Category: Other

  • 3D Printer Revolution: Prusa ColorMix for Color Printing

    3D Printer Revolution: Prusa ColorMix for Color Printing

    Key Takeaway

    – Multicolor 3D printing with affordable devices now possible without manual filament changes
    – Prusa ColorMix achieves mixed colors by stacking different colored layers in depth, not on the surface
    – Mixing ratio and number of producible colors are limited
    – Workflow simplified with settings directly in PrusaSlicer and EasyPrint
    – CMYKW set in development for more reproducible results; filament shade consistency and color-accurate monitors matter for best outcomes


    Multicolor 3D Printing Gets a Upgrade with Prusa ColorMix

    3D printing in multiple colors is now possible even with relatively affordable devices without having to change individual filaments manually. If only one print head is used, however, cutting the filament and therefore generating waste is unavoidable. Users are also naturally limited to the colors they have available as filament. Prusa ColorMix, a new system released under the MIT license, has now been introduced and could significantly simplify multicolor printing in terms of material requirements.

    How the Technology Works for Better Color Mixing

    The basic principle does not fundamentally differ from conventional two-dimensional color printing. The human eye has limited resolving power, so differently colored dots effectively blur into a mixed color. However, Prusa ColorMix does not alternate the dots across the surface but in depth. The layers stacked on top of each other then form the mixed color. There are limitations. For example, the mixing ratio cannot be freely selected, and the number of colors that can be produced this way is also limited. According to Prusa, the workflow itself has been significantly simplified, with the corresponding settings available directly in PrusaSlicer and EasyPrint.

    Development of CMYKW and Color Accuracy Considerations

    A CMYKW set is also in development, which could lead to more reproducible results. Optimal results should only be expected if the source filaments match the same shade across batches, not just the same basic color. The integrated color mixing model is intended to predict which color will actually be produced in a print. In such cases, a monitor that is not necessarily calibrated but at least reasonably color-accurate could become relevant.

    Additional Insights and Recommendation for Readers

    Prusa’s blog post is also recommended beyond the announcement itself, as it discusses various color mixing models and the insights gained during development. The system aims to make multi-color printing more accesible while reducing waste, although users must still consider filament batch consistency. Understanding these limitations helps in achieving the best possible print results.

    Sources
  • Best Budget Drone with Display Controller

    Best Budget Drone with Display Controller

    Key Takeaway

    – Affordable drone priced around $70 but only available as direct import with possible extra shipping and import fees
    – Severe limitations: control range of 330 feet, WiFi transmission, and 720p HD camera
    – Lightweight at 190g, avoiding 250g legal limit, with optical flow positioning but no GPS
    – Flight time of ~12 minutes with 60-minute charge; toy-like aerial roll feature
    – Supports smartphone connection (Android/iOS) and basic flight planning via display


    Affordable Drones and Their Limits

    There is a large selection of affordable drones, many of which are only available as direct imports. The YL01 is one such cheaper drone, with a current price of around $70. That gets customers the model with one battery. Additional shipping costs are charged. Import fees may apply depending on the buyer’s location. At first glance, the specifications are fairly decent. For this comparatively low price, customers get the drone itself and a remote control with a display.

    Transmission and Camera Constraints

    However, the transmission distance for both the control signals and the live video feed is severely limited. The specified 330 feet for the control signals is not comparable to higher-quality drones, such as those from DJI. Data transmission takes place via WiFi. According to the manufacturer, the camera offers HD resolution, meaning 720p rather than 1,080p. The takeoff weight is listed at 190 grams, so the gadget remains below the legal 250-gram limit in some regions. Optical flow positioning is supported. Accordingly, the camera’s image signals are processed for positioning.

    No GPS but Smartphone Compatability

    There is no GPS module, although this would probably not be particularly useful anyway given the short range. In practice, the drone would no longer be reachable for control signals. However, it should still be possible to draw a flight plan on the display, which the drone then follows. The drone can roll in the air, which is more of a toy feature. Flight time is listed at around 12 minutes, with charging taking 60 minutes. Accordingly, even two batteries would not allow continuous operation. A smartphone connection is possible. Both Android and iOS devices are supported.

