# Bare-Bones LED Timepieces The Solder: Time II is a DIY Watch Designed to be Hacked By Michael Hines | Published 2012-08-28 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/solder-time-ii References: [technabob](http://technabob.com/blog/2012/08/27/solder-time-2-hackable-watch/) & [makershed](http://www.makershed.com/Solder_Time_II_Watch_Kit_p/mkskl14.htm?Click=37845) You need to be fairly tech-savvy to get the most out of the Solder: Time II. This [geeky watch](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dwn5600-nano-ring) from Maker Shed is designed to be hacked. The Arduino-based interface can be programmed to [display games](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tetris-watch), make custom sounds and display messages. Programming the Solder: Time II watch isn't as easy as hooking it up to your computer via USB and writing fun messages using a word application. You'll need some knowledge of programming to get the most out of this watch. You'll need some DIY skills as well to build this timepiece. A [soldering iron](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-soldering-iron), solder and flush cutters are needed to piece the Solder: Time II together. If you really enjoy DIY projects and programming, then for $59, this watch can be yours. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.7/10 - Popularity: 19% | Activity: 24% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **DIY Timepieces:** The trend of DIY and customizable timepieces is growing rapidly, creating a disruptive innovation opportunity for brands to cater to those looking for personalized products. - **Programmable Watches:** As more consumers become comfortable with programming, the trend of programmable watches offers an opportunity for brands to create streamlined and user-friendly products. - **Tech-savvy Accessories:** The trend of wearable tech highlights a desire for tech-savvy accessories that serve dual purposes, providing an opportunity for brands to create innovative products that cater to this market. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Consumer Electronics:** The consumer electronics industry can leverage the trend of DIY and customizable timepieces to create product lines targeted toward tech-savvy consumers. - **Fashion:** The fashion industry can use the trend of wearable tech to create accessories that serve a dual purpose, catering to consumers looking for products that are both fashionable and functional. - **Gaming:** The gaming industry can utilize the trend of programmable watches to create new gaming experiences that expand beyond traditional consoles or devices. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [DIY Wristwatch Kits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mechanical-wristwatch-building-kit.md) - [Liquid Droplet DIY Watches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/droplet-watch.md) - [Watch Movement DIY Kit](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/seiko-nh36.md) - [Robotic-Themed Retro Timepieces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/airo-led.md) - [Retro Gaming Wearables](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/space-invaders-my-play-watch.md) - [Angular Automobile-Inspired Timepieces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/benly-design-s3000-cyber-watch.md) - [Interactive Horology Kits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/perse-fantme.md) - [Multiple Dice-Inspired Digital Watches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/d20-digital-watch.md) - [Tubular Illuminating Clocks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/spacetime-blade.md)