Y'know, when my friends take off for far-off places, I miss 'em, but there's something to be said for when they send you Really Cool Stuff. And that's what this month's ToyBox review is all about.

This item is relatively simple - a nice heavy desk/shelf model with no moving parts - so I'm just going to let the pictures tell the story. If you're even remotely acquainted with the vehicle in question, you'll like this.

Okay, here's a little bit of background info on the Yamato DX II model. It's a Japanese Toys R Us exclusive (which means, unfortunately, you may have to resort to the eBay search box below to find one), and it's also a limited edition. There are actually two versions; this is the "weathered" version - no real signs of battle damage, just wear and tear and good old grime on the hull - but there's also a somewhat brighter-colored "clean" version as well. The weathered version just has a bit more character somehow - especially after the beating that the Yamato took over three seasons and five movies.

The box and stand both bear the "Museum of Leiji Matsumoto" legend. I have to single the model's stand out for special praise, too - it doesn't look out of place under the model, it's made of the same material as the model itself (which is an absolute necessity, given the model's weight), and the cradle is felt-lined to avoid scratching the model. Now that's thinking with the collector in mind. The detail of the overall product is stunning. Even the packaging is a class act.

Oh, and by the way, thank you very, very much, Jeff!