Have you ever wondered how the idea of a solar watch first came to life?
Back in the late 1960s, the Swiss watch industry stood at a crossroads. Traditional mechanical watches, once the pride of craftsmanship, were suddenly challenged by a wave of innovation. A new question emerged - could technology replace tradition?
As the world embraced change, the rise of electronic timekeeping began.
Quartz movements took center stage, and soon after, the concept of solar-powered watches started to shine. It was the dawn of a new era, one where sunlight became the source of precision. What started as an experiment soon transformed the industry, paving the way for what we now call the best solar watches - timepieces that blend sustainability, accuracy, and timeless style.
The revolution had begun, and the world of solar innovation in watches would never be the same again. For those interested in exploring luxury watches outside the solar category, check out our guide on the Top 10 Luxury Watch Brands in India.
Every innovation begins with a question.
For the watch industry, it was this - can time be powered by light itself?
By the 1970s, quartz movements had become more popular and successful than other early attempts at making electronic watches. This shift led to what the watch industry calls the Quartz Crisis - a period when traditional mechanical watches almost disappeared.
But even before that shift, in the late ’60s, a quiet revolution had begun. American engineer Roger Riehl envisioned something radical - a solar powered movement. His creation, the “Synchronar,” and the first production piece, the Synchronar 2100, debuted in 1972, becoming the world’s first solar watch.
At nearly $500, the Synchronar 2100 was a rare luxury, admired but ahead of its time and found it difficult to compete with the increasingly affordable and widely available quartz-powered watches that were rapidly dominating the market. Yet, it sparked an idea that others would refine. As solar technology evolved and costs fell, brands like Citizen embraced it with purpose.
The result? The birth of Citizen’s legendary Eco-Drive in 1976 - a defining moment in the story of solar-powered innovation.
Today, the legacy continues. From Citizen and Seiko to Tissot, Casio, and Cartier, the pursuit of harnessing light lives on. Each brand interprets the concept differently and makes the best solar watches in their own style. If you're interested in celebrity-owned timepieces, dive into Virat Kohli’s Watch Collection for iconic picks.
There’s something quietly remarkable about a solar watch - a timepiece powered by light, created for those who appreciate both innovation and intention. Unlike traditional watches, a solar powered watch converts sunlight or indoor light into energy, keeping precise time without the need for constant battery changes. It’s sustainable, effortless, and refined.
And if you’re considering one, you’re in the right place. In this guide, you’ll discover some of the best solar watches that combine timeless design with modern performance, crafted for everyday elegance and longevity.
For premium design inspiration, explore the BVLGARI Serpenti Watch - An Eternal Icon of Transformation and Elegance.
Ever wondered how a solar watch keeps ticking without a traditional battery?
At its heart, a solar powered watch is a quiet marvel of ingenuity. Light - whether sunlight or even indoor illumination, is captured by hidden solar cells beneath the dial and transformed into energy. This energy is stored in a rechargeable battery, keeping the watch running with minimal effort.
Early solar watches, like the Synchronar 2100, proudly displayed their solar panels on top, a bold, futuristic statement. Today, a solar cell is subtly positioned beneath the dial, quietly capturing light to power the watch with the same efficiency, making modern solar watches both elegant and efficient. It’s this blend of subtle design and clever engineering that makes a solar watch feel almost magical and why enthusiasts seek the best solar watch to light up their collection. Also explore why Swiss craftsmanship stands out in our guide: Why Tissot Watches Are Good.
A solar watch is more than a timepiece, it’s a clever companion powered by light. Solar watches draw energy from sunlight or indoor light, storing it in a rechargeable battery that keeps ticking for months without service. Unlike traditional mechanical or battery-driven watches, they require minimal maintenance, need no regular lubrication, and combine precision with reliability. The best solar watch balances elegance with innovation, offering remarkable accuracy, effortless longevity, and sustainable energy.
With these features, a solar powered watch isn’t just practical - it’s a statement in modern horology, blending style, efficiency, and refinement.
Looking for rugged adventure-ready pieces? Check our list of Top 10 Seiko Prospex Watches Every Enthusiast Should Own.
Durability & Features
This solar-powered watch from Seiko combines elegant design with advanced functionality. The 42mm stainless steel case, 10-bar water resistance, and sapphire crystal ensure durability for daily and adventure wear. It features GPS signal reception, dual-time, chronograph, and perpetual calendar functions - until February 28, 2100, making it a robust and stylish timepiece built for precision.
