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TimeSmith by Benke Smith and András Bártházi

Created by: Benke Smith, András Bártházi

TimeSmith is a cutting-edge magic app that transforms a standard analog watch (specifically the SB Watch, designed in collaboration with the app) into a powerful magical prop. The app allows magicians to control the watch's display in real time, making it appear as though the watch is showing any time the performer chooses—whether through voice commands, swipes, dice rolls, or pre-set routines. This is perfect for close-up, stage, or virtual performances, offering versatility in presentation. The watch itself is indistinguishable from a normal quartz watch, ensuring no suspicion from the audience. Key features include 'freeze time' (locking the watch at a specific time), integration with other apps like DiceSmith and PeekSmith, and seamless updates for future enhancements.

Key features

  • Syncs with the SB Watch for flawless performance

  • Multiple input methods: voice, swipe, dice rolls, or manual entry

  • Freeze time function to lock the watch at a specific time

  • Works with other magic apps like DiceSmith and PeekSmith

  • Regular firmware updates for new features

Pros

  • Highly versatile for various performance settings

  • Watch looks and functions like a normal timepiece

  • Excellent documentation and aftercare support

  • Seamless integration with other magic apps

  • Reliable and well-built hardware

Cons

  • Occasional lag in time updates

  • Requires investment in both the app and compatible watch

  • Steeper learning curve for advanced features

Effect

TimeSmith is a magic trick where a spectator names any time, and it instantly appears on a watch. The watch can be displayed on a table, worn on the wrist, or even shown during a virtual performance. The time can be set in multiple ways, including voice commands, dice rolls, or pre-set forces. The effect is clean and impossible—no switches, magnets, or suspicious movements are needed.

Full Details

TimeSmith consists of an app and a specially designed watch (the SB Watch). The app communicates with the watch via Bluetooth, allowing real-time updates. Key features include:

  • Freeze Time: The watch can display a specific time and stay fixed, even as real time passes.
  • Multiple Input Methods: The time can be set by voice, typed input, dice rolls (using DiceSmith), or swipes (via PeakSmith).
  • Compatibility: While the SB Watch is optimized for the app, other analog watches can also work with some limitations.
  • Stage & Close-Up Use: Works in live performances, virtual shows, and even as a casual demonstration.

The watch itself looks like a normal quartz timepiece, making it indistinguishable from a regular watch.

Who Should Consider the Trick

TimeSmith is ideal for:

  • Mentalists who want a clean, technology-assisted reveal.
  • Close-up magicians looking for an impossible visual effect.
  • Virtual performers who need interactive, screen-friendly magic.
  • Creators who enjoy developing custom routines around versatile tools.

It requires a smartphone (iOS) and an investment in both the app and the watch.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The technical execution is straightforward—once set up, the app handles most of the work. However, performance difficulty depends on presentation:

  • Ease of Use: Inputting the time via voice, dice, or swipes is simple with minimal practice.
  • Timing Awareness: There can be a slight lag (a few seconds) when updating the watch, so performers must account for this in their pacing.
  • Presentation Skills: The method is so clean that the challenge lies in making the effect feel magical rather than technological. Strong scripting is recommended.

What Magicians Say

Steve Faulkner (RealMagicReview) praises TimeSmith for its reliability and versatility:

"The whole thing's miraculous... it works on stage, in close-up, on Zoom, everywhere."

He notes that while the effect is powerful, performers must focus on presentation to avoid making it feel like a tech demonstration. The watch is well-built, and the app is constantly updated with new features.

Other magicians highlight the seamless integration with companion apps like DiceSmith and PeakSmith, allowing for creative routines where spectators roll dice to determine the time.

The main downside mentioned is the occasional lag when syncing the watch, but this is minor and easily managed with practice. Overall, TimeSmith is considered a strong investment for performers who want a modern, foolproof time revelation.

What people are saying about TimeSmith

Steve Faulkner says...

The whole thing's miraculous—it's amazing. The watch says the time they choose, and it's just flawless. [...] The documentation is brilliant, and the aftercare is incredible—these creators don’t disappear after release.

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