    Battery and Pricing Details

    This drone is avalible from retailers like Banggood, with a current price of around $70 for the single battery version. Extra shipping charges may apply, and import fees can vary depending on your location. The takeoff weight is 190 grams, so it remains under the 250-gram limit in many regions. The specified 330 feet for control signals is quite short, and the WiFi based video feed is limited to 720p HD resolution. Optical flow positioning is supported, but there is no GPS module, which makes sense given the short range. The drone can perform aerial rolls, which is a fun toy feature, but flight time is only about 12 minutes with a 60 minute charge time. A smartphone connection is possible, supporting both Android and iOS devices, and you can draw a flight plan on the display for the drone to follow.


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  • PiEEG XR Real-Time Brain Activity Measurement for VR

    PiEEG XR Real-Time Brain Activity Measurement for VR

    Key Takeaway

    – PiEEG XR is an EEG-based input device for XR/VR that measures brain activity through a replacement face cushion with built-in electrodes.
    – Data is processed via ironbci at 250 data points per second with Bluetooth communication for wireless VR headset compatibility.
    – Funded through Kickstarter, targeting makers, researchers, and consumers with multiple versions (Mask, Research Kit, All-in-One) and native VRChat support.
    – Backed by expert Ildar Rakhmatulin; APIs and SDKs enable flexible use without strict manufacturer limitations.


    So, the PiEEG XR is this new interface for XR and therefore also for applications such as VR. It is essentially an input device that functions as an EEG system. The abbreviation stands for electroencephalography and ultimately refers to the measurement of brain activity. It should be noted right away that the system will be funded through a Kickstarter campaign and is not necessarily a typical consumer product, alot of people might not realise this. Instead, it is also aimed at makers and researchers. APIs and SDKs are intended to allow use in a wide range of contexts and without strict manufacturer specifications. The project is also backed by Ildar Rakhmatulin, a recognized expert in this field who has already attempted to bring other projects to market.

    Hardware and Sensing Capabilities

    At the hardware level, the PiEEG XR is essentially a replacement face cushion. Electrodes are built into it, which are then responsible for measuring brain activity. Data processing is handled by ironbci, which can record 250 data points per second, wich is quite fast. This should also enable high temporal resolution. Communication takes place via Bluetooth, which should be very practical in the era of fully wireless VR headsets such as the Pico 4 Ultra that we have already tested. The system will be available as the PiEEG XR Mask, as a research kit with ironbci and as an all-in-one version for consumers.

    Pricing and Availability Details

    • PiEEG XR Mask: This is the base model designed for makers and tinkerers, pricing details are announced via Kickstarter.
    • Research Kit with ironbci: A more advanced package for scientific studies, includes the ironbci software for high-resolution data logging.
    • All-in-One Version: A complete consumer oriented kit for those who want plug-and-play functionality, featuring native VRChat compatibility.

    Native VRChat compatibility is advertised as a key feature. This essentially means that the device can directly interface with the popular social VR platform, allowing for brain-controlled interactions wich is really impressive. The campaign will likely offer early bird discounts for backers who pledge during the first few days, though exact price tiers have yet to be fully revealed. Its important to follow the campaign closely if you are interested in this kind of neurotechnology.

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  • Foldable 300W Power Bank with Solar & Built-in Charger

    Foldable 300W Power Bank with Solar & Built-in Charger

    Key Takeaway

    – Integrated plug folds down for travel, available in US, EU, and UK versions
    – USB-C cable doubles as a lanyard; supports up to 100W transmission
    – 74 Wh capacity with up to 300W combined output; charges laptops via 140W USB-C ports
    – Solid-state design prevents thermal runaway under physical stress
    – High crowdfunding risk; $89 starting price with shipping expected in August


    A new power bank could be interesting for travelers or for anyone who wants to use a power bank without an additional charger. The Solly comes with an integrated charger and a plug. The model is offered in versions with a US, EU and UK plug. This plug simply folds down, which means it should not get in the way during transport.

    The 3.1 x 2 x 1.4-inch gadget comes with a USB-C cable

    Which also functions as a lanyard and should make it easier to carry. Up to 100 watts can be transmitted via the USB-C cable. The weight is listed as 14.1 oz. In an emergency, the built-in solar panel is also supposed to provide a certain amount of charge. According to the manufacturer, the power bank has a capacity of 74 Wh, which should be enough to fully charge typical smartphones more than once.

