The LEPIN "LEGO" for non sensitive types
Discussion
AshVX220 said:
I finished my Lepin "Star Paln" UCS R2-D2 last night, and I'm very impressed. I ordered it through Gelida on Aliexpress, based on some of the posts here. It was delivered just over a week after I ordered it, mainly because I had to force a delay of delivery from DHL for 2 days as it required a signature.
Anyway, I inventoried all the parts before I started and they were all there in the right colours, with a huge stack of spares (and not just the small pieces Lego give you).
The build quality is very good IMHO, the parts clutch together very weel, with no problems apart from a few minor issues with some of the technic elements, either being a bit too tight, or a bit too loose.
All in all, for the price I'm really impressed with Lepin and Gelida as an online store, so I'll definitely get another Lepin set from them again, I really want the UCS MF, but the size is actually putting me off at the moment.......thoughts?
Just ordered 05043 from Gelida too. Have had the UCS MF and SSD from them in the past. The MF is a big set - but worth finding room for!! Anyway, I inventoried all the parts before I started and they were all there in the right colours, with a huge stack of spares (and not just the small pieces Lego give you).
The build quality is very good IMHO, the parts clutch together very weel, with no problems apart from a few minor issues with some of the technic elements, either being a bit too tight, or a bit too loose.
All in all, for the price I'm really impressed with Lepin and Gelida as an online store, so I'll definitely get another Lepin set from them again, I really want the UCS MF, but the size is actually putting me off at the moment.......thoughts?
OK…this will end up being a long post but I thought I would contribute to this thread. There’s a little story about how I came here, a confession, a story about my Lepin order, a description of the set itself, and finally thoughts about Lepin v Lego. I suppose you can read whatever bit you like, all of it, or scroll down and think "wow, this guy goes on a bit".
How I came here
So, a couple of months ago my boss, who in a previous job was connected to the toy industry and knew Lego, was telling me that when he moved house a few years ago he was thinking of getting rid of some large Lego car sets instead of taking them with the move (I know…). Instead, his son said he would sell them on Ebay and my boss, thinking “good luck with that, son”, let him. And was then amazed at the price he managed to sell them (actually only about €100 each). I told him that this was pretty normal for sets that were no longer available and mentioned the UCS Millennium Falcon. When he didn’t believe me I posted him some listings from Ebay. That was when I discovered the “copies” for a fraction of the price. A little research told me these were “genuine” (i.e. they actually existed and weren’t a total con) and some searching for Lepin (to find out about quality) brought me to this thread.
Confession
OK, confession time. Because this was such a huge thread, and because it mentioned another Lepin/Lego thread, I actually thought that “Piston Heads” was a joke. That it was a play on words referring to the little stubs, knobs on lego pieces and I had stumbled across a “lego” fan site - but perhaps for guys who liked cars. Obviously I know what a real piston head is, but that’s how my mind was working at the time. Incidentally, when I realised this I posted on the forum pages asking about diesel v petrol.
The order
Based on some reassuring comments here and elsewhere concerning AliExpress, and some positive comments here re. “Gelida”, I put in an order for a Lepin UCS MF (€166 p&p incl.). [One thing to note: it seems there are two Gelidas – sort of. Gelida Trading and RR Toy Station are now combined as lepinbrick Store (not: LEPIN BRICKS Store) but there’s still a company called “Gelida”. Apparently both are good]. The order took ten days to process (thanks to comments here I was not worried about that) and then, tracking it via DHL, two days to arrive in Belgium! Except I didn’t recognise the name of the neighbour that signed for it (when I was in work). Then I noticed it was delivered to a different town. I called DHL Belgium who were very helpful and were able to confirm that the information was correct. They were then able to locate my package and give me the correct tracking number. [Actually, I didn't think Gelida were conning me because the tracking number they gave me actually existed (it wasn't fake) and so I assumed it was just a mistake, but I didn't want my order to read "delivered"]. I contacted Gelida who apologised and then gave the same correct tracking number and I later saw it had been processed in HK.
