12.15.2005
The "Nixie Watch" By David Forbes
"David Forbes has created the smallest Nixie watch I've ever stumbled across. In true DIY engineer style, he built his little contraption around a Microchip PIC controller..He claims that two CR2 batteries will power this thing for four months, although it functions like the LED watches of yore -- press a button to light the display. Available as a limited edition for $395.I've mentioned Nixies before; here's my "standard" description of these little critters: Nixies are neon-filled glass tubes that were often used to display numeric information in the days before LCDs and LEDs. They usually contain ten cathodes in the shape of the numbers 0 through 9, and a wire mesh anode. When electricity is passed between one of the cathodes and the anode, the corresponding number shines with an odd orangey-red glow. Be sure to check out Forbes' Nixie Watch Story for a fascinating look at the development of this unique watch.." [Via cathodecorner.com]
The PimpWiz.com Botttom Line: The jury is still out on this watch being cool. It could go either way. What do you think?
