A watch is quite a popular ornament in our daily life. For a businessman, a celebrity, or an office lady, a favorable timepiece is necessary and useful. However, you may have been troubled by a dead watch caused by battery failure. But do not worry. Thanks to the development of technology, solar-powered watches emerge as the times require.
The main difference between a traditional timekeeper and a solar-powered watch is the power source. As we all know, a regular watch works with a traditional battery, by contrast, a solar watch is powered by the sun.
What to Consider When Buying a Solar-powered Watch
Solar-powered watches have a variety of features, also, buyers may have some questions about them, and there are four main factors you need to consider when choosing one.
Water-resistance
Water resistance is a significant factor when it comes to equipment that could be exposed to the outside. Meanwhile, it is also important for solar-powered products. A solar-powered watch is not an exception. Indeed, it is even more significant for this elaborate product because a watch is usually expensive and unique.
A solar-powered watch operates with power from the sunlight, which means the model needs to be exposed to sunlight. There could be risks of bad weather like rainy days. Bad weather not only affects solar gathering but also reduces the product’s lifespan.
A perfect solar-powered watch should be outstandingly waterproof.
Power reserve
The power reserve is a critical factor that you should take into account because it directly affects whether your watch can work smoothly when you need it. As a key matter for a solar-powered watch, the power reserve capacity may vary from model to model. Different brands and manufacturers provide different power reserve levels.
Generally, an average power reserve allows the watch to operate for a few months without exposure to sunlight for charging. This is good news for people who prefer to wear it on some important occasions.
We recommend you buy a solar-powered watch with a powerful power reserve so that you don’t need to charge it too frequently or be bothered by continuous rainy days.
Display
The display is another important factor to think about when choosing a solar-powered watch because it determines whether you can see the dial clearly in the dark.
A perfect solar-powered watch should include an LED light or LED backlight to show all the key information on the dial at night. Especially for people who are used to attending night parties or need to work at night, this feature is significant to ensure a satisfying user experience.
Design
Design plays an important role in buying a favorable solar-powered watch. A solar-powered watch comes with multiple design features. And you need to make some choices.
You should consider how the watch dial looks, big or small; whether there are some stunning ornaments or not; and whether its material is quartz-based or atomic-based. So you should consider all these features to make the right option.
Solar-powered Watch Frequently Asked Questions
How does a solar-powered watch work?
We all know briefly that a solar-powered watch works with solar power. But the answer is not that simple.
Specifically speaking, a solar-powered watch works with a photovoltaic cell technology that enables it to get recharged by merely being exposed to an available light source. Generally, the solar cells are integrated into the watch dials or the outside circles. And they can receive and gather both sunlight and artificial light.
Although the power output by artificial lights is much lower than natural sunlight, this alternative allows the users to get it charged even inside the room, breaking the charging limit. So don’t worry about performance failures caused by staying at home or on rainy days. Also, most solar-powered watches are waterproof to protect the models.
Why should I buy a solar-powered watch?
A solar-powered watch provides plenty of benefits. And some important ones are as follows.
Like many other solar power products, solar-powered watches are environmentally-friendly. They can work with power from the sun, instead of traditional electricity. So their batteries neither consume any scarce energies nor generate any toxic emissions. So they can protect the environment, meanwhile, conserve the energies.
Solar-powered watches offer users better-ensured consistent usage and protection. The models can be charged through two sorts of methods: sunlight, and artificial lights. So the charging process can be extremely flexible and approachable. No matter whether you stay at home or working outside, the watches can be fully charged. And you don’t need to prepare any spare batteries.
Solar-powered watches can also be put at home for a long period without losing the charged power. So you can use it when you need it, and don’t need to worry about operation failures.
What do you need to know to maintain and care for your watches?
Since most watches are expensive, and some of them can be an investment, so taking good care of them is necessary. You should clean them with a soft cloth regularly to protect the models from dust and water.
