 1955 Lincoln Futura concept car, establishing design elements like fins and bat wing scalloping that influenced all future Batmobiles
- The 1968 version features a satin finish instead of the high-gloss finish of the 1966 model, making it less prone to showing fingerprints while maintaining a luxurious appearance
- Jazz Inc. builds community with collectors through live streams, progress sharing, and fan voting on future products, which Savage identifies as the successful pathway for serving both enthusiastic customers and deep critics
Topics
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