Using Engineering-Grade Carbon Fiber ASA for Functional 3D Printed Watches
Watches are more than timekeeping devices. They are a growing hobby with a passionate global community that values craftsmanship, precision, and design. Within that community is a large and active subset of enthusiasts who modify, customize, and even build their own watches from the ground up. As interest in personalization and small-batch manufacturing continues to grow, 3D printing has become a powerful tool for modern watchmaking.
We made two watches using 3DXTECH materials, showcasing how additive manufacturing can be used to create functional, wearable timepieces with professional-level fit and finish.
Both watches featured here were designed by James at ThePrintableWatch.com. While multiple designs are available, the moon-phase watch is a particularly compelling example of what is possible with 3D printing. The watch is built around a Miyota 6P24 moon-phase movement with off-the-shelf hands, while nearly every other component is 3D printed. This approach allows builders to focus on precision, customization, and material selection without compromising reliability.
For this build, 3DXMAX ASA was selected for the bezel, dial, chapter ring, caseback, and even the crown. ASA is well suited for watch components due to its UV resistance, mechanical strength, and clean matte surface finish. These properties are critical for parts that will be worn daily and exposed to light, heat, and handling.
The main watch case was printed using CarbonX carbon fiber reinforced ASA. The addition of carbon fiber increases stiffness and dimensional stability, helping the case maintain tight tolerances and a solid feel on the wrist. For watchmakers and modders who care deeply about fine details, these material characteristics matter. The overlap between watchmaking and 3D printing is clear. Both disciplines reward patience, precision, and thoughtful material selection.
When paired with The Printable Watch’s carefully engineered design, the result is a 3D printed watch that looks and feels like a finished product, not a prototype. It demonstrates that additive manufacturing is not just a tool for rapid iteration, but a viable method for producing end-use watch components.
No watch build is complete without proper storage. The accompanying watch case was designed by Mike from My Stoopid Stuff and printed using a combination of Carbon Fiber PETG, TPU 95A, PLA, and PETG. All of these materials are available from 3DXTECH, allowing makers to produce a complete watch and case system using high-quality filament from a single source.
James’ watch designs can be found at ThePrintableWatch.com, and the Gridfinity watch case by My Stoopid Stuff is available on MakerWorld and Printables. For makers interested in printing their own watch or accessories, selecting engineering-grade materials is a critical step. A quality timepiece deserves materials that deliver strength, stability, and long-term performance, and that is exactly where 3DXTECH filaments excel.