Solar Powered Watch Reviews
1. Citizen Men’s Solar Watch BM8180-03E
Citizen Men’s BM8180-03E solar watch is quite affordable model with a beautiful design. It is designed for men and looks both elegant and leisurely. The watch dial is black with a silver ring and marks, simple and chic. The band is colored dark green and made of nylon. I guess this is more attractive for young people.
As you wish, the watch is powered by lights. This model supports both artificial and natural lights. The unit features a long-lasting rechargeable battery. When it is exposed to the lights, it can generate energy and store it in the power cell, transforming the stored energy into electricity to keep the watch working without stopping. So you don’t need to worry that the watch could fail to run for a power outage.
Besides, this solar-powered watch is water-resistant up to 100m. Therefore, users can wear the watch when taking showers. This is convenient because many people may forget to take off the model. More surprisingly, if you are a fanatic of water activities, you will like this watch. Thanks to the powerful water resistance, you can wear it to swim or snorkel freely. in professional marine activities like swimming and snorkeling. But notice that it is not suitable for submarine activities.
Something else we would like to talk about is the dial design. It features a stainless steel case, canvas strap, adjustable buckle closure, a three-hand analog display with quartz movement, luminous hands, and markers. Also, it comes with a calendar window, hour markers, and a minute track. So you can get a lot of time information and can see it clearly at night.
On the other hand, the soft crystal makes it easy to be scratched. So for users who need it for everyday work, this is troublesome.
In conclusion, this watch is recommendable for its beautiful design and multiple functions. And it is ideal for water-activity lovers.
Pros
- Waterproof– better protection
- Luminosity – clear at night
- Included calendar– more time information
- Two sorts of light sources– additional charging method
- 6-month power reserve– user-friendly
Cons
- Soft crystal– easy to get scratched
- Color contrast is not enough– hard to read the time
2. Casio G-Shock Solar Watch GW-9400
Seiko SSC017 is another highly recommendable solar-powered watch. It has a considerate design. The model features an elegant black dial that comes with luminous hands and hour markers. Plus, the watch also includes three chronograph sub-dials, allowing the users to adjust the time flexibly. And the colors are user-friendly. The model adds bright blue to the background black. And the blue covers a quarter from 12 to 3 o’clock. So you can see the time clearly with a simple glance.
One of the most amazing features of this watch is its powerful water resistance. It can handle a depth of 200 meters. Although it looks commercial, it is super suitable for water sports fans. So if you like marine activities, you should check this out. And you don’t need to worry that it could go bad when you carelessly wear it to take a shower.
What’s more, the watch features stainless steel bracelet coupled with a double push-button and fold-over clasp. This factor not only makes the model stylish but also offers powerful protection for the watch.
Moreover, like the previously discussed model, this solar-powered watch can also be recharged alternatively. By using direct sunlight or artificial lights, the watch can be charged and keep working non-stop. In that case, users don’t have to change batteries from time to time.
However, the material makes the watch get fingerprints easily. That may upset some people, especially those who like to keep neat.
All in all, although there might be some defects, we would also like to recommend it to you because of its considerate design and useful functions.
Pros
- Waterproof of up to 200m– better protection
- Black/blue contrast– easy to read
- Three chronograph sub–dials – clearer time information
- Two sorts of light sources– additional charging method
- Fold–over strap clasp – better protection
Cons
- Outer dial too easily rotates– troublesome
- Attract fingerprint– untidy
3. Seiko SSC017 Men’s Prospex Analog Solar Watch
Citizen BN0151-09L solar-powered watch has a classic design. It features a thick round dial with thick hands and hour markers. The dial is black and the hands, as well as markers, are luminous silver. Also, it includes a calendar window set at four o’clock. And the band color is navy blue. The timer is modern and the appearance is classic. So if you are looking for a solar-powered watch with a chic look, just don’t miss it.
Firstly, it is powered by lights instead of traditional electric cells. Whenever there is sunlight, it can produce power by collecting solar from the sun and converting the power into battery energy to activate the watch. Users never have to replace the batteries regularly. So you save a lot of trouble if you buy such a watch.
