Sideshow Featured Collector: Tom Dillien

Collector: Tom Dillien

Location: Ekeren, Belgium

How and when did you start collecting?

I grew up in the late 80’s. As a small child I was amazed by watching all the superhero show. I enjoy the likes of The Thundercats, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Transformers, Batman: The Animated series, Power Rangers, … My father collected comics and he introduced my to the wonderful world of comics. I got my first one at the age of 8 years. It was a “web of Spider-man” issue. In that time they were translated editions. When I was 19 years old I discovered a small local comic store. It was there, that I bought my first real comic editions. Also my first trade paperbacks and hardcovers. I also enjoyed the statues that the store had on display. At that point the cost for a statue was a little too much. In 2013, I finally bought my first statue: the Black Widow Premium Format from Iron Man 2. It was the start of an amazing journey.

What do you collect? Does your collection have a theme, such as Star Wars, Batman, etc.?

Most of my collection is DC, Marvel & Aspen based.  I always had a soft spot for DC & Aspen, I like the characters a little more and enjoyed the comics a little more. I love the DC animated movies, but I can’t deny that the MCU blows the a DCU out of the park. Beside my statues I also collect Lego ( DC, Marvel and Star Wars ).  I’m also very proud of my Aspen Matthews wall. I have been collecting Aspen prints from the late Michael Turner. I have them framed in the entrance hall. My statues are in the living room. People always enjoy my collection when they come to visit.

What makes your collection unique?

I don’t have the biggest collection in the world, but I’m proud of every item that I own. I still remember when I got every item, they all have their own story.  I can enjoy the hunt for a sold out piece. It took months searching for the Psylocke Premium Format, but one day I found one at a very good price at Facts convention, those are great days.  I always say: how big or small your collection is, that doesn’t matter. Every collection is amazing, every collection is unique.

What are your favorite or the most prized pieces in your collection?

There are a few: my Black Widow Premium Format is a grail for me, because she was my first statue. My Aspen Matthews Premium Format is special for my because I’m a big Michael Turner fan. My Zatanna Premium Format is also special because I’m a Zatanna fan. And my last one was the Starfire Maquette . She is also special for me, because I got her for my birthday from my girlfriend and parents.

What items are on your wishlist?

I dream off getting a 1/3 scale statue from Prime 1. I hope they release an Aspen Matthews statue in the future.  I enjoy the super powers line from Tweeterhead. I got Batgirl, Catwoman and Robin on pre-order. I hope they bring out Zatanna, Nightwing and Kid Flash soon.