Kai - Hands of Time (The Vermillion)
njo285 · Ninjago
The Hands of Time (Season 7) · 2017. This figure debuted in the first half of 2017 during the 7th season of the Ninjago television series, a period known for introducing highly detailed, character-specific printing and complex headgear.
Figure ID
njo285
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2017. This figure debuted in the first half of 2017 during the 7th season of the Ninjago television series, a period known for introducing highly detailed, character-specific printing and complex headgear.
Rarity
Uncommon. While not a limited edition, this specific version of Kai appeared in only two sets within a single wave of the Hands of Time theme, making it more desirable than standard 'Kimono' or 'Legacy' versions.
Head
Yellow skin tone with Kai's signature determined expression, scarred eyebrow, and spiked hair printing. The eyes are visible through the mask. The headgear is the 'Master of Time' wrap-around mask in red with a gold metallic 'star' or ninja symbol on the forehead.
Torso
Dark red torso with detailed 'Hands of Time' robes. Features gold and bright orange flame patterns, a metallic silver belt buckle, and back printing showing the continuation of the ninja attire. Dark red arms with dark red hands.
Legs
Dark bluish gray legs with dark red and gold printing. Features knee pads and decorative lace/straps that match the 'Vermillion' war-torn aesthetics of the Season 7 storyline.
Accessories
Typically equipped with two katanas (usually silver or gold) and sometimes the 'Forward Time Blade' (green) or 'Fast Forward Blade' (red) depending on the set. It often includes a red cloth or plastic neck wrap/scabbard piece.
Color Scheme
Primary Dark Red and Red with secondary Dark Bluish Gray. Accent colors include Metallic Gold and Bright Orange to represent Kai’s elemental fire power.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso (front/back) and legs (front). The alignment on this era's figures is generally excellent, featuring fine-line detailing on the belt and the elemental fire swirls.
Variants
There are dozens of Kai variants. This specific 'Hands of Time' version is distinguished by the dark bluish gray legs and the specific gold/orange fire pattern on the chest, which differs from his 'Skybound' or 'Day of the Departed' outfits.
Condition Notes
Common wear points include the gold printing on the torso which can flake over time, and the 'clutch power' of the neck wrap which can cause stress marks on the torso neck peg if removed frequently.
Estimated Value
Used: $5 - $8 USD | New (extracted): $10 - $15 USD. Value remains relatively stable as Ninjago collectors often seek to complete 'full team' sets for specific seasons.
Price (New)
Originally available in sets ranging from $29.99 to $79.99. Individual CMF-style pricing does not apply as he was set-exclusive.
Compatible Sets
70625 Samurai VXL and 70627 Dragon's Forge.
Character Background
Kai is the Elemental Master of Fire and the older brother of Nya. In the Hands of Time season, he and Nya discover the truth about their parents while battling the Time Twins, Acronix and Krux, and their Vermillion army.
Design Notes
The Season 7 designs moved away from the more 'pure' ninja looks into a more 'armored' aesthetic. This figure successfully balances the traditional red ninja look with the darker, grittier tones of the Hands of Time world.
Similar Minifigures
njo274 Kai (Day of the Departed), njo297 Kai (The LEGO Ninjago Movie), and njo495 Kai (Legacy).
Collectibility
Moderate. It is a staple character for Ninjago completists. While not as expensive as some 'Villain' generals, it is a key piece for anyone recreating the 'Seventh Season' lineup.
History
Kai was one of the four original ninja launched in 2011. Since then, he has had over 50 variations. The 2017 version represents the 'middle era' of Ninjago design before the aesthetic shift caused by the LEGO Ninjago Movie designs.
Interesting Facts
The 'star' symbol on the forehead is unique to this season's headgear. This was also one of the last seasons to use the original 'pre-movie' facial expressions for the main cast.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed alongside the other 'Hands of Time' ninja (Lloyd, Jay, Cole, Zane, Nya) on a stepped display stand to show off the leg printing. Use a UV-protected case to prevent the red plastic from fading.
Modification Potential
The dark bluish gray legs are highly versatile for custom Star Wars or apocalyptic MOCs. The red mask piece is a favorite for custom 'Red Hood' or 'Deadpool' hobbyist creations.
Overall Assessment
A solid, highly detailed representation of Ninjago's most popular character. It features great color contrast and is a must-have for fans of the Season 7 arc. Quality Rating: 8/10.