The 10 Best Solar Powered Watches in 2022

Wearing a watch is a necessity for most people. Some wear watches for work and sports while others use them as a fashion accessory.

And these days, they come with different features, like the best solar powered watches. These features make them better, more useful, and in demand.

If you are looking to buy a solar watch, this guide lists the best watches to choose from.

Quick Navigation
Comparison of Top 5 Solar Powered Watches
The Top Solar Powered Watches You Definitely Should Consider
    1. Casio Tactical Rangeman G-Shock Solar Atomic Watch
    2. Seiko SSC141 Stainless Steel Solar Chronograph
    3. Seiko Men’s SNE039 Stainless Steel Solar Watch
    4. Timex Men’s Expedition Scout Solar-Powered 40mm Watch
    5. Casio MTPS120L-1AV Classic Watch
    6. Citizen Eco-Drive Garrison Mens Watch
    7. SWII Solar Watch
    8. Instinct 2S Solar Fitness Watch
    9. Casio Oceanus OCW-T200S-1AJF Radio Solar Bluetooth Watch
    10. G-Shock GWM5610 Solar Watch
Reasons Why You Should Buy a Solar-Powered Watch
How Do Solar Watches Work?
What You Should Know about Solar Watches
What To Look For In Solar Powered Watches
How to Take Care of a Solar Watch
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts

Comparison of Top 5 Solar Powered Watches

Best Solar WatchesBand MaterialDisplay TypeMovementWater resistant depthCheck Price
Casio Tactical Rangeman G-Shock Solar Atomic Watch editor_badge

Condor-Modular-Chest-Set
RubberDigitalTough Solar (solar powered)200 metersCheck Price
Seiko SSC141 Stainless Steel Solar ChronographStainless steel
AnalogJapanese quartz100 metersCheck Price
Seiko Men's SNE039 Stainless Steel Solar WatchStainless steelAnalogQuartz30 metersCheck Price
Timex Men's Expedition Scout Solar-Powered 40mm WatchLeatherAnalogQuartz50 metersCheck Price
Casio MTPS120L-1AV Classic WatchClothAnalogQuartz100 metersCheck Price

The Top Solar Powered Watches You Should Definitely Consider

1. Casio Tactical Rangeman G-Shock Solar Atomic Watch

Casio Tactical Rangeman G-Shock Solar Atomic Watch

The Casio Rangeman G-Shock Solar Atomic Watch is a sleek all-black wristwatch. It features triple sensor technology which can provide you with vital survival information in harsh conditions. The solar-powered digital watch is the standard size for men.

Additionally, the watch is also great for diving enthusiasts for it is water-resistant up to 200 meters deep. It even has an LED backlight feature. 

This solar dive watch is also shock-resistant. It is a perfect partner for hikers and mountaineers because it records altitude and barometric pressure.

Key Features:

  • Weighs 9.6 ounces
  • Digital display type
  • Requires a lithium metal battery
  • Has a temperature indicator and compass
  • Has a stopwatch, timer, and alarm features

Pros

  • Enlarged direct sensor button
  • Anti-slip buttons
  • Wide faced display
  • Includes 1 battery
  • Offers customer support

Cons

  • Can be prone to self-reset and glitches
  • You may need to turn on the backlight to read the negative display

2. Seiko SSC141 Stainless Steel Solar Chronograph

Seiko SSC141 Stainless Steel Solar Chronograph

The Seiko SSC141 wristwatch features solar power technology that is convenient for you since it no longer needs battery changes. Any light source or type can power it. 

The watch features an elegant blue dial with an analog display and hour, minute, and second hands. It features a stainless steel bracelet. 

The chronograph (stopwatch) measures up to 60 minutes (1/5-second increments) and comes with a split time measurement function. This watch is ideal for swimming and snorkeling but not for scuba diving. You can even use it when you go fishing.

Key Features:

  • LumiBrite hands and markers
  • Japanese quartz movement
  • Solar alarm chronograph (stopwatch)
  • Screwdown caseback
  • Fully charged: 6-month power reserve
  • Glow-in-the-dark dial

Pros

  • Battery included
  • Manual is available on their website
  • Watch registration for an additional 1-year warranty

Cons

  • California’s Proposition 65 (which may contain lead)
  • Requires a brand-specific battery
  • May fail to charge overtime

3. Seiko Men’s SNE039 Stainless Steel Solar Watch

Seiko Men's SNE039 Stainless Steel Solar Watch

The Seiko SNE039 solar watch is proudly made in the USA. Released in 2010, this is the newer version of the Seiko Men’s Japanese Quartz Dress Watch (model SUR361). Though some people may not like dress watches, the Seiko SNE039 is still a must-try. This is a classic-looking solar-powered watch that comes in a silver color and a black dial.

