Key Takeaways
1. The EVT-01 is a sophisticated upgrade of the Casio F-91W, featuring a CNC-machined aluminum casing and sapphire crystal, appealing to those wanting a more premium feel.
2. Unlike typical DIY mods, the EVT-01 is handcrafted in Rome, influenced by custom car culture, making it a unique artisanal product.
3. The Kickstarter campaign reflects a niche market interest, with over $12,000 pledged towards its $18,735 goal, indicating excitement among collectors.
4. The EVT-01 is priced at $250, significantly higher than the original F-91W, due to its handcrafted nature and premium materials used.
5. Plans for future updates include customizable interchangeable front plates, responding to positive feedback from early backers.
For many years, the Casio F-91W (currently priced at $21 on Amazon) has been a symbol of digital watches – affordable, light, and nearly unbreakable. Its design can be seen on both fashion catwalks and the wrists of truck drivers alike. However, with the introduction of the EVT-01 on Kickstarter, a pair of Italian watchmakers believe that some enthusiasts might be ready for something a tad more… sophisticated.
What’s New Here?
So what’s the deal? The EVT-01 essentially remains a Casio F-91W – it has the same movement and familiar display. The notable changes lie in its surroundings. Instead of the usual plastic and resin, you get a CNC-machined and anodized aluminum casing, a sapphire crystal, and meticulous craftsmanship that most digital watches lack. This is a niche modification for those who appreciate the Casio aesthetic but desire a more tactile experience that doesn’t feel disposable – something that stands out subtly.
The Unique Appeal
That was one of my first thoughts when I came across the EVT-01. After all, there are plenty of Casio modders out there – metal cases, customized dials, and strap changes have been around for ages. We recently talked about the Ollee Watch mod, which is basically the opposite of the EVT-01 (same watch, different custom design). What makes the EVT-01 distinct is its concept: it’s not just a quick DIY kit or a simple upgrade from eBay. Everything is rebuilt and refinished in Rome, heavily influenced by custom car culture and Italian artistry. There’s even an exclusive violet version with titanium screws for those wanting to go all-in on collecting.
Pricing and Response
If the starting Kickstarter price of $250 made you raise your eyebrows, you’re not alone. The original F-91W typically sells for $20-$25, and even the most premium mass-market metal mod kits rarely exceed $150. Still, a significant number of people find it appealing, as seen in the Kickstarter’s progress – $12,229 has been pledged towards the $18,735 target as of this writing. Early images shared from Reddit to various watch communities showcase considerable excitement and backing. The feedback thus far indicates that there’s a niche, albeit a small one, for an artisanal take on the F-91W.
Below are the questions I asked the EVT-01 team, along with their responses untouched. This is exactly how our conversation unfolded:
Q1. What kind of feedback have you gotten from early backers or users, and how do you plan to use that feedback for future updates or iterations?
A: We were surprised by the initial feedback. We knew the EVT-01 looked good and was well-designed, but once we launched it, the user response across different social media was really positive, creating lots of hype. We think we’ve managed to make waves in the digital watch scene. Regarding future updates: We’re looking into adding interchangeable front plates to the Casio, which would let users customize their watches even more.
Q2. Your project mentions CNC-machined anodized aluminum and a sapphire crystal – how did you choose these materials?
A: We’ve been in the watch-making business for several years, using materials like carbon fiber, anodized aluminum, and sapphire crystal throughout our range. Aerospace-grade aluminum, in particular, is lightweight and very durable – perfectly in line with our goal of making watches that feel light on the wrist. From the first time you wear one of our watches, it should feel exceptional.
Q3. Given the current Kickstarter price of around $250, how can you justify the cost compared to other modders or upgraded models, especially since the base F-91W is just $20-$25?
A: The EVT-01 is our first digital watch, made through a handmade process that’s far from mass production. Inside, it has a movement that costs only 20 euros, but it’s not just any movement: it’s the Casio F91W, the most iconic digital watch ever. For us, the overall product is what gives the EVT-01 its true worth. What differentiates us from others is the artisanal touch we add to every watch that leaves our workshop.
The Kickstarter campaign for the EVT-01 offers several reward tiers, all limited in availability and shipping worldwide starting March 2026. Early bird packages include single and double-watch bundles, with prices from €220 (~$257) for first backers to €300 (~$350) for the Kickstarter-exclusive “Glossy Violet” edition. Each watch features a CNC-machined anodized aluminum case, sapphire crystal, 100 meters of water resistance, and the Casio F-91W movement. The special editions are limited – one violet edition has only 20 units, while grey and bronze versions are available in runs of 30 or 50 each. Every watch comes with a two-year warranty and at least one extra strap.
You could say the EVT-01 is an over-engineered F-91W, and you wouldn’t be wrong (mostly). For many, the original $20 version is still the best value in watches. But for a smaller group who already knows the story and desires something unique, the EVT-01 offers genuine craftsmanship, a niche appeal, and an Italian twist on a classic favorite. Whether or not you believe a digital Casio deserves this much attention, the EVT-01 makes a compelling argument for treating timeless design with more care and creativity.
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