Check out this watercooled case mod which was built from scratch by Richard Swinburne and inspired by the art deco stylings of the 1920’s and 1930’s Zenith radios.
The Art Deco style was captured using a replica radio dial, dial glass, escutcheon (dial bezel), and knobs for around $120 to give it that authentic look and feel.
The Inspiration Behind the Design
Richard Swinburne’s inspiration for this unique project came from the iconic Zenith radios of the 1920s and 1930s. These radios are renowned for their elegant Art Deco designs, characterized by bold geometric shapes, rich materials, and intricate details. Swinburne meticulously researched and studied hundreds of antique radio pictures online to ensure his creation would be as authentic as possible. He discovered that many radios from that era did not have shapes that could be easily adapted for use as a computer case due to the space and placement constraints of modern components. However, the Zenith radios provided a perfect blend of aesthetic appeal and functional design.
I spent a lot of time researching and looking around at literally hundreds of antique radio pictures online. Many radios do not have a shape that can reasonably be replicated for use as a computer due to the space and placement constraints of components. It is also necessary to find really good pictures of a radio in order to be able to build a case after it. There are a number of radios that I could build after and like, but there simply aren’t enough detailed photos of them to come up with a fairly accurate design.
Building the Case Mod
The process of building this case mod was no small feat. Swinburne had to source various components to replicate the look of the original Zenith radios. He used a replica radio dial, dial glass, escutcheon (dial bezel), and knobs, which cost around $120. These elements were crucial in achieving the authentic Art Deco look and feel. The attention to detail is evident in the final product, which seamlessly blends vintage aesthetics with modern technology.
The internal components of the computer were carefully arranged to fit within the confines of the radio case. This required precise measurements and custom modifications to ensure everything fit perfectly. The watercooling system, a key feature of this build, was integrated in a way that did not compromise the vintage appearance of the case. The result is a stunning piece of functional art that pays homage to the past while embracing the future.
This project not only showcases Swinburne’s technical skills but also his dedication to preserving the beauty of historical designs. By combining the old with the new, he has created a unique piece that stands out in the world of custom PC builds. The Zenith radio case mod is a testament to the timeless appeal of Art Deco design and the endless possibilities of modern technology.
Via Engadget
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
