The best solar watches: Buyer's Guide & reviews

The wristwatch in its origin is an instrument that serves a very specific useful purpose - it is always by your side, ticking away until the end of time. Unfortunately, not all watches meet this requirement, but the solar watches come very close.

Novel, sustainable and purposeful - these are the irresistible charms of the humble solar watch. It looks great, feels great, and runs on a virtually endless source of energy.

Solar watches do have batteries, but they don't need to be constantly replaced. This means minimal waste generation with maximum convenience. What more could you want?

If you're thinking about getting a solar watch, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the subject, as well as comprehensive reviews of the best solar-powered models.

Let's get started.

HOW DO THESE WATCHES WORK?

A common misconception is that solar-powered watches don't need batteries. In fact, these watches are equipped with a single battery that can last a lifetime.

Watches with solar power are characterized by an aperture in which a mini solar module is installed, capable of converting light energy into electricity, which is then translated into mechanical power. These modules can obtain energy not only from sunlight, but also from room lighting.

Place your solar clock under a light bulb overnight and voila. When your alarm clock rings in the morning, the clock will be fully charged.

Provided the battery is fully charged in this way, the clock can be used for months before it needs to be recharged.

ADVANTAGES OF A SOLAR WATCH

There are many reasons that make a solar powered watch so attractive. It's environmentally friendly, accurate in telling time, and won't let you down when you need it most.

If you haven't been convinced by the concept yet, here are some noteworthy benefits for you to consider when owning one of these exceptional crafts.

SUSTAINABILITY

The fact that watches powered by SOlarstrom only need a single battery for their entire lifespan makes them incredibly sustainable. You'll never have to worry about battery disposal and replacement again. Your wallet will be happy - and the environment anyway.

Additionally, these watches use the most sustainable and renewable energy source - sunlight. With such an everlasting resource, you'll never run out of power.

EASY MAINTENANCE

It doesn't take much to keep a solar watch running. As long as your watch is near a light source, be it natural or ambient light, it will automatically charge.

The permanent battery eliminates inconveniences like timely maintenance and battery problems.

LIFETIME

One of the biggest pluses of a solar watch is the fact that it can go for months without charging.

Solar watches have large energy reserves that can even store solar energy without being exposed to sunlight. This is especially handy in dim or low-light situations, or if you keep the watch in a drawer for a few weeks.

CHOOSING THE BEST SOLAR WATCH: ASPECTS TO CONSIDER

Now that you're a little more familiar with the concept of solar watches, it's time to take a closer look at the features that make a good solar watch stand out from the rest.

We've listed the most important features to help narrow down your search a bit.

ENERGY RESERVE

Solar watches can go a very long time without a light source, but exactly how long is very long? To be fair, this depends a lot on the watch in question.

Most watches will run for more than six months on a full charge, which is most effective. Be sure to pay attention to the power reserve when browsing the different models and include the watches with a longer period in your selection.

DISPLAY

An outstanding display is the key difference for functionality and comfort. The following aspects are important here:

• Dial and sub-dials
• Display of date/day
• Luminous hands
• Robust case material
• Good bezel
• Polished watch glass

Different watches feature different display designs, so a display that meets your needs is one of the most important considerations when choosing one.

WATER RESISTANCE

While most solar watches are water resistant, they do have differences in the amount of water they can - or cannot - handle.

Ideally, you should only include watches in your selection that are water resistant up to 100 meters to avoid damage in most situations and depths. Anything less than that, you'll have to contend with limitations. However, if you don't plan to use the watch in such situations, even one with 30 m might be enough.

ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS

There was once a time when the only function of a wristwatch was timekeeping. Nowadays, yours can do much more than that. They are equipped with a variety of useful features that increase their appeal, namely:

• Digital displays
• Adjustable wristband
• Smart interface
• Alarm clock and sensors
• Options for different time zones
• Good warranty period

And much more.

Now before you make a decision for a watch that comes with a myriad of features that you don't necessarily need, rather consider the personal utility of your timepiece and in which areas it will be predominantly used.

THE BEST MEN'S WATCHES WITH SOLAR POWER UNDER THE MAGNIFYING GLASS

Whether you're on the go for your next adventure or need a reliable accessory that will go with any outfit, a solar watch is a great addition to any wardrobe.

We've carefully rounded up the best solar watches that will stick with you through thick and thin and always look great by your side. We'll introduce you to the many features and benefits so you can make the right decision on a watch that suits your personal needs.

CASIO AQS810W CLASSIC SOLAR COMBINATION WATCH

The Casio Classic Solar Combination Watch is a sleek, black and durable watch that features a dual analog and digital display. With world time indication, and multi-language settings that work in combination with alarms, timers, and calendars, this watch is versatile and functional.