The following day I received notification it would arrive in two days, except later I saw it was "on hold". I waited another couple of days and when it still said “on hold” I contacted DHL Belgium. Again, very helpful; they couldn't tell me immediately but contacted DHL HK and called me back the next day. They told me the trading company (which they said may not be the same as the internet shop) had not paid DHL and so the package would not be delivered until then. They told me to contact the online shop (Gelida). They also said since DHL don't have a signature (obviously) the transaction was not complete and I could get a refund directly from MasterCard. They also added that it's better to buy from Europe! By then, I had already contacted Gelida on asking what the problem was. They said they had some parcels like this and because of so many parcels at the DHL HK warehouse there was a delay - so not to worry. I then I told them what DHL said and they replied asking for more info or the Email from DHL Belgium. I told them I didn’t have this as it was just a phone call. The following day Gelida replied saying there was an error on the DHL update message and that it would be updated soon (I supposed they, or their trading company paid the bill). Later that evening it arrived in Leipzig, the following day in Belgium and the next delivered (so 23 days from order). The name on the box was HUA CHUANG TENG TRADING CO LTD. The name on the customs invoice was YIWI YITIANDI TRADE CO LTD. The customs value was declared as $21.99 (so no VAT or duties to pay).
The set
It arrived in a box around 35cm3 with 98 plastic bags – 90 sealed, 8 zip-locked. The instruction manual was folded in half and had a Gelida sticker in the top left corner – this concerned me as I’ve heard many sellers are sending the lesser quality LeLe instead of Lepin but in fact the sticker covered a Lepin logo/name. The 90 sealed bags were stamped with the 05033 Lepin code and a bag number, the 8 zip locked bags had the Lepin code and bag number written in marker pen. The two pieces of "grid" that go on the rear of the MF were loose. Most of the bags contained a single type of brick - very useful for sorting - some contained two or three types.
Referring to the BrinkLink list and counting very carefully, there were no missing pieces (but note below). In fact, I had over 300 extra pieces. I saw no obvious flaws to the pieces and none of the plates seemed warped. Obviously I can't compare to the genuine Lego version because if I open either of the boxes I have in the attic their value will decrease, but to my eye and feel the quality was just as good as Lego.
OK…I lied about the two boxes in the attic - just seeing if you’re paying attention.
Some comments on specific pieces:
- the radar dish is well printed but measures 6.5cm (I think the original is 8cm)
- the six pieces of hose are all longer than the Lego version by several mm
- instead of two metallic stubs (Lego #4073) they’re transparent.
- in addition to (Lego 6538b) I have 14 very similar pieces
- the two pieces of grid that go on the back seem fairly flexible (apparently some versions are too rigid and pull off the connecting pieces)
In other words, nothing to worry about.
The only possible problem I thought I would have is instead of 7 1x2 thin plates with a hinge (Lego 3938), I have 7 2x2 versions but some enquires I’ve made suggest that these will fit so it’s probably not a problem.
I’ve now taken over the spare room to begin the construction – and may attempt to do one of those stop-still films (if I can figure out how).
Lepin vs Lego – existing models
OK, so Lego obviously spend a lot of time and effort on R&D for their models so the prices are justified. They lose money when Lepin rips off existing models. Therefore what Lepin is doing is wrong.
On the other hand, Lego prices are really high. Too high. I mean, are they justified? So, to hell with it; what Lepin is doing is OK.
But Lego is losing money and so may not develop new models. So, Lepin is wrong.
On the other hand (apparently I’m quadri-dextral…) their prices really are very, very high. So Lepin is OK.
See? I’m conflicted on this but on balance – go ahead Lepin.
Lepin vs Lego – retired sets
No question. Fair game to Lepin. Lego no longer produce the sets so you can’t buy them (unless you line the pockets of the speculators who have multiply sealed boxes in their attic) and Lego loses nothing. Buying a Lepin UCS Millennium Falcon is no different to buying a Lepin UCS Peregrine Falcon (from their “Birds of Prey” collection
). Lego produce neither so lose nothing. I have no qualms here – none whatsoever.
