XM Studios is a Singapore-based design studio founded in 2012. But among avid collectors of their handcrafted and hand-painted statues of beloved comic book characters, XM needs no introduction. XM recently opened their first flagship store which features over 300 collectibles, spanning over 19,000 square feet. Fans of DC, Marvel, Disney, Transformers, Warner Bros and more are in for a treat.
XM Studios may be new to many of us who are new to the whole figurines craze. But the store actually has roots that date as far back as 1997 and is founded by Singaporean comic book fan Ben Ang in 2012.
Today, the store is celebrating it 10th anniversary by opening its first-ever flagship concept store. In the last 10 years, business has been booming and this local business has gained an international fan base. They even have Intellectual Property licences to make statues for movie franchises like Marvel and Harry Potter under their belt.
A collector’s dream come true
XM is known for their highly-detailed and intricate designs that are true to their respective movie franchises. At the flagship store, you can expect to see themed rooms decked in a myriad of figurines from popular movies and comic books.
Fans of Marvel can geek out in the “Marvel Pod” amongst the company of Iron Man, Spiderman, Captain America and many others. Unlike other showcases, XM lets you get up close and personal with the figurines.
Not much of a Marvel fan? Well then check out the dedicated DC room where you get to meet The Joker, Harley Quinn and Batman. Optimus prime, Megatron and the gang from Transformers are in their own room just a few doors away too.
The gallery also features their premium Star Wars collectible statues. You don’t have to travel to a galaxy far away to meet Luke Skywalker or Darth Vader as XM studios has housed them all amicably under one roof. Some of their latest creations include Darth Raven and Darth Malak. Prepare to be amazed at the incredible attention to detail given to each statue that has been hand-painted to perfection, without compromising on the intricate details and textures of their costumes.
If you like what you see, you can even pre-order one home. Just brace yourself for the price tag as most of the statues are priced in the thousands. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
99 Coffee and Gelato – XM’s in-house artisanal gelato bar
Ladies, while your boyfriends geek away at the stunning statues and figurines, treat yourself to some ice cream and waffles paired with a nice cup of coffee at the in-house artisanal gelato bar, 99 Coffee and Gelato.
We kid, this bar is not just for the ladies, gents are also welcomed to chill at this café while daydreaming about which statues is your favourite and which you will want to take home but can’t.
Indulge in their classic quirky flavours like Mango Tajin, Coconut Pineapple, Caramalised Banana or even Tomato Strawberry, which sounds very interesting and offers something which you can’t find anywhere else. Their premium selection, if you’re feeling a little boujee, includes Baileys and Cacao Nibs, Caramelised Sicilian Pistachio and Ceylon Tean & Peach Liquer. These may seem very indulgent and they are worth every calorie. The classic flavour is priced at S$6+ while the premium are S$7+. There are also two rotating exclusive flavours: Sorrel Crème Fraiche & Yuzu Jelly and Dark Chocolate Whiskey & Seasalt with an extra shot of whiskey.
The coffee beans used here are roasted by The Glasshouse, with two single origins used for their espresso-based drinks, Ethiopian for White, ad Columbia beans for their Blacks.
99 Coffee and Gelato is a great place for figurine enthusiasts and avid toy collectors to sit down and catch their breath while their souls return to their bodies after touring what may seem like toy heaven. It is also a great place to indulge in some extravagant and unique gelato flavours.
XM Studios is pushing the boundaries of collectibles experience with this store. As you visit the different rooms, it feels as though you have been transported into a different universe and surrounding you are all your favourite comic book characters. Not forgetting the amazement and breathlessness which you will experience when you enter each themed room. It is no wonder that XM has become an award-winning global design studio.
Looking for a fun and quirky place to visit with your friends? XM Studios is definitely one of the places which you should check out. Their premium figurines will leave you in amazement and help you develop a new appreciation for your favourite movie character. Apart from Marvel and DC, XM Studios also has collectibles from Disney, Sanrio, Hasbro and many more for you to explore.
If you’re into building your own collection of collectibles, you might be interested in building a Bearbricks collection. Read our article about What is Bearbricks, Why is it so expensive to find out more about these collectible teddy bears.
Address: 809 French Road, Kitchener Complex Level 3, Singapore 200809
Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11am – 8pm | Sat & Sun 10am – 8pm
Website: XM Studios
