Clay Moorington (Ultimate - Version)
nex001 · NEXO KNIGHTS
Ultimate Sets (Wave 1) · 2016
Figure ID
nex001
Theme
NEXO KNIGHTS
Year Released
2016
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While exclusive to certain sets, NEXO KNIGHTS was mass-produced for three years. However, specific ultimate versions are rarer than the standard armor versions.
Head
Dual-sided light flesh head: one side features a determined smirk, the other a focused combat expression with blue digital lines. Blue hair piece (if helmet is removed).
Torso
Medium blue torso with silver/white tech-armor printing. Includes blue arms and bright blue hands. Features a NEXO power shield crest on the center chest.
Legs
Medium blue legs with silver, dark blue, and light blue printing representing high-tech grieves. Dark blue hip piece.
Accessories
Includes the NEXO Knight armor piece (Dark Azure) with an insert for a NEXO Power. Medium blue Great Helmet (Kettle Hat style) and trans-orange energy sword (missing in image).
Color Scheme
A gradient of blues: Dark Azure, Medium Blue, and Bright Blue, accented with metallic silver and trans-orange energy elements.
Printing Details
High-detail pad printing on torso (front/back) and legs (front). The design features 'digital' knight motifs and glowing orange circuitry hints typical of 2016 graphics.
Variants
Standard Armor Clay, Stone Clay, Infected Clay, and Ultimate Clay. This specific figure is the 'Ultimate' configuration with the heavy shoulder armor upgrade.
Condition Notes
Armor pieces often show scuffs on the shoulder studs. The silver printing on the legs is prone to wear from friction. Check the helmet for stress marks on the rim.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $4 - $7 USD; New/Sealed in Pack: $10 - $15 USD. The value is stable as the theme has a niche but dedicated following.
Price (New)
$9.99 USD (as part of the Ultimate Clay set #70330).
Compatible Sets
70330 Ultimate Clay, 70315 Clay's Rumble Blade.
Character Background
Clay is the leader of the NEXO Knights, an orphan who dedicated his life to the code of chivalry. He eventually discovers his magical lineage connected to Monstrox.
Design Notes
The NEXO Knights armor was a revolutionary mold that allowed for 'Power Shields' to be swapped, merging physical play with the Merlok 2.0 digital app.
Similar Minifigures
Ultimate Macy (nex007), Ultimate Aaron (nex004), and various futuristic versions of classic Castle knights like Jay from Ninjago.
Collectibility
Moderate. Collectors of 'Castle' history appreciate the sci-fi twist. It is an essential figure for completionists of the 2016-2018 era.
History
Launched in 2016 to replace Legends of Chima, NEXO KNIGHTS blended medieval fantasy with futuristic tech. Clay was the primary flagship character.
Interesting Facts
The 'Ultimate' line of minifigures were sold in small packs without vehicles, a spiritual successor to the Ninjago 'Spinner' packs.
Display Suggestions
Display on a NEXO Shield stand with other wave 1 knights. Use UV-reactive lighting to make the trans-orange accessories pop.
Modification Potential
The shoulder armor is highly sought after for MOCs (My Own Creations) involving futuristic soldiers or space marines.
Overall Assessment
A solid, well-designed figure representing the peak of LEGO's 'trans-media' era. Excellent detail for its price point but common enough for easy acquisition.