Interestingly there are rumours that the 40th anniversary of Star Wars this year could see the Lego UCS Millennium Falcon re-issued. Now this poses an interesting question. The R&D has already been done for the original issue and as far as I know almost all the parts are in current production. So, the price should be relatively low, right? Yeah…in your dreams. My gast would be well and truly flabbered if it was priced below £500. So carry on Lepin.
That’s it (hope you were sitting comfortably). Now for the build - my God it's a big set
How I came here
So, a couple of months ago my boss, who in a previous job was connected to the toy industry and knew Lego, was telling me that when he moved house a few years ago he was thinking of getting rid of some large Lego car sets instead of taking them with the move (I know…). Instead, his son said he would sell them on Ebay and my boss, thinking “good luck with that, son”, let him. And was then amazed at the price he managed to sell them (actually only about €100 each). I told him that this was pretty normal for sets that were no longer available and mentioned the UCS Millennium Falcon. When he didn’t believe me I posted him some listings from Ebay. That was when I discovered the “copies” for a fraction of the price. A little research told me these were “genuine” (i.e. they actually existed and weren’t a total con) and some searching for Lepin (to find out about quality) brought me to this thread.
Confession
OK, confession time. Because this was such a huge thread, and because it mentioned another Lepin/Lego thread, I actually thought that “Piston Heads” was a joke. That it was a play on words referring to the little stubs, knobs on lego pieces and I had stumbled across a “lego” fan site - but perhaps for guys who liked cars. Obviously I know what a real piston head is, but that’s how my mind was working at the time. Incidentally, when I realised this I posted on the forum pages asking about diesel v petrol.
The order
Based on some reassuring comments here and elsewhere concerning AliExpress, and some positive comments here re. “Gelida”, I put in an order for a Lepin UCS MF (€166 p&p incl.). [One thing to note: it seems there are two Gelidas – sort of. Gelida Trading and RR Toy Station are now combined as lepinbrick Store (not: LEPIN BRICKS Store) but there’s still a company called “Gelida”. Apparently both are good]. The order took ten days to process (thanks to comments here I was not worried about that) and then, tracking it via DHL, two days to arrive in Belgium! Except I didn’t recognise the name of the neighbour that signed for it (when I was in work). Then I noticed it was delivered to a different town. I called DHL Belgium who were very helpful and were able to confirm that the information was correct. They were then able to locate my package and give me the correct tracking number. [Actually, I didn't think Gelida were conning me because the tracking number they gave me actually existed (it wasn't fake) and so I assumed it was just a mistake, but I didn't want my order to read "delivered"]. I contacted Gelida who apologised and then gave the same correct tracking number and I later saw it had been processed in HK.
The following day I received notification it would arrive in two days, except later I saw it was "on hold". I waited another couple of days and when it still said “on hold” I contacted DHL Belgium. Again, very helpful; they couldn't tell me immediately but contacted DHL HK and called me back the next day. They told me the trading company (which they said may not be the same as the internet shop) had not paid DHL and so the package would not be delivered until then. They told me to contact the online shop (Gelida). They also said since DHL don't have a signature (obviously) the transaction was not complete and I could get a refund directly from MasterCard. They also added that it's better to buy from Europe! By then, I had already contacted Gelida on asking what the problem was. They said they had some parcels like this and because of so many parcels at the DHL HK warehouse there was a delay - so not to worry. I then I told them what DHL said and they replied asking for more info or the Email from DHL Belgium. I told them I didn’t have this as it was just a phone call. The following day Gelida replied saying there was an error on the DHL update message and that it would be updated soon (I supposed they, or their trading company paid the bill). Later that evening it arrived in Leipzig, the following day in Belgium and the next delivered (so 23 days from order). The name on the box was HUA CHUANG TENG TRADING CO LTD. The name on the customs invoice was YIWI YITIANDI TRADE CO LTD. The customs value was declared as $21.99 (so no VAT or duties to pay).
