Traditional watches may have found a more environmentally friendly alternative in solar watches. Lithium battery powers the movements of solar watches, in contrast to the quartz movement of more traditional watches.
During the 1960s, the Swiss watch industry was close to the edge of ushering in the dawn of a new age in watchmaking. By the next decade, it was quartz movements that became hot. This then gave rise to the Quartz Crisis Experiments. There, people used solar power to charge watches. However, it was the 60s that paved the way for the development of the first solar-powered watches under Roger Riehl. Now, it’s 2023.
It has been a long time since the 1960s. You might wonder now, though, what the things you should look for in a solar watch.
Don’t worry – that is what we’re here for!
Charging Time
People tend to underestimate the charging time aspect of solar charging watches. Plenty tend to think that charging takes a short time. However, they cannot be farther from the truth.
In contrast, solar-powered watches do not reach full charge immediately when you give them exposure to light. Let them charge for a while. And for a while, it can take a few minutes to several hours under the sun.
Remember this: artificial light does not have the same energy as the sun, especially during a hot but clear day. Different watches work in different ways, so you need to look at the exact details of your watch model. One helpful way is to consult the manual, as it contains clear information about the charging time of your watch.
Check out Grand Seiko.
Power Reserve
Power reserve is another thing you should remember for solar-powered watches – and mechanical ones, too. However, looking for the power reserve in a solar-powered watch is less important because they are essentially quartz watches with built-in batteries and solar panels.
What does it mean? It means that solar watches run for a long time. They can run between a few months to a year and even more if you fully charge your solar watch. Ergo, you do not need to worry about running out of battery, especially if you wear the watch daily.
Style
Next, you have to look at the style, too! Although the watch style is a functional aspect, it is vital since designs have to match your style and preference, especially aesthetically. They have to look good next to your outfit. Every person is different; this makes it more reason to find an appropriate design that can match your style and preferences.
So many models are around; it is understandable if you want to get another one following your first purchase. We recommend taking your time with your first purchase.
Water Resistance
Lastly, you must check the water resistance on the solar watch. Most solar watches have water resistance. However, the amount of water they can handle varies on the model of the watch.
This feature should be considered even if you are not using the solar watch during adventure sports. While most solar watches are water resistant, they differ in how much water they can handle.
Wrapping Up
We have rounded up everything you should look for in a solar watch. Looking out for them in detail can make buying the watch all the more worth it. No watch is built the same – remember that!
