Tag: solar-powered watch

  • Citizen Eco-Drive One Ultra-Thin Watch Green Dial

    Key Takeaway

    – Striking emerald green dial with rose gold accents and refined finishing
    – Ultra-thin 3.88mm case, among the slimmest solar-powered watches available
    – Powered by Citizen’s 1.0mm Eco-Drive movement, eliminating battery changes
    – Comfort-focused design with 5 ATM water resistance and contoured case back
    – Limited to 250 pieces worldwide, priced at $3,395

    A First Look at This Emerald Timekeeper

    If you’ve been thinking of splurging on a sophisticated dress watch that really stands out from the crowd, you might want to check out Citizen’s newest Eco-Drive One. Originally unveiled in Japan in late May, the watch has now officially made its way to the US.

    Design That Captures the Eye

    The Citizen Eco-Drive One AR5065-54W is visually arresting. It sports a unique emerald green dial with a brushed texture surrounding its deep black center, complemented by shimmering rose gold hands, markers, and an inner ring. The striking color combination gives the watch a refined yet contemporary personality, while the contrast between the dark center and vibrant green outer section adds depth and visual intrigue.

    Incredibly Slim Solar Technology

    Like other models in the Eco-Drive One collection, the AR5065-54W is defined by its remarkable thinness, measuring just 3.88mm thick—making it one of the slimmest solar-powered watches on the market. On the inside, you’ll findll find Citizen’s ultra-thin Eco-Drive 8826 movement, which itself measures only 1.0mm thick. Powered by light, the movement eliminates the need for regular battery replacements while maintaining an accuracy rating of ±15 seconds per month.

    A Case That Balances Sport and Elegance

    The sporty case design features sharp lines and four prominent screws on the bezel, giving the otherwise elegant dress watch a subtle technical edge. Citizen has also paid close attention to finishing. The stainless steel case and bracelet feature a refined hairline-brushed treatment, while the bezel’s beveled edges receive a mirror-like Zaratsu polish, creating a contrast between matte and glossy surfaces.

    Built for Wrist Comfort

    Comfort was clearly a priority during development. The case back adopts a two-piece construction without a traditional removable case back, which Citizen says helped achieve both the watch’s extreme thinness and its 5 ATM water resistance rating. The rear portion of the case is also shaped to better conform to the wrist.

    Limited Edition Pricing and Availability

    Limited to 250 pieces worldwide, Citizen’s limited-edition Eco-Drive One goes on sale in the US for $3,395. It will be available directly from the company’s online store.

    Comfort was clearly a priority during development. The case back adopts a two-piece construction without a traditional removable case back, which Citizen says helped achieve both the watch’s extreme thinness and its 5 ATM water resistance rating. The rear portion of the case is also shaped to better conform to the wrist.

    Limited to 250 pieces worldwide, Citizen’s limited-edition Eco-Drive One goes on sale in the US for $3,395. It will be available directly from the company’s online store.


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    • LightInk E-ink Smartwatch: Solar, LoRa & GPS, 10 Months Battery

      LightInk E-ink Smartwatch: Solar, LoRa & GPS, 10 Months Battery

      Key Takeaway

      – LightInk is a visible, DIY solar-powered smartwatch that differs from commercial models by exposing the solar panel and requiring user assembly and custom components.
      – It aims for long battery life (up to ~10 months on a 100mAh cell) but sacrifices some features (no accelerometer) to save power.
      – Key tech: E Ink display readable in sunlight with backlight, LoRa support, GPS, speaker, and no companion app yet, placing it between a wristwatch and a smartwatch.

      Introductory glance at solar-powered wearables

      Solar-powered smartwatches are still niche products in the overall market, though that does not mean such watches do not exist. The best-known models are probably Garmin Fenix smartwatches such as the Garmin Fenix 8 that we reviewed back when it launched. On these smartwatches, the solar panel is more or less invisibly integrated into the display.