Besides, like the last recommendation, this model also withstands water resistance of up to 200 meters. Generally, you can wear the watch to take bath after work, without the bother of taking it off. Moreover, if you wanna have fun by doing some surface water sports like swimming or snorkeling, you don’t have to worry about the watch. This is good news for many people who are fond of water sports.
Plus, apart from the beautiful color, the band material is polyurethane that can hardly get snatched or attached by dust. All, the water on it can be cleared away easily, making it stay tidy.
However, there are shortcomings too. The crystal is a little softer, leading it to be scratched easily. Compared with the hour markers, the date window is much smaller.
In a nutshell, despite the unavoidable disadvantages, it has plenty of advantages to meet your multiple needs.
Pros
- Waterproof of up to 200m– better protection
- Big hour markers– easy to read
- Classic design– beautiful looking
- Polyurethane band– comfortable
- Eco-drive– no need to change a battery
Cons
- Soft crystal– easy to get scratched
- Small date window– hard to read
4. Citizen BN0151-09L Men’s Solar Powered Watch
Casio is a brand famous for producing all kinds of watches. G-shock Rangeman GW-9400 is one of the most valuable solar-powered watches in the market. Unlike the other models I have mentioned, this model is designed with more advanced technologies. So if you are a Casio fan, you should check this out.
One of the most wonderful features of this watch is the exterior design. This is a solar-powered watch with a digital display. And the digital numbers are big enough for users to take a glance at. Plus, It uses sturdy stainless steel. And there is a red color on the pushers, showing contrast.
Another feature is the water resistance, this timer can handle a depth of up to 200 meters. With this feature, the model can attract many potential buyers, especially young people. With advanced design and good waterproofing, users can wear it anywhere even underwater.
Besides, the model includes many other wonderful features. It comes with a digital compass that can help you get rid of losing your way when hiking outside. The model also has sunrise and sunset dates to help you arrange your trip to visit sun-view. What’s more, there is a time-stamp, Mb6 atomic timekeeping, auto LED, 5 daily alarms (4 one-time and 1 snooze alarm), 1/10-second stopwatch, countdown timer, day/date/month calendar, and buckle closure. This powerful multifunctional watch is simply a dream solar-powered watch.
On the contrary, due to its complex design and accessories, this model is a little heavy to wear. Petit people should think twice.
In summary, this is a perfect choice for solar-powered watch searchers. If you have high expectations and are ready to buy, don’t miss this wonderful product.
Pros
- Waterproof of up to 200m– better protection
- Digital display– easy to read
- Red contrast– beautiful looking
- Digital compass– suitable for outdoors
- 5 daily alarms– convenient to use
Cons
- Heavy– unsuitable for small people
- Too many calibrations– complex for some people
5. Casio PAG240 Solar Watch
The Pathfinder Triple Sensor solar-powered watch is another valuable model produced by Casio. And this model is a sports style with plenty of practical features. If you are looking for a solar-powered watch for outdoor activities, this is an ideal option for you.
one of the key features of this model is the power reserve. This watch has a very long and dependable battery life, about 6 months. As long as you expose the watch to the sun, the watch will generate enough energy and keep the model working perfectly without recharging for up to 6 months. This is very useful and attractive for users who are keen on hiking, climbing, and so on.
Besides, the model comes with many other amazing features to boost its performance. It is designed with a digital compass, altimeter, barometer, thermometer, low-temperature resistance (-10 C), EL backlight, world time (31 time zones, 48 cities), city code display, five daily alarms, 1/100-second stopwatch, Full auto-calendar (pre-programmed until 2099), countdown timer, 12/24-hour formats, battery power indicator, and power-saving function. All these features make it a dreamy solar-powered watch for outdoor lovers.
Moreover, it features a water resistance of up to 100 meters. This supports water activities like swimming, and snorkeling, but not submarine sports.
On the other hand, the disadvantage is that many of the functions need precise calibrations. So if you don’t like to deal with complex regulations, you can skip this one.
