21100-1 - Shinkai 6500 Submarine
Launched in 2011 exclusively in Japan under the initial CUUSOO branding, the LEGO 21100 Shinkai 6500 Submarine marks the official birth of the fan-designed LEGO Ideas revolution. Replicating the famous manned deep-ocean research submersible, this 412-piece model features specialized oceanic brick elements, a display stand, and an accurate yellow-and-white scientific hull. Because of its strictly limited regional production run, it remains one of the most elusive and highly valued investment pieces for completionist collectors looking to own a vital slice of LEGO history.
Research notes for this set
The Shinkai 6500 Submarine was one of the earliest sets released under the LEGO Ideas program (formerly Cuusoo), which turns fan-submitted designs voted on by the community into official retail sets — a first in LEGO history at the time.