Without factory and frequent battery replacement: TOP-5 solar-powered men's watches

The phrase “The Origin” is often added to the name of Japanese Casio watches. The fact is that they are made in the image and likeness of the first G-Shock models. The classic design is emphasized not only by the neat square shape of the plastic case, but also by the rubber strap, visually similar to those that were completed with accessories 35 years ago.

Conform to Casio GW-M5610-1 and G-Shock's usual standards of reliability and security. There is a shockproof case with a recessed dial and protrusions on the case that protect against damage. The quartz module is also well protected from shaking and vibration.

The overall tightness of the case provides a high level of water resistance WR200M, so that even recreational diving can be done in the watch.

The model received a digital display with automatic backlight, activated in the dark and in low light. Traditionally, high quartz accuracy can be brought to reference values by a built-in receiver that provides synchronization over a radio channel. True, guaranteed reception will be in Japan, the USA, China and Western Europe, and we may have nuances depending on the region.

Casio GW-M5610-1 also have a stopwatch with an accuracy of up to hundredths of a second, a timer from 1 minute to 24 hours, an automatic calendar (day, month, day of the week), a world time function and 5 independent alarm clocks with a snooze option.

The watch is equipped with a proprietary Tough Solar power system, thanks to which resource-intensive functions of the model, such as regular radio synchronization, do not require frequent battery replacement (in practice, the durability sometimes exceeds 10 years). So, the CTL1616 rechargeable battery, which feeds the quartz movement, is charged from the solar panel. She "fits" not only natural, but also artificial lighting, the main thing is not to hide the body from the light. And the charge level indicator will act as a timely reminder.

Among the shortcomings, users highlight a very hard strap, sometimes rubbing the wrist. Otherwise, the Casio GW-M5610-1 is an excellent choice for fans of the brand and the G-Shock line, as well as for all active people.

Introduced in 2019, the watches of the American brand Timex are part of the Expedition line. It combines wearable accessories that are perfect for outdoor use, including hiking.

The readiness of Timex TW4B15000 for precipitation and even short-term immersion under water confirms water resistance up to 5 ATM ( WR50M). But the main outdoor-chip of the model is the solar battery. It is worth fully charging the battery in this way, and the quartz movement will be able to work continuously for up to 2 months. And the daily power reserve will ensure that the watch is outdoors for only 2 minutes on a clear day or 8 minutes on a cloudy one.

The round 43-mm case of the model is made of silver-coloured brass. It goes well with the bezel and dial, which received a blue color. A 20 mm wide brown leather strap with a traditional buckle adds a classic touch to the look. In general, the accessory can be worn with almost any casual wear, including denim. Also, successful experiments with sports or even business style are not ruled out.

Timex TW4B15000 is controlled by a 3-hand quartz movement. Silver hands, Arabic numerals and hour markers are clearly visible against the background of the substrate. And another informative detail was a small circle with orange minute markings. There is also a date display window, located in the area of \u200b\u200bthe "three".

The most observant users may notice that the additional values on the bezel do not line up perfectly with the dial markers. But this is not very striking, moreover, for the average price category, such a flaw should not be considered critical.

The Timex TW4B15000 is an interesting alternative to the Japanese watches that dominate the solar-powered segment.

The model represents the Pro-Trek premium tourist line, that is, it is positioned as the optimal solution not only for outdoor enthusiasts, but also for professional travelers. The watch is not afraid of frost down to -10 °C and long dives to shallow depths ( WR100M). And due to the Tough Solar system, the built-in battery lasts longer: it is powered by solar panels and has a power reserve indicator.

Corresponds to the status of Casio PRG-240-1 and an extensive set of sensors. So, the compass is complemented by a rotating bezel with a scale of the cardinal points. The altimeter determines data up to 10 thousand meters, builds a climb graph, has a memory for 40 values. A thermometer with a barometer will help you track the weather, and if you set the location, the watch will also show information about sunrise and sunset.

The digital dial of the model, in addition to automatic illumination, provides zones painted in different colors. As a result, the data on the screen looks more structured, there is no feeling of information overload, as well as difficulties with reading the readings. The dial is protected by a durable mineral glass.