      What makes LightInk stand out

      The so-called LightInk takes a different approach. On this smartwatch, the solar panel is clearly visible and separated from the display. There is another major difference, as the LightInk is not a commercially available product but comes from the DIY scene and therefore cannot simply be bought. Instead, interested users have to assemble the watch themselves. A detailed guide is available. In most cases, users have to have a circuit board manufactured by a service provider, own or have paid access to a 3D printer, and be able to do some soldering.

      Performance and design tradeoffs

      The LightInk is designed to offer several months of battery life. More specifically, up to 10 months should be possible with the 100mAh battery. There is no accelerometer because it would simply consume too much power. However, LoRa is supported, it uses an E Ink display that remains readable in sunlight and also has a backlight for use in the dark, and there is a speaker as well. GPS is available, but there is no companion app yet, which means the LightInk sits somewhere on the boundary between a regular wristwatch and a smartwatch, at least in this respect.

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    • Citizen Eco-Drive Limited Edition with Hand-Dyed Washi Dial

      Citizen Eco-Drive Limited Edition with Hand-Dyed Washi Dial

      Key Takeaways

      1. Citizen’s Eco-Drive system, launched in 1976, is a leading solar-powered analog watch technology that can recharge from any light source and lasts for months on one charge.

      2. The Eco-Drive 50th Anniversary Edition (AQ4091-56W) features a unique textured deep green dial made from hand-dyed Japanese washi paper, symbolizing longevity.

      3. Washi paper enhances the watch’s solar functionality by allowing light to reach the solar cells, while also creating a dynamic visual effect that changes with light angles.

      4. The watch’s case and bracelet are made from Super Titanium, making it 40% lighter and five times harder than stainless steel, with a skin-friendly, corrosion-resistant finish.

      5. It includes the Cal.A060 Eco-Drive movement, offering high accuracy (±5 seconds/year), a perpetual calendar until 2100, and up to 18 months of power-save operation on a full charge.

      Citizen’s Eco-Drive is often seen as the top solar watch system available, and it’s no wonder why. Citizen was the first to bring forth a solar-powered analog watch in 1976, laying the groundwork for today’s light-powered timepieces that can recharge from any light source, whether it’s natural or artificial, and can function for months on just one charge. To mark 50 years of innovation, the Japanese watchmaker is unveiling the Eco-Drive 50th Anniversary Edition (AQ4091-56W), a limited edition timepiece that represents the pinnacle of Eco-Drive technology and Citizen’s expertise in materials.

      Unique Dial Design

      The standout feature of this watch is its textured, deep green dial, which is crafted from traditional Japanese washi paper and dyed by hand in a rich chitose midori color. This hue symbolizes longevity and draws inspiration from evergreen pine needles. The process to achieve this eye-catching green was quite remarkable. Artisans used ibuki kariyasu, a traditional yellow dye, to color the washi paper, then layered it with indigo blue dye since no natural dye could produce a green tone.

      The Beauty of Washi Paper

      Historically, washi paper has been utilized in Japanese sliding doors and lanterns to softly diffuse light, making it an ideal semi-transparent material for allowing light to reach the watch’s solar cells. This feature also adds depth and richness to the textured dial, cleverly concealing the technology within plain sight. Depending on the light’s angle on the paper’s organic structure, the dial changes and reveals various depths, highlighted by a gold-tone second hand alongside Citizen’s iconic eagle emblem.

      Exceptional Materials and Movement

      The case, measuring 40.0mm by 12.2mm, along with the matching bracelet, is crafted from Citizen’s unique Super Titanium material and finished with a Duratect Platinum coating. This results in a watch that is 40 percent lighter than typical stainless steel watches and approximately five times harder, as well as resistant to corrosion and friendly to the skin.

      Inside, the watch houses the precise Cal.A060 Eco-Drive movement. This movement boasts an accuracy rate of ±5 seconds per year, features a perpetual calendar that won’t require adjustments until 2100, and can operate for 18 months on a single full charge when in power-save mode.

