Playmobil Set 3526 Review

🛠️ Design & Key Features

Water Pump Unit: Rear pump housing with coiled hose reel, detachable water cannon, and tool storage.
Extendable Telelight Mast: Three-piece mast with pivoting spotlights. Early versions used a one-piece mold; later kits offered replaceable housings.
Accessories & Figures:
- Five firefighters with helmets and breathing gear.
- Tools: ladders, extinguishers, axes, traffic cones, and hose reels.

📦 Versions & Variants

Packaging Languages: Available in English, French, Spanish, and German — same artwork, localized text.
Figure Hair Variants: Early blond figures (“k3272a”) later transitioned to darker molds without changing part numbers.
Spotlight & Crossbar Revisions:
- Original (1982–’85): One-piece crossbar with integrated pivots.
- Spare-Parts Edition: Modular lamp housings and shorter poles via Playmobil service.

💡 Collector Tip: For an authentic 1982–’85 version, look for original black-spotlight housings and localized box variants.

🤝 Synergy with Set 3525

When paired with sibling 3525 Hook & Ladder Truck #21, the Pumper Truck #23 completes a full vintage fire brigade:

Coordinated Play: 3525 handles elevated rescues, 3526 supplies water — perfect for dynamic dioramas.
Matching Design: Shared red-and-grey scheme and numbered decals ("21" & "23") create cohesive displays.

🎲 Play Value & Display

Interactive Rescue: Rotating mast, detachable hose, and cannon for immersive scenarios.
Shelf Appeal: Bold colors and authentic decals make it a striking display piece.
Expandable: Integrates with other vintage and modern fire-themed sets seamlessly.

💰 Collectability & Market

Rarity: Among the top 4% of Firemen series sets in EU when complete.
Market Value:
- Loose Sets: $40–60 USD
- Mint in Box: $100–150+ USD
Restoration: Most parts available through official channels; custom decals and lamps exist for full restoration.

🔍 Verdict