Kai - Hands of Time (Sons of Garmadon Style Mask)
njo273 · Ninjago
Hands of Time / Sons of Garmadon (Cross-Season Configuration) · 2017 (Torso/Legs) / 2018 (Headgear)
Figure ID
njo273
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2017 (Torso/Legs) / 2018 (Headgear)
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While the torso and legs are for a specific 2017 sub-theme, the use of the newer dual-molded mask suggests a later 'legacy' or mixed set release.
Head
Yellow classic skin tone with angry eyebrows and a small scar over the eye. Features a dual-molded red and black wrap-around mask (introduced in the Sons of Garmadon wave).
Torso
Red torso with 'Hands of Time' printing: black chainmail armor, a dark brown sash, and a small gold lion/ninja emblem. One arm is red, the other is yellow (bare) representing the sleeveless look.
Legs
Red legs with dark red and black printed details continuing the 'Hands of Time' armor plating and belt motif.
Accessories
Includes a black shoulder armor piece with dual scabbards on the back holding two silver katanas. The figure is also holding a small silver dagger/kunai in its hand.
Color Scheme
Primary Red with black and dark brown accents. Hits of metallic silver in the printing and accessories, with a pop of yellow from the bare arm.
Printing Details
High-detail pad printing on the torso (front and back) and front of the legs. The mask is dual-molded rather than printed for the color separation.
Variants
Standard 'Hands of Time' Kai (njo273) usually features a different wrap. This version uses the 'Sons of Garmadon' (njo391) style headgear.
Condition Notes
Check the 'scar' printing on the face for rubbing. The katanas are prone to bending or white stress marks if played with roughly. Torso side-cracks are a known issue with red plastic from this era.
Estimated Value
Used Complete: $4.00 - $7.00 USD. New: $10.00+ USD. The value is relatively stable as Kai is a main protagonist and frequently produced.
Price (New)
Originally available in sets ranging from $9.99 (70621 The Vermillion Attack) to $159.99 (70627 Dragon's Forge).
Compatible Sets
70621 The Vermillion Attack, 70627 Dragon's Forge, and various Ninjago accessory packs.
Character Background
Kai is the Elemental Master of Fire and a core member of the Ninja team. This specific outfit represents his look during the battle against the Time Twins, Acronix and Krux.
Design Notes
This figure marked a transition toward more asymmetrical designs in Ninjago, specifically featuring the 'one sleeve' look and more complex belt layering.
Similar Minifigures
Hands of Time Nya (njo278), Sons of Garmadon Kai (njo391), and Legacy Kai (njo493).
Collectibility
Moderate. Collectors aiming for a 'Hall of Armor' display need every seasonal variant of Kai, making this a staple but common addition.
History
The Hands of Time wave (2017) was the last season before the 'Movie' design changes significantly altered the characters' facial appearances in 2018.
Interesting Facts
The 'bare arm' on this figure is a frequent point of customization for fans to represent different battle-damaged versions of the character.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on a black or red stand next to the 'Fire Mech' or alongside the other five original Ninja in their 2017 attire.
Modification Potential
Excellent for 'purist' MOCs. The yellow arm is a great part for creating custom 'casual' or 'training' ninja variants.
Overall Assessment
A solid, quintessentially 'Ninjago' figure. It captures the action-oriented aesthetic of the middle-eras of the theme with great printing and iconic accessories.