Kai - Hands of Time
njo274 · Ninjago
The Hands of Time (Season 7) · 2017 - Released as part of the winter wave coinciding with the seventh season of the TV series.
Figure ID
njo274
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2017 - Released as part of the winter wave coinciding with the seventh season of the TV series.
Rarity
Common - This figure was widely available in several mid-range and large sets, making it easily accessible for collectors at the time.
Head
Yellow head with determined/angry dual-sided expression. Includes a red wrap-around ninja headpiece/mask with a golden 'Kai' symbol printed on the forehead.
Torso
Dark Red torso with black arms and black hands. Printing features a red sash, a gold circular lion crest, and textured robe detailing that wraps to the back.
Legs
Dark Red legs with black hip piece. Printing includes knee guards, a continuation of the belt from the torso, and subtle textured robe pleats.
Accessories
Includes a black plastic neck bracket with two clips on the back (scabbard style) holding two Flat Silver katanas.
Color Scheme
Primarily Dark Red and Black with gold and silver accents; this dark red tone was specific to the 'Hands of Time' tactical gear.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso (front and back) and front of the legs. Note the crisp gold lion emblem and the detailed texture on the straps.
Variants
This specific printing is unique to the njo274 variant. Other versions of Kai from this era include 'Fusion Kai' or the 'Kimono' variants, but this is the standard suit.
Condition Notes
Prone to silver paint wear on the katana blades. Check for 'torso cracks' under the arms which is a common issue with 2017-era dark red plastic.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $4 - $7 USD. New/Mint: $10 - $15 USD. The value is stable due to the popularity of the Hands of Time aesthetic.
Price (New)
Originally available in sets ranging from $30 (70624) to $80 (70626). Not sold individually.
Compatible Sets
70621 The Vermillion Attack, 70624 Vermillion Invader, 70626 Dawn of Iron Doom.
Character Background
Kai is the Elemental Master of Fire. In the 'Hands of Time' season, he and his sister Nya are the dual protagonists searching for the truth about their parents.
Design Notes
This era introduced a more 'tactical' look for the ninjas, replacing the traditional robes with more armored, survivalist-style printing.
Similar Minifigures
njo285 (Nya - Hands of Time), njo272 (Jay - Hands of Time), and other Kai variants like the Legacy or Core versions.
Collectibility
Moderate. It is essential for those completing the Season 7 team, though it is not as rare as the season's villains (Acronix or Krux).
History
Represents the first time Kai’s suit utilized this specific shade of dark red as a primary color, moving away from the bright 'Fire Red' of previous years.
Interesting Facts
The gold symbol on his mask is the Ninjargon character for 'K'. The suit is often referred to by fans as the 'S7 suit'.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the Vermillion warriors or in a 'Dawn of Iron Doom' diorama. Use a transparent stand to simulate a jumping fire-attack pose.
Modification Potential
The dark red legs and torso are excellent for 'purist' customs of medieval warriors or other darker-themed armored characters.
Overall Assessment
A solid, well-designed figure that captures the gritty aesthetic of Season 7. Excellent for play and a staple for any Ninjago character collection.