SB Watch by Benke Smith and András Bártházi

Created by: Benke Smith, András Bártházi

The SB Watch is a revolutionary magic tool that allows performers to control an analog watch remotely, making it display any time chosen by a spectator. This close-up and mentalism trick can be performed in various settings, from street magic to stage shows. The watch links directly to a remote (like the Versa 2 Remote) or an app (TimeSmith), eliminating the need for a phone during performances. Spectators see a genuine watch with no gimmicks, and the magician can reveal a time they’ve merely thought of or rolled with dice. The watch is designed to look like a normal timepiece, making it incredibly deceptive. Buyers should note that setup requires firmware updates and some technical adjustments, but the payoff is a seamless, mind-blowing effect.

Key features

Remote-controlled analog watch for magic performances
Works with TimeSmith app or dedicated remotes like Versa 2
Can freeze time or display pre-set times
Voice recognition, dice rolls, or manual input for time selection
Sleek, normal-looking watch design
Ideal for close-up, stage, and virtual shows

Pros

Highly deceptive and versatile
No phone needed during performance
Works with other apps like DiceSmith for expanded routines
Reliable with occasional minor lag
Excellent documentation and support

Cons

Initial setup can be fiddly
Requires practice to master timing
Higher price point for watch and accessories

Effect

The SB Watch is a magic prop that allows a magician to control the time displayed on a wristwatch. A spectator can name any random time, and the watch instantly changes to match it. The effect is direct and baffling, as the watch appears completely ordinary with no visible signs of manipulation.

Full details

The SB Watch is a collaboration between Benke Smith and András Bártházi, designed to work seamlessly with the TimeSmith app. Unlike other magic watches, it is built specifically for this system, ensuring smooth functionality. The watch can be controlled in multiple ways:

Voice recognition – The spectator says a time out loud, and the watch updates.
Manual input – The magician can discreetly enter the time using a remote or app.
Dice rolls – When paired with DiceSmith, spectators can roll dice to generate random times, which the watch then displays.

Additional features include:

Freeze time mode – The watch can hold a specific time without advancing.
Pre-set times – Useful for routines where multiple time forces are needed.
Integration with other apps – Works with PeekSmith and The Stranger for expanded possibilities.

The watch itself looks like a standard analog timepiece, making it indistinguishable from a real watch.

Who should consider the trick

The SB Watch is ideal for magicians who perform close-up, stage, or virtual shows. It suits those who want a strong, tech-assisted effect without relying on phones or obvious gimmicks. Since it requires some setup and familiarity with the app, it’s best for performers comfortable with tech-based magic.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

While the SB Watch is easy to use once configured, initial setup involves firmware updates and app synchronization, which can be slightly fiddly. Steve Faulkner notes, "It does talk you through it in detail... there's nothing wrong with that, there's just a couple of things I forgot to do and it was a bit frustrating, but you get there in the end."

Performance-wise, the method is straightforward, but presentation is key. The effect is so direct that magicians must craft engaging presentations to maximize impact.

What magicians say

Steve Faulkner praises the SB Watch for its reliability and versatility:

"This is a really solid piece of kit, and you're going to be working miracles with it."
"The watch is great, it works great, it looks great... there really isn't anything negative to say about this."

He also highlights its discreet nature: "It's flesh-colored... if you want to palm it, it just doesn't draw the eye."

Another reviewer mentions occasional lag but emphasizes that it’s minor and manageable with practice.

Overall, the SB Watch is a powerful tool for magicians who want a clean, impossible-looking time revelation with minimal handling.

What people are saying about SB Watch

RealMagicReview (Steve Faulkner) says...

The SB Watch is small, flesh-colored, and doesn’t draw the eye—perfect for palming. It’s linked directly to the remote, so there’s no phone dependency, and the response from spectators is mind-blowing.