Collectible Consoles - The PS3 Part V: The Bundles (Gen.1 and 2)

Please make sure to check out the previous blogs on the PlayStation 3 for more background information. All the links can be found at the top of the page under the Collectible Consoles tab. Also, click here for part one in the series for help with model numbers and what not.

For this first blog on the PS3 bundles I have a bit of bad news...the early generations are damn near impossible to find. However, I'm putting up the information anyways because I spent a good bit of time researching this stuff and it is not going to waste! Besides, maybe one of these things will pop up one day and someone will look back on this blog and think "Oh my God! That is stupid rare!! I should buy it while I can!" I'm trying to be optimistic.

Generation 1
There were only a handful of bundles released for the the first generation and they were released only in Japan. Therefor, the only way to find these bundles is to look for their Japanese names or to actually look them up on Japanese websites. Even for someone like me who knows Japanese, it doesn't make much of a difference because most of the time these websites will not ship to the US. If you have close family or friends in Japan and you really want one of these, maybe see if they will buy and ship it to you.
The only other way to find one of these is to stalk Ebay and Craigslist. For a long while.

"Everybody's Golf" Bundle - 20GB and 60GB

This is called the Everybody's Golf bundle and was released the same day that the game came out (July 26 2007). The model numbers are either CECHAxx or CECHBxx. This was released with the 20GB and the 60GB. This is earliest PS3 released.

Dynasty Warriors: Gundam Bundle - 60GB

This 60GB CECHAxx bundle was released alongside the game on March 1 2007. This was known as Gundam Musou in Japan, so that is how I will refer to the items here. This is also how you should look them up on Ebay if the English name doesn't pull up anything. Along with the console and game, it came with a "Gundam Musou Technical File", a "Gundam Musou Character File", and 8 art cards. The good news is, I found the bundle...the bad news is it was through a private seller on Amazon.jp that would not export to the US. However, it is not too difficult to find the collectibles on Ebay from time to time, as stated. You may not be able to find the bundle, but most of the goodies that came with it are floating around out there.

Bladestorm: The Hundred Years War Bundle - Regular 60GB

Bladestorm: The Hundred Years War Bundle: The Premium Box 60GB
(Pictured here sold separately from the console)

The last bundle of the first generation had two versions to it. Let's go over similarities first though. Both had a 60GB CECHAxx and released alongside the Bladestorm: The Hundred Years War game on August 30 2007.
Now the differences: The regular bundle included all of this and a soundtrack CD. The Premium Box included all that the regular box had plus a themed calender and a hardbound battle guide.
I could NOT find either of these still in the box. However, like the Gundam bundle, the extra goodies that came with the bundle can be found on different websites.

Generation 2
While Generation 2 are not Japanese only bundles, they are just as difficult to find, as warned above. Keep an eye out though. Some of these DO pop up from time to time...just have a ton of money on hand.

Motorstorm/Resistance Bundle (Starter Pack PAL Bundle) - 60GB 

This was released in the UK and in Europe during a very small window of time, during July to August 2007. It came with two controllers, Motorstorm, Resistance: Fall of Man, and a CECHCxx (PAL) 60GB PS3. Because of its short release window, it is going to be very difficult to find one still in its box.

Heavenly Sword/Formula 1 Bundle (Starter Pack PAL Bundle #2) - 60GB

Just like the bundle above, this came with two controllers, a CECHCxx PAL 60GB PS3, and two games. This time the package included Heavenly Sword and Formula 1: Championship Edition. However, this was released September 19 2007 in France only. For how long, I am unsure. It was equally as difficult to find as the other starter pack.

Motorstorm Bundle - 80GB

This is a CECHExx model 80GB PS3 released with Motorstorm. This bundle is near and dear to my heart because this was my first PS3. I got it for my 18th birthday even though I had been saving up for one. That was a glorious day that. That PS3 no longer plays discs due to an over loved disc drive, but it still works for downloaded games and whatnot.
Anyways...enough of my fond memories. I have some good news. This bundle can actually be found! Not easily and not cheaply, but it can be found. It goes for about $500+ used and $800+ new.

MGS4 (NON Gun Metal Black) Bundle - 80GB

CECHExx/80GB PS3 released for North America only alongside MGS4. This one can also be found online...but it goes for a bit more than the Motorstorm bundle. Used, it is about the same. New, however, it can go for as much as $1500. People love them some MGS...and this isn't even the Gun Metal Black version!