      The Citizen Eco-Drive 50th Anniversary Edition is limited to just 650 pieces globally, with a planned launch in May 2026 at a price of $3,100.

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    • Upgraded Casio G-Shock Watch Now Available in Europe

      Upgraded Casio G-Shock Watch Now Available in Europe

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Casio G-Shock GX-56UBB-1 is now available in Europe for €159, with benefits for Casio ID members.
      2. The GX-56UBB-1 features upgrades from the previous model, including a new 3545 module and a more effective LED backlight.
      3. The watch supports 31 time zones, has 15-second monthly accuracy, and allows for 12 or 24-hour time formats.
      4. Additional features include a stopwatch, alarms, hourly signals, and a timer, along with solar power and a 20-bar waterproof rating.
      5. The product is almost sold out, and it is currently unclear if it will be released in the US market.

      Casio has introduced the G-Shock GX-56UBB-1 to the European market. This new model was recently unveiled in Japan, along with other updated versions of classic G-Shock watches, including the DW-5900-1 and the DW-5900BB-1.

      Pricing and Availability

      You can now purchase the Casio G-Shock GX-56UBB-1 watch for €159 at the Casio online store in several countries, such as the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany. This pricing is the same as the original GX-56BB-1. Members of Casio ID enjoy benefits like free shipping and returns. It’s worth mentioning that, as of now, the product listings show that this item is almost sold out.

      Design and Upgrades

      The G-Shock GX-56UBB-1 is an evolution of the G-Shock GX-56BB-1, which came out in July 2016 sporting an all-black look. While the new GX-56UBB-1 appears almost identical to the previous model, there are a few enhancements. The 3221 module has been replaced with the newer 3545 module. Additionally, the electroluminescent (EL) backlight has been changed to a more effective LED backlight.

      Features and Specifications

      The G-Shock GX-56 series comes packed with features that include support for 31 time zones, 15-second monthly accuracy, and the option to choose between 12 or 24-hour time formats. The black digital display also shows the date. Other useful tools include a stopwatch, alarms, hourly time signals, and a timer. Furthermore, this resin watch is solar-powered and boasts a waterproof rating of 20 bars. It remains uncertain if or when the Casio G-Shock GX-56UBB-1 will make its way to the US market.

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    • Casio Unveils New Oceanus Watch with Stunning Sapphire Bezel

      Casio Unveils New Oceanus Watch with Stunning Sapphire Bezel

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Casio Oceanus Manta OCW-S7000F-2A features a two-tone design with a blue dial and white accents, made of titanium.
      2. It includes smart technology such as Bluetooth connectivity, automatic time correction, and a phone finder tool via the Casio Watches app.
      3. The watch has a radio-controlled feature (Multiband 6) and is solar-powered with water resistance up to 10 ATM.
      4. It offers three analog hands, automatic hand position correction, and inset dials for day, battery status, and a stopwatch function.
      5. The watch is priced at ¥220,000 (around $1,422) and is currently available for pre-order in Japan, with uncertain availability in other countries.

      The Casio Oceanus Manta OCW-S7000F-2A watch has recently been introduced in Japan. This release comes just a few months after the brand launched the Oceanus Manta OCW-S7000CN-1A watch in the same region.

      Design and Features

      The Oceanus OCW-S7000F-2A sports a two-tone look, featuring rich blue and bright white accents. It boasts a blue dial that has opaque white vapor deposition finished inset dials. The bezel ring made of sapphire glass shines in a vivid blue color, and the casing and strap are crafted from silver-colored titanium.

      Smart Technology

      Casio’s Oceanus OCW-S7000 is a radio-controlled watch (Multiband 6), equipped with three analog hands and an automatic hand position correction function. With Bluetooth capabilities, users can pair the watch with their smartphones to utilize features such as automatic time correction and a phone finder tool within the Casio Watches app. Two inset dials display the day of the week, battery status, and the time in a 24-hour format, while the third dial is connected to the watch’s 1-second stopwatch function. Additionally, this model is solar-powered and has water resistance up to 10 ATM.

