Stylish and reliable, a solar watch is the perfect representation of self-powered elegance. Explore Michael Hill’s range to add a solar timepiece to your collection.
A solar watch is a timepiece that is powered using a solar cell, converting light energy into electrical energy. While automatic watches derive their power from movement and quartz and chronograph watches from a battery, a solar watch sources its energy from light, be it natural or artificial.
Like other types of watches, a men's or women's solar watch comes in a variety of styles to suit all tastes, including gold, silver and rose gold watches. A black or stainless steel solar watch can radiate a bold sense of confidence and add a rugged feel to men's shirts or streetwear in clean, neutral tones, while a women's solar watch can provide a stylish accent to metallic gowns or a sleek black suit.
With a range of brands on offer, there’s a solar watch for every style and taste. Seiko solar watches offer precise timekeeping, with the Seiko Prospex watch accurate to -/+ 15 seconds a month. In general a Seiko solar watch can also stay charged for up to 6-12 months, depending on the watch, requiring about three hours of direct sunlight to fully charge.
A solar powered watch is perfect for those wanting an eco-friendly yet sophisticated timepiece.
As the name suggests, a solar watch is powered directly by light. The light energy received by the solar cell (located in the solar cell unit under the dial) is converted to electrical energy, which is stored in the watch’s rechargeable battery. This can be a more sustainable alternative, able to be recharged and discharged over a long period of time. It also reduces the need for replacements.
Both solar watches for men and solar watches for ladies run on renewable energy and are some of the most reliable timepieces in the world when it comes to accurate timekeeping. Unless kept completely in the dark, these types of watches have a dependable light supply even while charging and will provide you with a lasting accessory with the right amount of care and maintenance.
The best solar watches not only look stylish, but are low maintenance and easy to charge, with a long power reserve. Many also come equipped with features such as water resistance, chronograph capabilities and power saving functions.
In order to sustain a full charge, solar powered watches must be directly exposed to light. Both sunlight and artificial light sources can be effective in charging a solar watch, including smaller LED bulbs, though sunlight is preferable and much faster. Here are some things to consider to give your solar watch the power it needs:
The best way to charge it properly is to place your watch by a window with the dial facing upwards.
Do not place it too close to artificial light or leave it out in the sun for extended periods of time, especially on hot surfaces.
Once fully charged, a solar watch can last for around 6-12 months before needing to be charged again. Avoid hiding your watch under your sleeve and try to expose it to sunlight or other forms of light for at least 5-6 hours a day once a month to avoid stoppage.
Ensure that you review your watch manual thoroughly for guidance on taking proper care of your solar watch.