...Formula 1 Bundle...?? 

Formula 1: Championship Edition Bundle (France Only):
I'm going to let you guys in on a secret. I am researching these bundles by using a combo of Wikipedia, Google, Amazon, Craigslist, and Ebay. I am trying everything to see what is out there. One major source you see there that I am fact checking is Wikipedia. Listed on there is a Formula 1 Bundle for France. However, the historian in me was very much alarmed to find no sources. That's okay though. Sources or no, I always double and triple check anything on Wikipedia. I like a good tip off to a bundle. However, I have found NOTHING. I honestly think someone missed the earlier mentioned Heavenly Sword/Formula 1 bundle (France only) and listed it again sans Heavenly Sword. If someone can find proof of this thing's existence, I would be VERY grateful!

That is all for now! I am attempting to keep these short, but will release the second part of the bundles (Generation 3) sometime this week. I want to get the PS3 knocked out so I can start the GameCube as promised! I am already starting to research it a bit, so it is coming. I promise! In the meantime, enjoy all the amazing PS3 bundles.

Thanks for reading!

Sources (in order):
1)http://www.famitsu.com/game/news/2007/06/20/103,1182324435,73707,0,0.html
2)http://www.amazon.co.jp/ガンダム無双-PLAYSTATION-3-60GB-【メーカー生産終

了】/dp/B000N8S28Q

3)http://www.qj.net/qjnet/playstation-3/bladestorm-the-hundred-years-war-ps3-bundle-to-be-released-in-japan.html
4)http://www.siliconera.com/2007/08/20/inside-bladestorm’s-premium-package/
5)http://web.archive.org/web/20111129094111/http://kotaku.com/278009/bbc-confirms-european-ps3-bundle-deal/
6)http://uk.playstation.com/ps3/news/articles/details/item71370/New-PlayStation-3-Starter-Pack-announced-for-Europe/
7)http://engadget.com/2007/09/06/heavenly-sword-formula-1-bundle-confirmed-for-france/
8)http://blog.us.playstation.com/2008/02/26/destination-playstation-news-mgs-ps3-bundle-kratos-psp-and-dualshock3-release-date-by/
9)http://www.dailytech.com/Sony+Announces+80GB+PlayStation+3+Bundle+Confirms+Price+Cut/article7964.htm
10) IMAGES BELONG TO SONY ENTERTAINMENT AMERICA INC. All rights reserved.
11) Last Image: Getty Images

General Update

Next week, as promised, I will be bringing you blogs on the many PS3 bundles and what they included. Much like I had to do this week, I am probably going to have to break this up into several blogs. However, they will all come out next week.

As to what will be covered: I will mainly be going over what was included in the bundle with a focus on the collectibles. I will point out the storage size and the model number of the PS3 as well. I will try not to re-cover anything I have already gone over, as I don't want to bore people to tears.

New schedule:
I have decided to add to my schedule and will attempt to stick to it as best I can. If I cannot, I will post an update stating when to expect new blog posts to be up. I shouldn't be off by more than a day or two because I generally work pretty far in advance. As a note: Some weeks I may have insomnia, as is pretty common for me or I might just be really inspired, and I might release more blogs than usual.

Tuesdays: Collector Tips 
This new series will focus on various tips for saving money while collecting, clearing out your backlog, maintaining a collection, how to preserve certain items, where to shop for good deals, etc.

Wednesday: Collectible Consoles
My next console I will be researching will be the Nintendo GameCube. However, first I have to finish the PS3 and its bundles. You may see an intro to the GameCube next week to get prepared though.

Thursday: Collectible Games 
This will focus on either a rare game or just a game series in particular. The first series I will be looking at, by request, is Harvest Moon. It is a favorite of mine, so I am looking forward to this!

Thanks to those that are reading! You guys are making this so much more worth it and I feel even more inspired to do one of my favorite things: research!

Collectible Consoles - The PS3 (Part IV - The Super Slim)

Previous entries:
Part I (PS3 Background Info/Model Numbers)
Part II (Generations 1-3)
Part III (The Slim/Gen. 4)

This blog is going to be a bit more short than the previous two because there are fewer colors and models for the 5th generation. Sony has moved its focus away from the PS3 and onto the PS4, so it is to be expected. It is important to note, however, that the 5th generation is still in production. It is not out of the realm of possibility that Sony would release another special edition before ceasing production, like they did with the PS1 and PS2. If they do, I will post a separate blog as well as coming back to edit this one.

