Despite their elegance, the inherent function of a men’s watch is simple: to tell time. Sure, it’s nice to have a beautiful piece of functional jewelry. Still, the core purpose can sometimes be at odds with itself when you have to fuss over something as simple as changing a battery — something which is often difficult to do without a professional doing it for you.
There’s a better way, however. A solar watch is what it sounds like: the battery is powered by the sun. Simple enough, sure. But that can be a game-changer in terms of saving you both time and money. And it just allows you to focus on what matters most: telling time.
With that in mind, here are nine stylish and affordable solar watches you can buy right now. Trust us, you’ll be grateful for the extra, well, time back when you don’t have to worry about the hassle of changing a battery.
1. Seiko Prospex Solar Watch
Seiko’s solar-powered watch has a classically styled bracelet capable of matching any outfit you have, whether formal or casual. The bezel is two-toned to provide a bit of a sporty feel without going overboard. In contrast, the interior provides a few different chronographs to track seconds and even provide a stopwatch. Plus, the watch is waterproof up to 660 feet, making it capable of going wherever you’re going.
MORE: Best-Selling Seiko Solar Watches Under $150
2. Citizen Eco-Drive Chandler Solar Field Watch
Citizen’s Eco-Drive tech is the most notable solar-powered watch, and they’ve applied it to all kinds of offerings, including this more casual, outdoor-friendly model. Water-resistant up to 100 meters, you can wear it in the shower or at the pool without concern, while the sun powers the battery all day long. The military-green-inspired watchband makes for a striking appearance that just so happens to be very much in style right now.
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3. Timex Expedition Solar Watch
With its black leather band and dial, Timex’s Expedition Solar Watch immediately stands out for looking extremely sharp and stylish. The subtle green accents on the dial add a further level of polish and swagger than make this feel inherently sporty but still something you could wear to a nice dinner. Plus, the price tag makes this watch extremely compelling, especially if you’re looking to get into solar watches.
4. Citizen Eco-Drive Nighthawk Solar Watch
While you might not use all of the features of this aviation-style watch from Citizen, you can’t deny the watch looks sleek as hell with its intricate face and striking silver bracelet. With a date functionality, water-resistance of 660 feet and even a low-charge warning, the Nighthawk solar watch is an extremely sharp timepiece and one that’s bound to get you noticed.
5. Nautica N83 Cocoa Beach Solar Watch
With its racing-inspired details and rugged-ready watch band, Nautica’s Cocoa Beach solar watch is aptly named for those looking to spend a day by the sea or on a volleyball court. Date functionality is handy to have in a watch at this price, and we especially like the larger numbers on the face, a design feature that makes it even easier to glance to see what the time is before you go back to what really matters.
6. Citizen Eco-Drive Axiom Solar Watch
Sometimes you want a watch that draws attention to itself in a way that doesn’t draw attention to itself. That’s to say, having a minimalist option in your watch rotation is a great way to differentiate your outfits and overall looks with something that’s still nice but isn’t too flashy. This Axiom solar watch from Citizen has some swagger thanks to its all-black finish and the striking interior notches.
7. One Eleven SWII Solar Watch
With a plethora of color choices and an overall minimalist vibe, all under $100, One Eleven’s SWII solar watch makes for a great third or even fourth option in your watch rotation to ensure you can have something to match even your wildest outfits. The nylon strap is comfortable for day-long wear, while the clean face has enough character to make it fun and interesting.
8. Citizen Eco-Drive Chronograph Solar Watch
The Citizen Eco-Drive Chronograph might be the most recognizable offering in the Eco-Drive line thanks to timeless design, sharp details and overall elegant appearance. The blue dial color pops nicely with the silver bracelet. Three subdials allow for additional time-telling features. And, of course, you get that fantastic eco-drive-powered battery.
9. Seiko Stainless Steel Solar Watch
Another stripped-down, minimalist option, this Seiko Stainless Steel Solar Watch clocks in under $100. That’s quite a compelling package on its own. But once you add in other features like day and date functionality, 100-foot water resistance and stainless steel construction, the watch feels like a steal. And it basically is!