'nixoid next': an up-to-date wristwatch with neon-filled glass tubes for numerical display

after the first launch of  ‘nixoid classic’ watch, the designers introduce ‘nixoid next’, an up-to-date round-faced wristwatch that features two nixie tubes for numerical display. nixie tubes (AKA cold cathode displays) are neon-filled glass tubes that use gas discharge to emit a warm, orange glow from shaped wires. it is a different way to display time as well as a symbol of an era filled with unprecedented scientific and engineering breakthroughs. the new model has received a tilt sensor, a more capacious battery, and a magnetic charging connector. all images courtesy of nixoid lab

nixoid lab sought to bring this special technology into people’s everyday life as an expressive accessory that can be worn anywhere. although modern technology has rendered nixie tubes obsolete, the designers are still fascinated with the character of the layered numerals and enchanting glow. in an attempt to craft a harmony of modern and vintage, they give nixies new life in a modern form.

‘nixoid’ watch has a clean and bold design, while its sleek look and unusual display make it distinctive yet understated. furthermore, ‘nixoid next’ is the world’s first dual-core tube wristwatch; it has two cores, a separate core is responsible for processing only accelerometer data. this technical solution made it possible to improve the autonomy and accuracy of the accelerometer.

the watch is made of durable weapon-grade aluminum alloy by milling from one piece of metal using high-precision CNC equipment. as such, it has become even thinner and lighter, only 16.9mm thick. the top of the watch is covered with a sapphire crystal, with a hardness of 9h. the glass has a high hardness and can’t be scratched. ‘nixoid next’ is available in four colors: deep black, polished classic, mars red, military green, now on kickstarter.

project info:

name: nixoid next

designer: nixoid lab

‘nixoid next’ is available now in kichstarter

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edited by: christina petridou | designboom