The set
It arrived in a box around 35cm3 with 98 plastic bags – 90 sealed, 8 zip-locked. The instruction manual was folded in half and had a Gelida sticker in the top left corner – this concerned me as I’ve heard many sellers are sending the lesser quality LeLe instead of Lepin but in fact the sticker covered a Lepin logo/name. The 90 sealed bags were stamped with the 05033 Lepin code and a bag number, the 8 zip locked bags had the Lepin code and bag number written in marker pen. The two pieces of "grid" that go on the rear of the MF were loose. Most of the bags contained a single type of brick - very useful for sorting - some contained two or three types.
Referring to the BrinkLink list and counting very carefully, there were no missing pieces (but note below). In fact, I had over 300 extra pieces. I saw no obvious flaws to the pieces and none of the plates seemed warped. Obviously I can't compare to the genuine Lego version because if I open either of the boxes I have in the attic their value will decrease, but to my eye and feel the quality was just as good as Lego.
OK…I lied about the two boxes in the attic - just seeing if you’re paying attention.
Some comments on specific pieces:
- the radar dish is well printed but measures 6.5cm (I think the original is 8cm)
- the six pieces of hose are all longer than the Lego version by several mm
- instead of two metallic stubs (Lego #4073) they’re transparent.
- in addition to (Lego 6538b) I have 14 very similar pieces
- the two pieces of grid that go on the back seem fairly flexible (apparently some versions are too rigid and pull off the connecting pieces)
In other words, nothing to worry about.
The only possible problem I thought I would have is instead of 7 1x2 thin plates with a hinge (Lego 3938), I have 7 2x2 versions but some enquires I’ve made suggest that these will fit so it’s probably not a problem.
I’ve now taken over the spare room to begin the construction – and may attempt to do one of those stop-still films (if I can figure out how).
Lepin vs Lego – existing models
OK, so Lego obviously spend a lot of time and effort on R&D for their models so the prices are justified. They lose money when Lepin rips off existing models. Therefore what Lepin is doing is wrong.
On the other hand, Lego prices are really high. Too high. I mean, are they justified? So, to hell with it; what Lepin is doing is OK.
But Lego is losing money and so may not develop new models. So, Lepin is wrong.
On the other hand (apparently I’m quadri-dextral…) their prices really are very, very high. So Lepin is OK.
See? I’m conflicted on this but on balance – go ahead Lepin.
Lepin vs Lego – retired sets
No question. Fair game to Lepin. Lego no longer produce the sets so you can’t buy them (unless you line the pockets of the speculators who have multiply sealed boxes in their attic) and Lego loses nothing. Buying a Lepin UCS Millennium Falcon is no different to buying a Lepin UCS Peregrine Falcon (from their “Birds of Prey” collection
). Lego produce neither so lose nothing. I have no qualms here – none whatsoever.Interestingly there are rumours that the 40th anniversary of Star Wars this year could see the Lego UCS Millennium Falcon re-issued. Now this poses an interesting question. The R&D has already been done for the original issue and as far as I know almost all the parts are in current production. So, the price should be relatively low, right? Yeah…in your dreams. My gast would be well and truly flabbered if it was priced below £500. So carry on Lepin.
That’s it (hope you were sitting comfortably). Now for the build - my God it's a big set
Has anyone built the Republic Drop Ship yet?
It has been shipped by DHL (I bought it from H&H) and I am guessing the ATOT is attached to the Drop Ship by magnets.
I remember a previous poster stating they could not get the Star Destroyer because of magnets - but this has shipped and I know a lot of other people have gotten the Star Destroyer off AliExpress so obviously DHL CAN ship magnets (whether they know they are or not is another question).
It has been shipped by DHL (I bought it from H&H) and I am guessing the ATOT is attached to the Drop Ship by magnets.
I remember a previous poster stating they could not get the Star Destroyer because of magnets - but this has shipped and I know a lot of other people have gotten the Star Destroyer off AliExpress so obviously DHL CAN ship magnets (whether they know they are or not is another question).
I really need to jump on this Lepin band wagon, I'm just too lazy.
