Modeling my watch
For this lab assignment, I wanted to choose an object that wasn’t too simple to make, but I also wanted it to be something doable with my limited experience 3D modeling. I chose to model my wristwatch, which I have had for four years and is something that I use all day every day, which made this also meaningful for me. For reference, here’s a picture of my actual watch alongside the model.
Prior 3D modeling experience
Going into this project, my only experience 3D modeling was on SketchUp around 5 years ago, and while it was a long time ago, I still had a feel for the basics of the software, like the idea of making 2D shapes and extruding them, and knowing how to use tools like Orbit to navigate the view of my watch, which I found to be useful.
Difficulty
Overall, I didn’t find this task easy but it was more tedious than mentally taxing; after a while it felt as if I had a good grip on the software, but I just couldn’t get things perfectly how I wanted. One of my biggest difficulties was correctly moving or placing components in space; sometimes I would make a sketch that I thought was on the surface, but it turned out to be hovering several millimeters above, or I would try to move a piece into place only to find I was way off because of the angle I was looking at it from.
Compromises
There were several compromises I had to make when it came to the details of my watch. I wasn’t able to have the strap wrap around the dowel like it does in real life, and I also didn’t know how I would be able to put numbers on the screen of my watch. In retrospect, there are some details I could have figured out adding, like the four buttons on the watch, and the clip on the other side of the strap, but I was constrained by time. I dislike how Fusion 360 only has a limited set of colors I could make the surfaces, so I did my best but the colors aren’t very accurate.
New tools learned
One of my favorite tools I came across during this process is the Patch tool, in the surfaces menu. This allowed me to fill gaps in surfaces, and also to instantly make sketches real planes, which was helpful in a few cases. I also liked the fillet tool to make the edges more realistic on the watch.
2 thoughts on “3D Modeling Project- Modeling my Watch”
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For almost a beginner, this wristwatch is definitely a great work! I really like how you demonstrated the detailed texture of the wrist band, and I would like to apply this to my other creations. You described the compromises in a way that we can see your effort, and it makes my work look so shabby and humble. As a conclusion, you did a great job and I hope to learn more from you.
This looks terrific! The variety of colors and textures that you got is so great, although I echo what you said about the limited options available in the software. Some of the shapes of the watch are so complex-looking, too — like the green border thingy around the face. Your post is also really thorough and well-done. Thanks for the tip about the Patch tool!