Redesigned Case for the Open Source Watchey Smartwatch

The case is significantly slimmer than the original. See the photos for a comparison to the original case.The battery is the original Watchey battery and is concealed in a bevel on the back of the smartwatch, enhancing its slim appearance.

Please note that this is a work in progress and still requires a lot of refinement, but it is fully functional. To attach the straps, you need to manually create a small hole or dimple using either a small drill bit or a pointed file.

While I am very happy with this case, the project is not for the faint-hearted. By design, this case is a very snug fit for the Watchey, and fitting the watch can be quite fiddly. There is a risk of permanently damaging your Watchey during the fitting process, particularly the on-board buttons. You print and use this case at your own risk, and I cannot take responsibility if you break your Watchey.

Benefits of This Case

The buttons fit snugly and don’t rattle when moving your wrist, unlike the original case that came with the Watchey. They also press reliably onto the button contacts, ensuring the watch registers presses every time. Previously, I experienced non-responsive presses and assumed it was a software problem, but this new case seems to have resolved that issue.

The main improvements over the last design are:

Strengthening throughout the entire chassisImproved tolerances, leaving fewer gaps in the case and reducing the space for dust to enterFully functional, reliable buttonsReduced depth by an additional 0.2mm

Areas for Improvement in the Next Design

Incorporate a screen protector into the case

Further reduce open gaps where dust could enter

Possibly incorporate a magnetic USB insert into the case charge port

Write a full smartwatch operating system to make this a genuinely useful smartwatch

Building Instructions(These are not comprehensive but give you the overall steps)

• Print the top, bottom, and battery cover.
• With a small file and sandpaper, file the button holes gently until they are a perfect fit for the original Watchey buttons.
• Glue the battery cover to the back of the bottom part. (Use a strong glue suitable for your chosen print material.)
• With a small drill bit or file, make four small holes for the strap metal bar. Test the strap to ensure it fits well and holds securely.
• Remove the straps to make the next steps easier.
• Place the four original Watchey buttons into the holes.
• Carefully place the battery and motherboard of the Watchey into the watch. Pay close attention to the buttons, ensuring they align correctly. Do not use force.
• Hold the motherboard in place and carefully test all buttons.
• Apply a small amount of glue around the top edge and tabs of the top face.
• Press the top face of the watch in place, making sure the screen lines up nicely. Do not apply force to the screen.

Good luck and enjoy your Watchey!

...I miss my Pebble.