DIY solid wood RGB Nixie-style clock, 6 tubes - FILAMENT

No, and we prefer to say it clearly. Real Nixie tubes are neon-filled glass bulbs whose digit-shaped cathodes light up under a voltage of about 170 volts. They are almost no longer manufactured. This clock reproduces their aesthetic with LEDs that illuminate digits placed in transparent tubes. The visual result is very close, with that orange glow that seems to float, but the operation is much simpler: low USB voltage, no gas, no cathode wear, and the ability to change colors. It is a choice of comfort and safety for daily use.

No. The clock is delivered as a simple kit: the wooden base accommodates the six tube capsules, and a screwdriver is provided. There is no soldering or wiring to perform based on the contents provided: it is about installing the tubes into their spots by following the manual. Expect a few minutes, working on a clean, flat surface. We advise against over-tightening the screws to preserve the wood and transparent parts. Assembly can be done by a teenager with supervision; small parts must remain out of reach of young children during the operation.

The clock runs on an external USB power supply using the included cable. You can plug it into the USB port of a computer, a monitor, or a classic wall USB charger, like those used for phones; this charger is not included. It does not run on batteries and does not contain a battery: it must therefore remain plugged in to display the time. As the retention of the time after a power outage is not specified by the manufacturer, plan to check the setting if you unplug it to move it.

Three functions share the display on the six tubes. The time, of course, in hours, minutes, and seconds. The date, to keep an eye on the calendar without taking out your phone. And a timer, practical for pacing a work session, monitoring a tea steep, or timing a challenge between friends. Timekeeping is entrusted to a real-time clock (RTC) chip, a dedicated component that ensures good consistency. The details of the adjustment controls and switching between functions are given in the manual provided with the clock.

Yes. By default, the digits light up in a warm orange, the iconic hue of the original Nixie displays. Since the lighting is provided by RGB LEDs, the clock can also display different colors, allowing you to match it to mood lighting, a gaming desk, or simply the mood of the moment. The manufacturer does not disclose the exact list of available shades; the manual details the process for switching between colors. For an authentic vintage rendering, we recommend keeping it orange, which is particularly elegant with the light wood of the base.

We offer three Nixie-effect clocks with distinct personalities. FILAMENT is the most compact (237 mm, 385 g) and the only one delivered as a DIY kit, on a light solid wood base, featuring time, date, and a timer. Our oval base clock comes in wood effect, black, or white and focuses on animated light effects (rainbow, breathing, gradient). Finally, our large walnut model, 33 cm long, cultivates a retro workshop look with its orange digits. Choose FILAMENT if you enjoy the pleasure of assembly and small formats.

Maintenance is minimal. Unplug the USB cable first, then dust the tubes and base with a dry, soft cloth, such as microfiber. Avoid household cleaners, alcohol, and sprays, which could dull the transparent parts or mark the wood. For the base, an occasional wipe with a cloth very lightly treated with wood oil can revive the shade, avoiding any contact with electronic parts. Place the clock away from direct sunlight, humidity, and heat sources, which can cause the wood to warp and alter the legibility of the digits.