A durable crystal protects the dial. It is water-resistant by 30 meters. If you are looking for a watch that is not too small or large for your hand, you may consider the Seiko solar watch. You can also enjoy looking at the watch for it offers a bigger calendar display, friendly for those with eyesight problems.

Key Features:

  • LumiBrite hands
  • English/Spanish day and date
  • Fully charged: 10-month power reserve
  • Caliber V158
  • Stationary Bezel function

Pros

  • Simple and practical watch
  • Versatile: can be worn for both formal and casual events
  • Manual is available on their website
  • Watch registration for an additional 1-year warranty

Cons

  • Currently unavailable
  • Unreliable time: may need to be constantly reset when used overtime
  • The display lens is not scratch-resistant

4. Timex Men’s Expedition Scout Solar-Powered 40mm Watch

Timex Men's Expedition Scout Solar-Powered 40mm Watch

The Timex Expedition Scout Solar Watch boasts its legendary durability and scratch-resistant mineral display glass. It is made of quality materials with a classic analog design. It gives off a rugged feel because of its adjustable leather strap. Its maximum wrist circumference can fit up to 8”.

It can absorb any lighting type, even indoor lighting. It is water-resistant for up to 50 meters and can survive rain storms and crossing rivers. However, this watch is not advisable to be used for snorkeling and diving.

Key Features:

  • Stationary Bezel function
  • Solar quartz movement
  • Luminous hands
  • Requires a lithium metal battery
  • Fully charged: 4-month power reserve
  • Easy to set calendar

Pros

  • Comes in three different colors: black, brown, and gray
  • Battery doesn’t need replacement
  • Easy-to-read display
  • Comfortable when worn
  • A movable second strap holder on the band

Cons

  • Repair issues with the manufacturer
  • Hands may need to be calibrated
  • Time can change when it bumps to clothing or when performing a particular movement

5. Casio MTPS120L-1AV Classic Watch

Casio MTPS120L-1AV Classic Watch

Regarded as one of Amazon’s top choices for men’s wristwatches, this Casio MTPS120L classic watch comes in two colors – black and green. It houses a sporty look that can complement your active lifestyle. It is water-resistant up to 100 meters. It is also solar-powered with a rechargeable battery.

Key Features:

  • Fully charged: 6 to 8 months of power reserve
  • Date/Day indicator
  • Low battery alert
  • Easy-to-read display
  • Screw lock back

Pros

  • Charges effectively
  • Comfortable band 
  • No need to constantly reset or wind
  • Removable or replaceable band

Cons

  • Requires a brand-specific battery
  • The display has no anti-reflective coating

6. Citizen Eco-Drive Garrison Men’s Watch

Citizen Eco-Drive Garrison Men's Watch

The Citizen Eco-Drive Garrison Watch is an analog chronograph that is eco-friendly. It makes use of both natural and artificial lighting. It is capable of storing surplus energy into a power cell and you don’t have to worry about changing batteries.

The Citizen Eco-Drive is military-inspired with its rugged look but still comfortable to wear. It has a stainless steel case and features a Condura strap. It is water-resistant up to 100 meters deep which makes it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Key Features:

  • Eco-Drive movement
  • Day-Date calendar
  • Nylon band strap with buckle clasp
  • 12/24 hour time
  • Luminous hands and markers

Pros

  • 1 CR2 battery included
  • Size: average male fit
  • Removable or replaceable band
  • Easy to read

Cons

  • Currently unavailable
  • The band is thick and stiff
  • Display glass may scratch easily

7. SWII Solar Watch

SWII Solar Watch

If you want a more expressive wristwatch, you can try the SWII Solar Watch which comes in different colors. Aside from the variety of colors to choose from, the SWII is sustainable and environment-friendly. This is a timeless, durable, and stylish solar-powered watch.

True to their word of being environment-friendly, these solar watches can continuously charge with both natural and artificial lighting. Thus, fewer battery wastes. It is water-resistant up to 100 meters. For every purchase of SWII watches, you are donating 1% of the amount to a good cause.

