Farr & Swit, an independent watchmaker based in Chicago, has recently unveiled a new digital timepiece that pays homage to the vibrant aesthetics of the 1980s. This latest creation, dubbed the Retro Digital B. Sides Vol. 2 XL, features an expanded case size compared to their previous digital models, further enriching their well-received and colorful “Retro Digital Mix Tape” collection. The brand has cultivated a diverse range of these straightforward and budget-friendly digital watches, all drawing design cues from classic Casio timepieces and the iconic blank cassette tapes of that era. This review will delve into three distinct color options of this charmingly unpretentious watch, which perfectly caters to the growing appetite for 1980s nostalgia.

For those unfamiliar with the concept, mix tapes were personalized compilations of music shared between individuals. In the 1980s, many cassette players allowed both recording and playback, often featuring dual tape decks for easy duplication. People would purchase blank tapes to record their preferred songs, but the true cultural significance of mix tapes lay in their sharing. While creating and sharing digital playlists is effortless today, the analog process of crafting a mix tape in the 80s was more time-consuming. Consequently, receiving a mix tape was a heartfelt gesture, symbolizing not just shared musical tastes but also the emotional connection fostered through curated playlists. Blank tapes themselves frequently boasted vibrant designs and dedicated spaces for handwritten titles or notes, with the creator's personalized label adding a final emotional touch. Farr & Swit endeavors to capture this essence of personalized mix tapes in their Retro Digital Mix Tapes watch series.

These Farr & Swit Mix Tape Volume B. Sides Vol. 2 XL watches are characterized by their colorful plastic casings, measuring 41mm in width, 10mm in thickness, and featuring a lug-to-lug distance of 45mm, indicating a notably larger presence on the wrist. In contrast, the standard Farr & Swit Mix Tape watches, both Vol. 1 and Vol. 2, are slightly more compact at 37mm wide, 8.5mm thick, with a 38mm lug-to-lug dimension. While some smaller models offer translucent plastic options, the XL versions are presented in solid colors, including "Blue Moon," a "Berry 4 Breast Cancer" pink, and "Pistachio" green, all of which are showcased in this review. Each watch is paired with a 20mm wide black plastic strap, featuring wider tapering flanks for a comfortable fit.

The enlarged case size also accommodates a more substantial and easily readable digital LCD screen. The bezel surrounding the display incorporates "mix tape" inspired graphics, evoking the distinctive appearance of black cassette tapes from that period. The Farr & Swit emblem is rendered in a handwritten style, reinforcing the personal touch associated with mix tapes. These watches, while not aiming for luxury, are designed to be enjoyable and stylish. Given their plastic construction, users should anticipate some wear and tear over time. Though not as inexpensive as some entry-level Casio models, which can retail for as little as $10, these watches represent a modest investment compared to most independent wristwatches, priced at $39 USD. It is anticipated that many will appreciate these whimsical, colorful, and deeply nostalgic digital timepieces. Ultimately, the spirit of these timepieces lies in celebrating personal connections and cherished memories through a playful and accessible design, reminding us that sometimes, the simplest things bring the most joy.