Kai - Hands of Time
njo273 · Ninjago
The Hands of Time · 2017: Part of the seventh season wave of Ninjago, released during a peak for the theme's custom molded accessories.
Figure ID
njo273
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2017: Part of the seventh season wave of Ninjago, released during a peak for the theme's custom molded accessories.
Rarity
Common: This figure appeared in multiple sets and a polybag, making it widely available during its production run.
Head
Yellow head with determined/angry expression, thick black eyebrows, and a distinctive scar over his left eye. Topped with a two-piece wrap: a Black hair piece fused with a Red ninja mask/bandana.
Torso
Black torso with red sleeves and black hands. Printing features a red/orange circular emblem (Hands of Time aesthetic) with x-pattern straps and a kunai knife tucked into the belt.
Legs
Black legs with red and orange printing. Design includes a continuation of the belt/sash and ornate red pattern detailing on the knees/shins.
Accessories
Typically paired with two silver or gold katanas. This specific figure was often sold with a translucent red 'Time Blade' in larger sets.
Color Scheme
A striking contrast of Red and Black, accented with dark orange and metallic silver printing details.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso front and back, and front of the legs. The 'Time' emblem is the focal point with sharp, geometric lines.
Variants
Variations of this Kai outfit exist in the 'Spinnjitzu Training' sets, but this specific version (njo273) is the primary story-accurate variant.
Condition Notes
The red mask piece is prone to paint rubbing on the nose tip. Check for torso cracks at the sides and looseness in the arm joints, common for 2017-era plastic.
Estimated Value
Used: $3.00 - $5.00 USD. New: $7.00 - $10.00 USD. Price is stable due to high supply.
Price (New)
Retail sets ranged from $9.99 (70621) to $79.99 (70626), and a $3.99 polybag (30427).
Compatible Sets
70621 The Iron Doom, 70627 Dragon's Forge, 70626 Dawn of Iron Doom, and 30427 Ice Tank (Polybag variant).
Character Background
Kai is the Elemental Master of Fire. In the 'Hands of Time' season, he and his sister Nya discover the Truth about their parents while fighting the Time Twins, Acronix and Krux.
Design Notes
The 'Hands of Time' suits move away from traditional gi designs toward more tactical, armored looks with heavy hardware and strap motifs.
Similar Minifigures
Lloyd (njo275), Nya (njo277), and earlier Kai versions like Skybound or Day of the Departed.
Collectibility
Moderate: Essential for fans of the specific Season 7 sub-theme, but lower investment potential compared to early 2011/2012 figures.
History
Launched in Jan 2017, this design represents a transition period before the 2018 'The LEGO Ninjago Movie' caused a permanent redesign of character faces.
Interesting Facts
This version of Kai is one of the last to feature his original 'classic' face print before the 2018 redesign changed his hair and eyes for the 'Sons of Garmadon' arc.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the Vermillion warriors or the four 'Time Blades' (Trans-Green, Red, Blue, and Orange) on a custom stand.
Modification Potential
The red and black torso is highly popular for 'Dark Ninja' or Sith-themed Star Wars MOCs due to the aggressive color blocking.
Overall Assessment
A solid, aesthetically pleasing version of the Fire Ninja. While not financially rare, it is a high-quality representation of the character's mid-series evolution.