Key Features:

  • Made from sustainable materials: plant-based castor oil and recycled water bottles
  • Analog display type with three hands
  • Hook and loop clasp
  • Made of nylon
  • Unisex design

Pros

  • Comes in 8 fun colors
  • Includes 1 lithium-ion battery
  • Easy to read
  • A portion of the sales proceeds are donated to environmental causes
  • Offers a 30-days replacement warranty

Cons

  • May not keep time accurately
  • Poor customer support

8. Instinct 2S Solar Fitness Watch

Instinct 2S Solar Fitness Watch

The Instinct 2S Solar Fitness Watch is perfect for your active lifestyle. Not only is this watch tough and rough, but it is also packed with awesome features that you need for your lifestyle. It is available in two different sizes which is good for every wrist size.

Instinct 2S is a GPS-charging smartwatch. It houses some sports apps, a perfect partner for training. It is durable because it is both resistant to thermal and shock. You get more out of the battery because of its unlimited battery life potential when in battery saver mode.

Key Features:

  • Sends alert notifications for important matters
  • 24/7 health monitoring feature
  • Scratch-resistant display glass
  •  Battery life: 51 days in smartwatch mode
  • Has built-in ABC sensors: altimeter, barometer, and compass (3-axis)
  • Smartphone compatible
  • Has a built-in incident detection
  • Offers daily workout suggestions
  • Water-resistance: 100 meters

Pros

  • Comes in 36 fun colors
  • A perfect partner for a person with an active lifestyle
  • Has a built-in GPS tracker
  • Packed with so many useful features

Cons

  • The battery may degrade over time
  • Poor customer support
  • Could burn your wrist
  • Built-in compass not as accurate as traditional compass

9. Casio Oceanus OCW-T200S-1AJF Radio Solar Bluetooth Watch

Casio Oceanus OCW-T200S-1AJF Radio Solar Bluetooth Watch

The Casio Oceanus watch is a Japanese imported product that is Bluetooth capable (mobile link). First released in May 2019, the Oceanus is water-resistant up to 100 meters. It comes with an analog display with blue dials. This is one awesome solar-powered watch that you should consider.

Key Features:

  • Tough solar power
  • Smartphone connectivity
  • Can pick up radio wave signals
  • Non-reflective sapphire-coated display
  • Automatic needle correction function

Pros

  • Instruction manual included in the set
  • Easy to read
  • Easy to set up
  • Comfortable to wear

Cons

  • Requires a brand-specific battery
  • Bracelet clasp doesn’t hold on well
  • Overpriced

10. G-Shock GWM5610 Solar Watch

G-Shock GWM5610 Solar Watch

If you are looking for a durable and trusted watch brand, then you should consider G-Shock. It is a solar-powered timepiece that can easily convert the artificial and faint light source into energy for stable watch operation.

This watch is shock-resistant which protects the watch from any impact or vibration. It is water-resistant for about 660 feet. You can wear it while you are showering, swimming, surfing, and jet skiing.

Key Features:

  • Day-Date-Month calendar
  • Buckle clasp
  • Digital display type
  • EL backlight
  • Tough solar and multi-band 6 atomic timekeeping technology
  • Black resin band
  • Function buttons are on a protected side which can be accessed only with fingernails

Pros

  • 1 lithium metal battery included
  • Small, light, and thin
  • Easy to read
  • Comfortable to wear
  • English manual available online

Cons

  • Resets randomly
  • Defective alarm
  • Battery slowly depletes over time

Reasons Why You Should Buy a Solar-Powered Watch

 Seiko Solar-Powered Watch

Most people turn to solar power for two common reasons: energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. When solar technology is applied to watches, most people notice that the watches are more reliable and durable.

Listed below are the common reasons why you should buy a solar-powered watch:

Accuracy and Reliability

The advantage of having a solar-powered watch is the fact that it can recharge anytime and anywhere as long as there is a light source. With improved technology, solar-powered watches can absorb both natural and artificial light. So you don’t have to worry if the sun is not constantly shining on your side of the world.

Since solar-powered watches are constantly charging, they can accurately tell the time. This makes them reliable. Solar-powered watches have outshined other types of watches like quartz, atomic, automatic, and mechanical watches.

Efficiency and Longevity

The advantage of being able to charge anywhere there is a light source makes solar-powered watches very efficient. Solar-powered watches have built-in rechargeable batteries that can store reserve energy for long-term use.

Whenever the watch is exposed to a light source, it will automatically convert it to energy and be stored accordingly. The life of a solar-powered battery can last for weeks or months without exposure to any light source. Your watch would signal an alarm to inform you that it needs to be charged. This signal is in the form of two-second increment movements in time.

Water- Resistance and Durability

Solar watches are durable. They are housed in high-quality and heavy-duty materials such as titanium and hardened crystal. Also, solar watches are durable because they are not prone to be opened for access to the battery or to wind to prevent them from stopping.

