11 Best Solar Atomic Watches For Women And Men
Specialty: HorologyExperience: 4 yearsMaz Panayi is a watchmaker and a watch collector. He prides himself on his collection, which includes a variety of 1970s vintage Seiko chronographs and Swatch watches. With a passion for horology since childhood, Maz pursued a two-year course in watchmaking at the Epping Forest Horology Centre, UK.
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wedetso chirhah poulami nag deyasini biswas Deyasini holds a bachelor's honors degree in English Literature from Jadavpur University and a postgraduate diploma in Advanced Fashion Styling from the London College of Style. She has three years of experience in the fashion industry, working as an editorial and product stylist, following which she has chosen to return to her roots in the language arts as a commerce content writer at MomJunction.
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In This Article
The best solar atomic watches are eco-friendly timepieces that are super-precise and require minimal maintenance. They display the time correctly and do not need battery change to operate flawlessly.
Atomic watches keep the most accurate time on Earth as they rely on receiving low-frequency radio signals that keep them perfectly synchronized with the US Atomic Clock in Colorado. They also come in various styles, sizes, and designs for men and women, making them appealing to everyone. Check out the best of watch technology from the options we have listed here and take your pick.
Top Picks
11 Best Solar Atomic Watches, And Buying Guide For 2024
1. Best Water-Resistant:Garmin Instinct Solar Watch
Instinct smart solar watch from the trusted brand Garmin has three satellite positioning systems- GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, which can help you effectively track your real-time location. The watch is equipped with health and fitness trackers for cycling, swimming, walking, and other activities. It also has a trackback routing system to navigate the route back to your starting point. Its pulse oximeter lets you know your body’s oxygen level at high altitude or during sleep.
In addition, you can also view heart rate, stress estimates, physical strength, and fitness percentage. Furthermore, this eco-friendly atomic watch is equipped with a barometer for monitoring weather, an altimeter for obtaining altitude data, and a three-axis electronic compass for getting directions. This video review, showcasing a tester’s experience, will help you understand more about the product.
Pros
- Shock-resistant
- Water-resistant
- Heat-resistant
- Durable battery performance
- Scratch-resistant
- Corrosion-resistant
- Bold colors
- Broad dial
- Durable
Cons
- Pulse oximeter reading may be less accurate
- Some users may find it difficult to operate
"I find this device great for daily use with its time, date, and day display. Plus, I can use it to monitor my heart rate and other health stats. It took me a while to get used to its features, but it's convenient. Also, the battery lasts long!"
2. Best Analog-Digital Display:Casio Men’s Slim Solar Multi-Function Watch
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 2,681 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
Casio Men’s Slim Solar has a slim body and an easy-to-read analog-digital display. It comes with a color combination of a black body and orange watermark, a 1/100-second stopwatch, and a timer. The display has an analog and digital system – the calibration of the clock has an analog system, while the day and temperature are displayed on a digital screen.
This solar-powered chronograph is waterproof up to 100m and has a battery life of up to 10 months. It also has five alarm settings, an automatic calendar, and a world time map to view 31 different zones. This review cum testing video can tell you more about this tried-and-trusted watch.
Pros
- Easy operation
- Lightweight
- Long battery life
- LED-backlit display
- Glows in the dark
- Comfortable strap
Cons
- Available in only one color variant
- The alarm volume may be low
"This watch's solar charging ability impressed me. The backlight could have been brighter, but I like the fact that I can set alarms on it. Plus, its band is comfortable and durable, as it has survived regular wear without much damage."
Quick fact3. Best Shock-Resistant:Casio Men’s G-Shock Solar Atomic Sports Watch
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 1,338 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
Casio G-shock series is one of the best solar watches equipped with a Japanese quartz movement and digital display. It has an atomic time control system from five different zones, four-alarm settings, city code display, countdown timer, fully automatic calendar till the year 2099, power button operation, and 1/100 stopwatch.
The solar power system and quality craftsmanship make the watch last longer than watches of other brands. This solar-powered timepiece has a backlight feature that generally glows despite turning off the power. The rechargeable solar battery has a power-saving feature when exposure to sunlight is less. Have a look at this review cum testing video to know more about this watch.
