A Cyberpunk Pocketwatch
Originally published on hackaday.com by avarre Bartz on 20 November 2024
Abe’s “Lock’n’Watch” is a fascinating exploration of an alternate timeline where pocket watches evolved into the 1980s cyberpunk aesthetic rather than fading into obscurity. Inspired by the bold, utilitarian designs of retro Casio sports watches, this modern take uses contemporary tech to evoke a vintage feel.
The heart of the project is a 1.28″ round Seeed Studio display paired with a Raspberry Pi 2040 XIAO microcontroller. The watch’s interface is designed to mimic the segmented display style characteristic of the era, complete with a color palette reminiscent of retro web design.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the build is the enclosure. Abe iteratively designed the bezel and case, capturing the chunky and futuristic look of cyberpunk devices. The process included experimentation with design software like Blender, TinkerCAD, and Fusion360, with Abe sharing insights into their different strengths and workflows. The enclosure ties together the retro and futuristic themes, culminating in a pocketwatch that feels both anachronistic and ahead of its time.
During development, Abe faced and resolved hardware challenges, including a flickering display issue, showcasing the persistence and problem-solving required for DIY electronics projects. The finished Lock’n’Watch is not just a functioning timepiece but also a statement piece that could easily complement a cyberdeck setup.
This project demonstrates the creative potential of blending old-world concepts with new-world tech, offering a fresh take on what pocketwatches might have become in a cyberpunk-inspired past.
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