    It supports output of up to 300 watts

    As usual, this figure refers to the combined output across all ports. The two USB-C ports are said to deliver up to 140 watts each, which should be enough to charge laptops. USB-A can still deliver 20 watts. The Solly can be charged not only with the integrated plug but also via USB-C at up to 140 watts. This is a solid-state power bank, so it should not go into thermal runaway even under severe physical stress.

    As part of the crowdfunding campaign

    Which carries a considerable financial risk for backers, prices start at $89, with shipping scheduled for August. Users should carefully check the shipping terms. In fact, this campaign seems very ambitious to us, so the crowdfunding risk might be relatively high in this specific case.

    • Dimensions: 3.1 x 2 x 1.4 inches
    • Weight: 14.1 oz
    • Capacity: 74 Wh
    • Total output: up to 300 watts
    • USB-C output: up to 140 watts each
    • USB-A output: up to 20 watts
    • Charging input via USB-C: up to 140 watts
    • Integrated plug available in US, EU, UK versions
    • Includes foldable plug and USB-C lanyard cable
    • Built-in solar panel for emergency charging
    • Solid-state battery technology
    • Crowdfunding price: starts at $89
    • Shipping scheduled for August
    Sources
  • Run 50+ Linux Distros Online with DistroSea

    Run 50+ Linux Distros Online with DistroSea

    Key Takeaway

    – DistroSea lets users test 50+ Linux distributions and 500+ versions directly in a web browser without downloading or installing anything.
    – The platform runs operating systems in a remote virtual machine, providing a full desktop experience.
    – Privacy-friendly: users can explore local features without signing in or sharing personal data.
    – Features adjustable streaming quality for better performance on slower internet connections.
    – Creating an account adds benefits like queue skipping, ad-free sessions, and internet connectivity.


    Exploring Linux Distributions Without Installation

    After Microsoft decided that many perfectly functional Windows 10 PCs should not be eligible for Windows 11, affected users was left weighing their options. While Windows 10 continues to work, its free Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is scheduled to end on October 13, 2026, prompting some users to consider alternatives such as Linux.

    A New Way to Try Operating Systems

    For newcomers, however, choosing a Linux distribution can be overwhelming. Instead of downloading multiple ISO files, creating bootable drives, or live USBs, and testing each option individually, users can now experiment with different Linux distributions directly from a web browser using a platform called DistroSea. DistroSea’s goal is straightforward, that is, helping first-time Linux users find a distribution that suits their needs before committing to an installation.

    Broad Selection and Ease of Use

    The service currently hosts more than 50 operating systems and over 500 different versions, giving users a broad selection of environments to explore. Getting started is simple. Users only need to visit the website, select a distribution, choose a preferred version, and launch it. The operating system then loads in a remote virtual machine, allowing users to interact with it much like they would on real hardware.

    Performance and Privacy During Testing

    During testing, PearOS NiceC0re ran smoothly inside the browser, offering a surprisingly complete desktop experience. Privacy-conscious users may also appreciate that local features can be explored without signing in or sharing information from their PC. Sessions can even be continued without internet access for a limited period. Those who choose to create an account gain access to several additional features, including queue skipping, captcha-free access, ad-free sessions, increased virtual machine resources, internet connectivity, and longer session durations.

    Adjustable Streaming and Global Accessibility

    One of DistroSea’s most notable features is its adjustable streaming quality. Users can modify both stream quality and compression levels through a simple slider, making the experience more usable on slower internet connections. Accessibility is another strong point. The platform is available in six languages, including English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, and Portuguese, making Linux experimentation more approachable for users worldwide.

    Sources
  • ChatGPT Manages Your Wallet & Bank: OpenAI’s Finance Tools

    ChatGPT Manages Your Wallet & Bank: OpenAI’s Finance Tools

    Key Takeaway

    – OpenAI launched personal finance tools for ChatGPT via a partnership with Plaid.
    – The tools allow read-only access to bank accounts, credit cards, and loans for analysis.
    – ChatGPT provides spending trends, cash flow insights, and financial guidance (no transfers or payments).
    – The service is currently a preview exclusive to ChatGPT Pro subscribers in the US.
    – Privacy concerns are raised due to the sensitivity of sharing financial data with AI.


