Kai - Hands of Time
njo274 · Ninjago
Hands of Time (Season 7) · 2017: First released in early 2017 as part of the 'Hands of Time' wave, coinciding with the seventh season of the Ninjago television series.
Figure ID
njo274
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2017: First released in early 2017 as part of the 'Hands of Time' wave, coinciding with the seventh season of the Ninjago television series.
Rarity
Common: This figure appeared in multiple sets within the wave, including the highly popular 70621 The Vermillion Attack and the larger 70627 Dragon's Forge.
Head
Double-sided yellow head with classic Kai expression (angry/determined and focused) featuring a notched eyebrow; topped with a red and black dual-molded wrap-around mask (Ninja Wrap).
Torso
Black torso with red, silver, and gold printing depicting the 'Hands of Time' gi armor; features a circular crest on the chest and back representing his elemental fire symbol, with black arms and hands.
Legs
Black legs with red and dark red 'mesh' diamond pattern printing on the front of the hips and legs; includes dark red fabric belt details and gold Ninja script.
Accessories
Typically equipped with two Pearl Gold katanas and the 'Time Blade' (though the image specifically shows him holding a pearl gold jagged blade or flame element accessory).
Color Scheme
A striking contrast of Black and Red (the signature color for Kai), accented with Pearl Gold and Silver metallic printing.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso front and back, as well as the legs. The 'Hands of Time' series is noted for the intricate mesh pattern on the legs which was complex for its time.
Variants
Variations of this suit exist in 'Legacy' sets, but njo274 is the original 2017 version. Other Kai variants include 'Airjitzu', 'Deepstone', and 'Skybound' outfits.
Condition Notes
Prone to silver/gold paint rubbing on the torso crest. Check for stress marks on the arm sockets and 'bite marks' on the gold katanas if included.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $6.00 USD | New: $8.00 - $12.00 USD. Value is stable due to the high volume of sets this figure appeared in.
Price (New)
Available in sets ranging from the $9.99 (70621) entry-level price point to the $79.99 (70627) flagship set.
Compatible Sets
70621 The Vermillion Attack, 70627 Dragon's Forge, and 70625 Samurai VXL.
Character Background
Kai is the Elemental Master of Fire and older brother to Nya. In 'Hands of Time', he and Nya discover the truth about their parents while fighting the Time Twins, Krux and Acronix.
Design Notes
Features the then-new dual-molded mask piece which allowed for better color separation between the top (black) and bottom (red) of the ninja hood.
Similar Minifigures
njo285 (Hands of Time Nya), njo278 (Hands of Time Lloyd), njo272 (Hands of Time Cole).
Collectibility
High for Ninjago completionists, though low on the investment scale because of its wide availability. It is a 'standard' suit for the era.
History
Represents the middle era of Ninjago design before the 'Sons of Garmadon' movie-based redesigns took place, making it a favorite for fans of the original show art style.
Interesting Facts
The 'Time Blades' that came in the sets with this figure were translucent pieces that are now highly collectible individually; the gold script on Kai's belt translates to 'Ninja' in the Ninjago language.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the other five Ninja in their 'Hands of Time' robes on a black or dark red tiered stand. Place him near the 'Forward' or 'Slow-Mo' Time Blades for thematic accuracy.
Modification Potential
Excellent for custom black-ops ninja or mercenary MOCs due to the heavy use of black and dark red textures.
Overall Assessment
A solid, well-detailed figure that captures the 'tactical' feeling of the Season 7 robes. Highly recommended for any LEGO Ninjago fan as it is an affordable and iconic version of the Fire Ninja.