Solar-powered watches are becoming increasingly popular due to their eco-friendly and cost-efficient features.
These watches use solar cells to convert sunlight into electricity, providing a constant power source without the need for battery replacements or manual winding.
In this article, we will introduce you to the 5 best solar-powered watches available on the market.
We have carefully selected these watches based on their features, design, durability, and customer reviews to provide you with the best options for your needs.
From sporty to elegant designs, these solar-powered watches offer a wide range of features such as world time, GPS tracking, water resistance, and more.
Whether you’re an adventurer, a professional, or just someone who appreciates sustainable technology, there is a solar-powered watch for you on this list.
In this guide, I ranked and reviewed the 5 best solar-powered watches in 2023.
- Citizen Garrison
- Junghans Max Bill Mega Solar
- G-Shock Rangeman
- Garmin Instinct Solar
- Jack Mason Solar Watch
A solar-powered watch, or simply a solar watch is a watch that is powered by a solar cell, either partially or entirely.
The “solar” might be slightly misleading because solar watches can not only draw energy from sunlight, but can also power themselves using artificial light in indoor environments.
Solar watches work by converting light energy into electricity, which is then used to recharge a lithium-ion battery.
Even without receiving any light to recharge, solar watches can continue to run for months.
They are incredibly energy-efficient, durable and accurate, perfect for outdoor lovers.
What are the 5 Best Solar-Powered Watches in 2023?
My top picks are Citizen Garrison, Junghans Max Bill Mega Solar, G-Shock Rangeman, Garmin Instinct Solar and Jack Mason Solar Watch.
1. Citizen Garrison
The Citizen Garrison watch is a durable and stylish timepiece that is perfect for those who love a military-inspired design.
With its rugged 37mm screw-back case and 100M water resistance, this watch is built to withstand even the toughest of conditions.
But what really sets this watch apart is its Eco-Drive technology, which allows it to be powered by any light source, making it both eco-friendly and cost-efficient.
One of the standout features of the Citizen Garrison watch is its day-date indicator and luminous hands, which make it easy to keep track of the time even in low-light conditions.
The watch also comes with a mineral crystal that provides added protection against scratches and other forms of damage.
But what makes this watch truly special is Citizen’s commitment to the environment.
Through its partnership with 1% for the Planet, Citizen has pledged to donate 1% of its website sales in the U.S. to support environment-focused nonprofit organizations.
So not only are you getting a high-quality timepiece when you purchase the Citizen Garrison watch, but you are also helping to support a worthy cause at the same time.
In terms of size, the Citizen Garrison has a band length of 190.5mm and a lug width of 18mm, making it a comfortable fit for most wrist sizes.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a military veteran, or just someone who appreciates a rugged and reliable watch, the Citizen Garrison is definitely worth considering.
Features:
- Movement Technology: Eco-Drive
- Band Length: 190.5mm
- Case Width: 37mm
- Lug Width: 18mm
- Crystal: Mineral Crystal
Visit their website for more information.
2. Junghans Max Bill Mega Solar
The Max Bill Mega Solar is a beautifully crafted timepiece with a minimalistic Bauhaus design that is sure to turn heads.
With its radio-controlled movement and perpetual calendar, this watch is designed for those who appreciate accuracy and functionality.
The watch’s solar dial, which is a matt light grey, features luminous dots with an environmentally friendly substance, making it easy to read in low-light conditions.
One of the key features of the Max Bill Mega Solar is its lightweight titanium case, which makes it a comfortable fit for those who value agility and ease of wear.
The watch also comes with a titanium milanaise bracelet with a safety folding clasp, adding to its stylish yet practical design.
The Max Bill Mega Solar is also incredibly durable, with a convex hard plexiglass with a coating for enhanced scratch resistance.
For those who prefer even greater protection, the watch can be retrofitted with a sapphire crystal.
With a water resistance of up to 3 bar, this watch can withstand light splashes and rain, making it suitable for everyday wear.
In terms of size, the Max Bill Mega Solar has a case diameter of 38mm and a case height of 9mm, making it a suitable size for most wrist sizes.
Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or simply want to elevate your everyday look, the Max Bill Mega Solar is a watch that is sure to impress.
Features:
- Case Material: Titanium
- Case Diameter: 38mm
- Case Height: 9mm
- Dial: Solar dial matt light grey, luminous dots with environmentally luminous substance
- Strap: Titanium milanaise bracelet with safety folding clasp
- Glass: Convex hard plexiglass with coating for enhanced scratch resistance, optional retrofitting with sapphire crystal
- Water Resistance: Water resistant up to 3 bar
Visit their website for more information.
3. G-Shock Rangeman
The G-Shock Rangeman is a watch that is designed for the adventurous explorers.
With its rugged-looking exterior and advanced GPS navigation function, this watch is a must-have for anyone who loves to explore the great outdoors.
The watch claims to have the world’s first solar-assisted GPS navigation function, which collects location data from GPS satellites to display the current location on a route or bearing to a destination, in real-time.
One of the unique features of the G-Shock Rangeman is its ability to save point data including date/time, longitude/latitude, altitude, atmospheric pressure, and temperature with just a push of a button.