In a word, even though it needs so many calibrations to function well, this is an ideal option for buyers. Outdoor activity fanatics don’t miss this.
Pros
- Waterproof of up to 100m– enough for normal water sports
- Digital display– easy to read
- 6-month power reserve– long lifetime battery
- Digital compass– suitable for outdoors
- 5 daily alarms– convenient to use
Cons
- Small buttons– hard to operate
- Too many calibrations– complex for some people
6. Casio Sport Combination Solar Powered Watch
If you are looking for a solar-powered watch that is both multifunctional and cost-effective, this Casio sport combination solar watch is a perfect choice. This is a model particularly designed for sports lovers. The brand is made of plastic and the watch movement is made of Japanese quartz. And all the components are black, making it a super cool watch.
Firstly, this watch features a solar rechargeable battery. Users can expose the model under the sun to collect sunlight and generate energy. Then the energy can be stored in the included battery to activate the watch. Also, this model comes with a battery power indicator to notify the power status. Plus, the watch can automatically save power to extend the battery life.
In terms of water resistance, this watch withstands waterproofing of up to 100 meters, which is powerful enough for users to play some surface water sports, though it can hardly stand diving underwater. Also, after a whole day’s hard work, you can go showering directly without taking the watch off. This is convenient.
As for the power reserve, this Casio sports watch is powerful to reserve energy for 10 months with a full charge, and need not additional exposure to sunlight. So if you are keen on outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, or biking, this is an ideal option. And it requires less money than many other models on the list, so students can check this out.
However, the model is all black, which may make it hard for users to see the time clearly by just having a quick glance at it.
All in all, there are few chances for you to find a solar-powered watch with both all-rounded functions and a low budget, so just go and buy it.
Pros
- Waterproof of up to 100m– enough for normal water sports
- Digital display– easy to read
- 10-month power reserve– long lifetime battery
- LED light– clear time display
- Power-saving function– convenient to use
Cons
- Small digital window– hard to read
- Only support sunlight– can’t charge fully on rainy days
7. Casio Unisex Tough G-Shock Solar Watch
The unisex tough solar-powered watch is another G-Shock model produced by Casio. And like the other previously mentioned units, this is also a typical sports watch. This watch has three display windows, and each has distinctive time information. If you are looking for a watch with a sophisticated design, you can pay attention to this one.
First of all, as its name indicates, this solar-powered watch is super tough and durable. It is shock-resistant. It is made from strong stainless steel and resin. The building materials make it a super sturdy model to handle many kinds of reels and stumbles. So you don’t have to worry that the watch could be damaged when having outdoor activities.
Besides, this watch can handle water resistance of up to 200 meters. This is good news to most potential buyers because people who like this model are likely to love water sports. With such a powerful waterproof feature, you can wear it to enjoy both surface and dive activities.
Something else we would like to talk about is the power reserve. This powerful watch can support a wide range of power charges, from 5 to 23 months. That means as long as you charge the battery fully, the power can keep the watch working for a long period of up to 23 months. This is extremely attractive for users.
On the other hand, it has defects too. For example, it doesn’t suit formal occasions. So if you need a watch for formal settings, you can search for others.
In a word, this is a tough and powerful solar-powered watch for sports lovers. The provided multiple functions will please you as you wish.
Pros
- Waterproof of up to 200m– suitable for water sports
- Digital display– easy to read
- Up to 23-month power reserve– long lifetime battery
- LED light– clear time display
- Shock resistance– tough
Cons
- Small digital window– hard to read
- Not formal– can’t use formally
8. Seiko SNE499 PADI Special Edition Prospex Solar Watch
Seiko PADI special edition solar dive watch is a special model that is equipped with a silicone band. This material makes the band soft and tensile so that it can recover quickly after being bent. This is a distinctive feature that makes the model special compared with other solar-powered watches.
