Tissot, TAG Heuer and Seiko take a shine to this eco-friendly technology with their latest timepieces.

Harnessing the energy of the sun to power time goes all the way back to the 1960s. Usually, it involves embedding photovoltaic cells on or under the dial of the watch, but the new PRC 100 Solar by <a href="https://www.hommessingapore.com/watches/tissot-sideral-campaign-images" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tissot</a> switches things up by placing these panels right beneath the sapphire glass. It&rsquo;s a cleaner approach that not only frees up <a href="https://www.hommessingapore.com/watches/zenith-and-felipe-pantone-reunite-in-a-scintillating-new-timepiece" target="_blank" rel="noopener">dial design</a>, but also optimises <a href="https://www.hommessingapore.com/watches/light-painter-roy-wang-joins-jaeger-lecoultre-made-of-makers-family" target="_blank" rel="noopener">light</a> absorption by reducing the layers rays have to penetrate.&nbsp;

Don&rsquo;t be alarmed by the visibility of these microscopic honeycomb-structured solar cells in the image above &mdash; they&rsquo;re far more inconspicuous in the metal, practically invisible. They&rsquo;re efficient to boot: 10 minutes of daylight provides 24 hours of battery life, with an impressive 14-month autonomy on a full charge. If the power ever runs low, the second hand shifts to a four-second interval to signal a recharge.

The fan-favourite TAG Heuer Formula 1 collection also gets a high-tech upgrade with Solargraph movements. First introduced on the Aquaracer line, the light-powered calibre provides a full day&rsquo;s charge with just two minutes of direct sunlight. The updated models &mdash; three core and six limited editions &mdash; feature upsized 38mm cases and signature bezels re-engineered in TH Polylight, a lightweight, durable material that comes in a kaleidoscope of colours. It&rsquo;s a playful twist on retro styling, made for everyday wear.

The futuristic Seiko Astron GPS Solar Dual-Time Chronograph automatically adjusts time and time zones using GPS satellite signals, and introduces new time tracking functionality just last year, all powered by solar charging. Despite its techy vibes, the watch has a sleek and refined appearance thanks to sophisticated details like the sapphire crystal insert on its titanium bezel, diamond-cut markers, and facetted case angles. The limited edition models stands out with warm rose gold accents on a rich navy dial, adding luxury to its advanced core.

Harness the Power of Light With These Solar Watches

L'OFFICIEL HOMMES SINGAPORE — June/July 2025

L'OFFICIEL HOMMES SINGAPORE — May 2025

Harness the Power of Light With These Solar Watches

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