Summary of AN ARDUINO WRAPPED IN AN OLED WRAPPED INSIDE AN ENIGMA POCKET WATCH
This article describes a unique project where [Simon] converted a vintage pocket watch into a digital Enigma machine. Instead of traditional mechanics, the device runs an Enigma emulator on an Arduino. The build required significant modification to fit the electronics inside the antique case, resulting in a functional retro-hip gadget that prioritizes cryptography over timekeeping.
Parts used in the Digital Enigma Pocket Watch:
- Vintage pocket watch case
- Arduino microcontroller
- Enigma emulator software
- 0.5-mm thick flexible main PCB
- Small OLED screen
- Black crinkle finish bezel
- Brass buttons
- Acid-etched brass badge with special logo
A pocket watch, tucked into a waistcoat pocket and trailing a long chain, is a retro-hip accessory. A pocket watch gutted of its mechanical innards and updated as a smart appliance might be a horological abomination, but would still be a cool hack. A pocket watch converted to a digital Enigma machine is in a class all by itself.
Very impressive workmanship, and we don’t even care that it doesn’t tell time. Need a little background on the original Enigma? [Steve Dufresne] did a great job going through the basics a while back.
- Why did Simon decide to convert old watches?
Qualified watchmakers are getting hard to come by and old watches eventually break. - What electronic component powers the new device?
The device uses an Arduino running an Enigma emulator. - How was the circuit board adapted for the case?
A 0.5-mm thick main PCB was used because it flexes to fit the contours of the case. - What display is visible through the front bezel?
A small OLED screen peeks through the front bezel. - What material covers the bezel for a retro look?
The bezel has an attractive black crinkle finish. - What features does the front cover include?
The cover includes brass buttons and an acid-etched brass badge with a profile of original Enigma rotors. - Does this modified watch tell time?
No, the project does not tell time but functions as a digital Enigma machine.
