One of the wonderful things about modern tech is the increasing possibility that you can create something yourself. Huy Vector DIY has buildable smartwatch plans that are simple enough for you to attempt yourself. Unlike the Casio Bluetooth upgrade mod, you’ll also be making… everything. Well, apart from the strap. Even that’s an optional step.
All told, if you’re scummy enough to make several new AliExpress accounts, it’s possible to buy every one of these smartwatch components for just over R500. If you’d rather go full Amazon, the same set of bits from the States will run you at least R2,550. That’s a bit high for what Huy Vector has to offer.
DIY smartwatch
The main components are an ESP32 chip and a 1.3in OLED screen. The build also requires that you construct the case. That’ll be from a series of brass tubes you’ll buy on the internet… unless you can somehow find these bits in a local store. The included circuit diagram and handy parts list (replicating the components on AliExpress or Amazon) even take the work out of sourcing your DIY smartwatch components.
Some or all of these could probably be sourced from local hobbyist stores, if you know where to look. There’s even a list of tools you’ll need for the final assembly… plus links to buy them. You can definitely find those locally.
Once your overseas package arrives, there’s a video tutorial to follow. It covers the whole build, except for the optional weave-your-own-watch-strap step we just made up. Soldering, assembly, and the inclusion of the (also done-for-you) software you’ll need for your customised smartwatch. The result wouldn’t look too out of place at a steampunk gathering — just tell the attendees it’s powered by sweat instead of the batteries inside.
The build list lacks sensors, but the main board and software supply the ESP32 watch with a Bluetooth link to your smartphone. There, you can configure the DIY armwear to show notifications and calls, and to set the current time based on your mobile device.