The set of additional functions is extensive, but for Casio digital models it is rather the norm: an automatic calendar, world time, several alarms, a stopwatch and a timer.

The minimum travel errors Casio PRG-240-1 provides proprietary "quartz". For a month of work, the watch can lag behind or “run away” ahead by no more than 15 seconds, although in practice the accuracy is usually even higher.

The case is made of black plastic, and the strap is made of rubber, thanks to which the model is very light (65 grams). But it should be borne in mind that the dimensions are quite large : the diameter is 51 mm, and the thickness is 15 mm. But in any case, the watch looks normal on almost any male wrist.

Casio PRG-240-1 is a worthy contender for the status of a must-have wrist accessory for both professional climbers or avid hikers, and just for connoisseurs of outdoor recreation.

Debuting with us in 2020, the watch represents the main collection of the Japanese manufacturer Seiko - Discover More.

The model is made in a strict design. The silvery metal case with a diameter of 40 mm complements the steel three-row bracelet. The trinity of hands and laconic oblong-shaped hour markers are decorated in the same color scheme. They, in turn, are clearly visible on the contrasting black substrate of the dial. This appearance Seiko SNE527P1 will appeal to fans of business attire and casual style.

Metal execution promotes reliability, a practicality and safety of a trade dress of hours. The dial can also boast of the same, because it is protected from scratches by sapphire crystal, which is extremely resistant in this aspect.

Do not frighten Seiko SNE527P1 and the impact of water. The water resistance of the case reaches 10 bar, so it is not necessary to remove the accessory even for snorkeling, not to mention showering or getting caught in a downpour.

The branded V158 quartz oscillator, which is characterized by high accuracy (monthly error up to 15 seconds), acts as the filling of the watch. In addition to time, the model will tell you the day of the month and the day of the week : the corresponding double window is located next to the three-hour mark.

The caliber belongs to the Solar category: the battery is powered by bright light. When fully charged, the user is waiting for 10 months of continuous operation, that is, even the polar night should not be a problem. The mechanism also supports the overcharge protection function and the EOL indication: if the second hand suddenly starts jumping over divisions, then you should know that the battery charge level will approach a critical level.

Seiko SNE527P1 is a stylish and functional watch for adequate money. The model is especially relevant for those who are interested in both business style and a solar battery.

An important feature of TISSOT watches, representing the Touch Collection line, is the touch screen. Although it is considered one of the smartwatch chips today, it was the reputable Swiss brand that became one of the innovators, offering the first model with a tactile dial in 1999.

The three buttons on the right side of the TISSOT T091.420.46.051.01 case are complemented by 7 touch zones that can be switched off if necessary (6 marks around the perimeter of the dial + the central area). They speed up the call of the main functions, add convenience in operation, allow you to do without complex submenus and numerous keystrokes. At the same time, the model's dial itself is mixed: a pair of analog hands is complemented by a digital screen at the bottom.

The watch uses a reliable Swiss made quartz movement - E84.301 produced by ETA. It is charged from solar energy, thanks to which the battery is able to work without recharging for several months. And then, to replenish its capacity, you just need to place the case in the sun or under artificial lighting. For greater clarity, there is a low EOL indication.

In functional terms, TISSOT T091.420.46.051.01 highlights the presence of an alarm clock, a perpetual calendar, a stopwatch, a timer, as well as a second time zone display. In addition, there are two sensors “on board” - a digital compass and an altimeter with an altitude difference indicator.

The watch is made in a sporty style. The black and silver case is made of premium titanium alloy, thanks to which the model combines strength and lightness (weight 89 grams). The black bracelet with a butterfly clasp is covered in leather on the outside and nylon on the inside. The dial is protected from scratches by a sapphire crystal. At the proper level for sports positioning and water protection - up to 10 ATM.

The disadvantages of the model include a high price: for such money it is really possible to buy a status "mechanics". But if you want a Swiss made watch with a solar battery, then TISSOT T091.420.46.051.01 will have competitors only among related solutions from the Touch Collection brand line.