A Hidden Haven for Synthetic Companionship in Manhattan
A discreet shop tucked away in a commercial building on the Upper East Side has become a go-to spot for those seeking synthetic partners. For a $50 deposit, visitors can explore a collection of 12 life-size dolls, each priced at around $3,000. These dolls are made from a heavy silicon or thermoplastic elastomer, giving them a skin-like texture.
The store’s unique offerings and its website, Dollsyoucantouch.com, were established by a 46-year-old entrepreneur named Benji, who spoke to the media on the condition of anonymity. He has been running this tactile experience since July and has recently shared insights about it.
Visitors must sign privacy agreements that discourage them from discussing the doll shop publicly, adhering strictly to certain guidelines. Benji shared that his journey into the world of sex dolls began in 2021 after a breakup, as he found these synthetic companions better suited to his needs than traditional dating apps or escort services.
He admitted he used to turn to escorts as a substitute but realized they were becoming increasingly pricey. His first synthetic partner was Gabby, a $1,200 Jy doll, but he ended up moving on from her. With shifts in his living situation, he faced difficulties managing her size in a small studio apartment, especially when family started visiting.
Embracing his natural flair for sales, he decided to sell dolls instead. Inside the neon-lit showroom, three dolls lounged on a sofa, each distinct in appearance, featuring everything from pointed Elf-like ears to an anthropomorphic cat face. Most dolls stand close to five feet tall and are available in various skin tones, even sporting accessories like a faux diamond choker labeled “prostitutes.”
Some dolls include features like vibrating body parts and even the ability to warm up to a comfortable temperature. One doll had intricately detailed soles, mimicking real human features. Many are designed with lighter foam cores to ease mobility and are imported from China.
Benji considers New York City an ideal place for his unique enterprise, emphasizing that there are no other showrooms that allow customers to physically interact with the dolls. In contrast, other novelty shops often display their products behind glass, which limits the experience.
In his store, he provides a personalized experience for each customer, allowing them to explore different dolls and ask questions, like how well a specific wig suits a particular model or how to pose them.
His clientele varies widely, including young tech professionals, affluent older men, and even retirees, all seeking companionship in their lives. Many visitors are drawn to the idea of owning multiple dolls, a trend that has grown, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Benji reports that he typically sells between one and three dolls daily, earning up to $2,000 on particularly good days. Interestingly, while black dolls tend to be the most popular, he noted that some customers opt for more unconventional designs, such as dolls that resemble aliens.
When questioned about rentals, Benji clarified, “we’re not a ‘doll brothel’.” The conversation around synthetic companions continues to evolve, mirroring the complexities of modern relationships.
