Calvins Puzzle Tim Button Cube (1-Hole, 1/2)

Calvins Puzzle Tim Button Cube (1-Hole, 1/2)

Tim Button Cube (1-Hole, 1/2) by Calvins Puzzle is a shape mod based on a 3x3 mechanism. It has a widened middle layer, and each of the six faces has one hole with a protruding button. In this version, every button is split into two halves, and these halves are the main challenge of the puzzle.

How the buttons work

You can turn the buttons with your fingers, and you have to, because otherwise the cube won't turn. A layer only turns when the buttons in its path form a full circle, meaning their halves are lined up correctly. The button halves also get scrambled while you solve, so on top of the usual 3x3 state you need to keep track of their orientation as well.

In the 1/2 variant, misaligned buttons block some moves and the cube behaves like a bandaged puzzle. This sets it apart from the 1/4 version, where each button consists of four parts and the layers can turn regardless of their position. The 1/2 version therefore requires more planning with every move.

What to watch out for

This is a puzzle for calm, relaxed solving, not for fast turning. Before each turn, check that the buttons are aligned properly. The small button parts fall out fairly easily, and users have also reported caps coming off the buttons. With aggressive turning, the cube may simply come apart. These parts can usually be put back in by hand.

Who is it for?

For people who can solve a regular 3x3 cube and want something different from yet another speedcubing model. The Tim Button Cube will appeal to collectors of unusual twisty puzzles and fans of puzzles with restricted moves. It is not suitable as a first cube. A child who is just starting out is better off beginning with a classic 3x3.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Calvins Puzzle
• Type: 3x3-based shape mod with a widened middle layer
• Buttons: 1 on each face, split into 2 parts (1/2)
• Size: approx. 60 mm
• Weight: approx. 128 g
• Magnets: none
• Body colour: black