Solar Charging Efficiency
Powered by Seiko’s GPS Solar Calibre 5X83, this solar watch runs for approximately six months on a full charge and up to two years in power-save mode - maintaining excellent time accuracy even without GPS signal reception.
Why It Stands Out as a Best Solar Watch
The Seiko Prospex GPS Solar Chronograph in white silver exemplifies innovation and craftsmanship. Its world-time function (38 cities), automatic time adjustment, and sleek silver dial make it one of the best solar watches for frequent travelers and professionals seeking style with function.
Priced at INR 1,90,000, this solar watch offers a remarkable fusion of precision engineering, cutting-edge technology, and enduring elegance.
Discover here for the Seiko Prospex GPS Solar Chronograph Speedtimer in White Silver – SSH165J1, a standout choice among the best solar watches from Seiko’s renowned Prospex collection.
Durability & Features
The Seiko Prospex GPS Solar Chronograph Speedtimer (SSH167J1) is a high-performance solar watch built for precision and endurance. Its 42mm stainless steel case, black dial, and 10-bar water resistance make it both rugged and refined. The chronograph measures up to 12 hours, complemented by features like dual-time, world time for 38 cities, and a perpetual calendar to February 28, 2100 - making it ideal for global travelers.
Solar Charging Efficiency
Powered by Seiko’s solar-powered Calibre 5X83 movement, this solar watch offers a 6-month power reserve and up to 2 years in power-save mode. It also includes GPS synchronization for unmatched accuracy.
Why It Stands Out as a Best Solar Watch
Combining GPS precision, world-time convenience, and Seiko’s legendary craftsmanship, this model ranks among the best solar watches for modern professionals.
Priced at INR 1,90,000, this solar watch delivers an exceptional blend of precise craftsmanship, advanced technology, and timeless design.
Discover this here to know more about the - Seiko Prospex GPS Solar Chronograph Speedtimer (SSH167J1)
Durability & Features
The Seiko Prospex Speedtimer blends heritage and modern craftsmanship in one refined solar watch. Built with a 41.4mm stainless steel case, sapphire crystal, and 100m water resistance, it’s designed for endurance and precision. The aluminum tachymeter bezel and robust three-link bracelet make it both sporty and sophisticated, perfect for daily wear or adventure.
Solar Charging Efficiency
Powered by Seiko’s Solar Caliber V192, this solar powered movement captures light effortlessly, running for up to six months on a full charge. The subtly translucent subdials let light flow through, ensuring consistent solar charging performance.
Why It Stands Out as a Best Solar Watch
The Speedtimer stands among the best solar watches for its seamless fusion of technology and timeless Seiko design.
This solar watch comes with a refined price point of around INR 63,848, reflecting its blend of precision engineering and timeless design.
Explore the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer — one of the best solar watches from Seiko’s iconic Prospex line.
Durability & Features
The Seiko Prospex Arnie SNJ025 is a bold and rugged solar watch built for adventure. Inspired by the iconic 1980s Seiko worn by Arnold Schwarzenegger for the movie Commando and Predator, this 47.8mm timepiece combines strength with cinematic heritage.
With 200m water resistance, with a “tuna can” style case, and Seiko’s reliable Hardlex crystal, it’s designed to perform under pressure, whether underwater or on land.
Solar Charging Efficiency
Powered by Seiko’s solar powered Quartz H851 movement, the SNJ025 converts light into lasting energy, eliminating the battery life issues of its predecessor. It offers long-lasting reliability with efficient solar charging.
Why It Stands Out as a Best Solar Watch
This model stands among the best solar watches for its fusion of toughness, history, and innovation, all at an accessible price. of $525.
This solar watch is priced at INR 46,235, offering an excellent balance of precision craftsmanship and enduring style.
Discover the Seiko Prospex Arnie SNJ025 - a legendary solar powered watch inspired by Hollywood’s boldest icon
Courtesy: ablogtowatch.comDurability & Features
The Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Nighthawk is a bold, military-inspired solar watch built for adventure. With a 42mm case, 200m water resistance, and sapphire crystal, it’s designed to endure both flight and dive conditions. Its slide-rule bezel, dual time zones, and chronograph functions make it a highly functional timepiece suited for professionals and explorers alike.
Solar Charging Efficiency
Powered by Eco-Drive solar technology, this solar powered watch efficiently converts any light source into energy, ensuring uninterrupted performance without the need for battery replacements - a signature of Citizen Solar Watches.