Solar watches are also water-resistant. Since you don’t have to open or need to manipulate the watch, the rubber gasket can protect the watch. The internal parts are protected from water penetration. This is a problem for other types of watches such as mechanical, quartz, and automatic.   

Eco-Friendliness

Human waste has poisoned the environment. Because of this, many watch manufacturers are trying to do their share in non-polluting the environment. They have done their research to find the most efficient and eco-friendly power source for their watches.

Battery production and disposal cause a lot of carbon emissions and other harmful effects on the environment. Thus, it addresses these concerns, and the possible solution is to lessen the use and disposal of batteries. This is what makes solar watches great, they utilize rechargeable batteries! 

How Do Solar Watches Work?

Smart solar watch
Clément Lauwaert on Unsplash

Solar watches take advantage of sunlight or artificial light sources for energy. They can store energy from the sun in their batteries. They can also function without batteries. They have built-in power reserves which allow them to be operational even at night.

Photovoltaic solar cells are arranged around the face of the watch and are responsible for absorbing light. If you decide to buy a solar-powered watch, it should be charged and ready to use. Most solar-powered watches can last for a few months before recharging. The package should include an instruction manual on how to charge your watch.

What You Should Know about Solar Watches

Solar Watch
Watch Geek

The first solar watch became very popular in the 1970s. The idea was first conceived in 1968 by Roger Riehl, an inventor. This achievement by Riehl was marked as a great advancement in the horological industry.

With many more improvements built upon the idea of Riehl, you are now seeing modern-day solar watches. The current solar watches are more advanced, durable, and efficient. They have better solar cells that are unrecognizably embedded on the watch’s surface and can accommodate all types of light sources.          

Solar Cells

Solar cells act like solar panels but on a small scale. Solar cells are also called photovoltaic cells. Solar cells are electric devices that are responsible for the conversion of sunlight or artificial light into energy. These are incorporated into the dial or bezel of the wristwatch to be able to capture as much light as possible.

Solar watches can still function at night or when in areas that are not well-lit because energy is stored in rechargeable cells. This power reserve is used by the watch to power itself when no light is available. Avoid leaving your solar watch in places where they have no access to light for a long time. This could drain their energy completely and leave them unable to recharge.

Light Source

The great thing about solar watches is the fact that they can absorb and convert both natural and artificial light sources into energy that can be stored in the battery inside the watch. The upside of exposing your watch to natural light (sunlight) is that it charges faster and can give more power to your watch.

If you don’t have 12-hour access to sunlight in your location, don’t feel disheartened. You can still expose your watch to artificial light sources such as fluorescent lights or lamp shades. What is important is your solar watch is frequently exposed to light. 

What To Look For In Solar Powered Watches

G-shock Solar Watches
Gi-Shock-Go

You want a watch that you can use for a long time. You want it to have features that you consider important for your everyday life. Listed below are some considerations you need to look into when buying a solar-powered watch:

Technology

The biggest consideration, by far, that you have to be mindful of is the kind of technology the watch has. Technology these days is constantly evolving. Your watch should be up-to-date with the latest for it to serve you well.

Most current watches do not only tell time. They also provide you with other information such as the date, atmospheric measurements, and even smartphone compatibility. Getting a solar-powered watch with a lot of features is what you should avail of today.

Budget

In making any kind of purchase, you should have a set budget for it. It would be impractical to buy an expensive watch and lose your life savings in one go. The best watch brands are expected to be expensive for you to get what you pay for.

If this is your first time buying a watch, do buy one that is within your budget. You don’t have to spend so much on your first attempt. There are several affordable solar watches that are of excellent quality but will not force you to break the bank.

Design

A watch is an extension of you. Aside from your personal choice of clothes, your watch also describes your personality. Do you prefer a more classic and elegant watch? Or, do you want a bulky or colorful one? How it looks when you wear it should also be a consideration.

Look for a watch that is just right for the size of your wrist. You want to be comfortable with your watch; you don’t want it to be too big that it gets caught on things. If you are more comfortable reading a digital clock, then don’t buy an analog watch.

Water-Resistance

If you have an active lifestyle, you should invest in a quality water-resistant watch. You can wear it without worrying about ruining it. Without second thoughts, you can easily jump into water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. It is best to own a watch that is water-resistant for hundreds of meters underwater.

Seiko watch
Long Island Watch

Even if you are not a sporty person, it would still be advantageous if your watch is water-resistant. You don’t have to worry about the rain and how it could affect your watch. You can even dip in the pool without worries.  

