Handmade keycap brand Jelly Key has released the 'Art Toy x32' and 'x77' series, which are inspired by the 1984 Apple Macintosh 128K. This collection features transparent keycaps shaped like retro TVs and is made entirely by hand. Inside, there are small elements that replicate parts of old computers and TVs, such as circuit boards, power supplies, capacitors, light bulbs, and wires, each individually made using colored resin. The wires and circuits are about 0.3 millimeters thick, and it takes about 23 hours for each layer of resin to cure. After that, the outer case is added, which takes another 24 hours.
The front of the finished keycap features a floppy disk slot and a power switch. These are not functional elements, but simply recreate the visual features of computers of the past. The display is angled at a 65-degree angle, and the back is translucent, allowing the internal structure to be seen from the outside. The surface is hand-polished, and a hard resin is used to achieve transparency.
The case finishes are available in five variations: Crystal Clear, Frosted Translucent, Tinted Clear, Colored Frost, and Vintage Tone, which can be combined with the screen design for a total of twelve combinations. The exterior design is inspired by early personal computers and partially reflects the architectural proportions of the Macintosh 128K. The screen features classic phrases from the series, such as "How Are You," "I Am Great," "Milky Way Greetings," and "From the Other Side," along with new designs such as "Space Odyssey," "HAL Eye," "Galactic Intro," and "First Lander.".
The screen is manufactured by molding a CRT bulb shape, placing fine characters and devices inside, and pouring transparent resin to form a curved screen. The surface is polished and then joined to the case. Internal components and circuits are assembled in their designated locations, securing them in place to prevent gaps. In the final step, a transparent back panel is attached and any dust or debris is removed. JellyKey's latest series recreates the form of early computer designs through structure, materials, and processes.
