Custom ESP32 Watch
This DIY wearable device uses a 1.69-inch IPS display and custom 3D-printed case.
Project inspiration comes in many forms. In this case, M_F_T lost his watch and decided it would be more interesting to build – instead of purchasing – a new timepiece. What he came up with looks very clean, and features a 1.69-inch screen to show the time, an image, or whatever else it is programmed to display in the future.
The DIY wearable is based around an ESP32-WROOM32-D (4MB) Wi-Fi module for processing along with an ST7789V 1.69-inch, 240x280 pixel color IPS screen. It uses a MOSFET to control the backlight brightness, a LiPo for power, a voltage regulator, and several other assorted components onboard to allow it to function. Four buttons provide user input.
M_F_T designed the watch body using CorelDRAW for the initial size considerations, then modeled it in SolidWorks. It was then printed in resin in order to meet the required tolerances. The strap is a purchased 22mm model by Xiaomi, which fits in quite nicely.
M_F_T also designed and documented a charging module for the watch. However, he is quick to note that other commercial LiPo charging modules would work as well. Even so, it’s a neat element to the project, and it should give him insight into possible future projects that would require a custom charging solution.
Design files, code, and further build information can be found in the project writeup, in addition to M_F_T’s thoughts on what could still be improved. While he didn’t include functionality to sync the watch’s time via NTP, after two weeks of testing it drifted less than a single second!