Developed in the 1950s as an efficient way to display numbers and symbols electronically in scientific instruments and early computers, Nixie tubes are the OG digital display tech. Inside each tube are ten individual cathodes (numbers 0–9), and when voltage is applied, the neon gas surrounding the selected cathode glows, forming a crisp number. While the technology is long obsolete, unused backstock tubes are still available in limited quantities, mostly from suppliers in Eastern Europe. (I bought mine from a seller in Ukraine.)

I found a compact, ready-to-assemble PCB for Nixie clocks that only required some basic soldering, so I ordered seven boards. I knew I’d need at least a simple stand to prop up the clocks, so I decided to build a minimalist wood case with a subtle mid-century vibe – something that complements the retro-futuristic charm of the tubes.

My friend Eric has a Glowforge and generously offered to show me the ropes of laser cutting. Based on measurements taken from an assembled PCB, I designed a basic case layout in Adobe Illustrator. Design considerations included an easy-to-open structure and an adjustable stand to prop the clock at an ideal viewing angle. We prototyped the design in MDF, then cut the final cases in walnut. There was plenty of trial and error along the way, but I’m pleased with how the clocks turned out, and energized by the idea of tackling more projects like this where I can combine mid-century design aesthetics with low stress electronics projects.