My sister and brother in law paid full whack for the Lego disney castle and the porsche GT3 oh how i laughed and then explained about these Lepin sets they then proceeded to tell me they'd mever buy from china as you'd get ripped off and that the quality of the sets was very bad.......i sent the link to this thread
My sister and brother in law paid full whack for the Lego disney castle and the porsche GT3 oh how i laughed and then explained about these Lepin sets they then proceeded to tell me they'd mever buy from china as you'd get ripped off and that the quality of the sets was very bad.......i sent the link to this thread
voiceofrevolt said:
Has anyone built the Republic Drop Ship yet?
It has been shipped by DHL (I bought it from H&H) and I am guessing the ATOT is attached to the Drop Ship by magnets.
I remember a previous poster stating they could not get the Star Destroyer because of magnets - but this has shipped and I know a lot of other people have gotten the Star Destroyer off AliExpress so obviously DHL CAN ship magnets (whether they know they are or not is another question).
Not built myself but official lego instructions doesn't appear to have magnets in. I might be wrong tho.It has been shipped by DHL (I bought it from H&H) and I am guessing the ATOT is attached to the Drop Ship by magnets.
I remember a previous poster stating they could not get the Star Destroyer because of magnets - but this has shipped and I know a lot of other people have gotten the Star Destroyer off AliExpress so obviously DHL CAN ship magnets (whether they know they are or not is another question).
http://cache.lego.com/bigdownloads/buildinginstruc...
Has anybody had a Star destroyer delivered in UK. The main reason i haven't ordered yet is the magnets / shipping.
NordicCrankShaft said:
I really need to jump on this Lepin band wagon, I'm just too lazy.
My sister and brother in law paid full whack for the Lego disney castle and the porsche GT3 oh how i laughed and then explained about these Lepin sets they then proceeded to tell me they'd mever buy from china as you'd get ripped off and that the quality of the sets was very bad.......i sent the link to this thread
Well, if either of the two sets they bought really interest you, buy the Lepin version and then show them for comparison.My sister and brother in law paid full whack for the Lego disney castle and the porsche GT3 oh how i laughed and then explained about these Lepin sets they then proceeded to tell me they'd mever buy from china as you'd get ripped off and that the quality of the sets was very bad.......i sent the link to this thread
Or just get another set that you are interested in and they can see the block quality in person.
You know, it is interesting how people do not want to buy directly from China, yet, every single store they will purchase from locally has the vast majority of their stock made in China; and has for many years now.
vaderface said:
Not built myself but official lego instructions doesn't appear to have magnets in. I might be wrong tho.
http://cache.lego.com/bigdownloads/buildinginstruc...
Has anybody had a Star destroyer delivered in UK. The main reason i haven't ordered yet is the magnets / shipping.
Hey! I just made the connection that EVERY Lepin/Kazi/BrandC train has magnets for their couplers!http://cache.lego.com/bigdownloads/buildinginstruc...
Has anybody had a Star destroyer delivered in UK. The main reason i haven't ordered yet is the magnets / shipping.
If anyone had any train sets delivered by DHL then ...
voiceofrevolt said:
Well, if either of the two sets they bought really interest you, buy the Lepin version and then show them for comparison.
Or just get another set that you are interested in and they can see the block quality in person.
You know, it is interesting how people do not want to buy directly from China, yet, every single store they will purchase from locally has the vast majority of their stock made in China; and has for many years now.
I've been meaning to get the Porsche for a while amd I see they do a titanic aswell but i dont really have the room.Or just get another set that you are interested in and they can see the block quality in person.
You know, it is interesting how people do not want to buy directly from China, yet, every single store they will purchase from locally has the vast majority of their stock made in China; and has for many years now.
Agree about the china thing though, so ironic it's a bit retarded.
voiceofrevolt said:
It has been shipped by DHL (I bought it from H&H) and I am guessing the ATOT is attached to the Drop Ship by magnets.