This makes it easy to keep track of your location and to navigate back to where you started.
In addition to its GPS navigation function, the G-Shock Rangeman also boasts a durable stainless steel case and a shock-resistant resin bezel, making it capable of withstanding even the toughest of conditions.
The watch’s mineral dial window provides an added layer of protection, ensuring that the watch remains scratch-free even during the most rigorous activities.
The G-Shock Rangeman also features a digital display, with a buckle clasp and a plastic band that is designed for comfort during extended wear.
With a water-resistant depth of up to 201m, this watch can handle everything from swimming to snorkeling and even diving.
In terms of size, the G-Shock Rangeman has a case diameter of 5.3cm and a case thickness of 17mm, making it a statement piece that is sure to stand out on any wrist.
With its combination of advanced GPS navigation technology, rugged design, and durability, the G-Shock Rangeman is a watch that is built to last and will accompany you on all of your adventures.
Features:
- Dial Window Material Type: Mineral
- Display Type: Digital
- Clasp: Buckle
- Case Material: Stainless Steel
- Case Diameter: 5.3cm
- Case Thickness: 17mm
- Band Material: Plastic
- Band Width: 22mm
- Bezel Material: Resin
- Weight: 295 gram
- Movement: Quartz
- Water Resistant Depth: 201m
Visit their website for more information.
4. Garmin Instinct Solar
The Garmin Instinct Solar is a smartwatch that is designed to handle the rigors of outdoor activities.
Its rugged build ensures that you don’t have to worry about breaking or damaging it while enjoying your adventures.
The watch has built-in sports apps, which allow you to track your activities, including running, swimming, and cycling.
One of the most impressive features of the Garmin Instinct Solar is its battery life.
With a full charge, the watch can last up to an incredible 54 days in smartwatch mode.
This means you can wear it for extended periods without worrying about recharging it.
The watch also has GPS tracking, which allows you to track your location and navigate trails with ease.
Additionally, it has a heart rate monitor, which can help you optimize your training and monitor your health.
In addition to its fitness features, the Garmin Instinct Solar is also a smartwatch that can receive notifications straight from your phone to your wrist.
This means you can stay connected even when you’re away from your phone.
The watch has a screen size of 32.3mm (1.27 inches) and weighs 158.8g (5.6 ounces), making it comfortable to wear even during long outdoor activities.
Its dimensions of 45mm x 45mm x 15mm (1.77″ x 1.77″ x 0.6″) also make it a suitable size for most wrist sizes.
Overall, the Garmin Instinct Solar is a great option for anyone who wants a durable, long-lasting smartwatch that can handle the outdoors.
Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or an outdoor adventurer, this watch is sure to meet your needs.
Features:
- Dimensions: 45mm x 45mm x 15mm (1.77″ x 1.77″ x 0.6″)
- Weight: 158.8g (5.6 ounces)
- Screen Size: 32.3mm (1.27 inches)
Visit their website for more information.
5. Jack Mason Solar Watch
The Jack Mason Solar Watch is a unique timepiece that stands out not only for its stunning design but also for its commitment to sustainability.
Its case is made of recycled stainless steel, which gives it a raw finish that reminds us of the recycled nature of the material.
The strap is also made from recycled ocean plastic, further emphasizing the watch’s eco-friendly design.
In addition to being environmentally conscious, the Jack Mason Solar Watch is also highly functional.
With a full charge, its movement can last up to 6 months, making it a low-maintenance option for those who don’t want to worry about frequent battery changes.
The watch is also water-resistant up to 10 ATM/100 meters, so you can wear it while swimming or engaging in water activities.
The Jack Mason Solar Watch features a vibrant purple dial with a simple 3-hand design that is easy to read.
The crystal is made of durable sapphire, ensuring that the watch face remains scratch-resistant and clear for years to come.
In keeping with its commitment to sustainability, 10% of the watch’s profits are donated to the Jan & Oscar Foundation, which helps to clean up our oceans.
This watch is not only a stylish accessory but also a symbol of conscious consumerism and responsible environmental stewardship.
Features:
- Case Size: 42mm
- Case Type: Recycled stainless steel
- Band Color: Black
- Band Type: Recycled ocean plastic
- Band Width: 20mm
- Dial Color: Purple
- Dial Type: 3 Hand
- Water Resistance: 10 ATM/100 Meters
- Crystal Type: Sapphire
Visit their website for more information.
Summary
In conclusion, the trend towards solar-powered watches that offer a more sustainable way to tell time is a welcome development.
These watches are not only eco-friendly but also offer the convenience of never needing to replace batteries, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
From the Max Bill Mega Solar’s radio-controlled movement and perpetual calendar to the Jack Mason Solar Watch’s use of recycled materials, solar watches are making a positive impact on the environment.
And let’s not forget about the Garmin Instinct Solar, which is not only rugged and durable but can also last up to 54 days with a single charge.
Solar-powered watches are a great way to enjoy the convenience and style of a timepiece while doing your part to reduce your environmental impact.
We hope that this trend towards sustainable watchmaking continues to grow and inspire others to embrace eco-friendly options in all areas of their lives.
