Kai - Hands of Time
njo284 · Ninjago
The Hands of Time (Season 7) · 2017: First released in early 2017 alongside the Seventh Season of the Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu television series.
Figure ID
njo284
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2017: First released in early 2017 alongside the Seventh Season of the Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu television series.
Rarity
Common to Uncommon: Produced in mass quantities as Kai is a main protagonist, appearing in multiple sets of that wave.
Head
Double-sided yellow head including a determined/smirking expression with a trademark notch in the eyebrow. It is topped with a dual-molded red hair/black headband piece (part 21623) featuring a small gold insignia.
Torso
Red kimono-style wrap with a black collar and belt. Features a printed 'K' (Kai's symbol) in Ninjago script on the back and circular crests on the chest. Arms are red with black hands.
Legs
Black legs with gunmetal grey/silver printing on the toes to represent boots, and a continuation of the red robe/sash printing at the waist/hips.
Accessories
As shown, the figure includes the 'Neck Bracket' armor element. Originally sold with two silver katanas and sometimes the 'Time Blade' accessories depending on the specific set.
Color Scheme
Predominantly Red and Black, reflecting the Elemental Master of Fire's signature colors, accented with Gunmetal Grey and Gold.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing typical of the 2017 era. Features front and back torso printing that aligns with the hip piece, and 'toe' printing on the legs which was a premium detail for the time.
Variants
There are many versions of Kai; this specific 2017 'Hands of Time' version differs from the 2015 'Tournament' or 2019 'Legacy' versions by its unique robe pattern and the specific dual-molded headband hair piece.
Condition Notes
Watch for 'arm cracks' (vertical cracks in the torso side) which are common in this era of red LEGO plastic. Check for fraying on the headband mold and paint rub on the metallic toe prints.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $3.00 - $6.00 USD | New/Mint: $8.00 - $12.00 USD. Value is steady due to Kai's popularity, though this is not a rare investment piece.
Price (New)
Originally available in sets ranging from $9.99 (70621 The Wooded Hut) to $79.99 (70626 Dawn of Iron Doom).
Compatible Sets
70621 The Wooded Hut, 70627 Dragon's Forge, 70626 Dawn of Iron Doom.
Character Background
Kai is the Elemental Master of Fire and older brother to Nya. In 'The Hands of Time' season, he and Nya are the primary focus as they discover the truth about their parents while battling the Time Twins, Krux and Acronix.
Design Notes
Introduced the more detailed 'toe printing' which became standard for main Ninjago ninja. Uses the specialized neck bracket (part 24238) to give the figure a bulkier, armored kimono look.
Similar Minifigures
Nya - Hands of Time (njo278), Krux (njo287), and other Kai variants like the Kimono Kai (njo072) or Legacy Kai (njo492).
Collectibility
High for Ninjago completionists. While not high-value, the 'Hands of Time' suit is a favorite among fans for its dark, grounded aesthetic and unique hairpiece design.
History
Part of the seventh evolution of the core Ninja suits. This era marked a transition before the 2017 'LEGO Ninjago Movie' designs permanently altered the characters' facial prints in later sets.
Interesting Facts
The symbol on the back of his robe is the letter 'K' in the Ninjargon script. This was one of the last waves before 'The LEGO Ninjago Movie' changed the character's hair and eye design in the main toyline.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the other 'Hands of Time' ninja in a shadow box, or paired with the Elemental Fire Dragon. Looks best with twin silver katanas crossed on the back.
Modification Potential
The dual-molded hair/headband piece is highly sought after for purist 'Street Fighter' or 'Karate' custom minifigures. The torso is excellent for generic Samurai or Ronin MOCs.
Overall Assessment
A solid, well-designed figure from peak Ninjago era. Rated 7/10 for design; while not rare, it is an essential character variant for any Ninjago collection.