Cathode Corner Nixie Tube Watch Review

Are you looking for a retro tech gift for that geeky special someone? Maybe a gift for yourself? I recently stumbled upon a very special item that cannot be found in any store. I actually came across the item by accident, but was pleasantly surprised at what I had found .

The Nixie tube watch is a combination of new and old technology. The designer has found a way to use old Nixie tubes and place them inside a watch case to make a very cool watch. Nixie tubes were used in calculators during the 1960s, but were quickly replaced by the cheaper LCD displays that were introduced soon after. Nixie tubes quickly became a forgotten technology of the past. The watch contains two of these tubes to show digits at once. To view the time you simply set the watch to flash the time when you move your wrist to a certain angle. There are two very small buttons inside the watch so you can set the time, set it to 12 or 24 hour mode, and set the viewing angle. The case is made of black anodized aluminum (no choice of colors) and a black leather strap is included. The battery is a large CR2 battery (Commonly used in cameras). To access the battery and buttons, you simply unscrew the top of the case, no tools are required and no worry about losing any small screws.

This watch is not for everyone though. This thing is a beast at about 2 or 3 times the size of a normal watch. For something that only tells time it boasts a hefty price tag, coming to be at $410 (Shipping Included). Also the watch is only available for a certain period of time during the year, you must then wait to the next production to purchase one. If you don't want anyone to know you're a geek, then this is not for you. This watch will get noticed, and you will be asked questions about it. It is a very nice conversation piece.

Personally, I love this watch. I did not fully comprehend how monstrous this thing is until I had received it. The size was a bit of a turn off for me a t first, but I quickly became accustomed to it. The watch was quickly noticed at work and everyone wanted to see it. The geeky retro tech qualities of the watch also intrigued me, as I am a fan of retro tech and steam-punk items. If you're looking for something to set you apart from the rest, this watch will certainly do it as it is a one-of-a-kind item.

More information about the watch (with pictures!) can be found at the maker's website at www.cathodecorner.com

Pros:
One-of-a-kind
Cool Retro tech
Big easy to read numbers

Cons:
Huge size can be cumbersome.
Can be hard to read in bright sunlight
Hefty price tag
There will be no hiding your geekiness with this watch (also a pro?).