I’ve designed 3 versions of this clock: IV-6, IV-22, IV-12 and IV-3. This cute little variant of the Flora clock is based around 6 small IV-3 VFD tubes. and ESP8266 to manage it all. The USB connector is not there just for power but also for programming and debugging if needed. It’s basically a NodeMCU / D1 Mini in disguise as a clock :)

The case is snap-on (screwless), printed from PLA (stardust blue color) and easily replaceable if needed. It makes for very unique and distinctive look. I also printed another case in volcano black which I'll include for free.

This is the only prototype of the IV-3 clock I personally assembled and I won't be making more so it's really one of its kind. Designing these clocks took me forever, so by buying this, you are also supporting future fun projects like this :)

Or... make it! Everything to make the clock including 3D model is also available at the github page. So if you’re skilled and want a challenge, feel free to make one! And if you do, please share your make on Flora's thingiverse page, I would love to see it!

Highlights

• Small footprint and super low profile
• Clean design with no buttons
• Invisible colons made of 2x 6 WS2812 addressable leds
• 100hz @ 6bit pwm using HW ISR timer, zero flicker and not affected by wifi activity
• Brightness setting
• Each segment driven directly, not multiplexed
• Simple yet powerful web-config portal (see screenshot)
• NTP based, not RTC... Connect to wifi and you're done
• Daylight saving (summer time) support built in and super simple to set up
• MicroUSB connector, below 500mA power consumption on 5V on full brightness

Imporant notes

• The photos can be deceiving but the digits are perfectly readable and crisp during daytime, stunning at night!
• Don’t let the good looks of the clock fool you, it’s still a 3D-printed and hand-soldered DIY thing with all its small caveats! Each clock is unique and made with love :)
• Even though I do my best to align the digits, the VFD tubes were hand-made back in the day, they can differ a bit in shape, numbers are not perfectly aligned etc. The Soviets valued functionality over design perfection… This is part of the old world magic but also can trigger your OCD so double and triple check the photos before you buy!

What you get

• Assembled and tested Flora IV-3 VFD clock