Watchy: open-source ESP32 e-ink smartwatch
An open-source smartwatch with a 1.54in e-paper screen and ESP32, hackable watch faces in Arduino.
Difficulty:BeginnerCost:Under $15Source available
Illustration
Key Facts
- Chip: ESP32 (original)
- Display: 1.54in 200x200 e-paper
- Power: LiPo, deep-sleep between refreshes
- Framework: Arduino / PlatformIO
About This Project
Watchy is an open hardware smartwatch built around an ESP32 and a 200x200 e-paper display. Because e-paper only draws power when it refreshes, the watch can run for days on a small LiPo, and the community has produced hundreds of custom watch faces. Firmware is written with the Arduino framework, and the board exposes buttons, a vibration motor, an RTC and an accelerometer for step counting. It is sold as a kit, but the PCB and case files make it a good reference design for any low-power e-ink wearable.
Source & Attribution
How to Build It
A quick-start guide based on the project documentation
- 1Clone or download the project from GitHub
- 2Review the README for required libraries and wiring diagrams
- 3Install the development environment (Arduino IDE or PlatformIO)
- 4Wire the components according to the project schematic
- 5Configure Wi-Fi credentials in the source code if needed
- 6Build and upload the firmware to your ESP32
This is a summarized guide based on common patterns for this type of project. Always check the original repository for complete and up-to-date instructions. View full README
Parts List (BOM)
Partial parts list
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| Part | Qty | Role | Est. Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Watchy kit (ESP32 + 1.54in e-paper PCB) Sold as a complete kit by SQFMI | 1 | main board | — | — |
| 1 | power | $4–$10 | View |
Estimated Total$4–$10 USD
Not included: 3D-printed case, wire, solder, USB cable
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