    New ChatGPT Finance Tools Roll Out

    Keeping track of expenses, subscriptions, savings goals and monthly bills is not everyones cup of tea, when you have to do it all yourself. In this context, OpenAI has launched a set of new personal finance tools for ChatGPT that allows users to connect their bank accounts and recieve personalized financial information directly from the chatbot.

    How Plaid Integrates and What It Can Do

    OpenAI’s partnership with financial data network Plaid will allow ChatGPT to securely access information from checking accounts, credit cards, savings accounts, loans and other financial sources. Once connected, users will be able to integrate these with AI to better understand what there spending trends and cash flow patterns are, and learn how to improve their financial habits.

    Read-Only Access and Subscription Details

    According to OpenAI, ChatGPT will have a purely read-only function, meaning it cannot make transfers, payments, or perform any type of operation. The system is intended to offer guidence rather than control over financial accounts. Moreover, it should be noted that this service is only available in a review version for ChatGPT Pro subscribers in the US.

    Privacy Concerns and User Hesitation

    While this feature may prove to be one of the more useful applications of the platform in the real world, the launch also raises important questions about privacy. Financial information is among the most sensitive personal data that consumers possess, so users may hesitate to give an AI assistant access to there banking history.

    Sources
  • New Casio G-Shock GA-2100 Collab Watch Launches

    New Casio G-Shock GA-2100 Collab Watch Launches

    Key Takeaway

    – New regional store exclusive G-Shock (GA-2100-7APRY-KIT) for Yunnan, China.
    – Collaboration with artist Cui Xinwen featuring Lucky Elephant motif on both sides of the strap.
    – Includes collectible packaging and a lanyard with three detachable enamel charms.
    – Based on standard white GA-2100 platform (carbon-reinforced resin, 20 BAR water resistance).
    – No pricing or wider availability announced yet.


    Casio’s New Yunnan Store Special

    Casio have relesed a new regional shop only G-Shock built on the GA-2100 platform that was created in collaboration with Chineese artist Cui Xinwen. The GA-2100-7APRY-KIT is exclusive to the Yunnan City G-Shock store and themed around the region using a Lucky Elephant motif, which is a fitting choice since Yunnan province is the only place in China were wild Asian elephants still roam. No pricing or wider availability has been announced.

    Watch Construction and Design Details

    The watch itsself uses the standard white GA-2100 base — carbon fiber-reinforced resin case, black dial, analog-digital module with 20 BAR water resistance — but the collab work is concentrated on the band. Cui Xinwen’s Lucky Elephant character, which is rendered in black ink illustration style, apears many times across the full length of both strap sides in differnt poses, and the blue strap holes are present for contrast against the white band. The case back carries a black-on-dark-dial dial layout that keeps the overall appearance fairly clean, so the strap does most of the visual work.

    Kit Contents and Charm Details

    The “KIT” suffix in the model name also carries importance, because besides the watch, the package includes a black-and-white checkered rope lanyard holding three enamel charms from Cui Xinwen’s character universe — a blue elephant in a red mushroom cap, a dancing yellow figure, and a teal abstract form. The charms are attatched via swivel clasps, meaning they can be mixed or unattached independently, and the packaging itself is a collectors item with a sturdy light-blue box wrapped in full-coverage artwork featuring the Lucky Elephant which @geesgshock — who was among the first to share images internationall — confirmed arrived in May.

    Regional Exclusivity History

    Casio have form with China region store exclusives on the GA-2100 platform, most recent being the Guiyang store’s GA-2100HDS-7A1PRG last year, and this follows the exact same playbook. No pricing or more wider availability has been announced by the brand at this time.

    • Carbon fiber-reinforced resin case
    • Black dial with analog-digital module
    • 20 BAR water resistance
    • Black ink illustration style strap
    • Blue strap holes for contrast
    • Three enamel charms included
    • Collector’s box with full artwork


    Sources

  • Astronomers: Red Dwarfs Devouring Earth-Like Planets

    Astronomers: Red Dwarfs Devouring Earth-Like Planets

    Key Takeaway

    – Red dwarfs unexpectedly contain lithium, which their internal heat should have destroyed.
    – The lithium likely comes from red dwarfs absorbing matter from Earth-like planets.
    – This discovery reveals the destructive behavior of red dwarfs toward planetary systems.
    – The finding may help researchers understand how planetary systems form.
    – Further studies with new instruments are needed to identify similar stars.