The added water resistance and a whopping ten months of power reserve enhance the appearance of this solar powered rugged watch. Affordability and power-saving features complete the picture of one of the best solar watches for men.

FEATURES

• Material: Resin
• Display: Analog and digital
• Power reserve: 10 months
• Water resistance: Up to 100 m
• Other features: Multilingual, world time, alarm clock, timer

THIS IS WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS MODEL

• The dial has both an analog and digital display, allowing you to conveniently set your preferences while keeping an eye on the battery level.
• There are six language settings, 31 time zones, city abbreviations, five alarms, timer, calendar, stopwatch, and various display formats that you can set according to your preferences.
• The backlit LED display and luminous hands make it easy to use this watch even in the dark.
• The power reserves last up to ten months on a full charge and along with the 100m water resistance, this watch can be used for a long time without changing the batteries just once.
• It is one of the best value for money watches on the market.

THEREFORE THIS IS NOT THE RIGHT MODEL FOR YOU

• The watch is prone to scratches.
• Adjusting the analog and digital display at the same time can be difficult.

G-SHOCK MEN SOLAR SPORT WATCH

TheG-Shock Men's Solar Sports Watch is another strong contender from Casio's watch series. This is a fully digital solar watch that shows adjustable world time, day and date on your display. Alarm clock, timer, and a stopwatch further allow you to conveniently adjust the settings of this watch.

In addition, this watch offers shock resistance as well as one of the best water resistance of up to 200 meters. When fully charged, it can work well for nine months. The longevity of the power reserve as well as the backlight greatly improve the practical aspect of this watch.

FEATURES

• Material: Resin
• Display: Digital
• Power reserve: 9 months
• Water resistance: Up to 200 m
• Other Features: Shockproof, world time, backlight, stopwatch, timer

THIS IS WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS MODEL

• With an impressive water resistance of up to 200m - the highest among all challengers on this list - you can easily use your watch in water without damaging it.
• It features a fully digital display with customizable settings like world time for 31 time zones, timer, stopwatch, alarm, accurate timekeeping and more.
• This watch has shock resistance that effectively counteracts the otherwise harmful mechanical shocks. If you frequently participate in outdoor activities, this is certainly a big plus.
• A single full charge lasts for nine months.
• It is highly accurate, even without optimizing or adjusting the hands from time to time.

THIS IS WHY THIS IS NOT THE RIGHT MODEL FOR YOU

• In terms of backlighting, even illumination is the most noticeable issue.
• The smaller subdials could be difficult to read.

CITIZEN ECO-DRIVE CHANDLER WATCH

TheCitizen Eco-Drive Chandler watch has an olive green canvas strap and a black and white display, making this watch comfortable to wear, chic and modern. It is equipped with an analog display, but also has a window for the day and date display in the dial.

In addition, this watch uses solar energy to charge its permanent battery. It has a water resistance of up to 100 meters, as well as luminous minute and hour hands that make it possible for you to read the time even at night. The mineral-enriched watch crystal and adjustable buckle are additional features worth highlighting.

FEATURES

• Material: Stainless steel
• Display: Analog
• Power reserve: 6 months
• Water resistance: Up to 100 m
• Other Features: Mineral-enriched watch crystal, Japanese quartz, movement and day-date display.

THIS IS WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS MODEL

• The 100m water resistance protects your watch from most situations where water is involved and prevents permanent damage to the movement.
• It has a pleasant yet stylish aesthetic that is enhanced by the olive green strap and black and white dial. A great accessory for casual occasions!
• The buckle of the watch is easily adjustable, which translates into a perfect fit for most wrists.
• The hands and markers on the dial glow in the dark, making it easy to read the time even at night.
• On the dial is a small window where you can set the date and day in addition to the time. Clearly arranged and at a glance!
• The watch has a warranty period of 5 years, which is pretty impressive. Within this time, you can easily make any kind of repairs and replacements if needed.

THEREFORE THIS IS NOT THE RIGHT MODEL FOR YOU

• The case is prone to scratches.
• The day and date display window is difficult to read in the dark as it does not glow.

TIMEX MEN EXPEDITION SCOUT SOLAR POWERED WATCH

The durable yet stylish Timex Men's Expedition Scout solar powered watch is equipped with a brown leather strap. The smooth and elegant gray dial houses luminous minute and hour hands. Conveniently, the dial features a date display window. All this is enclosed in a brass case with a smart watch glass.

With a power reserve of four months and a water resistance of 50 meters, this watch is an excellent choice for those who want to get a solar-powered watch. It is a relatively affordable option that is not only scratch resistant, but also visually appealing.

