A Brief History of Solar Powered Watches
Many people think solar powered watches (also called solar quartz watches) are a modern invention, but they first appeared in the 1970s. Early models, like the first solar watch introduced by Riehl Time Corporation, had large solar cells on the dial and digital displays at the side.
While those early watches looked a bit “whacky,” modern solar watches are sleek, stylish, and widely available from mainstream brands.
What is a Solar Powered Watch?
A solar powered watch is a quartz watch powered by a rechargeable battery. The battery is recharged by light absorbed through solar cells in the watch dial. This means you can wear your watch daily without worrying about frequent battery replacements.
Tip: Light doesn’t have to be direct sunlight. Indoor lighting or a cloudy day can recharge most solar watches.
You can view our Solar watch collection from Bering, Radley and Casio here.
How Long Does a Solar Watch Battery Last?
Most solar watch batteries last 7–12 years, with some reaching up to 20 years. This is far longer than a standard quartz battery, which usually lasts 1–2 years before needing replacement.
Solar watches also have a battery reserve, allowing them to keep time for 6–12 months even in darkness. Eventually, the battery will deteriorate and need replacement, typically after a decade or so.
Solar Watch Movements
Watches are powered by movements inside the case:
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Mechanical movement – Powered by winding or motion.
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Quartz movement – Powered by a battery.
Solar watches are quartz watches with rechargeable batteries. The main advantage: once charged, the watch continues to run with minimal maintenance, unlike traditional quartz watches which need frequent battery changes.
How to Recharge a Solar Watch
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Bright natural light: quickest recharge.
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Artificial indoor lighting: sufficient for gradual charging.
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Avoid direct summer sunlight for prolonged periods to prevent overheating.
Light strength guide (lux levels):
| Light Source | Lux (lx) |
|---|---|
| Direct summer sunlight | 100,000 lx |
| Full daylight | 10,000 lx |
| Overcast day | 1,000 lx |
| Office lighting | 300–500 lx |
| Twilight | 10 lx |
| Moonlight | < 1 lx |
Pros and Cons of Solar Powered Watches
Pros:
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Accurate and reliable
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Minimal maintenance
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Conventional watch designs
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Battery lasts many years
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Keeps watch seals intact (no need to open case)
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Battery charge indicator on dial
Cons:
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Slightly more expensive than standard watches
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Replacement battery costs more (~£28 vs £5 for a standard button cell)
Best Solar Powered Watch Brands
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Citizen Eco-Drive – Iconic solar watches with excellent reliability.
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Seiko – Stylish and durable options.
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Bering – Slimline, minimalist designs with scratch-resistant sapphire glass.
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Casio G-Shock – Rugged and solar-powered for a tough lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Watches
Do solar watches need direct sunlight to charge?
No, they can charge from daylight or indoor light; direct sunlight is faster.
How long does a solar watch battery last?
Most last 7–12 years; some up to 20 years.
Are solar watches more expensive than regular watches?
Slightly more upfront and for battery replacement, but fewer replacements save money long-term.
Can a solar watch stop working if left in the dark?
They can run 6–12 months in darkness thanks to battery reserve, but eventually need light to recharge.
Can you swim with a solar watch?
Most solar watches are water-resistant, but the level varies by model. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications before swimming or diving.
Do solar watches lose accuracy over time?
Solar watches are quartz-powered, so they remain highly accurate over many years. Battery aging does not significantly affect timekeeping.
How do I know if my solar watch is fully charged?
Many solar watches have a battery charge indicator on the dial. Check your watch’s manual for details on reading the indicator.
To Sum Up
Solar powered watches combine style, convenience, and longevity. They require little maintenance, are highly accurate, and are suitable for everyday wear. With a variety of brands and designs available, there’s a solar watch to suit almost every taste and lifestyle.
The only real challenge? Choosing which one to wear!
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