      Pricing and Availability

      In Japan, the Casio Oceanus Manta OCW-S7000F-2A watch is available for pre-order at ¥220,000 (around $1,422). It is still uncertain if or when this model will be available in the brand’s official stores in other countries, such as the United States or Germany.

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    • New Casio G-Shock MRG-B2100D Titanium Watch Launching Soon

      New Casio G-Shock MRG-B2100D Titanium Watch Launching Soon

      Key Takeaways

      1. The new Casio G-Shock MRG-B2100D-2A features a silver titanium case and bracelet with a blue-green dial, differing from the black dial of the previous model.
      2. The watch includes radio control (Multiband 6), Bluetooth connectivity for automatic time updates, and a Super Illuminator LED backlight for visibility in dim conditions.
      3. It retains a kigumi-inspired geometric design that allows light to power its solar panel.
      4. The expected release date for the MRG-B2100D-2A is January 2026, though not officially confirmed by Casio.
      5. The anticipated price is ¥ 572,000 (~$3,665), matching the price of the earlier model, MRG-B2100D-1A.

      A fresh Casio G-Shock MRG-B2100D watch is said to be coming out soon. This new version, known as the MRG-B2100D-2A, will add to the previous release, the MRG-B2100D-1A, which hit the market in October 2024.

      Design Features

      The Casio G-Shock MRG-B2100D-2A will feature a silver titanium case and bracelet, similar to the earlier model, along with a matching Cobarion alloy bezel. However, this new model will sport a blue-green dial, contrasting with the black dial on the original. The face of the watch retains a kigumi-inspired geometric design, allowing light to penetrate and power the solar panel inside.

      Functionality and Connectivity

      Casio’s MRG-B2100 is an analog timepiece equipped with radio control (Multiband 6). This model showcases three hands, a simple date feature, and a day-of-the-week display. With Bluetooth connectivity, it allows for automatic time updates, and users can access features like phone finder via the Casio Watches app. Moreover, the watch comes with a Super Illuminator LED backlight, making it easy to read in dim conditions.

      Expected Release and Pricing

      Recent speculation points to the Casio G-Shock MRG-B2100D-2A launching in January 2026, although the company has not made any official announcements yet. It’s anticipated to be priced at ¥ 572,000 (~$3,665), which matches the cost of the older MRG-B2100D-1A. For comparison, the original model is listed at $4,700 in the US and €4,200 in European countries like Germany.

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    • Casio GMW-BZ5000 Solar-Powered Metal Watches Now in the US

      Casio GMW-BZ5000 Solar-Powered Metal Watches Now in the US

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Casio GMW-BZ5000 series is now available in the US with three models: silver (GMW-BZ5000D-1), black (GMW-BZ5000BD-1), and gold (GMW-BZ5000GD-9).

      2. The watches feature a fully metal design with a stainless steel case and a one-touch 3-fold clasp, measuring 13 mm in thickness and weighing about 172 grams.

      3. They are powered by tough solar technology, providing up to 6 months of use under regular conditions.

      4. The watches include Bluetooth connectivity for app adjustments, shock resistance, Multiband 6 atomic timekeeping, and a variety of functions like alarms and world time.

      5. Prices range from $660 to $720, with online sales starting in February 2026 on G-Shock’s website.

      Following its launch in Europe, Casio has now made its new GMW-BZ5000 series watches available in the US. Unlike the silver and black options offered in the UK, Casio is releasing three different models in the US: the G-Shock GMW-BZ5000D-1 (silver), the GMW-BZ5000BD-1 (black), and the GMW-BZ5000GD-9 (gold). These watches can be found at various jewelers across the country. For those who prefer to shop online, they will be sold on G-Shock’s website starting in February 2026, with prices ranging from $660 to $720.