One of its most outstanding features is the water resistance. Like many other above-talked watches, this is also a powerful model that can withstand soaking. The included waterproof is up to 200 meters, allowing users to have fun in both surface water sports and scuba diving with the watch on their wrists. Not to mention showers.
What’s more, the watch dial is elaborately designed. Regarding the color, the dial background is black with luminous hands and hour markers. And the dial ring is navy blue, with a quarter of red ring between 12 and 15 o’clock. The bright color contrast helps users to see the time. Also, all hour markers and hands are thick enough to be recognized with a simple glance.
Moreover, this watch is also very sturdy and durable. The case is made of stainless steel, and it comes with a strong dial window. So the watch is scratch-resistant. Users don’t need to worry about breaking the watch by carelessly dropping it off.
On the other hand, some buyers may think that the watch is a little old-fashioned and the color is not elegant enough.
In conclusion, although it is not very stylish, it offers satisfying functions and enjoyable user experiences. Why not have a try?
Pros
- Waterproof of up to 200m– suitable for water sports
- Silicone band– soft and tensile
- Hardlex dial window– scratch resistance
- Stainless steel construction– high durability
- Red/blue contrast– high readability
Cons
- Old-fashioned design– less attractive
- Not sporty– can’t use outdoors
9. Citizen Men’s Super Titanium Solar Watch
If you are looking for a solar-powered watch that is suitable for business or formal settings, don’t miss this model. This is a solar-powered watch with sophisticated functions and a beautiful design. The color is black and silver, both classic and contemporary.
First of all, this model is of high quality and made of Japanese quartz movement. This timepiece comes with a strap that is a titanium link bracelet, locking with a solid fold-over clasp. It has a double push-button closure, promoting safety and avoiding getting loose.
As for the dial, it features chronograph displays. Plus, there are three little chronograph displays on the dial. And each of them displays different figures, including one with a unique, radio-controlled chronograph. This chronograph allows the watch to be automatically synchronized to the time zone where you get to. So you won’t get confused by the incorrect time.
And this watch can be powered by any light. You can either charge it by exposing the watch to the sunlight or charge it with artificial lights at home. This is convenient and effortless. The most important thing is that you don’t need to replace the battery frequently.
However, this chic and versatile solar-powered watch is a little expensive. So you may need a big budget.
To conclude, despite the high price, this is a worth-buying solar-powered watch. People who need one to wear on important settings should check this out.
Pros
- Japanese quartz movement– sturdy
- Titanium band – elaborate and chick
- Three sub-dial– more specific displays
- Alarms– functional
- Black/silver– beautiful
Cons
- Expensive– a big budget
- Poor water resistance– doesn’t suit outdoors
10. Timex Men’s Expedition Ranger Solar Powered Watch
Since most watches are a little expensive, like an investment to some extent, some people who need a solar-powered watch may complain about the price. So we recommend the Timex Ranger solar-powered watch to you. This is almost the most economical model in the market. Users who have a tight budget should take the chance.
One of its key features is its band. The band material is natural leather that has two different colors inside(light brown) and outside(black or brown). The texture of the band is good and it fits your wrists properly. Also, the band looks stylish.
In terms of water resistance. It is waterproof to 50 meters. So you can wear it to swimming or take showers, but better not for too long. While you can’t enjoy snorkeling or diving with this watch on your wrists.
Besides, this model can be powered by generating energy using both natural and artificial lights. And when the model is fully charged, the battery reserve can support the watch for up to 2 months.
However, the band material may not be of high quality, so it can be worn easily.
All in all, although some of its material is not very good, and the functions are limited, this is the best choice with a price lower than 100.
Pros
- Quarts movement– sturdy
- Natural leather band– stylish
- Calendar– more time information
- Luminous hands– clear to see
- Water-resistant– enjoy short-time swimming
Cons
- Poor material quality– wear off easily
- Poor water resistance– doesn’t suit marine activities
Many great options
As you can see, there are many great solar powered watches on the market to suit almost any requirement. If you have decided you’d like to purchase one but are having trouble choosing, any of the picks in our review would be a great place to start your search.