Charcoal Black and Classic White 

The Charcoal Black model, just like the previous generation, spans the entire 5th generation and does not deviate in color or other details. Finding one is very simple as they are still being produced and sold at retail price. While the Charcoal Black has been around since the beginning, the Classic White was not made until the 250GB came out and was also later released as a 500GB system. What is a mystery about the white model is that it was supposed to be Japan only...except model numbers are not matching up. In fact, I am finding model numbers that do not match up to any model numbers I, Wikipedia, or Sony America have listed. I am quite confused honestly. However, I promise to solve this! I will update this with an edit and new blog when I do.
As for the Classic White's rarity...it is a bit more difficult to get a hold of than the Charcoal black, but far from impossible. You may pay a tad bit more.

Azure (Azurite) Blue - 250 GB CECH-42xxB (possibly 40xxB)

Once again, model numbers are slightly off regarding what is listed on various sites and on Sony's site. That seems to be a common thing with this generation. This is beyond confusing and I cannot wait to figure it out! Anyways. To start with, this 250GB was a Japan exclusive until July 2013 when it was released for the US as a GameStop exclusive. This console is pretty easy to find and can be found for its retail price new on various sites.

God of War Ascension Legacy Garnet Red - 500GB CECH-40xxC...?

The model numbers! This was released as a 500GB which means it should be region locked for region 02 (Europe) but this was made for North America...okay. I give up for the time being. I will figure this out at a later time.
This was a released in March 2013 and bundled with all six God of War games. Personally, I would love to own one of these because my undergrad university's colors were Garnet and Black...maybe when I have money one day. If you are not dirt poor like me, this can be really cheap. Used it can run for about $200 and new about $400.

Yakuza 5 (Ryu ga Gotoku 5) Black and Gold - 250GB 

As I do further research, I am feeling unsure about the model numbers for the Japanese only PS3s...Sony has ones I have never seen before listed. This model is HSN-0023 according to the Japanese website. So, there may be another model number list coming soon. Either way, it makes no difference as this is not region locked. This was released as part of a pretty awesome and hilarious bundle during December of 2012 and I will be discussing it next week as part of my bundle blog(s).
If you are looking to purchase this console, a quick note. Type in the Japanese name of the game or you will not find results. There are usually a couple for sale on Ebay and they go for about $400-500. However, these are usually new and have been unopened so it isn't too bad of a deal.

Shin Hokuto Musou (Fist of the North Star) Legend Edition - 250GB 

Also released during December 2012 was this Shin Hokuto Musou PS3, or Fist of the North Star: Ken's Rage 2 for us Americans (because THAT is how that translated...). It was released as a bundle pack with the game and is a 250GB PS3. If you are looking to purchase this, do just as recommended for the previous PS3: type in the Japanese name. This model goes for about $450-600, depending on the condition.

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance was released in February 2013 in Japan. For the release of this game a special 250GB PS3 and bundle was created. This bundle was released for Japan and Latin America (with the exception of Argentina). If you want to buy it outside of those countries it will cost you a bit more of course, but it is nothing extreme. Like the others on this list it goes for about $450-600 depending on the condition.

Keep in mind when collecting the 5th generation that many of these are still being produced. If you want to start collecting PS3s, this is where I would begin because not only are they more easy to find but they are going to be much cheaper than the previous generations.

Next week, I'm am on to bundles. I will post an update blog on that soon. In addition, I will most likely release not PS3 related blogs within the next two weeks, so keep an eye out.
Thanks for reading!

Sources: 
All images belong to Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
1)http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2013/08/26/azurite-blue-ps3-coming-exclusively-to-gamestop-priced-at-249-99-and-dated-for-october-8th/
2)http://www.jp.playstation.com/ps3/hardware/hsn0023.html
3)http://www.jp.playstation.com/ps3/hardware/cejh10024.html
4)http://blog.latam.playstation.com/2013/02/11/presentamos-el-paquete-de-ps3-con-metal-gear-rising-revengeance/
5)http://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-ascension-ps3-bundle-includes-all-six-games/1100-6403196/

Collectible Consoles: The PS3 (Part III - PS3 Slim)

For the fourth generation Sony went all out with the colors and special editions, so this will be a fun blog. Just like my last post I will be discussing the different types of PS3 Slims released, their aesthetic differences, general specs, and rarity.