    By observing various regions of the universe, astronomers sometimes find surprising phenomenons. Indeed, after discovering a collision between two neutron stars and an exoplanet with a potential atmosphere, they have detected red dwarfs absorbing matter from Earth-like planets.

    A Surprising Discovery in Stellar Observations

    This discovery was revealed in a new study published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society. Several researchers from Keele University and the University of Exeter have studied thousands of stars and discovered six red dwarfs exhibiting unusual behavior. The team spent months cross-referencing data and found that these specific stars were not acting as expected.

    Lithium Anomaly Detected

    After conducting various observations, they noticed that these stars contained lithium. However, this chemical element should not be present in these celestial objects, as explained by Professor Robin Jeffries of Keele University, and lead author of the study:

    “Red dwarfs are smaller and cooler than our Sun but inside they are extremly hot. This heat should destroy all of their fragile lithium in nuclear reactions shortly after they form.”

    Implications for Planetary System Formation

    Therefore, according to astronomers, these stars, which are the most common in the universe, could have absorbed matter from Earth-like planets. Thus, while this discovery highlights the destructive behavior of red dwarfs, it could also help researchers understand how planetary systems form. However, further studies will need to be conducted in the future using new instruments to identify stars with the same behavior.

    Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society


    Sources

  • Dell Launches Thin 14-Inch Laptop Globally with Arc B390 & Radeon 890M

    Dell Launches Thin 14-Inch Laptop Globally with Arc B390 & Radeon 890M

    Key Takeaway

    – Dell Pro Precision 5 Series 14 launches globally with Intel Panther Lake, LPCAMM2 RAM, and Ubuntu Linux support.
    – At over 1.8 kg, the 14-inch model is heavier than many gaming laptops and the MacBook Pro 14.
    – The lighter 14S variant starts at 1.4 kg with AMD Ryzen AI 400 processors, or 1.6 kg with Intel.
    – All 14S models share similar ports (USB4 for AMD, Thunderbolt 4 for Intel) and display options up to QHD+ 120 Hz IPS.
    – Pricing starts at ~$2,400 for Intel and ~$2,200 for AMD, with configs up to 64 GB RAM and 2 TB PCIe Gen 5 storage.


    Dell Launches New Workstation Lineup

    Dell has just started selling the Pro Precision 5 Series 14 globally. As we have covered separately, the new 14-inch laptop combines Intel’s Panther Lake platform with LPCAMM2 and Ubuntu Linux support out of the box. This makes it a attractive option for developers and enterprise users who want a unix-like enviroment without tinkering.

    Weight and Portability Concerns

    However, the Pro Precision 5 Series 14 is comparatively heavy for a 14-inch laptop at over 1.8 kg. For context, gaming laptops like the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 and Razer Blade 14 (2025) weigh less than the Pro Precision 5 Series 14, as does Apple’s MacBook Pro 14 that we reviewed at the end of 2025 (curr. $1,499 on Amazon). For those after a more lightweight alternative, Dell is now selling the Pro Precision 5 Series 14S too.

    Lightweight 14S Models Detailed

    To recap, Dell claimed that the Pro Precision 5 Series 14S is its ‘thinnest and lightest’ mobile workstation when unveiling the laptop in March 2026. Practically speaking, the Pro Precision 5 Series 14S starts at 1.4 kg with AMD Ryzen AI 400 processors and is 10.8~19.1 mm thick. While Intel Panther Lake alternatives are just as thick, they start at 200 g heavier than their AMD counterparts.

    Ports and Display Options

    The pair share the same ports though, albeit Thunderbolt 4 for Intel models and USB4 for AMD models. All variants can be configured with up to a 120 Hz, 500-nit and QHD+ IPS display too. Although an OLED alternative is available, it is an FHD+ panel with a 60 Hz refresh rate and 300 nits peak brightness. Setting that aside, the Pro Precision 5 Series 14S can also be configured with 57 Wh or 70 Wh batteries, including dedicated Long Lifecycle variants.

