Kai - Hands of Time
njo274 · Ninjago
The Hands of Time (Season 7) · 2017 - Released as part of the first 2017 wave of sets.
Figure ID
njo274
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2017 - Released as part of the first 2017 wave of sets.
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While it appeared in four distinct sets, it is a specific seasonal variant that is no longer in production.
Head
Yellow head with Kai's signature determined expression: scarred left eyebrow and smirk. Includes the dark red 'The Hands of Time' style ninja wrap/cowl, which is a two-piece mold with a top hat/hair-compatible piece and a bottom mask.
Torso
Dark red wrap-style tunic with black arms and dark red hands. Features a gold 'Hands of Time' circular crest on the right chest, dark red straps, and a pouch. Back printing continues the strap and robe detail.
Legs
Dark red legs with dark red hips. Detailed printing includes a black belt with a buckle, knee pads, and rope-style wrappings consistent with traditional ninja attire.
Accessories
Typically comes with two silver katanas and/or one of the four Time Blades (specifically the green 'Fast Forward' blade in certain sets). This figure is pictured without hand-held accessories.
Color Scheme
Dominant Dark Red with black accents and gold/yellow highlights. This signifies Kai's elemental power of fire while fitting the darker aesthetic of the Season 7 sets.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the front and back of the torso, as well as the front of the legs. The crispness of the gold crest is a highlight of the 2017 manufacturing era.
Variants
There are many Kai variants; this specific version is unique to the Hands of Time sub-theme. A 'Legacy' version (njo492) exists but has different torso and mask details.
Condition Notes
Prone to 'torso cracks' on the sides under the armpits. Dark red plastic can occasionally be more brittle than other colors. Check for mask tightness as the two-piece ninja wrap can become loose over time.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $7.00 USD. New: $8.00 - $12.00 USD. Value is stable due to high supply but consistent demand for the 'Hands of Time' aesthetic.
Price (New)
N/A - This figure was included in sets ranging from $14.99 (70621) to $99.99 (70627). It was not sold individually.
Compatible Sets
70621 The Hands of Time Forge; 70627 Dragon's Forge; 70625 Samurai VXL; 70622 Desert Lightning.
Character Background
Kai is the Master of Fire. In the 'Hands of Time' season, he and his sister Nya search for their parents while battling the Time Twins, Krux and Acronix.
Design Notes
Features the 2017-style ninja mask which was a departure from the one-piece 'Zukin' hoods. This mold was designed to look more like a fabric wrap.
Similar Minifigures
Nya (njo277), Cole (njo276), and Lloyd (njo278) from the same Hands of Time wave share the identical mask mold and similar robe design patterns.
Collectibility
Moderate. It is essential for completionists looking to finish the Season 7 lineup, but because Kai is the most common character in the theme, it lacks high-end investment scarcity.
History
Follows the evolution of Ninjago's design language where hoods became more complex and torso prints became busier with metallic inks.
Interesting Facts
The 'Hands of Time' cowl was one of the last styles used before the 'Ninjago Movie' redesign permanently changed the characters' faces and hair in 2017/2018.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the Vermillion warriors or inside the 70627 Dragon's Forge set. Clear acrylic 'stair' stands work well to show the leg printing and mask detail.
Modification Potential
The dark red legs and torso are popular for MOC (My Own Creation) builders making medieval or fantasy rouge characters due to the tactical pouch printing.
Overall Assessment
A solid, well-designed 8/10 figure from one of Ninjago's most visually distinct eras. Great for play and essential for fans of the show's middle seasons.