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LEGO Technic sets have garnered immense popularity, extending far beyond just the realm of cars. While their automotive models continue to captivate enthusiasts with intricate designs and realistic functions, the Technic line also features a diverse array of sets ranging from helicopters to construction equipment. These sets not only appeal to avid builders but also attract fans of engineering and mechanics who appreciate the challenge of assembling complex mechanisms. What adds to the allure of LEGO Technic is the ability to power up certain sets with motors and remote control functions, bringing an extra dimension of interactivity and realism to the building experience. Whether it’s constructing a bustling cityscape with cranes and excavators or crafting high-speed race cars, LEGO Technic sets offer endless opportunities for creativity and exploration.
Set Details
The LEGO® Technic set Liebherr Crawler Crane LR 13000 (42146) is an extraordinary model designed for adults, comprising an impressive 2883 pieces. Standing over 38 inches (99 cm) tall, it ranks among the largest offerings in the LEGO Technic range as of August 2023. This meticulously crafted model pays homage to one of the world’s most powerful cranes, boasting remarkable realism and attention to detail. Builders can immerse themselves in the intricacies of construction as they assemble this imposing crane, appreciating its lifelike movements and authentic features. With functionalities mirroring those of the actual machine, including tank steering, rotating turntable, luffing jib, winch, and load sensing, this model offers an engaging and immersive building experience. Moreover, through the CONTROL+ app, enthusiasts can put their creation to work, exploring the full extent of its capabilities in a virtual setting.
| Model Name | Liebherr Crawler Crane LR 13000 |
| Model Number | 42146 |
| Theme | Technic |
| Sub Themes | Licensed |
| Pieces | 2883 |
| RRP | $700 / £580 / €680 |
| Price per Piece | 24c / 20p / 24c |
| Minifigures | N/A |
| Minifigures Value | N/A |
| Launch Date | August 2023 |
| Current Status | Available |
| Retirement Date | (Projected) December 2025 |
Investment Potential
A very large, impressive, powered LEGO Technic set with nearly 3000 pieces but what appears a very high price per brick of 24c, caused by the model being powered and controllable using the Control+ app. But does this help or hinder the set as an investment?
| Projected 5 Yr Value | $895 / £710 / €853 |
| % Increase ($) | 28% |
| Projected Future Annual Growth | 8% |
| Theme Growth | 6% |
| Sub-Theme Growth | 8% |
Theme Analysis
The LEGO technic theme is very reliable over the years without delivering astronomical returns as some themes have, but there are definitely some very good LEGO investments within, it is just a case of finding them. The LEGO Technic theme averages annualised growth of 6% and the Licensed sub-theme a little better at 8% per year.
We have looked at some of the larger retired sets including the amazing LEGO 42056 Porsche 911 GT3 which has more than double from its $300 RRP since retiring 5 years ago with annualised growth of 20% and LEGO 8043 Motorised Excavator which has seen 140% growth since retiring in 2012 (8% annualised growth).
| Set Number | Set Name | Retired Date | RRP | Current Value | Total Growth | Annualised Growth |
| 42056 | Porsche 911 GT3 RS | December 2018 | $300 | $777 | 159% | 20% |
| 42055 | Bucket Wheel Excavator | December 2018 | $280 | $444 | 59% | 9% |
| 8043 | Motorized Excavator | December 2012 | $200 | $482 | 141% | 8% |
| 41999 | 4×4 Crawler Exclusive Edition | December 2013 | $200 | $586 | 193% | 11% |
Comparable Set Analysis
Within the LEGO Technic Licensed sub-theme we have tried to look at the most comparable sets. The obvious standout comparator is LEGO 42100 Liebherr R 9800 which has seen 40% growth since retiring at the end of 2021 (17% annualised growth). One that hasn’t performed as strongly is LEGO 42030 Volvo L350 Wheel Loader which has appreciated by just over 50% since retiring in 2016 (6% annualised growth), partly reflecting that we still see this as a set pickers theme.
| Set Number | Set Name | Retired Date | RRP | Current Value | Total Growth | Annualised Growth |
| 42100 | Liebherr R 9800 | December 2021 | $450 | $637 | 42% | 17% |
| 42030 | Volvo L350F Wheel Loader | December 2016 | $250 | $389 | 56% | 6% |
| 42053 | Volvo EW160E | December 2017 | $120 | $192 | 60% | 8% |
| 42043 | Mercedes-Benz Arocs 3245 | December 2017 | $230 | $434 | 89% | 11% |
Conclusion
This is a tricky one to call for us as an investment. The theme is reliable without being amazing and the closest comparator a different Liebherr model has shown excellent growth in its first 2 years since retirement. On the downside is the high price per brick and whether this will hurt future values. One thing is for sure, this is a stunning model to build and either display or play with!