    Intel Configuration Pricing and specs

    The Pro Precision 5 Series 14 starts at around $2,400/£1,700/€1,945 with a Core Ultra 5 336H vPro, 16 GB of LPCAMM2 RAM, a 256 GB SSD and an FHD+ display with 45% NTSC colour space coverage. Intel variants can be configued with up to 64 GB LPCAMM2 RAM, 2 TB of PCIe Gen 5 storage and a Core Ultra X9 388H vPro featuring Arc B390 graphics. The base model is for light tasks only.

    AMD Variants and Pricing

    Meanwhile, AMD variants start at just over $2,200/£1,600/€1,800 with soldered LPDDR5X RAM, 256 GB of storage, the same display and a Ryzen AI 5 Pro 435 processor. Configuration options go up to the Ryzen AI 9 HX Pro 470, 64 GB of RAM and 2 TB of PCIe Gen 5 storage for AMD models. Please see Dell’s website for more information. The memory cannot be upgraded after purchase due to it being solderd!

    • Intel base: Core Ultra 5 336H vPro, 16 GB LPCAMM2, 256 GB SSD, FHD+ display
    • Intel max: Core Ultra X9 388H vPro, 64 GB RAM, 2 TB PCIe Gen 5
    • AMD base: Ryzen AI 5 Pro 435, 256 GB storage, FHD+ display
    • AMD max: Ryzen AI 9 HX Pro 470, 64 GB RAM, 2 TB PCIe Gen 5


  • Limited Edition Citizen Watches: Intricate Dials Launching Soon

    Limited Edition Citizen Watches: Intricate Dials Launching Soon

    Key Takeaway

    – Two new limited edition Citizen Exceed watches inspired by traditional Japanese umbrellas.
    – Feature radial cut mother-of-pearl dials in white, blue, and gray with Super Titanium cases.
    – Both are solar-powered, radio-controlled, and offer 5 ATM water resistance.
    – The CB1080-52W is 29.2mm; the EC1120-59W is 38.0mm.
    – Priced at ¥187,000 (~$1,174) each, limited to 400 units per model, launching June 11 in Japan.


    New Citizen Exceed Watches Unveiled

    Citizen has unveiled a new pair of Exceed watches in Japan: the CB1080-52W and the EC1120-59W. These limited edition timepieces have designs which are said to have been inspired by traditional Japanese umbrellas. The dials mimic the radial pattern of a wagasa, creating a really unique look that stands out from other dress watches. It’s a nice touch for collectors who appreciate cultural references.

    Design and Dial Details

    The Citizen CB1080-52W and EC1120-59W watches feature radial cut mother-of-pearl dials in shades of white, blue and gray. The watch faces have a combination of Roman numeral and baton indexes, with a basic date display in the 3 o’clock position, and three blue hands. Both models have silver colored Super Titanium casing and straps and protective spherical sapphire glass. The titanium is supper lightweight and resistant to scratches, which makes it comfortable for daily wear.

    Specs for the CB1080-52W

    Citizen’s CB1080-52W is powered by a H149 Eco-Drive caliber with 15 seconds monthly accuracy. The radio-controlled watch is 29.2 mm (~1.15 inches) wide and offers 5 ATM water resistance. Other features include magnetic resistance, overcharge prevention and the Direct Flight function, for easy time adjustments. This model is smaller and more suited for slimmer wrists, thou its still quite elegant.

    Specs for the EC1120-59W

    The EC1120-59W is another solar powered model, though it uses a H246 caliber. It shares many features with the CB1080-52W, including radio-control, water and magnetic resistance, overcharge prevention and Direct Flight. However, this model is wider at 38.0 mm (~1.50 inches). The larger diameter gives it a bolder presense on the wrist, while retaining the same umbrella inspired dial.

    Pricing and Availability

    In Japan, the Citizen Exceed CB1080-52W and EC1120-59W watches are priced at ¥187,000 (~$1,174) each. The two timepieces will be released in this market on June 11th; the brand has yet to announce plans to sell these models in other markets. It is also worth noting that only 400 units of each watch have been produced. So if you want one, you might need to act fast or find a import service.

    • Price: ¥187,000 (~$1,174) each
    • Release date: June 11th in Japan
    • Limited to 400 pieces per model
    • Materials: Super Titanium case and strap, sapphire crystal


    Sources