      Design and Features

      The Casio GMW-BZ5000 is a fully metal watch, boasting a stainless steel case along with a sturdy metal strap that has a one-touch 3-fold clasp. It measures 13 mm (0.5 inches) in thickness and has a weight of approximately 172 grams (0.37 lbs). Inside, this digital watch is powered by Casio’s tough solar technology, which allows for up to 6 months of use under regular conditions.

      Smart Connectivity and Functions

      A notable feature of this model is its Bluetooth capability, enabling users to adjust the watch settings through the Casio Watches app. Additional functions include a shock-resistant build, Multiband 6 atomic timekeeping, a stopwatch, countdown timer, five alarms, a full auto calendar, a super illuminator LED light, and world time across 38 different time zones.

      Moreover, the watch offers various layouts for the digital display and is designed to be water-resistant up to 200 meters (20 bar). For more information about the GMW-BZ5000 series watches, you can visit Casio’s official website.

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    • Casio G-Shock Solar Step-Tracking Watches Now in the UK

      Casio G-Shock Solar Step-Tracking Watches Now in the UK

      Key Takeaways

      1. Casio has launched the G-Shock GA-B010 digital watches in the UK, which track steps and run on solar power.
      2. The watches are priced at £139 each and are available in three models with free shipping options.
      3. The GA-B010 features a hybrid design with two analog hands and two digital displays for tracking steps and showing time.
      4. Additional functions include world time support, a stopwatch, countdown timer, and five daily alarms, along with a white LED backlight.
      5. The watch uses a Tough Solar charging system for extended battery life, but availability in other regions like the US or Germany is uncertain.

      Casio has launched the G-Shock GA-B010 digital watches in the UK. This new model, which tracks steps and runs on solar power, was speculated about earlier this year and is already on sale in Japan.

      Pricing and Availability

      At the Casio online store in the UK, you can find the GA-B010-1A (black, positive display), the GA-B010-1A1 (black, negative display), and the GA-B010-3A (khaki, positive display) priced at £139 each. Customers can enjoy free shipping that takes between two to four working days, or they have the option to pay for faster delivery.

      Features of the GA-B010

      The G-Shock GA-B010 is a hybrid design, featuring two analog hands that are claimed to be accurate within 15 seconds every month. The watch face includes two digital displays. The first is a step tracker that shows how close you are to your goal, located between the one and two o’clock positions. The second, larger screen at the bottom shows the time digitally, along with the month, date, and the day of the week.

      Additional Functions

      Other notable features of the GA-B010 comprise world time support, a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and five daily alarms. A white LED backlight enhances visibility in dark conditions. Moreover, the Tough Solar charging system prolongs the battery life of the watch. It is still unclear when, or if, these G-Shock GA-B010 watches will become available in other regions like the US or Germany.

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      Casio G-Shock Solar Step-Tracking Watches Now in the UKCasio G-Shock Solar Step-Tracking Watches Now in the UKCasio G-Shock Solar Step-Tracking Watches Now in the UK

       

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    • Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 Watch: Rotary Guard Bezel & Tough Solar

      Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 Watch: Rotary Guard Bezel & Tough Solar

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 is priced at ¥25,300 (around $169) and is made from bio-based plastics.
      2. The watch features a rotary guard bezel for easy mode switching and has a water resistance rating of 10 bar.
      3. It includes Tough Solar technology for timekeeping and Bluetooth connectivity for automatic time updates via the Casio Watches app.
      4. The watch offers various functionalities, such as world time for 38 cities, five alarms, and a battery life of up to 18 months in power-saving mode.
      5. Currently available on Casio Japan’s website, the watch is expected to be listed on Casio’s US website soon.

      The Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 is now ready for purchase on Casio’s Japan website. With a price tag of ¥25,300 (around $169), this watch is made from bio-based plastics and has dimensions of 50.3 × 46 × 13.6 mm, weighing in at just 37 grams. It features a cross-band that accommodates wrist sizes ranging from 145 to 215 mm.

