Ball-Jointed Dolls

OK, so I am driving home from work tonight listening, as usual, to ALL THINGS CONSIDERED on NPR and heard this story on ball-joined dolls. The story says this is the newest craze just getting a foothold here in the US from Japan. Like Hello Kitty and Pokeman. Peeked my curiosity, as NPR often does, so I wanted to put it out there... has anyone heard about these and/or are you into it already?

Here are a couple of links for those of you, like me, that never heard of these before:
Wikipedia article
NPR Story
Dolls and Friends
e-bay ball-jointed doll guide

So fess up, are you/could you be into these?

Hey Steve,

These have been around for a very long time.  From what I was told a long time ago, the most expensive dolls were made like this.  The ball joints allowed the dolls to be posed in a more natural position.  Are you a doll collector?  I don't recall seeing any dolls when I was over at your house.  I used to collect dolls but I kinda grew up and now I only have a few of my most cherished ones.  I am striving to become a minalmlist, not doing to well but that is my ultimate goal!  lol.  Interesting about these dolls eh?
Rhonda

I;ve been a collector for over 20 years. But I haven't any of these. They have been around for sometime now and you can go brike if you get hooked on the whole thing. I love'm but can't afford to by anymore dolls. Besides I am saving for my motorcycle.LOL

JOY

Oooomotorcycle... I want a red Ducati... Id probally wipe out though.. My dad is really into motorcycles.  He has a classic BMW hes trying to restore. Jess

You have good taste in motorcycles Jess! the 900S screams! Also my husband has an R100R BMW which he restored after rear ending my almost 2 years ago on my Harley. I have been riding for about 15 years now!

Yeah ive been dying to learn to ride but hadnt had the time.  But one day Ill be a mean motorcycle riding maching!!  Jess

When you get the cycle Joy...we have to take that ride okay? So I have to say...jealous you will be so close to Sedona...it is gorgeous there! Have fun...you will be missed!

I saw them at the fanime convention... they seemed interesting... Im sure they will be at the next convention as well.. Jess

Yeah Jesse, motorcycle. I saw one today that I am serious about. If it is there when I get back from AZ, I am going to buy it. I will know it was meant to be. If not I will  keep looking.

HUGS
JOY

Ooo let me know if you get it... if I ever get mine we will have to form a club... Obesity Helps Angels ha ha