How many pieces are in the TECHNIC Control I?

TECHNIC Control I contains 406 pieces.

When was the TECHNIC Control I released?

TECHNIC Control I was released in 1986.

🏛 Technic

Set #1090

TECHNIC Control I

The TECHNIC Control I set is a pioneering piece of LEGO history.

Before you buy

Who it's for: Intermediate build LEGO fans interested in early TECHNIC and robotics
Build: 406 pieces · about 4.5 hours Build time is an estimate.
Availability: Likely retired

★★★☆☆ 3.9 AI-generated review score, not a customer rating

Fans appreciate this set as a historical artifact and a unique glimpse into early LEGO robotics, but some find the limited functionality and basic programming capabilities underwhelming compared to modern LEGO systems.

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📝 Our Take

AI-assisted editorial summary, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

The TECHNIC Control I set is a pioneering piece of LEGO history. Released in 1986, it represents an early foray into programmable robotics within the TECHNIC line, offering a unique blend of mechanical construction and basic computer control.

This set is perfect for LEGO enthusiasts interested in the history of TECHNIC and early LEGO robotics. The build is a challenging but rewarding experience, providing insight into the evolution of LEGO's approach to automation and control.

Skip this if you are looking for modern TECHNIC complexity or advanced programming features. Newer sets like the LEGO MINDSTORMS series offer far more sophisticated capabilities.

✨ New

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Hi! I'm BlockTalk, your LEGO expert. Ask me anything about the TECHNIC Control I - building tips, investment potential, comparisons, or anything else!

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How does the TECHNIC Control I compare to modern LEGO robotics systems? What are the common issues or challenges when building this set? What is the best way to preserve and maintain this set for long-term value? How does this set reflect the evolution of LEGO TECHNIC over the years?

🧱 Building Experience

AI-assisted build estimate, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

🧩

406

Pieces

⏱

4.5h

Estimated Build Time

📊

Intermediate

Difficulty

Build Highlights:

Exploring early LEGO programmable functions
Understanding the integration of mechanical and electrical components
Building functional models with limited programming capabilities
Learning about the history of LEGO TECHNIC

📈 Investment Analysis

AI-assisted investment analysis, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

Not enough price history for a trend

Investment Grade

⏳ Retired

The TECHNIC Control I set presents a unique investment opportunity due to its historical significance as an early LEGO robotics system. Its age and rarity contribute to its collectibility, potentially driving up its value over time. However, the complexity of the system and the potential for missing or damaged electronic components pose risks. Comparing it to other early TECHNIC sets suggests a moderate potential for appreciation, but condition and completeness are critical factors. The set's age also means parts may become brittle, making it more of a display piece than something actively played with.

Not Financial Advice: Content is for educational purposes only. Past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Full disclaimer

⚖ Compare Similar Sets

Technic Control Center

Compared to modern TECHNIC sets, the Control I offers a glimpse into LEGO's early attempts at robotics. While newer sets offer more advanced programming and complexity, the Control I is a historical artifact for collectors. If you're looking for cutting-edge features, consider LEGO MINDSTORMS; if you're interested in the history of LEGO robotics, the Control I is a unique choice.

📦 Parts Inventory

Official piece count: 406
Parts cataloged in this inventory: 61 unique parts, 397 pieces

LEGO counts 406 pieces. This inventory comes from a separate parts catalog and lists 397; the two do not always count the same elements, so their totals differ. Spare parts are counted in neither figure.

Missing a piece? Check this set piece by piece, with look-alike colors flagged and element IDs for replacements.

Light Brick 2 x 2...

Part #: 265bc01 2× Yellow

Technic Disc 3 x ...

Part #: 2723pr0005 2× White

Plate 2 x 3

Part #: 3021 6× Black

Plate 2 x 2

Part #: 3022 7× Black

Plate 1 x 2

Part #: 3023 10× Black

Plate 6 x 8

Part #: 3036 3× Yellow

Brick Sloped 45° ...

Part #: 3039 5× Yellow

Brick Sloped 45° ...

Part #: 3040b 6× Yellow

Tile 1 x 2 with G...

Part #: 3069b 7× Yellow

Plate 1 x 8

Part #: 3460 8× Black

Propeller 4 Blade...

Part #: 3461 4× Black

Wheel with Split ...

Part #: 3482 4× Black

Plate 1 x 3

Part #: 3623 6× Black

Tyre 43 x 17

Part #: 3634 4× Black

Technic Gear 8 Tooth

Part #: 3647 4× Light Gray

Technic Gear 24 T...

Part #: 3648a 8× Light Gray

Technic Gear 24 T...

Part #: 3650a 1× Light Gray

Brick Sloped Inve...

Part #: 3665 6× Yellow

Plate 1 x 6

Part #: 3666 8× Black

Technic Pin witho...

Part #: 3673 8× Light Gray

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3700 12× Yellow

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3701 7× Yellow

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3702 4× Yellow

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3703 8× Yellow

Technic Axle 4

Part #: 3705 2× Black

Technic Axle 6

Part #: 3706 4× Black

Technic Axle 8

Part #: 3707 3× Black

Technic Axle 12

Part #: 3708 2× Black

Technic Plate 2 x...

Part #: 3709 4× Black

Plate 1 x 4

Part #: 3710 8× Black

Technic Link

Part #: 3711a 42× Black

Technic Bush

Part #: 3713 10× Light Gray

Technic Axle 10

Part #: 3737 2× Black

Technic Plate 2 x...

Part #: 3738 2× Black

Technic Gear Rack...

Part #: 3743 2× Light Gray

Technic Axle Pin ...

Part #: 3749 4× Light Gray

Plate 2 x 6

Part #: 3795 8× Black

Hinge Brick 1 x 4...

Part #: 3830 1× Yellow

Hinge Brick 1 x 4...

Part #: 3831 1× Yellow

Technic Link Tread

Part #: 3873 94× Black

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3894 6× Yellow

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3895 3× Yellow

Technic Gear 16 T...

Part #: 4019 4× Light Gray

Plate Round 2 x 2...

Part #: 4032a 2× Black

Technic Gear 14 T...

Part #: 4143 2× Light Gray

Technic Wedge Bel...

Part #: 4185 2× Light Gray

Technic Steering Arm

Part #: 4261 2× Light Gray

Technic Plate 1 x...

Part #: 4262 8× Black

Technic Bush 1/2 ...

Part #: 4265a 6× Light Gray

Technic Pin 1/2 w...

Part #: 4274 4× Light Gray

Plate 1 x 10

Part #: 4477 2× Black

Technic Axle 3

Part #: 4519 2× Black

Technic Worm Gear

Part #: 4716 6× Light Gray

Motor, 4.5V Type ...

Part #: 6216b 2× Light Gray

Rubber Band Mediu...

Part #: 70012 3× Black

Rubber Band Mediu...

Part #: 71156 3× Black

Wire with 2-Prong...

Part #: 766c96 6× Light Gray

Sensor, Light, 4.5V

Part #: upn0178 2× Black

Storage Bin Lid, ...

Part #: upn0191 1× Trans-Clear

Storage / Sorting...

Part #: upn0192 1× Blue

Storage / Sorting...

Part #: upn0193 1× Black

This set is a good source of early TECHNIC parts, particularly the black Technic links and treads, which can be useful for building vintage-style models. The yellow TECHNIC bricks are also desirable for builders looking to recreate classic color schemes.