      Functional Design

      Similar to other watches in the Hiker collection, the rotary guard bezel is practical, allowing users to switch between the protected and operational button modes with a simple 45-degree twist. The watch has a water resistance rating of 10 bar and can function in temperatures as low as -10°C. Timekeeping is supported by Tough Solar technology, while Bluetooth connectivity allows for automatic time updates through the Casio Watches app.

      Features and Performance

      The PRJ-B001B-1 is equipped with a variety of features such as world time for 38 different cities, five alarms, a stopwatch, countdown timer, dual LED lighting, a full auto calendar, and a battery level indicator. A complete solar charge can power the watch for up to seven months, but when in power-saving mode, this can stretch to 18 months. Even without syncing to a smartphone, the watch maintains quartz accuracy within ±15 seconds per month.

      This model comes with a paracord-style strap that can be easily swapped out within the Pro Trek line, making it a part of Casio’s Hiker series. Sales are currently active. Although this watch isn’t listed on Casio’s US website at the moment, we anticipate that it will be available soon.

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      Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 Watch: Rotary Guard Bezel & Tough SolarCasio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 Watch: Rotary Guard Bezel & Tough SolarCasio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 Watch: Rotary Guard Bezel & Tough SolarCasio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 Watch: Rotary Guard Bezel & Tough Solar

       

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    • Buy Casio Edifice EFSS650D-2A Chronograph with Ceramic Bezel

      Buy Casio Edifice EFSS650D-2A Chronograph with Ceramic Bezel

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Casio Edifice EFSS650D-2A is a solar-powered chronograph priced at $220, with limited availability in the US.
      2. It features a blue ion-plated ceramic bezel and a stainless-steel case with both mirror and hairline finishes for enhanced aesthetics.
      3. The watch measures 46.7 × 40.9 × 11.7 mm, weighs 140 g, and has a water resistance rating of 100 meters.
      4. Powered by Tough Solar technology, it offers about five months of runtime on a full charge and includes a battery level indicator.
      5. The chronograph function supports 1-second timing for durations up to 29 minutes and 59 seconds, with a clear dial design for readability.

      The Casio Edifice EFSS650D-2A is a solar-powered chronograph made of stainless steel. It features a ceramic bezel, marking a new addition to the Edifice series. Now available in the US, this timepiece is priced at $220, but supplies are limited on Casio’s US website. This model was first seen in June 2025 and has just been released, coinciding with the launch of the Casio MTPM305MC-1AV – you can find more details about that here.

      Design Features

      The EFSS650D-2A showcases a blue ion-plated ceramic bezel, set within a flat stainless-steel case and bracelet that highlight both mirror and hairline finishes. The ceramic ring is notably more resistant to scratches compared to stainless steel, providing a deeper, richer color to the overall aesthetics of the watch.

      Specifications

      Measuring 46.7 × 40.9 × 11.7 mm and weighing 140 g, this watch is equipped with sapphire crystal featuring an anti-reflective coating. It boasts a water resistance rating of 100 meters. The bracelet is designed with a one-touch three-fold clasp and can fit wrist sizes ranging from 150 to 205 mm.

      Power and Functionality

      The power source for this watch is Casio’s Tough Solar technology, which offers approximately five months of runtime from a full charge before the hands stop moving. It also includes a battery level indicator and a low-battery alert. According to Casio, the Edifice maintains a monthly accuracy of ±20 seconds.

      The dial is designed with simple bar indexes, three inset registers, and a date window, ensuring readability while allowing solar panels behind the sub-dials to capture light. The chronograph features 1-second timing with a maximum capacity of 29 minutes and 59 seconds, supporting elapsed, split, and first/second place timing modes.

      You can purchase the Edifice EFSS650D-2A from Casio’s official US store. Due to limited stock, it is expected to sell out quickly.

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      Buy Casio Edifice EFSS650D-2A Chronograph with Ceramic BezelBuy Casio Edifice EFSS650D-2A Chronograph with Ceramic Bezel

       

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