I had the real Lego version and there are no magnets. It hooks up using a rubber band loaded catch thing which is a bit fussy and fiddly to use. Its pretty big and impressive when built though.vaderface said:
Not built myself but official lego instructions doesn't appear to have magnets in. I might be wrong tho.
http://cache.lego.com/bigdownloads/buildinginstruc...
Has anybody had a Star destroyer delivered in UK. The main reason i haven't ordered yet is the magnets / shipping.
Thank you for the link! The instructions look nice and intense. It should be a fun build! http://cache.lego.com/bigdownloads/buildinginstruc...
Has anybody had a Star destroyer delivered in UK. The main reason i haven't ordered yet is the magnets / shipping.
ColinM said:
I had the real Lego version and there are no magnets. It hooks up using a rubber band loaded catch thing which is a bit fussy and fiddly to use. Its pretty big and impressive when built though.
Thank you for the clarification! I look forward to figuring it out in person. I just got the Gunship on Friday and my daughter jumped right in and has been working on it. It's a fairly big build for an 8 year old but she's doing fine and really enjoying it. I ordered the Dropship to complement it (and give me something to build as the Gunship looks so awesome!). In fact, it's a temptation to order another Gunship but then I need to control myself as, as much as I would want to see play with them with enough sets to recreate an episode sized battle, my house, wallet, shelving (wife!) can only do with so much …
Probably better to try to get some Separatist gear to battle against.
- disclaimer - aliexpress image with Obi Wan's and Padme's torso's on backwards - there is also no printing on Obi Wan's arms in the set like it appears in the image - but the photo is clearly of the actual Gunship (note the studs with no printing) and the colours on the one we got are as nice - it is a very beautiful looking set!*
Edited by voiceofrevolt on Sunday 12th March 22:37
voiceofrevolt said:
- disclaimer - aliexpress image with Obi Wan's and Padme's torso's on backwards - there is also no printing on Obi Wan's arms in the set like it appears in the image - but the photo is clearly of the actual Gunship (note the studs with no printing) and the colours on the one we got are as nice - it is a very beautiful looking set!*
Also that set has been badly assembled, the engines are reversed and the cockpit should sit lower at the front.
I bet you will do a better job.
The Lele UCS Falcon renders by the company had all the sloping parts sticking out horizontally, defying gravity, which looked weird. The Chinese sets often seem to have poor attention to detail on the marketing graphics and photos.
vaderface said:
Well i was only getting the retired UCS OT sets.
Bit pricey but i might just have to get this beast.
AshVX220 said:
Ditto, that looks fantastic, I guess it's pricey because Lepin have had to do all the "hard work" that Lego normally cover. Though, I'm guessing it's a rip-off of someone's existing MOC.
Yes it an MOC copy.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODKNZN1noo4 Not English!
Just to give you an idea on the size of it.
Have a look on youtube for ANIO,s venator.
He has a very nice collection.
vaderface said:
Yes it an MOC copy.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODKNZN1noo4 Not English!
Just to give you an idea on the size of it.
Have a look on youtube for ANIO,s venator.
He has a very nice collection.
Awesome, thanks.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODKNZN1noo4 Not English!
Just to give you an idea on the size of it.
Have a look on youtube for ANIO,s venator.
He has a very nice collection.
AshVX220 said:
Ditto, that looks fantastic, I guess it's pricey because Lepin have had to do all the "hard work" that Lego normally cover. Though, I'm guessing it's a rip-off of someone's existing MOC.
It does look fantastic!It could be so expensive because it is a presell? (hoping!)
I am sure it's pretty darn heavy and we never do know the actual cost of these sets before shipping is calculated.
It is supposed to be 6125 pieces!
vaderface said:
Yes it an MOC copy.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODKNZN1noo4 Not English!
Just to give you an idea on the size of it.
Have a look on youtube for ANIO,s venator.
He has a very nice collection.
Here is another video, but this time of the build:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODKNZN1noo4 Not English!
Just to give you an idea on the size of it.
Have a look on youtube for ANIO,s venator.
He has a very nice collection.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3nksDqIhl74&fe...
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