Functions

When buying a watch, you must break down what you need in a watch. Are you satisfied that it can only tell you the time and date? Would you prefer that it is packed with a lot of apps and features that you can use while doing outdoor activities?

If you are an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys camping, you should consider a watch that is packed with all the good stuff such as a GPS tracking system, timer, stopwatch, compass, thermometer, barometer, provides time zone information and can be connected to your email.   

Special Features

It is not enough for a wristwatch to be comfortable and durable. It should also have special features that are beneficial to use. It is great to own a watch that is packed with a lot of useful functions. Some functions that you may want your watch to have are a multi-time zone display, water-resistant, a compass, barometer, Bluetooth capability, and many more.

Aside from the multitude of functions your watch can do, it would also be great if the material it is made of is made from special material. There are watches made from titanium or stainless steel. There are displays made of sapphire crystals or hardened mineral crystals. It adds to the appeal if the dials also come in interesting colors like blue and gray.

Quality

Many people consider watches as investment pieces. Watches ideally should last you for years. It is a simple machine that you use every day and you expect that it will not bug down anytime soon.

High-quality watches are expected to last longer than poor-quality ones. However, not everyone can afford a high-quality watch. Go for a watch that is durable and at the same time within your set budget.  

Battery Life

Most watches run on batteries. With the current advancement in technology, you can now enjoy solar-powered watches. With solar-powered watches, the light source is converted into light energy and stored in your watch’s battery.

Since your battery can be recharged using solar power; you don’t have to buy replacement batteries every time it dies. Minimal battery waste helps the environment. Several solar-powered watches have a battery life of more than one year without the need to recharge.

Weight

As much as possible, you should look for a watch that is comfortable and not burdensome to wear. A watch that is bigger than your wrist can make your hand feel weighed down. Aside from this, you would look awkward with a bulky watch on your small wrist.

You may consider plastic-made watches for these to be lighter. However, many prefer stainless steel watches because of their durability. If you are looking for durable watches, you should purchase those made from high-quality materials.

How to Take Care of a Solar Watch

solar watches
StormRider

The band of the watch is the part that needs a lot of maintenance and care to last longer. There are different types of watch bands. Each type has its particular set of maintenance instructions. For stainless steel bands, you can clean them using a damp cloth. Avoid using vinegar because this can damage your stainless steel band.

On the other hand, if your band is made of nylon, leather, or resin, these are prone to getting damp and smell bad due to wrist sweat. Allow these bands to completely dry before wiping with a cloth. Give your bands a quick clean every week to keep them in good condition longer.

Avoid exposing your watch to direct and intense sunlight. This could cause damage to other parts of the watch. If the battery needs changing, you need to bring it back to the manufacturer for proper maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Citizen Solar Watch
First Class Watches

Are Solar-Powered Watches Worth It?

Yes, they are definitely worth it. They function well and are also packed with a lot of useful functions and apps. They are eco-friendly making it all the more worth it to own.  

Do Solar-Powered Watches Work Well?

Yes, they work well because they can accurately tell the time. After all, the batteries are constantly charging when there is a light source around.

Can You Put a Regular Battery in a Solar Watch?

No. Regular batteries are not meant to be used on solar watches. Regular batteries such as alkaline-based are not ideal for solar watches for they are meant to be disposed of when it dries out.

Can a Solar Watch Battery Be Replaced?

Solar watches do not require regular battery replacement. Your battery can last a long time if you give your watch regular maintenance. 

Can Solar Watches Last Forever?

No, solar watches won’t last forever. All types of watches, at some point, will fail or stop working after years of use. Also, over time, some component parts may be unavailable, thus irreparable. However, if you just bought your solar watch and it is not functioning, it needs to be replaced.

How Is Recharging Affected When Seasons Change?

Charging can be affected when seasons vary. During summer, sunlight is abundant and strong. It is easy to charge your solar watch during this season. You will notice that the charging is faster and more efficient. It is during winter and fall that you may need to make behavioral changes for you to be able to charge your watch and make the most of the available light.

Final Thoughts

Casio Watch

Due to technological innovations, using high-quality solar watches is the most sustainable way to go. You don’t need to purchase replacement batteries and you can save the environment this way. You can use and enjoy your solar watch longer than other types of watches.

A solar watch is your active lifestyle partner. Owning a solar watch is not a waste but rather a worthwhile investment. The 10 best solar watches listed above are excellent brands that you may consider. It is high time you get your own solar-powered watch for they are the “next big thing”.

Leave a Comment