At Vaer, we’ve always believed in building watches that are not only stylish and durable but also sustainable. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our choice to build a wide range of solar-powered wristwatches, which are some of the most impressive and affordable solar models on the market.
Let's dive into the world of solar watches, explore how they work, and discover the five top reasons that make them the perfect companions for everyday wear.
How do solar power watches actually work?
Let's begin with a quick look at how a solar-powered quartz watch works. At the heart of these watches lies a solar movement, such as the Epson VS-22 or VS-42. These movements charge through an integrated solar cell underneath a transparent dial, converting sunlight or artificial light into electrical energy. This energy is then stored in a rechargeable battery or capacitor to power the watch.
What’s the difference between solar and quartz watches?
In comparison, a traditional battery-powered quartz watch like those powered by the Ronda 715 movement relies on a stored energy source, a non-rechargeable battery. Once this battery is depleted, it needs to be replaced, which can be inconvenient and unsustainable over time.
Now that we've got the basics covered, let's look into why a solar-powered watch could be the best choice for you.
What are the top 5 benefits of solar watches?
1. Perpetual Timekeeping
One of the prime benefits of a solar watch is the perpetual timekeeping it offers. Unlike traditional battery-powered watches, our solar-powered watches harness energy from any light source. This means they continuously recharge, providing you with uninterrupted and accurate timekeeping.
2. Incredible Accuracy
Our solar-powered watches incorporate high-quality quartz movements, known for their superior accuracy. The integration of a quartz crystal regulated by the power generated from light ensures that your watch remains highly precise throughout its lifetime.
3. Quick Charging
Unlike common misconceptions, solar-powered watches do not take long to charge. With the Epson VS-22 or VS-42 movement, it takes just six hours of light exposure to fully charge the watch. That's right – within a single day, your watch can harness enough power to keep running accurately and consistently.
4. Extended Power Reserve
One of the key distinguishing features of our solar watches is their impressive power reserve. Once fully charged, these watches can continue to function accurately for up to six months, even in complete darkness. This makes them an excellent choice for explorers and adventurers who venture into off-grid locations.
5. Versatile Charging in Any Condition
Whether you're under the sun or in the glow of an incandescent bulb, our solar watches can charge in virtually any light condition. This feature provides you with a level of flexibility and independence that is unmatched by battery-powered watches.
Are Solar Watches Well-suited for the Outdoors?
A solar-powered watch is an adventurer's best friend. Imagine being out in the wild, far from civilization – no power outlets, no batteries, just you and nature. This is where the true value of solar watches shines. Their ability to charge from the sun, coupled with their perpetual power reserve, ensures reliable timekeeping no matter where you are.
Moreover, when it comes to Vaer’s lineup - the appeal of solar-powered watches for remote travel is further improved by our guaranteed waterproof warranty and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. These features make them resilient companions in diverse environments, from remote moutain peaks, deep forest hideaways, and vast ocean-depths.
What if I’m in a location without sunlight?
One of the most remarkable features of solar watches is their ability to charge under virtually any light conditions. While direct sunlight is the most efficient source of energy, our solar watches are designed to draw power from more than just the sun's rays. These watches can also harness ambient light - be it from the faint glow of dawn, the diffuse light on a cloudy day, or even the twilight of dusk.
Indoor lights are equally effective. Whether you're working under the bright lights of an office or enjoying a cozy evening with a table lamp on, your solar watch is quietly and constantly replenishing its energy. Remarkably, the solar cells can even utilize the glow of a candle to recharge. This charging versatility ensures that even if you're unable to access direct sunlight for extended periods, your solar watch will continue ticking accurately, keeping you on time, every time. This is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of solar-powered timepieces, making them an ideal choice for both urban settings and remote off-grid environments.
Are Vaer solar watches any good?
While many brands offer solar watches, not all are created equal. At Vaer Watches, we take pride in providing solar watches that excel in quality, performance, and design. We're proud to be the leader in solar watches assembled in the United States, marrying cutting-edge technology, with traditional craftsmanship and American design.
What are the most popular Vaer solar watches?
As one of our most popular solar watches, the D4 Meridian is our ultimate outdoor watch. Running with the power of the sun, it ensures perpetual timekeeping and can draw power from any light source, even something as subtle as candlelight.
Additionally, the D4 Meridian is the first solar diver to feature a ceramic bezel (it's the same bezel material used in the Rolex Submariner) and has the strongest lume on any solar watch. The 48mm version of the D4 Meridian features a date window, seamlessly integrating function and style.
Designed with the outdoor enthusiast in mind, it exhibits best-in-class durability with the added benefit that it’s meticulously assembled right here in the USA, a testament to our commitment to uncompromised quality and craftsmanship.
The DS4 Meridian is our first-ever Standard Issue Dive watch. It builds on the winning foundation of our D4 (20ATM, perpetual solar accuracy) with 4 key changes:
- Offered in 38mm and 42mm
- Flat Sapphire Crystal
- Overseas assembly
- A much lower price $259 (vs. $339)
Available in two sizes (38mm & 42mm) the DS4 is an affordable entry-point into the Vaer dive watch lineup, with all the outdoor durability features available on our more expensive models.
C5 Field Black Solar & C5 Tactical Field Solar
These are the solar-powered versions of our top-selling C5 Field Black Quartz and C5 Tactical Field Quartz. A military-inspired 10ATM collection that stands out in the Vaer line-up thanks to its classic field watch design and the distinction as being the longest selling collection (first launched in 2018).
As a C5 model, these watches are part of our all-time bestselling collection, distinguished by its ocean-ready functionality, low-profile case design, strong lume, ultra-accurate solar quartz movement, and full USA assembly.
