Fans of Tokusatsu (giant-rubber-suit-fighting-monster) shows are certainly familiar with Ultraman, and even non-fans have probably seen his image in passing somewhere in their daily lives. Originally created and developed by some crew members of the original Godzilla movie, Ultraman is now nearing his 50th anniversary of fame in Japan.

As with any major anniversary of a pop-culture icon, we can expect a flood of merchandise to help us reconnect with our inner-child. And of course there is no better way to honor a household name than with a household product, like say, a kitchen timer.

Japanese toy makers Kotobukiya are pleased to announce their release of the Ultraman Warning Light Kitchen Timer. It’s a timer in the design of Ultraman’s warning light worn on his chest. Its dimensions are said to be identical to the original warning light used in the TV series and features the same light patterns and sounds from the shows. It will be available at most kitchenware and novelty shops across Japan or online for the price of 2,100 yen (US$27.30).

For those not familiar with Ultraman’s story: when mere mortal Shin Hayata transforms into Ultraman he has only three minutes to fight before his solar energy goes empty, causing him to return to normal. Ultraman’s remaining solar energy level is measured by a light worn on his chest that starts off blue but starts to blink and then turn red as his time limit approaches. This great dramatic device is now available for you to use in your own kitchen!

However, there is a catch. In keeping with the authenticity of Ultraman’s warning light, this timer also measures only three minutes. Luckily for folks in Japan, that’s just enough time to make some instant ramen, the most prevalent instant food in Japan.

Now, I know what some readers in Western countries might be thinking; “I love Ultraman but I rarely eat instant ramen. What am I going to do with this thing?” Don’t worry. Thanks to Google I’ve compiled a list of things that take only three minutes or less to do:

・escape a house fire
・exercise enough in one week to prevent diabetes
・decide if you are romantically attracted to a man (women only)
・cross a road in Bangalore
・create a Windows 7 profile
・have sex (borderline, but okay according to one website)
・take an online Chakra test
・have a bankruptcy hearing
・have a panic attack

By now you should see that you can’t afford not to buy this timer for both its utility and nostalgic charm, so hurry up and get yours while supplies last!

Until next time, Shuwatch!

Source：narinari.com（Japan)、main.kotobukiya.co.jp（Japan）