The SQFMI Watchy is a fully open-source, hackable ePaper watch based on the ESP32 with a crisp, glare-free 1.54" 200x200 ePaper display which can be programmed using the Arduino IDE and lots of your favourite Arduino/ESP libraries!
Watchy has built-in WiFi and Bluetooth via the ESP32-PICO-D4 microcontroller, a 3-axis accelerometer, real-time clock, vibration motor, four tactile buttons, Micro-USB port with a built-in USB-serial adapter and a LiPo connector for the included LiPo battery. All you need is a computer, coffee and a Micro-USB cable!
In the box, you'll find the main Watchy PCB, ePaper display, LiPo battery, injection-moulded case, watch strap (two parts) and a strip of double-sided tape.
Lots of example software is available along with many community examples. Resources are dotted around the internet, so we've collated all the useful links you'll need below in the resources section (you're welcome). We'd really recommend jumping on the Watchy Discord server for discussion and assistance (don't be lazy, use the search function - it helped us loads!).
We're shipping the latest V2 version because we're only about the new things. Keep your VHS and MiniDisc player, we want no part of it!
Lithium Battery Shipping: Due to courier restrictions, this product can only be shipped within England/Wales. With this item in your cart your shipping options will be limited and may cost more than our usual rates. Why?
Who is Watchy for?
Someone on the Watchy Discord quite accurately stated "Watchy should be considered a development platform first, and a watch second"...
After using a Watchy ourselves for the past few weeks, we think you'll get the most out of Watchy if you're already familiar with the Arduino IDE, C/C++ programming and related concepts, allowing you to pick up and understand the example code easily and start customising.
If you haven't used the Arduino IDE before and/or are new to coding, you might struggle (you're probably better off starting with an Arduino starter kit). That being said, if you just want a watch with hardcore geek appeal and are happy to use the standard code without changing it, that's fine too - charge it, tweak a couple of bits, use it and look damn cool!
Assembly is required!
Our tips before you dive in
Be CAREFUL with the display, especially when fitting to a case
Don't apply pressure on it with your huge human hands, it's glass don't you know!
Charge the watch fully before starting
If you're using Windows you might need to install CP drivers before Watchy will be recognised
Bluetooth OTA updates aren't working but there are other ways - just ignore that menu item
You'll need to edit the code to set the right network time. A handy list of UTC offsets can be found here for that task
Fitting the buttons to the case with the watch is fiddly but these things are sent to test us. We believe in you. You can do it!
We're shipping the latest V2 version. You may Google some things which relate to the V1/V1.5 which had slightly different hardware. Just be aware.
OMG Watchy Accessories!
We're stocking lots of superb SQFMI Watchy accessories allowing you to look even cooler than the person next to you who is also wearing a Watchy (it's rare but it might happen...). It's ruthless watchy oneupmanship and we don't want you looking second best, OK?
Here's a big bucket of links in no particular order that we found whilst playing with the Watchy. It was a journey. Grab your beverage of choice and spend some time looking through these, then thank us later...
Tip: When Googling late into the night for Watchy stuff, be aware that there was an earlier version of Watchy with different hardware. We're shipping the latest V2.
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