Kai - Hands of Time
njo274 · Ninjago
Hands of Time · 2017 - Released as part of the 7th season of Ninjago, which focused on the Time Twins (Acronix and Krux).
Figure ID
njo274
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2017 - Released as part of the 7th season of Ninjago, which focused on the Time Twins (Acronix and Krux).
Rarity
Uncommon - While not exclusive, it was released in the relatively expensive set 70627 Dragon's Forge and a specialized accessory pack.
Head
Yellow head with Kai's signature double-sided face: one side with a determined/angry expression and scars over the eye, the other side with a focused neutral look. Includes dark brown spiky hair (piece 98385) and a red fabric/molded wrap scarf mask.
Torso
Red torso with black and dark red wrap-around robe printing; features the Fire symbol on the chest and Ninjago lettering on the lapel. Black hands and yellow arms.
Legs
Red legs with dark red and black belt printing, including fabric textures and a dagger/sheath print on the left thigh.
Accessories
Standard figure includes a red scarf/mask. In its original set context, it often carries two katanas or a Time Blade accessory.
Color Scheme
Primary Red with accents of Black, Dark Red, and Yellow skin tones. Features dark brown hair.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso (front and back) and legs (front). Includes crisp Ninjargon script on the torso lapel representing 'Fire'.
Variants
This specific print (njo274) is distinct from the later 'Legacy' versions and the earlier 'Skybound' versions due to the specific chest-plate design and belt layout.
Condition Notes
Common wear points include the neck where the mask sits (potential for torso cracks) and thinning of the face print at the nose-tip from mask friction.
Estimated Value
Used: $5 - $8 USD; New/Mint: $10 - $15 USD. Value is stable but lower than rare villains from the same wave.
Price (New)
Available in set 70627 ($79.99) and the 853687 Accessory Set ($12.99).
Compatible Sets
70627 Dragon's Forge, 853687 Accessory Set, and various 2017 activity books with minifigure gifts.
Character Background
Kai is the Elemental Master of Fire and a main protagonist in Ninjago. In this sub-theme, he and his sister Nya discover the truth about their parents while fighting the Vermillion Army.
Design Notes
The Hands of Time outfits are noted for a more 'traditional' samurai aesthetic compared to the high-tech looks of previous seasons like Rebooted or Skybound.
Similar Minifigures
njo285 (Kai - Fusion Armor), njo119 (Kai - Tournament), njo151 (Kai - Airjitzu).
Collectibility
Moderate collectibility; essential for fans completing the Season 7 'Hands of Time' ninja lineup, but widely produced enough to remain affordable.
History
Kai was one of the original four ninja introduced in 2011. This 2017 version marked the final 'classic style' before the 2018 movie-inspired redesigns took over the mainline.
Interesting Facts
The Ninjargon script on the torso actually spells out 'FIRE'. This figure represents the era just before the 'Sons of Garmadon' soft-reboot of the character designs.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the Vermillion warriors and the Hands of Time Krux and Acronix on a fire-themed baseplate or within a 2x3 brick case.
Modification Potential
Excellent for custom samurai MOCs; the torso is a generic enough wrap-tunic design to be used for many red-themed warrior figures.
Overall Assessment
A solid, era-accurate representation of the character with high-quality printing that captures the transition between Ninjago's classic and modern design eras.