Charcoal Black - All 4th gen. model numbers

This is your standard PS3 "Slim". The color is called Charcoal Black and is a matte finish, as are all the finishes for the PS3 "Slim". It seems that Sony listened to customer feedback regarding fingerprints with the original PS3 and returned to what they do best: matte and rough finishes. These Charcoal Blacks are extremely easy to find. Used ones only cost a couple hundred while a new one may cost $400+. It all depends on which model you are getting, as this color runs throughout generation 4 and is available for every model.

Final Fantasy Lightning Edition White - CECH20xxB

For the release of Final Fantasy XIII, of course Japan rolled out a fancy PS3. Because all of generation 4 is region free though, feel free to pick one of these up. They honestly do not cost too much (around $500-600), although beware of scams (a general good rule of thumb). When it comes to anything Final Fantasy related make sure to check the fine details. Look at model numbers. Make sure that the PS3 itself is not just a regular white PS3 Slim with a cover. I have seen this more than once on Ebay. Keep an eye out folks!

Classic White - CECH25xxA-30xxB

Speaking of white consoles...
With the release of the 160GB and 320GB PS3 "Slims" in July 2010, Sony began to get more brave with their colors...well, at least in Japan. Like I stated earlier though, generation 4 is not region locked. They may have been sold exclusively in certain regions during the time, but it is fairly easy to import these guys now. Since a ton of these were made, they are fairly easy to find and will only run you a couple hundred.

Satin Silver - CECH25xxA-30xxB

The Satin Silver has the EXACT same story as the Classic White, so I will not repeat myself. The only reason I did not group them together is because I wanted to point out that the Satin Silver is a bit more difficult to find, even though plenty were made. My theory is because the Satin Silver of any Sony Entertainment product has always sold better than the Classic White models. I believe that they are more popular and therefor more difficult to find. If they do pop up on the marketplace, they run slightly more than the Classic White, although not by much.

Titanium Blue (GT5 Special Edition) - CECH25xxA 160GB

Finally getting to some color! This is the Titanium Blue that was released as part of a bundle with Gran Turismo 5 in Japan. It is a 160GB CECH25xxA model. This thing is rare and difficult to catch. IF you do find it you most likely will not find a price lower than $1100, which is the lowest I have seen. If you must have it, save up some money and be patient.

Magical Gold (Ni No Kuni Edition) - CECH25xxA 160GB

I LOVE this PS3 Slim. Yes. Personal opinion, right there. My opinion of the game, Level 5, and Studio Ghibli could be shaping that a bit. However, if you are like me, this is not actually all that expensive of a purchase. The entire bundle can be found new for $300-500. It is a CECH25xxA model with 160GB of memory. Now if only I had some money...

Scarlet Red and Splash Blue - CECH30xxB 320GB

As a side note, the Splash Blue looks similar in color to the earlier Titanium blue in these photos, but if you watch an unboxing of it on YouTube it is more of a sky blue. Very pretty!!These lovely PS3s were exclusive Japanese only release at the time of their production. Their model numbers were CECH30xxB and came with 320GB of storage. They were marketed as limited editions and after a quick internet search, I can safely say that Sony missed a huge market in North America and Europe for these colors. These were highly coveted at the time of their release, and are more so now. Still, prices can be reasonable if you are patient enough and both are easy to find. I have found the Splash Blue used for around $400, although buying new it will run you about $800. It is about the same story for the Scarlet Red as well.

Tales of Xillia Edition - CECH30xxA 160GB

The Tales of Xillia PS3 is another one of my personal favorites. This CECH30xxA 160GB model was sold as part of a bundle in Japan along with the release of the game. While it generally costs between $600-700, I have seen used ones go for as little as $400.

Final Fantasy XIII-2: Lightning Edition Version 2 - CECH-30xxB 320GB

As with every main Final Fantasy release, the big guns must be pulled out...at least for Japan. Come on Sony Entertainment America. Do you still not trust our crazy love for all things Final Fantasy yet? My only theory behind this is the pink on both FF consoles. God forbid they sold to the 48% female portion of the gaming population PLUS any guy who doesn't mind pink. *clears throat* Sorry about that. I got a bit off topic...
Anyways, This is a CECH-30xxB model with 320GB of memory and was, of course, part of a bundle. It is commonly referred to as "Lighting Edition 2 PS3",  "Lightning Ver 2", or some variation thereof. Keep this in mind while searching for it. Although you shouldn't have to search far as this is pretty easy to find. Used, it runs about $300 and up depending on the condition. New, it will cost between $500-800.

