At its core, a wristwatch serves the fundamental function of indicating the time, a task that virtually any watch fulfills competently. It is in the visual appeal and additional features beyond timekeeping where a watchmaker can truly differentiate their creation. Horologist and digital artisan [Eric Min] placed emphasis on these aspects in his creation of the Chronometer Mk.8, blending sophisticated design with straightforward, offline smartwatch capabilities.
Driving the functioning of the watch is a Microchip ATSAMD21G18 energy-efficient 32-bit microcontroller. Chosen by [Eric] for its impressive performance, user-friendliness, and an array of built-in peripherals, including a real-time clock. With the basic timekeeping function duly handled, he proceeded to integrate multiple practical sensors: a battery level monitor for overseeing the 40 mAh rechargeable lithium cell, a three-axis accelerometer for motion detection, and an environmental sensor for monitoring temperature, humidity, and pressure.
The diverse operations are controlled using four tactile switches alongside a 16-notch rotary encoder positioned centrally. The design concept behind the watch draws inspiration from Formula 1 steering wheels, as well as diverse sports cars and entertainment franchises like Neon Genesis Evangelion and Akira. [Eric] explored various display options before opting for two four-digit seven-segment LCDs, seamlessly complementing the retro-futuristic theme of the Mk.8. The vintage vibe is so pronounced that [Eric]’s mock 1980s magazine advertisement appears convincingly authentic.
All components intricately integrate on a dual-layer PCB, presenting a genuine work of art. From the lightning motif on the facade to the discreetly imprinted Frank Sinatra lyrics, the watch undoubtedly distinguishes itself amidst the sea of commonplace LCD wristwatches. It represents a substantial upgrade from [Eric]’s prior watch creation, the Chronometer Mk.IV.
Over the years, several instances have surfaced where a minimalistic PCB, or a stack of them, evolve into a splendid wristwatch.