Why It Stands Out as a Best Solar Watch
The Promaster Nighthawk combines rugged aesthetics, aviation precision, and dependable solar power, making it one of the best solar watches for everyday and professional wear.
This solar watch comes at a price of around INR 43,593, delivering the perfect combination of expert craftsmanship, reliable performance, and timeless design.
Durability & Features
The Tissot T-Touch Connect Solar stands out as a fusion of modern innovation and durability. This solar-powered watch features a robust 47.5mm hypoallergenic titanium case, 100m water resistance, and a tactile sapphire crystal display. It syncs seamlessly with your smartphone via Tissot’s proprietary app, offering smart alerts and fitness tracking - making it one of the most advanced solar watches on the market.
Solar Charging Efficiency
Its solar quartz movement (E32.001) ensures dependable performance by converting natural and artificial light into lasting energy, significantly reducing the need for recharging.
Why It Stands Out as a Best Solar Watch
Blending cutting-edge smartwatch capabilities with sustainable solar power, this model defines the future of hybrid timekeeping.
Priced from INR 92,470, it’s a premium yet practical choice.
Explore the collections of Tissot T-Touch Connect Solar Watch - one of the best solar watches for tech-savvy enthusiasts.
Courtesy: watchtime.inDurability & Features
The Tissot PRC 100 Solar, featuring a 39mm stainless steel case, sapphire crystal, and 100m water resistance, this solar watch offers durability with a sleek, classic design. Its distinctive twelve-sided bezel and detailed dial showcase Tissot’s craftsmanship and make it a stylish yet functional choice for daily wear.
Solar Charging Efficiency
Powered by Tissot’s advanced Lightmaster technology, this solar watch captures both natural and artificial light through discreet honeycomb-patterned solar cells integrated into the dial. The energy-efficient design ensures consistent performance and long-lasting reliability.
This Solar quartz watch requires far fewer battery changes than standard quartz, making it a more sustainable choice.
Why It Stands Out as a Best Solar Watch
With an extended three-year warranty and a sustainable Swiss movement, the Tissot PRC 100 Solar is a refined and eco-friendly timepiece priced at $475.
This solar watch is starting from INR 47,000, combining precise Swiss craftsmanship with timeless, enduring style.
Discover the collections Tissot PRC 100 Solar Watch - one of the best solar watches combining elegance and innovation.
Durability & Features
The Seiko Astron SSH161 is a sophisticated solar watch designed for modern explorers. Its 42mm case, 100m water resistance, and sapphire crystal ensure strength and durability, while a lightweight build keeps it comfortable on the wrist.
The first solar-powered movement with GPS that integrates both a dual-time display and a chronograph function, this solar-powered watch combines functionality and elegance for everyday and travel wear.
Solar Charging Efficiency
Powered by the advanced Caliber 5X83 solar movement, the Astron converts sunlight into energy, maintaining consistent performance. Its GPS functionality allows automatic time zone adjustments, showcasing the innovation of Seiko Solar Watches.
Why It Stands Out as a Best Solar Watch
With GPS precision, long-lasting solar power, and a sleek titanium design, the Astron is one of the best solar watches for tech-savvy collectors.
This solar watch comes with a refined price point of INR 2,20,167, reflecting its blend of precision engineering and timeless design.
Explore the Seiko Astron SSH161 - a premier solar powered watch and one of the best solar watches for modern travelers.
Durability & Features
The Cartier Tank Must SolarBeat is a refined solar watch that merges luxury with sustainability. Available in 33mm x 25.5mm and 29.5mm x 22mm case sizes, with a 6.6mm slim profile and sapphire crystal, it offers elegant durability. Its classic Tank design is complemented by solar-powered technology, making it a standout in Cartier’s iconic collection while retaining the sophistication collectors expect.
Solar Charging Efficiency
Equipped with Cartier’s SolarBeat movement, this solar watch harnesses natural and artificial light to maintain precise time, providing a reliable, low-maintenance experience for daily wear.
Why It Stands Out as a Best Solar Watch
By combining Cartier’s timeless design with modern solar power, the Tank Must SolarBeat ranks among the best solar watches for luxury enthusiasts.
This solar watch is priced at INR 3,74,284, offering an excellent balance of precision craftsmanship and enduring style.
Discover the Cartier Tank Must SolarBeat - a luxurious solar powered watch and one of the best solar watches in Cartier’s collection.
