Blythe and Neo Blythe are both lines of dolls, but there are some key differences between the two.
Here's an overview:
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Original Blythe: The original Blythe dolls were first introduced by the American toy company Kenner in the 1970s. They were produced for only a short period and gained limited popularity during their initial release. These vintage Blythe dolls have become highly sought after by collectors.
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Neo Blythe: Neo Blythe refers to the modern version of Blythe dolls reintroduced by the Japanese toy company Takara Tomy in 2001. Neo Blythe dolls have several distinct features and enhancements compared to the original Blythe dolls.
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Size and Proportions: Neo Blythe dolls are generally larger than the original Blythe dolls. Neo Blythe dolls stand approximately 11.81 inches (30 centimeters) tall, while the vintage Blythe dolls were slightly shorter. The larger size of Neo Blythe dolls allows for more detailed and intricate designs.
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Articulation: Neo Blythe dolls have a more advanced and articulated body compared to the original Blythe dolls. The Neo Blythe body features more poseable joints, allowing for a wider range of poses and movements.
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Face Molds: Neo Blythe dolls typically have different face molds compared to the vintage Blythe dolls. The face molds of Neo Blythe dolls have evolved over the years and offer more variations in facial features, expressions, and proportions.
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Availability: Neo Blythe dolls are more readily available in the market compared to the vintage Blythe dolls. Takara Tomy continues to release new editions and collaborations of Neo Blythe dolls, making them more accessible to collectors and enthusiasts.
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Customization: Both Blythe and Neo Blythe dolls can be customized, but Neo Blythe dolls have become particularly popular for customization due to their larger size, enhanced articulation, and availability of aftermarket accessories and customization options.
It's important to note that Neo Blythe dolls are part of the broader Blythe doll line, and they have become the more commonly recognized and popular version of Blythe dolls in recent years.