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There is a few distinguishing differences in Hong Kong Transformers, and since HK versions are worth substantially less, with this guide it should help you avoid overpaying. I am also not knocking these versions, as the toys are the same, and the boxes still display nicely..almost identically in many instances. However, I do not like anyone getting swindled or getting less than what they expected. So this guide should help.
 One of the most determining factors is a piece of black tape on the the box somewhere. Most often found on the back, there are some I've seen with it somewhere else. Sometimes, it is a black sticker with the word: "Transformers" in a smaller font taped over top of the flap where the American print was. The latter was usually found on Carded American Version Transformers and on later issues such as headmasters. If you see this tape, there is a good chance your Transformer is a HK version.
 On the box flaps here, you can see a point where the normal print which was fading from red to dark red suddenly is cut off, and a just plain red strip is present. If you are buying a MISB toy, you will not be able to notice this (of course). This is another distinct trait of HK Transformers. It seems as if the presses only ran to a certain point. Another quality that I don't have a picture of, is the manuals. The manuals of a HK TF are blurry, and almost never perfect. It looks as if the picture has been double printed, or the press moved while it was being printed. These manuals look poor, and are a darker shade. If you see one of these (even visible through a sealed baggie) there's a good chance your TF is HK in origin. Finally Hong Kong had the singles of Road Caesar and Landcross (well..double packs of landcross) boxed in very authentic looking single boxes (I've never seen HK version giftsets). The key is to take where the word "Transformers" is written on a normal Japanese box, and compare it to the word "Transformer" on the flap. It is very different. The Katakana (type of Japanese writing) is replaced with the Chinese word for Transformer. These versions seem to go for about the same price, however; I see more HK versions..maybe as much as 5X as many as the Japanese versions. Although I don't own them, I've been told contents is the same (although I'd think the manual would be different also due to the language). Well, that's about it for telling the differences. If you come across any others, or want me to look at yours, you can feel free to contact me at: hiddukel@wrestlingfanz.com Good luck!
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