One Piece: Kaizoku Musou (Pirate Warriors) Edition - CECH-30xxB 320GB

It is anime related, therefor it is rare. Just wanted to get that out of the way. It is also gold and shiny. Who wouldn't want this? So yes...it costs an absurd amount to buy. Used it runs about $600-800 and new it is $700-1200. This is a CECH30xxB model with 320GB of memory. It was part of an exclusive bundle pack in Japan that included the first Kaizoku Musou (aka Pirate Warriors) game.

For an added bonus...

Child's Play Signed CECH-3004A

While this was not something promoted by Sony, I am including it because it is one of a kind! For those unfamiliar with Child's Play, it is a charity set up by the guys over at Penny Arcade. It is for children living hospitals and shelters. You can go onto their website (found here) and make donations, but they have other events as well. Every holiday season they compose a list of various games and consoles requested by various shelters and hospitals. You can buy them and they will be sent to that establishment for the benefit of the kids. In addition they have auctions on occasion to raise money.

On this occasion they teamed up with the industry's biggest names to create an awesome signed console. The full list of those that signed it and who they work(ed) for/on is listed here. According to the Ebay listing, this CECH-30xxA 160GB console was sold for $3100 after 39 bids.

That wraps up the PS3 "Slims" (4th Generation)!
My next blog will be out shortly. Stick around and thanks for reading!

Sources:
ALL IMAGES BELONG TO SONY COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT INC.: Exception of last image. That belongs to IGN (I believe. It was on multiple sites with no sources). 
1)http://vr-zone.com/articles/sony-ps3-in-splash-blue-and-scarlet-red-to-launch-on-17-2)november/13562.html
3)http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/two-new-ps3-colours-red-and-blue/084692
4)http://www.amazon.com/Playstation-320gb-Splash-Cech-3000bsb-Import-3/dp/B005N60F56
5)http://www.g4tv.com/thefeed/blog/post/719055/childs-play-charity-auction-get-a-playstation-3-or-6)xbox-360-console-signed-by-g4-and-the-biggest-names-in-videogames/
7)http://www.childsplaycharity.org (X-Play) 
8)http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?9)ViewItem&item=250953264900&ssPageName=ADME:L:LCA:US:1123
10)Amazon, Ebay, and Craigslist

Collectible Consoles: The PS3 (Part II - The First Three Generations)

Quick Note: I am sorry about how the layout looks. Blogger.com decided to erase ALL my images for ALL my posts as well as my entire template. I am working on the problem. 

I am releasing this blog a tad bit early since I will also be releasing the blogs for Part III ("Slim" PS3) and Part IV ("Super Slim") this week. As mentioned in my update blog, I have broken this up because this project ended up being larger than I anticipated.

For this blog I will present each PS3 released and its cosmetic differences as well as some of its specs, the generation it belongs to (those model numbers will begin to become handy), and their rarity. As previously stated, I will only be covering the first 3 generations of the PS3 for now. The other 2 will be covered in the other blogs. If I missed a PS3 by chance, please let me know in the comments and I will add it!

CECHBxx - 20GB

I thought it would be appropriate to start with the first PS3 released. This is the CECHBxx, otherwise known as the 20GB launch PS3. As discussed in my previous blog, it was discontinued shortly after production. This was most likely due to the lack of Wi-Fi support or a flash memory card reader. It has four USB ports and like all "fat" PS3s, a main On/Off switch in the back. One major cosmetic difference between it and the other standard black PS3s to follow is its all black trim. This would soon be replaced with a chrome trim for the 60GB model made during the same generation. Perhaps this look didn't test well?
Keep this trim in mind though. I have seen many sellers try to scam people on Ebay with 60GB PS3s. A CECHBxx will always look like this. No exception. Speaking of trying to find one...most I found were being sold for parts. Basically, if you are looking to find one used, be prepared for either a scam or a broken console. On the other hand, there are plenty of new ones still out there. The problem is that they will run you about $1000-2000.

