Karlof
njo116 · Ninjago
Masters of Spinjitzu / Tournament of Elements · 2015 - Released in wave 1 of the Tournament of Elements sets. At this time, Ninjago was transitioning into more character-focused sub-themes with unique elemental masters.
Figure ID
njo116
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2015 - Released in wave 1 of the Tournament of Elements sets. At this time, Ninjago was transitioning into more character-focused sub-themes with unique elemental masters.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. This figure was exclusive to a single, relatively popular set (70756) and has not been re-released since then.
Head
Blue head with silver-metallic printing on the right side of the face representing his metal forms transformation. It features a determined smirk and singular eyebrow. The hair piece is a black, textured 'messy' style (Part 15501).
Torso
Black torso with Dark Blueish Gray printing. The design features a belted robe or gi with straps and a knot at the waist. It has black arms and yellow hands (representing his human skin tone before transformation).
Legs
Reddish Brown legs with black and white printing. The print represents wraps/bandages around the shins (kyahan style) and the bottom of the black gi extending onto the hips.
Accessories
In the original set, Karlof comes with two large buildable steel gauntlets (built from silver plates and clips) to represent his elemental power of metal. The figure in the image is missing these accessories.
Color Scheme
A mix of Dark Azure (head), Black and Dark Gray (torso), and Reddish Brown (legs), accented with yellow hands. The blue head specifically denotes his character in the context of his metal-turning ability.
Printing Details
Sharp, high-quality pad printing. The metallic silver on the face is a standout detail. The leg printing wraps around the front but does not extend to the sides or back.
Variants
There are no official LEGO variants of Karlof. This is the only version produced.
Condition Notes
The silver printing on the face is prone to scratching over time. The yellow hands on the black torso can develop cracks in the torso arm-pits if played with heavily. The hair piece is a standard mold and durable.
Estimated Value
Used (Complete): $15—$22 USD. New (Sealed in set): Contextual to the set price of ~$130. Individual parts for this figure are highly sought after by Ninjago completionists.
Price (New)
He appeared in set 70756 Dojo Showdown, which originally retailed for $24.99 USD in 2015.
Compatible Sets
70756 Dojo Showdown (2015).
Character Background
Karlov (or Karlof) is the Master of Metal and a participant in Master Chen's Tournament of Elements. He has the ability to turn his entire body into metal to increase his strength and durability. He was the first elemental master to be defeated and have his powers stripped by Chen.
Design Notes
LEGO chose to represent his metal form primarily through the blue skin tone and silver face paint rather than a full metallic silver body, which allows for a more recognizable character design.
Similar Minifigures
Other Elemental Masters from the 2015 wave, such as Griffin Turner (njo115), Ash (njo117), or Gravis. Also similar to Colossus from Marvel due to the metal skin theme.
Collectibility
High. He is a named character from a beloved Ninjago season and was never included in the 'Legacy' re-release line, making the 2015 original the only way to own the character.
History
Debuted during the 4th season of Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu. He represents the first wave of 'minor' elemental masters introduced to expand the lore beyond the core ninja.
Interesting Facts
The silver printing on his face is intended to look like it is 'spreading,' capturing the moment he begins to transform into his heavy metal form.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on a Ninjago-themed stand alongside the other Tournament of Elements masters or inside a 2x2 brick-built dojo scene.
Modification Potential
The head is popular for custom Marvel 'Nightcrawler' or 'Beast' minifigures due to the blue skin and detailed face print.
Overall Assessment
A high-quality, character-accurate minifigure that is essential for Ninjago fans. The unique head print makes it a standout piece from the 2015 era.