Pros
- Displays backlight
- Six atomic timekeeping
- Classic, bold design
- Shock-resistant
- Battery level indicator
- Water-resistant
- Lightweight
- Easy to operate
- Sporty look
- Durable
Cons
- May consume more power
- May show errors in clock reading
"I have been using this watch for some time and am quite pleased with it. Its quick-charging ability and accuracy are remarkable. I also find its legibility impressive and convenient for routine use. Having worn it for a couple of camping trips, I can also vouch for its robust build."
Garmin Instinct Solar Watch Best Water-Resistant | Casio Men's Slim Solar Multi-Function Watch Best Analog-Digital Display | Casio Men's G-Shock Solar Atomic Sports Watch Best Shock-Resistant | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shape | Heart | - | - |
| Color | Graphite - Solar | Black | - |
| Weight | 1.92 ounces | 0.07 Pounds | - |
| Dimensions | 1.77 x 1.77 x 0.6 inches | - | 4.33 x 4.33 x 3.07 inches |
| Material | - | Resin | - |
| Dimensions LxWxH | - | 2.76 x 4.49 x 4.09 inches | - |
| Band Color | - | - | Black |
| Band Material | - | - | Resin |
| Item Shape | - | - | Round |
| Weight | - | - | 5.04 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,823 | 2,681 | 1,338 |
| Price | $259.99 | $35.0 | $90.99 |
4. Best Sporty Design:Casio G-Shock Men’s Tough Solar Black Resin Sports Watch
Casio offers another multifunctional G-Shock solar sports watch with a stylish design. It has a strong and flexible resin strap to help it withstand the test of time. The atomic solar watch provides 31 time zones, five alarms, a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and 12 and 24-hour time formats with a built-in antenna that can automatically receive the official atomic time.
The hollow shock-resistant structure provides cushioning for the critical components of the watch. The three circular sub dials and a rectangular display show time and date information. Its convenient EL backlight makes it easy to view the watch in any light condition.
Pros
- Shock resistance
- 200m Water resistance
- Long battery life
- Smart look
- Durable
- Easy to operate
- Comfortable strap
- Lightweight
Cons
- Small subdials
- May not fit extra-large wrists
"This rugged watch has withstood my predominantly active lifestyle quite well. So far, I haven’t experienced any trouble with its battery, which offers me long-lasting performance. However, viewing it in low light is slightly challenging, and its alarm volume is somewhat low. Still, it serves me well."
Quick tip5. Best Durable:Seiko Men’s SNE325 Dress Solar Black Stainless Steel Watch
Seiko Men’s SNE325 is multifunctional and suitable for various occasions. The watch’s frame and strap are made of durable stainless steel, with a shiny, black finish and button buckles, enhancing the product’s overall appearance. It has a Japanese quartz movement and a complete analog display.
It is water-resistant up to 330 feet, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling. The watch has a battery life of about ten months. You can operate it at different temperature levels, from 10° to 60°C.
Pros
- Stainless steel frame
- Water-resistant
- Magnified date display
- Versatile design
- Gives accurate time
- Easy to use
- Long-lasting battery life
- Temperature resistant
Cons
- Black dial with black hands may be difficult to read
- May be slightly heavy
"I find this model practical for everyday use. It's commendable for timekeeping, and its all-black chic design blends well with both my casual and formal outfits. I wish its hands were luminous for better nighttime visibility, but its adequate water resistance makes it worthwhile."
6. Best Scratch-Resistant:Bering Time Men’s Solar Slim Watch
The dial of the Bering Time Men’s Solar Slim watch comes with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass cover. The strap and the case are made up of high-quality material—medical-grade (316L) stainless steel with gray IP plating.
This sun-powered wristwatch is equipped with environmentally friendly energy technology that can convert light sources into electrical energy and store it in a rechargeable secondary battery. The watch has a power reserve and can be used for six to 12 months. It is water-resistant up to 164 feet and can withstand splashing, showering, and short-term swimming.
Pros
- Scratch-resistant
- Long battery life
- Classic yet stylish design
- Comfortable to wear
- Lightweight
- Value for money
- Durable
- Shows accurate time
Cons
- May not be suitable for deep diving or snorkeling
"Besides being a sturdy device, its sapphire crystal glass and metal strap add an element of sophistication. At the onset, I found its clasping mechanism a bit tricky, but I can now put it on easily with practice. Moreover, its consistent battery performance offers me peace of mind."
