A replica of the watch featured in the Metro 2033 video game, created using donor watch and electronics
The watch was inspired by Metro 2033 Last Light, during the period when the Redux editions had renewed interest in the series. I was already heavily drawn to post-apocalyptic worlds, and the overlap between Metro, S.T.A.L.K.E.R., and Fallout strongly influenced both my personal builds and the direction of the StAlkErS live-action roleplay events. This project sits at the start of that trajectory.
Rather than chasing a perfect screen replica, the intent was to create a believable survivor object that would feel correct in-world and hold up under real use.
The watch needed to pass the “distance test”. If it looked right from a few metres away and felt functional on the wrist, it had done its job. An analogue display was a deliberate choice, avoiding modern UI elements that would undermine immersion. The base watch selection was critical, and finding a Fossil Q Explorist that could be convincingly transformed made the entire project viable.
This was one of my earlier builds using resin printing, including clear resin tinted with pigment. It was also produced at a time when I was still working primarily in FreeCAD, which led to several fit and finish iterations. None of these issues were catastrophic, but they reinforced the importance of tolerances, material choice, and test fitting when designing wearable props.
The full technical build process is documented in detail on Instructables: Metro 2033 Last Light – Analog Survivor Watch
The finished watch was worn at an early StAlkErS event as part of my Doctor character kit. It functioned as both costume detail and practical prop, which is often the hardest balance to strike. Player reactions were immediate and positive, with several people asking where it came from or whether it could be made again.
Looking back, the main compromises were comfort and power. Two button cells in a rigid holder against the wrist worked, but it is not how I would approach it today. Modern micro batteries and cleaner strap integration would be the obvious improvements.
A second iteration is planned using a CNC-machined aluminium case and a faux-Nixie display. The parts are ready, but it sits mid-priority among current projects. The analogue version remains complete, and a solid early marker of where my prop work was heading.
Replica of the injector device from the Metro 2033 game (Exodus DLC), built using 3D printed parts and electronics.
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