FEATURES

• Material: Brass
• Display: Analog
• Power reserve: 4 months
• Water resistance: Up to 50 m
• Other features: Leather strap, scratch resistance, gray dial, QuickDate function.

THIS IS WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS MODEL

• The watch is equipped with a scratch-resistant case, which makes it quite durable.
• With a plain display and luminous hands, this watch is characterized by clarity and improved readability.
• There is a date window in the dial, so you can keep everything in view.
• Its sleek and stylish design makes this watch a great accessory for formal and casual occasions.
• It is affordable, which makes this watch a great choice if you want to experience extensive features at a cost-effective price.

THIS IS WHY THIS IS NOT THE RIGHT MODEL FOR YOU

• This model only has water resistance up to 50 meters, which might be impractical if you venture to greater depths.
• The power reserve is only four months, this is significantly less compared to other solar watches.
• The alignment of the hands and markings on the dial is not always flush.
• The warranty period is one year, which is not much even compared to other models.

GARMIN INSTINCT SOLAR GRAPHITE SMARTWATCH

When it comes to solar watches with plenty of GPS, tracking and training features, you can't go past the Garmin Instinct Solar Graphite Smartwatch. This stylish and durable watch is black all around, including the strap and case, which is made of fiber-reinforced polymer.

To top it all off, it's solar powered and will last a lifetime if you use it in power saving mode.

FEATURES

• Material: Fiber-reinforced polymer
• Display: Transflective Memory-In-Pixel (MIP).
• Power reserve: 54 days (smartwatch), unlimited in power-saving mode
• Water resistance: Up to 100 m
• Other features: GPS, alarm clock, timer, health monitoring, sensors, smart functions, security functions.

THIS IS WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS MODEL

• The watch offers a range of power reserve options that vary depending on usage. For example, when used in simple watch mode, the solar power lasts a lifetime. When used as a smartwatch, the life is 54 days, and 38 hours with GPS turned on.
• The display of this watch is smart and in MIP form. This means you get multiple options like GPS and Bluetooth connectivity, health monitoring (like heart rate), alarm clock, timer, compass, weather forecast, tracking and security features and more. You can easily customize these features to your liking, making this watch extremely versatile.
• With a water resistance of 100 meters, you won't have to worry about water damage.
• It offers additional shock resistance that can prevent damage from mechanical shocks. This makes it good to use even in harsh conditions.
• It has a memory capacity of almost 16 MB for storing music, maps and much more.

THIS IS WHY THIS IS NOT THE RIGHT MODEL FOR YOU

• Given its features, this watch is obviously not the cheapest on the market.
• If you want to use all the features, you will need to charge the watch regularly.

SEIKO MEN SNE039 STAINLESS STEEL SOLAR WATCH

TheSeiko Men's SNE039 Stainless Steel Solar Watch works as well as it looks. From the stainless steel case and bracelet to the polished black dial, this sleek timepiece is a reminder that solar-powered watches can look captivating and still do their job well.

To top it off, this watch has a long-lasting power reserve of ten months. It has scratch resistance, quartz movement, and luminous hands that make reading this watch at night quite easy.

FEATURES

• Material: Stainless steel
• Display: Analog
• Power reserve: 10 months
• Water resistance: Up to 30 m
• Other features: Day/date display, scratch resistance, quartz movement

THIS IS WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS MODEL

• It has a huge power reserve that lasts for ten months when fully charged by sunlight or ambient light.
• In addition to an analog clock display, the dial of the watch also has a window that shows the day and date.
• The scratch-resistant surface of the case prevents damage.
• The hands and markers glow in the dark, making it easy for you to read the time.
• Both the case and the band are made of stainless steel for a sleek and elegant look.
• You can easily adjust the length of the band with pins.

THIS IS WHY THIS IS NOT THE RIGHT MODEL FOR YOU

• Unfortunately, the water resistance is only 30 meters.
• Setting the day and date can be a bit more complicated.

TOP SOLAR WATCHES FOR WOMEN UNDER THE MAGNIFYING GLASS

Finding a watch that suits your style, offers comfortable wear and also convinces when it comes to sustainability is a big challenge. Or at least that's how it seems before you look at the following exceptional options.

Whether you're looking to impress or need a watch that completes your look, there's something for everyone in the following watches.

SEIKO LADIES STAINLESS STEEL TWO TONE WATCH.

There's no denying that the Seiko Stainless Steel Two-Tone Watch is one of the most stylish solar watches for women. With a beautiful two-tone silver and gold band surrounding the elegant black case, this watch features an analog display with a small window to show the date.

