Super7 Spotlight - Kaori / KLToyBox

Super7 sits down with Kaori London, the passionate collector and creator behind @KLToyBox, to talk giant robots, Mecha, and all things Tokusatsu. In this Super7 Spotlight, we dive into their 33-year journey as a collector, the stories behind their favorite pieces, and how photography has helped them bring their collection to life for fans everywhere.

Where are you located, and what inspires your love for collectibles?

My name is Kaori London, and I currently reside in the Tampa Florida area. My love for collectibles comes from years of playing with various different kinds as a kid.

How long have you been collecting? What sparked your passion for collecting toys and memorabilia?

As an only child growing up in the 1990s, my affinity to collect action figures was created by my Mom and Dad. Some of my most cherished memories are connected to various items in my collection. With that being said I have been collecting for all 33 years of my life so far.

Do you have a specific focus in your collection? Are you drawn to certain eras, franchises, or types of toys?

My love for giant robots and Mecha runs deep. Over the years the engineering has allowed some incredible transforming action figures. I tend to at least try to only collect things I know I would enjoy. Tokusatsu as a whole is the majority of my collection, but I do have a vast taste for different figure types and series.

What role does photography play in your collection?

Photography has allowed me to share my collection with others, and help bring back those great childhood memories. It is also what has allowed me to partner with many great companies, and grow as an artist/creator.

Who or what inspires your photography style when capturing your collectibles?

My style comes from being able to make and create content that anyone can do. It can be rather simple, but it still takes a good amount of time to complete. You don’t need any fancy editing software or a super high def camera. With a phone and an idea, you too can do what I do and even more.

What has been your favorite Super7 release so far? Are there any figures that stand out in your collection?

ULTIMATES! SilverHawks Armored Mon*Star is my absolute favorite release ever. The size, detail, accessories, and presence is incredible. It sparked a deep dive into the ULTIMATES! lines, which has grown to be one of my all-time favorites.

What’s the most unique or rare item in your collection? Is there a story behind it?

Flame Toys Kara Kuri Dino Megazord from their Power Rangers line is the most expensive and unique item I currently have. Upon release it wasn’t out of reach for many, but the secondary market after it sold out everywhere made the price crazy. I love how dark the color scheme is, and how jagged, and more detailed they made the Dino Megazord. What would you like to see Super7 create in the future? Do you have a dream toy or figure that has yet to be made? Chromed ULTIMATES! Mon*Star, ULTIMATES! Red Dragon Thunderzord, ULTIMATES! Reptar, more translucent ULTIMATES! The Worst, ULTIMATES! Stitch with four arms in his space uniform, MMPR ULTIMATES! Knasty Knight, and more double-jointed figures splashed around.

What’s been the best part of being part of the fan/collector community? Any favorite experiences or connections you’ve made?

Partnering with companies who not only carry the products I love, but are willing to work with me while I grow and develop as a creator is the big one. I have made a lot of great new friends and peers, as well as being able to attend great events, and bring back those great memories.

If you could only keep one item from your collection, which would it be and why?

While this would be impossible for me, I will for the sake of answering properly say that it is the Power Rangers Zeo Deluxe Super Zeo Megazord my Nana got me when I was about 5.

What advice do you have for new collectors? Any tips for starting or growing a collection?

Start slow and collect things you enjoyed as a kid, and things you think you’d enjoy now. Avoid eBay rabbit holes of nostalgia, and watch lots of toy reviews. Do not spend more than necessary, and if you absolutely need something, do some side jobs to make up for it. Lastly you really don’t need any of these things as they are a luxury item, but if you can focus your collection on things that have a decent resale value it can be more of a long term investment.

How does your collection reflect your personality? Do you think it tells a story about you?

It shows how creative and diverse I am as a human being in this life. The journey so far has been full of many different experiences, and within my collection are memories and stories I often share with friends and family.

Where can people find you on social media?

You can find me in a variety of places, but the main two most active platforms I am on are Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook: Kaori’s Toy Box
Instagram: @KLToyBox

On everything else it's @kltoybox (at least I think so).