DIY ESP32 smartwatch with OLED display and brass case, Digi Mart USA News: A DIY smartwatch project by modder Huy Vector shows that a homemade wearable can be built for less than $10 in components, according to a publisher report published by Notebookcheck. The build is positioned as a cheaper alternative to basic commercial fitness bands such as the Xiaomi Band 11 Active, which the report notes sells for $36 on Amazon.
The watch 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 charges through the board’s USB-C port. The modder provides a list of components with links on the project website, and the firmware is available free of charge.
The project is described as time-consuming and requiring soldering experience and familiarity with setting up ESP32 development boards. The brass tube case gives the device an unusual steampunk appearance.
Because the case is open, the watch is not fully waterproof, although a water-repellent coating allowed it to survive a brief immersion in a glass of water during a test.
When paired with the NWatch firmware, the device connects to a smartphone over Bluetooth to synchronise the time and display incoming notifications and calls. The firmware includes several watch faces.
Technical details for anyone wishing to replicate the build are available on Huy Vector’s website.