CECHAxx - 60GB

Even though this is a picture of a launch 60GB (CECHAxx) PS3, this is what any Piano Black "fat" PlayStation 3 is going to look like, regardless if it is generation one, two, or three. There are a couple of details that will change over generations. The most noticeable is that by the third generation there are only two USB ports instead of four. These are fairly easy to find and generally won't cost much, although it depends on what generation you are buying and if you are buying new.

The first one is called Ceramic White while the second is called Satin Silver. Both were Japan exclusive releases and were third generation models. Originally released as 40GB consoles, they were later released with 80GB. Their model numbers could be CECHHxx (most likely this one) and/or CECHJxx and CECHLxx. As far as prices: Used, they can go for as little as $300-500. New, in a bundle, they can go as high as $2500.

MGS4 Gun Metal Black -  40GB CECHHxx

The Metal Gear Solid 4 Gun Metal Black 40GB bundle was sold in the US and in Japan exclusively, although it was not region locked. The system had a matte finish. In tiny writing at the bottom of the console reads "Metal Gear Solid 4 - Limited Edition". Finding one of these can be simple...but finding one working, undamaged, or in a box is a bit more tough. For ones that simply "work" I have found consoles for as little as $300. If you manage to find one that has not been taken out of its box, it will set you back about $800. There seems to be no in between with this one. (Where are the "lightly used" ones you guys?)

Piano Black Resident Evil 5/Biohazard 5 - CECHLxx 80GB

This was released only as a bundle and was not region locked, although it seems to have been sold exclusively in Japan for a very limited time. It is a third generation 80 GB in standard piano black with matte stencil of the Tricell logo on the bottom of the console. While rare, they CAN be found on Ebay, Amazon, and Craigslist. However, be willing to shell out some money as I have not seen them run under $2,000 in the time I have been looking. I will however, update this if I see anything lower.

Cloud Black 160GB - CECHQxx

The Cloud Black was released alongside Advent Children in Japan. It is 160GB and its model number is CECHQxx. This means that it was produced at the tail end of the third generation. It was only released as a bundle, but they seem to have made plenty of them. Finding one on Ebay is fairly simple and they go for about $400-500. If you want a sealed version, it will run you about $800. For the limited releases, this one is probably one of the cheaper ones as far as the first three generations go.

Yakuza 3/Ryu uga Gotoku 3 Satin Silver - CECHLxx

While not region locked, this 80GB PS3 was bundled with Yakuza 3 (Ryuu ga Gotoku 3) and sold exclusively in Japan. I'm going to insert my personal opinion in here...out of the first three generations, this is the most awesome in my opinion. Sadly, only a limited number of these were made and I haven't seen ANY listed. If this changes, I will edit this and post the price they were listed for. I will go ahead and say that anyone looking to buy one should probably be ready with a couple thousand to spare.

The Ultra Rare Red!
Now we are getting into PlayStation 3s you most likely cannot buy yourself. These were either personally made for people or in this one case, the result of a contest.

Contest from June 2007 - Generation 2-3

I have only found WHEN the contest took place, which is not a huge help in determining whether or not these are generation 2 or 3. I will be doing some further research to find one of the winners or even just the specs. If I do, I will edit this post.

Hideo Kojima/Yumi Kikuchi Signed PS3

CECHAxx 60GB Modded and Signed MGS themed PS3

This is not an official Sony PS3, but it is rare and AWESOME. It is actually a modded version of the 60GB CECHAxx (generation 1/launch PS3). It has been fitted with LEDs and backlights and best of all is signed by Hideo Kojima, the brain behind the Metal Gear series and Yumi Kikuchi, a voice actress in MGS4. This was signing was apperently luck as the seller got them to sign it during their MGS World Tour in New York. This is not the end of the awesomeness though. The controller is also backlit and custom made. Eight more rare items were included, a list of which can be found here.

The Ebay seller pledge to donate 15% of profits to Child's Play. a charity I will discuss in more detail in the next blog. Wondering how much all of this sold for? $17,100.

NBA All-Stars Sony Event Suite 2007 (Las Vegas) 
I am just going to throw this out there right now. I am not a sports person...well, I can enjoy sports, but I do not follow teams except my university's football team. So please forgive me if I do not fully know the importance of the people I mention. All I know is that occasionally Sony likes to throw an after party where NBA stars, and some other sports legends, test their skills in games, drink, party, and get gifted personalized consoles. It is difficult to know exactly who all attends these things because the general public is, of course, not invited. These pictures were part of Sony's blog and are very selective.