Aside from being solar powered, the watch features a quartz movement for unparalleled precision in timekeeping. The chronograph display, water resistance, six-month power reserve and bracelet-like style further add to the charm of this timepiece.

FEATURES

• Material: Stainless steel
• Display: Analog
• Power reserve: 6 months
• Water resistance: Up to 100 m
• Other features: Quartz movement, two-tone, chronograph

THIS IS WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS MODEL

• It has a water resistance of up to 100 meters, so you can use this watch even when swimming. Whether rain or storm, your watch will remain protected from all kinds of water damage.
• The analog display is relatively easy to read. It also has a small window in the dial that allows you to keep an eye on the date and time.
• Thanks to its elegant bracelet-like band, the watch has an elegant and luxurious look and can be worn on all kinds of occasions.
• When fully charged, it can last up to 6 months.
• It has a three-year warranty period and a 30-day return policy. This makes it extra easy for you to make all kinds of repairs or replacements in case of a problem. A refund is available within one month of purchase.

THIS IS WHY THIS IS NOT THE RIGHT MODEL FOR YOU

• It is difficult to use this watch in the dark because the hands do not glow.
• There are no adjustments for bracelet or strap.

BERING LADIES SILVER SOLAR POWERED WATCH

TheBERING Ladies Silver Solar Powered Watch is graceful, refined and minimalist. As if the perfect balance of silver and blue wasn't impressive enough, the sapphire crystal of the dial will surely win you over.

In terms of functionality, this watch does not disappoint. Apart from a water depth of up to 50 meters, this watch has an excellent power reserve of 6 to12 months. It is also scratch resistant and is powered by solar and light powered charging technology. All in all, this watch is a sleek, durable and good choice.

FEATURES

• Material: Stainless steel
• Display: Analog
• Power reserve: 6-12 months
• Water resistance: Up to 50 m
• Other features: Scratch resistance, sapphire watch crystal, quartz movement

THIS IS WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS MODEL

• This watch is scratch resistant, which perfectly protects it from daily wear and tear.
• It has an impressive power reserve of 6 to12 months.
• The elegant and soft design makes this watch perfect for all occasions, whether elegant, casual or fancy.
• It is equipped with a display that informs you of the charge level.
• There is a three-year warranty period for the watch and two years for the jeweler's work. So you can easily have the necessary parts repaired and replaced at any time if needed.

THEREFORE THIS IS NOT THE RIGHT MODEL FOR YOU

• Its water resistance is a bit low, with a resistance of only up to 50 meters. Impractical if you regularly spend time in or near water.
• It only has a 14-day return period compared to the standard 30 days.

ANNE KLEIN CONSIDERED LADIES SOLAR POWERED WATCH.

Decorative, opulent and beautiful, the Anne Klein Considered solar powered watch for women looks and works like a dream. It features a unique display with a gold bracelet and jewelry extension. The gold case rim with a mineral watch glass houses a dial that features gold markers and hands, as well as smaller markers made of crystal.

The inside of the dial has a beautiful mother-of-pearl color, which gives the watch an iridescent effect. The fact that the watch is powered by a solar panel, which is part of the dial itself, should be highlighted. This panel provides an energy reserve of just over four months.

FEATURES

• Material: Metal
• Display: Analog
• Power reserve: 4 months
• Water resistance: Up to 30 m
• Other features: Crystal glass, adjustable bracelet, jewelry clasp

THIS IS WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS MODEL

• Visually, this watch is a wonderful choice as it features a mother of pearl core, crystal glass, gold case and bracelet, and crystal markers.
• The bracelet is adjustable and also has a jewelry clasp, so you are guaranteed a custom fit that is tailored to your wrist.
• Solar power is generated by a built-in panel on the dial itself, which makes this watch unique.
• Despite its beautiful design, this watch is quite affordable.
• It comes with a limited lifetime warranty that covers any issues that may arise at any time regarding the materials and design of the watch.

THIS IS WHY THIS IS NOT THE RIGHT MODEL FOR YOU

• You can only use this watch for up to four months on a full charge, despite the light-powered feature.
• Also, the water resistance is only up to 30 meters, which is not enough to prevent damage in deeper waters.

CITIZEN ECO-DRIVE CASUAL BEIGE LADIES WATCH

TheCitizen Eco-Drive Casual Beige ladies watch is an unpretentious and simple watch that is fun to wear. It has an analog display and a small window that shows the date.

Citizen knows how to cleverly highlight even the simplest of colors, which is evident in the watch's delicate rose gold detailing, plain white background, and stainless steel case.

The solar or light-powered function allows this watch's power reserve to last 8 months on a full charge. It also gives an insufficient charge warning if you ever run out of power.