Did you know?7. Best Adjustable:Timex Men’s Expedition Scout Solar-Powered 40mm Watch
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 807 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
Timex Men’s Expedition watch is one of the best analog, digital atomic watches on the market. The 20-mm fabric strap is adjustable on any wrist of up to eight inches, thanks to the hooks on both ends. You can charge the clock with any lamp, and the power supply lasts for up to four months after it is fully charged.
The dial is covered with scratch-resistant mineral glass, which is sturdier than the ordinary glass used in watches. Its hands glow in the dark for easy reading. This tried-and-tested watch also has a quick date and time function that is easy to set, and it is waterproof for up to 50m.
Pros
- Four months of power reserve
- Digital date section
- Features atomic timekeeping technology
- Adjustable strap
- Charges by any light
- Water-resistant
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Scratch resistance
- Comfortable to wear
- Smart look
- Luminous hands and numbers
Cons
- Second hand may be hard to view
- May not have Indiglo
"The highlight of this watch is its glow-in-the-dark feature, making it suitable for low-light situations. Its date display is a bit small, but the dual 12 and 24-hour displays and quiet ticking motion are noteworthy. I also like its well-crafted leather strap; it offers me a comfortable fit."
8. Best Skin-Friendly:Nautical N83 Men’s Cocoa Beach Solar Watch
The sporty watch is equipped with an adjustable silicone strap, fits up to an 8-inch circumference. The silicone band is soft and skin-friendly, and its43mm silver brass case has a navy and red ring with a compass marking on the top. It has an analog display with luminous hands and is water-resistant for up to 50m, suitable only for swimming in shallow waters. This watch boasts quality craftsmanship and offers a two-year warranty.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Sporty look
- Comfortable to wear
- Accurate time
- Sleek design
- Value for money
- Durable
- Cost-effective
Cons
- Quality may not match the price
"The stylish red and blue combination enhances my everyday casual look. Though the bezel dial is fixed, and the watch is not meant for deep-water adventures, I consider it a sturdy choice for daily use. Also, its simple design and features make it a user-friendly option for me."
9. Best Feature-Rich:Casio Protrek Multi-Band Atomic Wristwatch
This atomic wristwatch comes with various unique features, such as a digital compass, barometer, thermometer, and world time, among others. It is a great watch to carry along on your adventures without worrying about the battery dying, as it is powered by solar energy, and the watch also has an altimeter with a measuring range of 700 to 10,000 meters. This sustainable timekeeping device offers you all the functions you might need in a watch when you’re hiking, mountain climbing, or skiing.
Pros
- 200M water-resistant
- Long-lasting battery
- Low temperature-resistant
- Full auto EL backlight with afterglow
- 5 independent daily alarms
- Comes with a power-saving function
Cons
- The display might not be very easy to read
"I landed on this one while looking for a solar watch with smart features. Its functional barometer and tidal graph allow me to plan my surfing sessions accordingly. I also find it easy to read, thanks to its large display. It looks bulky, but I'm happy it is lightweight."
10. Best Multifunctional:Fanmis Solar Power Sports Watch
Fanmis multifunctional solar sports watch has a smart look and can be worn on all occasions. The watch has a durable strap and a rubber and ABS plastic case with a mineral glass covering to make it scratch-resistant. It is equipped with a Japanese quartz movement and is powered by solar energy. The display has regular LEDs and a backlight for visibility in the dark. Since the watch is calibrated, the date will automatically change. This solar energy watch has alarm and stopwatch functions and is shock-resistant and waterproof up to 50m, making it robust and durable.
Pros
- Multifunctional
- Vibrant backlight
- Fully digital display
- Scratch proof
- Sporty look
- Lightweight
Cons
- May not be protective against water
- May not show the calendar in full
- May have low alarm ring
"This solar wristwatch's reliable backlight and bold digital display make it my favorite. However, I wish it had come with simple instructions for easy setup. Overall, I'm delighted with its functionality."
11. Best Battery Life:CoolFire Solar Atomic Watch
The CoolFire Solar Atomic Watch is radio-controlled, has solar energy, and provides a multi-year battery life with accurate time. The radio-controlled solar watch has a scratch-resistant anti-reflective mineral crystal glass cover and a high-quality leather band and stainless steel case to make it more durable. There is a battery life indicator on the dial, which allows you to keep track of the charge.
Time and calendar are calibrated based on atomic clocks, so they automatically and accurately change. The watch also includes a solar charger that can be easily charged and is water-resistant up to 50m.