                                                         

Thanks to the Youtube video found here (thanks ncroal!)  I was able to find out that the event was held at the PlayStation Parlor Sky Villa at the Palms Hotel in Las Vegas during the NBA All-Stars Weekend of 2007. All in all, I could only find 7 of these made for this event. Given the time period during which they were made (February 2007) it stands to reason that these are all second generation and their model numbers CECHExx.

           
           

As far as those that received these consoles, we know for sure that those pictured above did. Clockwise from the top left we have: Brooke and Linda Hogan, Chris Bosh, Michelle Wie, and the Maloofs (not sure which ones :S). In addition, we know that Jason Kidd and Kobe Bryant at least attended. The Egyptian-esque looking PS3 also fits very well with Lebron James' "King Tut" persona. In fact, that model has been called "King Tut", although no one is sure who came up with the name and it does not appear in the picture.

Two more things to note about these consoles: The Yellow PS3, said to have been formally owned by one of the Maloofs, that has the event name inscribed on it is currently owned by someone who goes by the user name lim-handek on Gamescollection.net.
The second is that the Nike Air Force One PS3 was being housed in the lounge of the hotel during the event. This leads me to assume that an athlete may not have acquired that one but someone from Nike, if anyone at all. It may have been commissioned simply for advertising.

NBA All-Stars Sony Event Suite 2009 (Las Vegas)

Just like 2007, Sony threw one great big party for NBAs biggest athletes during All Stars Weekend in February 2009. Sadly there are fewer pictures this time around, although thanks to the official PlayStation blog, there is a full list of this time names regarding who stopped by. As this took place in February of 2009, these technically could have been from generation 1, 2, or 3. However, considering these are special made for the rich and famous, it is safe to assume that these were probably the CECHPxx models (160GB).

  

  

 

 

  

     











     
The full list of names that attended is as follows: Nate Robinson, Shaquille O’Neal, Paul Pierce, Kevin Durant, Yao Ming, Dirk Nowitzki, David West, Michael Beasley, Derrick Rose, Devin Harris, JR Smith, Dikembe Mutombo, Luis Scola, Russell Westbrook, Jeff Green, Brook Lopez, Thaddeus Young, Daequan Cook, Gary Payton, and Brian Shaw.
Note that Brandon Roy is not on that list. However, the Sony blog points out that the "B.Roy" PS3 IS supposed to have been made for him. It is also clear that Lebron James once again received a PS3, because lets be honest...who else is "King James"? As for those posed with the PS3s, clockwise starting from the right: Thaddeus Young, Paul Pierce, Luis Scola, and Al Harrington. Wait...Al Harrington wasn't on that list either. How big was this party REALLY Sony??

The 2007 Super Bowl Party/Sole Magazine PS3s

I have been able to find out next to NOTHING about these PS3s. It seems that most of the credibility that they have as to being official has to do with people on forums saying that they were there at "an awesome party". I would love if someone could provide more sources on these 4 consoles. Even original sources for the pictures would be great!

Whether or not these consoles are official or not, because they are from early 2007 they are most certainly CECHAxx (60GB) first generation PS3s. Like the NBA All Stars PS3s, it is rumored that these were given away as swag for those who attended.

That was a LONG blog. The next two will be shorter, but still interesting. As stated previously, they will be put up this week. Part III will discuss the different types of PS3 "Slim" and Part IV will discuss the "Super Slim". Next week I will be discussing the many types of PS3 bundles.
Thanks again for reading and check back soon!

Sources:
1)http://community.us.playstation.com/t5/PlayStation-Lounge/Playstation-Canada/td-p/9749698
2)http://www.ign.com/articles/2007/02/27/all-star-treatment
3)http://gamescollection.forumcommunity.net/?t=29230772
4)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCs3J7dw8N8
5)http://www.cnet.com/news/playstation-3-at-nba-all-star-weekend/
6)http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/02/17/sony-playstation-at-nba-all-star-weekend/
7)http://www.psu.com/forums/showthread.php/52933-Super-Bowl-Playstation-AF1s-PS3-Party
8)http://www.exophase.com/307/sony-shows-off-ps3-case-mods/
9)Amazon, Ebay, Craigslist postings/personal experience at shops
10)http://www.geek.com/games/kojima-signed-mgs-4-ps3-console-sells-for-17100-610111/
11)All pictures besides the very last four, belong to Sony Entertainment America. The last two seem to belong to Sole Magazine.