How many pieces are in the Sub Orbital Guardian?

Sub Orbital Guardian contains 69 pieces.

When was the Sub Orbital Guardian released?

Sub Orbital Guardian was released in 1991.

🏛 Blacktron II

Set #6878

Sub Orbital Guardian

The Sub Orbital Guardian is a quintessential Blacktron II set.

Before you buy

Who it's for: Beginner build Ideal for LEGO enthusiasts seeking a quick and nostalgic build experience, particularly those fond of classic space themes.
Build: 69 pieces · about 1 hours Build time is an estimate.
Price: $7.99 list price · 11.6¢ per piece
Availability: Likely retired

★★★☆☆ 3.9 community rating from 111 ratings

A well-regarded classic space set, praised for its iconic design and nostalgic appeal. Some find the piece count low for the current price, but the set remains popular among collectors for its rarity and distinctive color scheme.

$7.99

Best Price

$7.19

You Save

10% OFF

📝 Our Take

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

The Sub Orbital Guardian is a quintessential Blacktron II set. Released in 1991, this small but striking ship perfectly embodies the neon-and-black aesthetic of the era, making it a nostalgic favorite for many LEGO space fans.

This set is perfect for collectors of classic LEGO space themes. Its small size makes it easy to display, and the unique color scheme and design are instantly recognizable. Building it is a quick and enjoyable trip down memory lane.

Skip this if you're looking for a complex building experience or advanced features. This is a simple set from an older era. Consider modern LEGO space sets like the Galaxy Explorer (10497-1) for a more involved build.

✨ New

Ask BlockTalk about this set

AI assistant with full set data

BlockTalk

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

Try asking:

What is the best way to clean and preserve vintage LEGO sets like this one? How does the Sub Orbital Guardian compare to other Blacktron II sets in terms of collectibility? What factors contribute to the rising value of retired LEGO space sets? Where is the best place to display this set to protect it from dust and sunlight?

🧱 Building Experience

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

🧩

Pieces

⏱

Estimated Build Time

📊

Beginner

Difficulty

Build Highlights:

Simple construction process
Utilizes classic LEGO building techniques
Features iconic Blacktron II color scheme
Compact and easily displayable model

📈 Investment Analysis

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

↑ Trending up since release

B+

Investment Grade

⏳ Retired

The Sub Orbital Guardian presents an interesting investment opportunity due to its age, rarity, and the enduring popularity of the Blacktron II theme. As a retired set from 1991, it has become increasingly scarce, driving up its value on the secondary market. The rising price trend suggests continued appreciation, especially for sets in good condition with original packaging. However, the small piece count and relatively simple design may limit its potential compared to larger, more complex sets. Collectors focused on completing their Blacktron II collections are likely to pay a premium, making it a worthwhile consideration for patient investors.

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

⚖ Compare Similar Sets

Battrax

Blacktron II • 144 pcs

$22.00

Allied Avenger

Blacktron II • 92 pcs

$12.50

Grid Rod

Blacktron II • 35 pcs

$5.00

The Sub Orbital Guardian offers a nostalgic glimpse into classic LEGO space design. Compared to modern sets, it is smaller and simpler, but its unique Blacktron II aesthetic sets it apart. While newer space sets like the Galaxy Explorer (10497-1) offer more complex builds and advanced features, the Sub Orbital Guardian appeals to collectors seeking a piece of LEGO history. Its compact size also makes it easier to display than larger, more elaborate sets.

1 Minifigure Included

Blacktron II - Jetpack, 3626b Head

8 parts

B+

The included Blacktron II minifigure with jetpack is a classic and sought-after element, adding to the set's collectibility.

📦 Parts Inventory

Official piece count: 69
Parts cataloged in this inventory: 35 unique parts, 67 pieces
Minifigures: 1

LEGO counts 69 pieces. This inventory comes from a separate parts catalog and lists 75, including the 8 parts inside the minifigures; 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.

Tile Special 1 x ...

Part #: 2412b 1× White

Tile Special 1 x ...

Part #: 2432 1× White

Brick Special 2 x...

Part #: 2434 1× Black

Hinge Plate 1 x 2...

Part #: 2452 2× Black

Panel 3 x 2 x 6

Part #: 2466 2× Trans-Neon Green

Plate Special 6 x...

Part #: 2539 1× Black

Antenna 8H Whip

Part #: 2569 2× Trans-Neon Green

Brick 1 x 1

Part #: 3005 2× White

Brick 1 x 4

Part #: 3010 2× Black

Brick Sloped 45° ...

Part #: 3039 2× Black

Brick Sloped 45° ...

Part #: 3040b 4× Black

Tile 1 x 2 with R...

Part #: 3069bpr0048 1× White

Brick Sloped Inve...

Part #: 3660 2× Black

Plate 1 x 6

Part #: 3666 2× Black

Turntable 2 x 2 P...

Part #: 3679 6× Light Gray

Turntable 2 x 2 P...

Part #: 3680 6× White

Plate 1 x 4

Part #: 3710 1× Black

Plate 2 x 6

Part #: 3795 4× Black

Wedge Plate 8 x 4...

Part #: 3933 1× Black

Wedge Plate 8 x 4...

Part #: 3934 1× Black

Hinge Brick 1 x 2...

Part #: 3937 1× Black

Hinge Brick 1 x 2...

Part #: 3938 1× White

Antenna 1 x 4 wit...

Part #: 3957a 2× Black

Dish 4 x 4 Invert...

Part #: 3960 2× Trans-Neon Green

Hinge Vehicle Roo...

Part #: 4213 1× Black

Hinge Plate 1 x 2...

Part #: 4276b 2× White

Brick Sloped 33° ...

Part #: 4286 2× Black

Hinge Vehicle Roo...

Part #: 4315 1× Black

Box 2 x 2 x 2 [Ho...

Part #: 4345b 1× White

Box 2 x 2 x 2 Doo...

Part #: 4346pr0003 1× Black

Support 2 x 4 x 5...

Part #: 4476b 1× Black

Plate Special 1 x...

Part #: 4590 1× Black

Dish 2 x 2 Invert...

Part #: 4740 2× Trans-Neon Green

Panel 1 x 2 x 2 [...

Part #: 4864a 1× Black

Plate Round 1 x 1...

Part #: 6141 2× White

Plate Round 1 x 1...

Part #: 6141 2× Trans-Neon Green

The set features a distinctive selection of black, white, and trans-neon green elements, characteristic of the Blacktron II theme, offering useful parts for builders looking to recreate the retro space aesthetic.