FEATURES

• Material: Stainless steel
• Display: Analog
• Power reserve: 8 months
• Water resistance: Up to 30 m
• Other features:Date display, low charge warning function

THIS IS WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS MODEL

• Charging is the last thing you need to worry about, as this watch has a power reserve of 8 months when fully charged.
• It even has an insufficient charge warning function so you won't be surprised by a dead battery.
• You can easily set the date by turning the dial counterclockwise.
• It has an impressive warranty period of 5 years, which can also be extended by one year.

THEREFORE THIS IS NOT THE RIGHT MODEL FOR YOU

• Water resistant only to 30 meters.
• Hard to read in the dark, as neither hands nor markers are luminous.

TIME WOOD: PURE NATURE EXPERIENCE

Our list of stunning solar watches would be incomplete without our own excellent examples of men's wooden watches and women's wooden watches.

Here at Zeitholz, we pay attention to the smallest details when handcrafting our solar-powered wooden watches, and sustainability is always at the heart of everything we do. For this reason, our handcrafted wooden watches are made from ethically sourced wood that enhances the grandeur of each model of our wooden watches for men and women.

SONNENBERG SOLAR WATCH OLIVE WOOD

Sustainable in every way, the Sonnenberg Solar Watch Olive Wood is handcrafted from 100% natural wood. The rich brown and black dial and clasp contrast beautifully with the softness of the light olive wood strap.

With a sturdy glass case, reliable solar panel, and easy readability, this wooden watch offers a delightful balance between modern and classic.

FEATURES

• Material: Mineral glass, wooden bracelet
• Display: Analog
• Power reserve: 6 months
• Water resistance: Up to 30 m
• Other features: Solar movement, butterfly clasp

THIS IS WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS MODEL

• With a rustic wooden appearance, this wooden watch is totally eco-friendly, the wood is ethically sourced and sustainable.
• With the butterfly clasp and included tool, you can adjust the size to fit your wrist perfectly.
• The power reserve is up to 6 months, which is why it rarely needs recharging.
• Delivery includes a gift box, perfect for a special gift for a loved one.
• The two-year warranty period allows you to have repairs and parts replaced if needed.

THIS IS WHY THIS IS NOT THE RIGHT MODEL FOR YOU

Of course, we think our own men's watches and women's wooden watches are perfect, but we have to admit that the Sonnenberg may not be the best wooden watch for you if you plan to use your watch in the water often.

The Sonnenberg is water resistant up to 30 meters, so it can easily withstand accidental splashes. However, if you need a watch that you can keep on for swimming or showering, this is not the best ladies wooden watch or the best men's wooden watch for you.

SONNENBERG SOLAR WATCH WALNUT WOOD

The Sonnenberg walnut solar watch is beautiful and exquisite from its versatile design to its high quality Seiko solar movement.

The deep and rich colors of the walnut wood are perfectly complemented by the blue and black dial. This gives the wooden wristwatch for men and women a pleasant appeal and it is an ideal match for any outfit.

The warranty period here is also 2 years.

FEATURES

• Material: Mineral glass, walnut wood strap
• Display: Analog
• Power reserve: 6 months
• Water resistance: Up to 30 m
• Other features: Solar movement, butterfly clasp

THIS IS WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS MODEL

• With a single full charge, the watch can tick for up to 6 months - practical and effective at the same time
• Especially environmentally friendly, as it is a handmade wooden clock, made of sustainable wood and also powered by solar electricity.
• With the included tool, you can use the butterfly clasp to adjust the bracelet length to fit your wrist perfectly.
• It comes with a gift box - new wooden watches are perfect for a gift for birthday, anniversary and other special occasions.
• The two-year warranty period allows you to have repairs and parts replaced if needed.

THIS IS WHY THIS IS NOT THE RIGHT MODEL FOR YOU

There is nothing we would change about the Sonnenberg Walnut Solar Watch, as it is perfect for most adventures. However, if you are an avid water sports enthusiast and spend a lot of time underwater, it may not be the perfect choice as it is only splash water resistant.

In addition, the hands do not glow in the dark, making it difficult to read at night.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SOLAR WATCH: IT'S ABOUT TIME

No matter which watch you choose, the benefits of a solar watch cannot be denied. Due to their incredible energy reserves and eco-friendly nature, these watches have already found their way into many hearts.

It is only too understandable that they would want to choose the very best one for themselves, as this watch will be a reliable companion for you for a long time. And while there are plenty of options, don't forget that it ultimately comes down to your own preferences and desires for your solar watch.

What are you waiting for? Take a sunbath in the company of your watch, which will not let you down until the end of time.