The Blub is a compact Nixie clock designed with the same attention to detail as our larger models. It features high-quality materials, a high-precision real-time clock chip, and a USB port for updates. Built on the Arduino platform, it’s open to modification — you can even develop your own firmware.
One Digit at a Time
The Blub is a minimalist nixie clock that uses a single tube to display the entire time, digit by digit. While the concept may seem unconventional, it’s surprisingly intuitive and satisfying to watch. Behind the scenes, a high-precision real-time clock chip ensures reliable timekeeping.
| Technical specification | |
|---|---|
| Height of the clock | 150 mm |
| Power consumption | 1.25W maximum |
| Clock supply voltage | 5V DC |
| Clock connector | USB-C |
| Power adaptor voltage | 90-240V AC |
| Power adaptor plug | Matching the customer’s country |
| Clock current consumption | 250mA |
| Weight of the clock | 345g |
| Full package weight | 850g |
| Diameter of the base | 85mm |
| User manual | Blub clock User Manual |
Built for Accuracy
At the core of the clock is an ATmega328P microcontroller, paired with a DS3231 high-accuracy real-time clock chip. This combination allows the clock to operate completely independently, with no need for external time synchronization — and maintains time with a typical accuracy of ±5 seconds per month.
Controls
The clock’s user interface consists of two push buttons located on the back. Alongside them is a USB-C connector, used both for power and for accessing advanced configuration options via a serial connection.
Built to Last, Finished to Impress
The clock case is precision-milled from a solid block of aluminum, then sandblasted with fine glass beads and anodized for a durable finish. This is the same process we use for our Puri clocks — resulting in a surface that’s both visually striking and resistant to scratches.
Before we ship it to you..
For the Blub clock, we elevated our final quality inspection by developing a custom semi-automated testing fixture. Ironically, building this tool may have been more complex than developing the clock itself — but the investment pays off in long-term reliability. The fixture allows us to test all key electrical parameters as well as software functions, ensuring greater consistency and confidence in every piece we ship.
Materials and finishes
The Blub clock is available in a range of material and color combinations. The main body is always crafted from anodized aluminum, offered in either silver or black. The base of the nixie tube can be made from anodized aluminum, polished stainless steel, or stainless steel with a gold-tone finish. All materials are stable over time and resistant to tarnishing.
Available combinations:
-
Black – Black anodized body with black anodized base
-
Black – Silver – Black anodized body with polished stainless steel base
-
Black – Gold – Black anodized body with polished stainless steel base in gold finish
-
Silver – Silver anodized body with polished stainless steel base
Getting them safe to you..
Having a batch of fully tested, functional clocks is only half the story — delivering them safely to customers is just as important. Each Blub clock is packaged in a durable metal can with custom-cut foam inserts, ensuring both protection and presentation. It’s reliable, secure, and visually striking. To open it, all you need is a screwdriver.
What is the expected lifespan?
