Kai - Hands of Time
njo284 · Ninjago
Hands of Time · 2017. It debuted with the Wave 8 release as part of the 7th season of the Ninjago Masters of Spinjitzu TV show context.
Figure ID
njo284
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2017. It debuted with the Wave 8 release as part of the 7th season of the Ninjago Masters of Spinjitzu TV show context.
Rarity
Uncommon. While available in multiple sets, this specific version of Kai is exclusive to the 2017 product cycle and features a unique torso and hair mold for that era.
Head
Yellow skin with a determined/angry face print featuring Kai's signature notched eyebrow and a small scar. He wears the spiked dark brown hair piece with a red headband print (part 27252).
Torso
Red base with dark red and gold armor printing. It features the 'Hands of Time' logo in the center of the chest and flame motifs. The back is printed with a continuation of the robe and belt. Hands are black.
Legs
Plain red legs with no printing. The hip piece is also red.
Accessories
Includes a gold shoulder armor piece with dual scabbard slots (part 21507) and two gold katanas. Note: The gold blades in the hands in the photo are standard katanas often misattributed or substituted for the 'Time Blades'.
Color Scheme
Primarily Bright Red and Dark Red with Warm Gold accents and Dark Brown hair.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso (front and back) and head. This era of Ninjago saw significant improvement in metallic gold ink durability.
Variants
There are dozens of Kai variants. This specific 'Hands of Time' version differs from the 'Skybound' version by the chest logo and the lack of leg printing compared to later 'Legacy' versions.
Condition Notes
The most common wear points are the gold scabbard (teeth/clips can stress) and the notched hair piece. Check for torso cracks on the sides.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $5.00 - $8.00 USD. New/Mint: $12.00 - $15.00 USD.
Price (New)
Available in sets ranging from $14.99 (70621) to $79.99 (70625).
Compatible Sets
70621 (The Forbidden Village), 70625 (Samurai VXL), 70627 (Dragon's Forge).
Character Background
Kai is the Red Ninja of Fire. In the Hands of Time season, he and his sister Nya search for their parents while fighting Krux and Acronix.
Design Notes
This figure marked a transition to more detailed 'fusion' armor designs. The hair piece is a specific mold meant to replicate the show's animation more closely than standard spikes.
Similar Minifigures
njo272 (Nya - Hands of Time), njo192 (Kai - Skybound), njo491 (Kai - Legacy).
Collectibility
Moderate. Kai is a main character and highly sought by completionists, though the lack of leg printing makes this specific version slightly less desirable than the 'Legacy' re-releases.
History
Launched in January 2017 as part of the 'Hands of Time' line, which was a pivotal narrative arc for Kai's character development.
Interesting Facts
The symbol on the chest represents the 'Blacksmith' heritage of Kai's family, which was a major plot point in the 2017 season.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed with the four 'Time Blades' (Green, Blue, Red, Orange) on a custom stand to recreate the season's master clock.
Modification Potential
Highly modular; the torso and gold armor are frequently used in fantasy MOCs (My Own Creations) for royal guards.
Overall Assessment
A solid, essential figure for Ninjago fans. While common compared to rare villains, its unique hair and torso make it a standout for the 2017 collection.