If you’re in the market for a sustainable watch option, look no further than solar watches. These watches can help cut back on battery waste, making them a great alternative to battery-powered quartz movement watches. So, if you’re wondering what makes solar watches a good option, how long they last, and whether artificial light can charge a solar watch, read on to learn more.
How do Solar Watches Work?
Just like solar-powered lights or power banks, solar watches use light energy from any light source to power their internal mechanisms.
Inside each watch is a solar cell – this will either be placed behind a semi-transparent panel in the dial or directly on the dial itself. As light hits the cell, the light energy is absorbed and converted into energy. This energy is stored in a power reserve; a rechargeable battery inside the watch that keeps your timepiece ticking.
How Long Does a Solar Watch Last?
On average, the battery in a solar watch lasts between 7-12 years. This is in contrast to a typical quartz watch with a disposable battery that needs changing every 3-5 years. Although with regular maintenance and proper use, the batteries for both can last longer.
Benefits of Owning a Solar Watch
Beyond the obvious benefit of keeping you on time, solar-powered watches make a great addition to your watch rotation for their ease of use.
Thanks to their rechargeable batteries, they create less battery waste, saving you money and helping to protect the environment. They are also a convenient option, not only because there’s no battery to change, but because they will accurately keep time for years without needing manual adjustment (except outside of any time zone or daylight savings changes you may need). Your solar watch will likely also have an indicator to tell you when the battery is running low so it won’t die on you unexpectedly, unlike other types of watches might.
Your Timex solar-powered watch can be charged in almost any light level – yes, including artificial light! So long as your watch isn’t in darkness, such as in a drawer or hidden up your sleeve, it will constantly be charging. Place it on a sunny windowsill, wear it while relaxing outdoors, or use a special solar watch charger for optimal charging.
Tips for Maintaining Your Solar Watch
Your solar watch will charge with normal wear, no matter whether you’re at your desk or out on a hike. But if you’ve noticed the battery is a little low or you just want to really ensure it’s fully charged, all you need to do is make sure it’s getting enough light. To do so, either place it in a sunny spot or wear it with your sleeves rolled up while you’re out and about. Here are a few other helpful tips for maintaining your solar watch:
- Avoid extreme temperatures – While solar watches are designed to withstand different temperatures, it's best to avoid extreme heat or cold as they can affect your watch’s accuracy and battery efficiency.
- Check water resistance – Different watch models will have different water resistance ratings, so make sure to check yours before taking your solar watch on that kayaking expedition.
- Keep it clean – Regularly clean your solar watch by wiping it down with a soft, lint-free cloth after each wear. Avoid using abrasive or harsh cleaning agents as these can damage the finish or crystal. For a deeper clean, consider having your watch professionally serviced by Timex every few years.
Why Timex Solar Watches Stand Out
Ideal for treks, trips, and travels – no matter where they take you – our range of solar-powered watches are the ultimate adventure companions. Made with durable and eco-friendly materials and ultra-precise solar-powered movements, our range of Expedition Solar Watches are ready for your next journey.
Key Features
Eco-Friendly Materials
Many of our watch components are made with eco-friendly materials. In our solar-watch collection you can find materials like 100% post-consumer recycled plastic, vegan apple leather straps, and eco-ceramic cases.
Durable Construction
Built for outdoor use, our watches include a range of durable anti-reflective sapphire crystals, 100-meter water resistance, and robust screw-down crowns and case backs.
Solar-Powered Movement
Our solar watches boast efficient power reserves of up to four months, which can be charged by any light source to minimize battery replacements.
Versatile Sizing and Design
Our solar watches have extremely versatile sizing options. Available in a variety of sizes, from 36mm to 41mm, to cater to different style preferences and wrist sizes.
Key Takeaway
Solar-powered watches are slightly different from quartz watches but boast a lot of the same durability and accuracy while still having many of their own unique benefits. They are often a more sustainable watch option for the eco-conscious wearer, creating less battery waste as well as being a more convenient option. Check out our other sustainable watches as well as our stance on sustainability as a whole, or read up on our other types of watches to find the perfect timepiece for you.
READY TO ADD A SOLAR-POWERED WATCH TO YOUR LINEUP? SHOP OUR FAVORITES:
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Expedition Freedive Ocean #tide Fabric Strap Watch46 mm Black/Black$139.00 -
Expedition Traprock Solar 40mm Eco-friendly Strap Watch40 mm Green/Green$139.00 -
Timex Legacy Ocean 37mm Recycled Plastic Bracelet Watch37 mm Blue/Blue$139.00 -
Expedition® Field Solar 41mm Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch41 mm Gunmetal/Gunmetal$220.15 -
Expedition Ridge Solar 49mm Silicone Strap Watch49 mm Brown/Black$119.00