Pros
- Has a battery life indicator
- Durable
- Solar charger included
- Easy to read
- Shows accurate time
Cons
- No timer and stopwatch present
- Charges only with solar charger
"Thanks to its LED light charger, this watch offers me the convenience of a quick recharge even on cloudy days. It also maintains the time well, eliminating the need to set it periodically. The variety of features is impressive, but it took me a while to understand all of them."
How To Choose The Right Atomic Solar Watches?
Here are a few points you should consider when buying a solar watch.
- Dial size: Check the dial size and do a fit assessment to get a suitable watch. A larger dial will look perfect on larger wrists. Smaller dials are ideal for smaller wrists.
- Strap: Various solar analog and solar digital watches have different types of straps made of stainless steel, nylon, resin, or leather. Some materials may cause an allergy, so consider the strap material when choosing a watch.
- Functionality: When buying a solar-powered watch, the next thing to consider is the set of features in the watch. If you like to have a reminder function, a watch with an alarm would be suitable. If you are a fitness enthusiast, you may want a solar smartwatch with additional features such as activity, heart rate, number of steps, and idle time trackers.
- Date feature: Whether you want a fully automatic digital date display or a small display that only displays the date depends on your personal preference. So, check this aspect when choosing a watch.
- Durability: The watch should have passed durability evaluations, be scratch-resistant, and be made of high-quality materials to prevent everyday wear and tear. Water resistance is also an essential feature for those who lead an active life or indulge in water sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I charge my solar atomic watch without the sun?
Yes, you can charge your solar atomic watch without the sun. You can charge it with a fluorescent, incandescent, or LED lamp. It does, however, take much longer than charging it with direct sunlight.
2. Can solar atomic watches be tracked?
Some solar atomic watches can be tracked because of the presence of their GPS tracking feature. Therefore, look for this feature if you want to track a solar atomic watch.
3. How long do solar atomic watches last?
A scratch- and water-resistant solar atomic watch tends to last longer than others. Furthermore, storing your watch properly after each use and avoiding using it on a low charge will extend the life of your watch.
4. How accurate is a solar atomic watch?
Solar atomic watches are quite accurate as they work by picking up a radio frequency and can tell the precise time because of high-frequency atomic oscillations.
5. Will a flashlight charge a solar atomic watch?
Since in most flashlights, the lamp is either incandescent or LED, it can charge a solar atomic watch at a slow rate.
6. How much sunlight does a solar atomic watch need?
A typical solar atomic watch requires over 15 to 20 hours of sunlight to fully charge. It takes longer if you charge your watch through a window.
7. Are solar atomic watches affected by gravity?
Yes, solar atomic watches are affected by gravity. If the gravitational potential, which is the gravitational strength, is lower in some areas, the watch would lose its time and vice versa.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedetso Chirhah is experienced in reviewing electronics, automobiles, and books. His articles are based on facts and detailed research. After conducting trend analysis and keeping in mind the style, design, and functionality, he has come up with the best solar atomic watches. These best-selling watches can be worn by both men and women and do not need a battery for operation. You may understand their noteworthy features and pros and cons by going through their description about color, dial size, durability, weight, and more. Wedetso also suggests helpful buying tips to enable you to find the right product.
The Bottom Line
Solar atomic watches are unique timepieces that look trendy and tell precisely. These environmentally-friendly timepieces add a touch of elegance to your outfit while ensuring durability. Powered by the sun, these watches require no battery change. Whether you’re an avid trekker or a connoisseur of watches, the ones listed here will catch your fancy. Our top picks include the durable Garmin Instinct Solar Watch for its seamless blend of timeless design and modern technology and the Casio Men’s G-Shock Solar Atomic Sports Watch for its advanced features. We also recommend the Timex Men’s Expedition Scout Solar-Powered 40mm Watch for its trendy and classic design. When choosing one, consider the dial size, strap quality, date features, and ease of operation so you can have a wonderful experience wearing it and add yet another gem to your collection.
Infographic: Proper Usage Of A Solar Atomic Watch
Solar atomic watches combine the convenience of solar power with the precision of atomic timekeeping. With their eco-friendly design and accurate synchronization, they serve as reliable and environmentally-conscious timepieces. However, adhering to specific charging precautions is essential for ensuring their efficient functioning. Explore the infographic below to learn the nuances of charging solar atomic watches.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
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