Kai - Hands of Time
njo285 · Ninjago
The Hands of Time (Season 7) · 2017: Debuted in LEGO sets alongside the Season 7 TV series. Ninjago was at a peak of detailed printing during this era.
Figure ID
njo285
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2017: Debuted in LEGO sets alongside the Season 7 TV series. Ninjago was at a peak of detailed printing during this era.
Rarity
Uncommon: Only appeared in two retail sets during the 2017 wave. While not exclusive, it is a highly sought-after variant due to the specific season's popularity.
Head
Yellow classic skin tone with Kai's signature determined scowl and band-aid scar over the left eye. Features the textured brown spiky hair introduced earlier in the series.
Torso
Black robe base with red arms and black hands. Features detailed gold and red lion/dragon crest printing, metallic gold toggles, and a red sash. Back printing includes continuation of the sash and robe details.
Legs
Black hips and legs with intricate red and dark red printing. Includes details of the sash hanging down and decorative bottom-of-robe trimmings in red.
Accessories
Equipped with a Pearl Gold 'Hands of Time' dual katana holder (shoulder armor) and two Pearl Gold katanas. The shoulder piece is specific to this wave's design language.
Color Scheme
Primarily black and red (Kai's signature colors) with significant Pearl Gold accents for armor and weaponry, representing the 'Hands of Time' aesthetic.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing with metallic gold accents. Features 360-degree printing across the torso and front-facing leg details. Sharp alignment on the chest symbol.
Variants
This is the 'standard' version of Kai from this season. Other variants include the 'Fusion Kai' (njo312) which lacks the shoulder armor and has slight printing changes.
Condition Notes
Watch for gold paint rubbing on the katana holder and katanas. The black torso is prone to visible scratches. Check for 'cracked heels' often found in 2017-era legs.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $8–$12 | New/Mint: $15–$20. Parts individually are worth roughly $2-$4 each depending on the piece.
Price (New)
N/A - Never sold individually. Appeared in sets ranging from $30 (70622 Desert Lightning) to $80 (70625 Samurai VXL).
Compatible Sets
70622 Desert Lightning, 70625 Samurai VXL
Character Background
Kai is the Master of Fire. In 'The Hands of Time', he and his sister Nya search for their parents while battling the Time Twins, Krux and Acronix.
Design Notes
The 2017 ninjas featured more 'tactical' and layered robe designs. The inclusion of the dual-sword shoulder piece was a significant design upgrade for this wave.
Similar Minifigures
Nya - Hands of Time (njo283), Jay - Hands of Time (njo279), and various other Season 7 ninja variants.
Collectibility
High for Ninjago completionists. While many Kai versions exist, the 'Hands of Time' suit is considered one of his most visually striking designs.
History
Following the success of Skybound, LEGO moved toward more lore-heavy designs. This figure marks the transition before the 'LEGO Ninjago Movie' style reset the character faces.
Interesting Facts
The 'Hands of Time' season was the last time the original character designs were used consistently before the movie-inspired redesigns took over in Season 8 (Sons of Garmadon).
Display Suggestions
Best displayed with the other five ninjas in their Season 7 robes, ideally on a stand with the four 'Time Blades' (the season's primary MacGuffins).
Modification Potential
The torso and legs are excellent for dark-themed samurai MOCs or custom fire-themed warriors. The shoulder armor is compatible with most standard minifigure necks.
Overall Assessment
A top-tier Ninjago figure from a beloved era. It features professional-grade printing and iconic accessories. Highly recommended for fans of the show's middle seasons.