E.S. Raye

I’ve been hesitant to talk about this project for a long time because it always seemed just out of reach. But that’s all changed, and it has become an inevitability now, so I think a project primer is in order!

Dieselpunk

First off, let’s define our terms. What, exactly, is “dieselpunk?”

The best way to describe it is to refer to another “-punk”: steampunk.

Steampunk has been worming its way into popular culture for a while now, so you’re likely familiar with the steam-powered retrofuturistic motif. Dieselpunk is the same thing, only with art deco style, diesel-powered technology, and often an eye towards the world wars and the first half of the 20th century.

I’ve always loved mid-century design and have long been fascinated with the history of World War II, so, while steampunk will always have a place in my heart, dieselpunk is where I live.

The Plan

I’ve been trying to stretch out the lifespan of my old laptop for years, but it’s finally showing signs that the end is near. So, a new computer is quickly becoming a priority, and my plan (though more labor intensive) costs the same as a decent, off the shelf computer. So why not have some fun?

The Case

What you see above is an old record console I found on Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji or somewhere, three years ago. It was acquired for the sole purpose of becoming the case for my eventual new PC. Finally, it will get that chance! I want to retain the radio and record player, and add the PC to the big hollow area inside.

It’s the wrong style (more ’80s than ’50s), and that’s where I will begin.

I need to draw up some more specific plans, but I want to turn that up there into something closer to this:

It’s going to take a lot of sanding, replacing panels, and staining, but I think the end result will be worth it.

I also need to figure out how to incorporate a hidden door on the front to access the actual computer.

The Computer

I’m not going to go into any real technical detail here because, while I do have a parts list, it’s still sort of in flux. Given the current tariff situation in the US and the degradation of the relationship between Canada and the US, I’ve been forced to reevaluate the parts I’ve selected built by American companies.

(I’m really hoping this all gets resolved before I start purchasing parts, but I have a bad feeling.)

That said, I can still tell you this:

Because I’m going with a non-traditional case, I’m springing for a liquid cooling kit, and ultimately, I want a sort of TARDIS look to the whole thing when you open the record console door–all colorful lights and unexpected technology.

Peripherals

I think a lot of the fun for this build will come from the peripherals and accessories I have in mind.

Monitors

To start with, I have become accustomed to three monitors, so I’m sticking with that layout, even if I don’t really need it. I plan to frame these monitors like photos or paintings.

Keyboard

As you can see from above, I use a split, ergonomic keyboard because I have carpal tunnel syndrome.

This has presented a problem, because I’d love to have the keyboard match the rest of the style, but the market for “pretty” or lit or even custom ergonomic keyboards is exceedingly small, and I am not willing to go back to a regular keyboard.

However, I have found a company that offers customizable, split keyboard kits. Not only will it be illuminated, I can use typewriter keycaps! It looks fantastic in my head–here’s hoping reality lives up to it.

Mouse

I also use an ergonomic mouse for my carpal tunnel, and finding something that fits that bill is going to be much harder. That said, I don’t use my mouse nearly as much as, say, a graphic designer, so I’m willing to try to get along without the ergonomic design.

I was planning on getting the mouse in the image above from Etsy, but the seller’s shop appears to be closed now. Guess I’ll have to find another. But you can see what I’m going for.

The Process

If I can guess one thing, it’s that the process of putting this all together will be haphazard and shambolic. I was waiting for nicer weather to get started on the record console, but the urgency with which I need a new computer to work may eventually overtake that.

Either way, I plan on documenting the process here and on my social media accounts–most likely TikTok.

I hope you’ll follow along if you’re interested in such things!