From iPod shuffle hair clips to digital pet gadgets, the tech world is witnessing a resurgence of retro devices. Among these, the “Tamawatchi” stands out, a brilliant fusion of the vintage Tamagotchi and the modern Apple Watch.
A Creative Conception
The Tamawatchi is the brainchild of Emma Orhun, a creative tech enthusiast. Her unique concept, introduced in the summer of 2023, has made waves in the online community, with her explanatory videos garnering hundreds of thousands of views and likes.
A Crafty Creation
The Tamawatchi is built using the shell of a Tamagotchi Connection v3, a 2006 model of the popular digital pet device, and the face of the Apple Watch SE. To achieve a perfect fit, Orhun recommends carefully removing the internal electronics of the Tamagotchi and shaving down the interior using a dremel, a small handheld power tool. The Apple Watch SE can then be securely placed inside using double-sided tape.
Note: The Tamawatchi, once assembled, has limited functionality due to the inability to access the side button or rolling crown of the Apple Watch.
Cultivating a Niche
Despite its limitations, the Tamawatchi has found a niche among tech aficionados with a taste for retro styles. Some users, like Tamagotchi collector @tamagotchi.vn, have repurposed their custom “iTama” for notifications only. Others have taken a different approach, using 3D printing to create a Tamagotchi casing for their Apple Watch.
