Pontiki

Customising wacky plastic objects for no particular reason can be ridiculously engrossing. Witness Mr Potato Head and, er... well, we can't think of any others. Maybe that's why our fun-loving friends in the Far East have created Pontiki.

And what in the name of post-modern playthings are Pontiki? Well imagine if Salvador Dali created a DIY Dusty Bin during his surreal SpongeBob period and you're halfway there. Still confused? You should be, because these weird little critters are unlike anything you've ever seen.

Basically Pontiki are perforated geometric shapes (or 'pods') that can be customised and accessorised using the random mini parts stored inside their hollow bods. The idea is to use these bizarre bits as hands, legs, eyes, feet - whatever. Simply slot them into Pontiki's numerous Swiss cheese-like holes and you're away.

Red blobs for noses, horse shoe shapes for hands, blue cogs for bow ties - the possibilities are endless!

There are four basic Pontiki shapes to collect: an egg, cone, cylinder and cube, but you can combine the pod halves from different Pontiki to create an entirely new, expanded shape for your 'base' pod.



Yes, we realise the whole concept sounds utterly hat stand, but rearranging your Pontiki's far-fetched features and swapping mini body parts with fellow owners is ludicrously compelling for no particular reason. A bit like popping bubble wrap or watching re-runs of Going for Gold. What's more, inspiration can strike at any moment (although pulling out your Pontiki on the 7.45 from Paddington isn't necessarily a good idea).



Needless to say Pontiki make highly original desktop companions and supremely portable pocket-sized buddies. Indeed, we think they're a craze waiting to go global. So get ordering now and start your collection before the whole planet goes Pontiki barmy.

Just a few of the 24 Pontiki to collect: