If you’ve spent any time on TikTok or scrolling through aesthetic Instagram desks lately, you’ve seen them. Those tiny, winged, semi-nude cherubs staring back at you with unblinking eyes and rosy cheeks. They are Sonny Angels, and the obsession is real. But specifically, the conversation right now is dominated by Sonny Angels Version 2.
It’s a weird phenomenon.
Basically, Dreams—the Japanese company behind these figurines—decided to give their classic lineup a facelift. It wasn't just a minor tweak. It was a complete overhaul of the "Animal" series, which are the bread and butter of the collection. If you’re a casual observer, you might think, "It’s just a plastic toy, right?" Wrong. To collectors, the jump from the original molds to the Refined Version (often called Version 2) was a seismic shift in quality and aesthetic.
What Actually Changed with Sonny Angels Version 2?
So, what’s the big deal?
The Version 2 update primarily hit the Animal Series 1, 2, 3, and 4. Before this, some of the older Sonny Angels looked a little... rough. Not bad, just different. The older models had slightly more matte finishes and sometimes the paint jobs were a bit hit-or-miss.
When the Sonny Angels Version 2 (the Refined Series) launched, the first thing people noticed was the eyes. They’re sharper. The blush on the cheeks is more blended, giving them that "just woke up from a nap" glow that fans go crazy for. The wings on their backs became more defined. Even the plastic feels different—it’s a bit more "pearlized" and premium.
You’ve probably seen people in Facebook groups arguing over "Unrefined" vs. "Refined."
The unrefined ones are the vintage vibe. They have a certain charm, but they don't always sit right next to the new ones. The Refined Version 2 angels have a more consistent head shape. They look more "uniform" on a shelf. For someone with a touch of collector's OCD, this was a godsend.
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Honestly, the Rabbit from Animal Series 1 is the best example. In the older version, the pink of the ears was sometimes a bit flat. In the Version 2 update, the gradient is smoother. It’s a small detail that makes a massive difference when you’re macro-photographing them for your story.
Why the Market Went Absolutely Insane
Supply and demand is a cruel mistress.
When Version 2 started rolling out, the "Unrefined" versions became instant relics. This created a bifurcated market. You have the people hunting for the new, sleek Sonny Angels Version 2 because they want the highest quality for their display. Then you have the hardcore archivists hunting for the "OG" molds because they're becoming increasingly rare.
It’s getting harder to find them at retail.
Stores like Urban Outfitters or local Japanese gift shops sell out in minutes. Because the Version 2 figures are the current standard, whenever a restock happens, the "blind box" aspect drives people into a frenzy. You aren't just buying a toy; you're gambling for the Version 2 Robby (the rare mouse-like friend) or a Secret figure.
The resale market is wild. A standard Version 2 angel might retail for $10 or $12, but if it’s a popular animal—like the Frog or the Cat—you might see it going for $30 to $50 on Mercari.
And don't even get me started on the fake ones.
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Because Sonny Angels Version 2 is so popular, the market is flooded with "unrefined" knockoffs that aren't actually vintage—they're just poorly made. If the eyes look wonky or the seams on the plastic are jagged, you probably got scammed. Real Version 2 angels have a very specific weight to them. They feel solid.
Spotting a Real Version 2
If you're out in the wild, look at the box. The Refined/Version 2 boxes usually have a slight design update.
- The logos are crisper.
- The "Refined" label is often present on the packaging or mentioned in the series description.
- The feet of the angel usually have the "Dreams 2018" or later copyright stamp, whereas older ones have earlier dates.
Most people don't realize that the "Refinement" didn't happen all at once. It was a staggered release. Dreams wanted to make sure their mascot looked the best it possibly could as the brand went global. It worked. The brand exploded in the US and Europe largely because the Sonny Angels Version 2 look is so incredibly "clean" and giftable.
The Cultural Impact of the Refined Look
It’s about the community.
There are "Sonny Angel Meetups" in cities like New York, London, and Tokyo. People bring their little pouches—yes, there are specific carrying cases—and trade. The Version 2 figures are the gold standard for trading. If you show up with a scuffed, unrefined angel, you might find it harder to snag that limited-edition Cherry Blossom angel you’ve been eyeing.
The aesthetic of Sonny Angels Version 2 fits perfectly into the "Clean Girl" or "Desk Setup" trends. They provide a pop of color without looking "cheap."
I’ve talked to collectors who have over 500 of these things. They’ll tell you that the transition to Version 2 saved the brand. Before the refinement, Sonny Angels were a niche Japanese collectible. After the refinement, they became a global lifestyle accessory. It's the difference between a toy and a piece of decor.
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Practical Advice for New Collectors
If you're just starting, don't panic.
You don't need to hunt down every single "Unrefined" version to have a good collection. In fact, most people prefer the look of Sonny Angels Version 2. They are easier to find (technically, if they're in stock) and they look better in groups.
Start with a single series. Animal Series 1 is the classic choice. It has the Rabbit, the Panda, and the Frog. These are the icons. If you can find a sealed box of these, you are almost certainly getting the Version 2 molds unless you're buying from a very dusty corner of an old toy store.
Check the bottom of the box.
Check the holographic sticker.
Most importantly, check the community. Use apps like Discord or specific Reddit threads to verify if a seller is legit. The Sonny Angels Version 2 market is friendly, but there are plenty of people looking to offload fakes on unsuspecting newbies.
Next Steps for Your Collection
To ensure you are getting authentic Sonny Angels Version 2 figures and not overpaying, follow these specific steps:
- Verify the Source: Only buy from authorized retailers listed on the official Sonny Angel USA or Japan websites. Avoid third-party Amazon sellers with "Just Launched" status.
- Check the Copyright: When you unbox, look at the bottom of the feet. A "2018" or later date typically indicates the refined Version 2 mold.
- Inspect the "V-Zone": On Version 2 angels, the "V" where the legs meet the torso is much cleaner and more symmetrical than on older versions.
- Join a Local Trade Group: Before spending $60 on a "rare" Version 2 on eBay, check local Facebook or Discord groups. You can often trade a duplicate for the one you want at cost.
- Store Them Properly: These figures can get "sticky" if left in direct sunlight or high heat. Use a display case to maintain the matte finish of the Version 2 paint.
The hunt is half the fun. Whether you're looking for the classic Version 2 Rabbit or a secret figure, just remember that these little guys are meant to bring "healing" and a smile to your day. Don't let the resale market stress you out too much.