Durability & Features
The TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 Solargraph is a robust solar watch, featuring a 40mm case, sapphire crystal, and 200-meter water resistance. In a sandblasted titanium case, paired with a sunray-finished dial and Super-LumiNova accents, ensures both durability and striking visual appeal.
Solar Charging Efficiency
Powered by the solar-powered Caliber TH50-00, this solar watch captures energy from any light source. Just two minutes of exposure provides a full day’s power, while a complete 20-hour charge runs for up to six months, offering unmatched convenience for solar watches enthusiasts.
Why It Stands Out as a Best Solar Watch
With innovative solar technology, exceptional reliability, and TAG Heuer’s signature design, the Solargraph is truly one of the best solar watches available.
This solar watch is priced at INR 2,95,024, with solar-powered efficiency, and timeless style, making it one of the best solar watches for discerning collectors.
Courtesy: G-shockDurability & Features
The Casio G-Shock Tough Solar GWM5610-1 is a true icon in solar watches, combining a classic square G-Shock design with extreme durability. Its 46.7 × 43.2 × 12.7mm resin case and shock-resistant construction make it virtually indestructible. With 200-meter water resistance and a full auto LED backlight, this solar watch is built for both adventure and everyday wear.
Solar Charging Efficiency
Equipped with Tough Solar technology, once the solar watch is fully charged, it can run for about 10 months on its rechargeable battery without needing any additional light. The solar watch is fully charged and then stored in complete darkness with its power-save mode activated, it can remain powered for up to 22 months without losing energy.
Why It Stands Out as a Best Solar Watch
With its legendary durability, precise atomic timekeeping, and reliable solar-powered performance, the GWM5610-1 is one of the best solar watches for enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
This Solar watch is priced at around INR 14,531.
Discover the Casio G-Shock Tough Solar GWM5610-1 - a rugged and reliable solar watch and one of the best solar watches for everyday and outdoor use.
Durability & Features
The Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Marine is a robust solar watch, crafted for serious divers. Its 46mm case and biomass-based polyurethane rubber strap combine comfort with durability, while the 4 o’clock crown prevents wrist irritation.
Solar Charging Efficiency
Powered by the E365 solar module, this solar-powered watch can run for an entire year without exposure to light. Sunlight or artificial light will recharge it efficiently, ensuring continuous performance.
Why It Stands Out as a Best Solar Watch
With its seamless blend of durability, precision, and eco-conscious solar technology, it earns its place among the best solar watches.
This solar watch is priced at around INR 61,206.
Investing in a solar watch means choosing longevity, reliability, and sustainability. The best solar watches combine style with cutting-edge technology, offering a low-maintenance alternative to conventional watches. Whether you’re an adventurer or a professional, a solar-powered watch is a dependable companion that keeps you on time while reducing environmental impact.
Circa Showroom showcases advanced watches, offering a one-stop destination to explore and purchase your favorite models. Whether you’re looking for a professional-grade watch, a versatile everyday watch, or a standout statement timepiece, Circa guarantees authenticity, superior quality, and expert guidance.
Buying a solar watch is a smart move, but before buying any watch, it’s important to know how to care for it - especially how to clean it for long-lasting performance. Check out this guide on proper watch cleaning.
To deepen your knowledge, explore detailed reviews, guides and watch insights on various topics by visiting Circa Blog, your go-to source for everything related to watches.
Learn more about Circa, your destination for premium watches.
A solar watch converts sunlight or indoor light into energy, storing it in a rechargeable battery. This solar-powered technology keeps time accurately without frequent battery changes.
The best solar watch offers precision, durability, and eco-friendly energy. Solar-powered watches require minimal maintenance while combining style, reliability, and long-lasting performance.
The Seiko Prospex Arnie SNJ025 is a rugged solar-powered watch with 200m water resistance, Hardlex crystal, and cinematic heritage, combining durability and adventure-ready style.
This solar watch uses Seiko’s H851 movement to convert light into energy, providing long-lasting, reliable power without battery replacements.
The Citizen Nighthawk combines aviation precision, dual time zones, and solar-powered technology, ensuring accurate timekeeping with minimal maintenance for everyday and professional use.
The TAG Heuer Aquaracer Solargraph is a solar-powered watch with 200m water resistance, titanium case, sunray dial, and long-lasting solar efficiency, combining durability and luxury style.
The Casio G-Shock Tough Solar converts light into energy, running up to 10 months on a full charge and up to 22 months in power-save mode, making it a dependable solar watch.
