Smartwatch with OLED display in brass frame costs tinkerers less than $10
Basic smartwatches like the Xiaomi Band 11 Active ($36 on Amazon) are already relatively inexpensive. With a new ESP32 smartwatch, Huy Vector DIY now shows that building a smartwatch yourself can be even cheaper. All the components used can be ordered for under $10, and a list with links can be found on the modder's website.
As the video embedded below shows, the project is time-consuming and requires experience using a soldering iron and setting up ESP32 development boards, with Huy Vector providing the firmware free of charge. The smartwatch is based on an ESP32-C3 Super Mini development board, paired with a 1.3-inch OLED display, a three-way button and a 3.7-volt battery that can be charged via the development board's USB-C port.
The brass tube case gives the smartwatch an unusual steampunk look. However, the open case also means that the watch is not fully waterproof, although a water-repellent coating did allow it to survive a brief immersion in a glass of water during a test.
Combined with the NWatch firmware, this DIY smartwatch can connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth to synchronize the time and display incoming notifications and calls. The firmware includes several watch faces. Anyone who would like to try building a DIY smartwatch themselves can find plenty of technical information about this project on Huy Vector's website.
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