Introducing: Skagen Grenen Solar

Even before I really got into watches, Skagen was a brand I knew very early on, as it was the watch I got for myself to wear at my wedding. So, you could say the Danish minimalism has a special place in my mind palace, for sure. They’ve been making moves to be more eco-conscious, and their latest release is a big step in that direction. Meet the Skagen Grenen Solar.

For the Skagen Grenen Solar, you’ve got two things coming together that make things more eco-friendly. First, you’ve got a stainless steel case made up of at least 50% recycled material (always good to see material gain new life, and steel is great for that). Then, of course, you’ve got a solar-powered movement inside.

Now, yes, there is an argument to be made that a solar movement is not producing all that much less impact on the environment than a traditional battery-powered quartz movement. To that, I’d offer this example: in my solar-powered G-Shock, which I’ve had close to 15 years, there have been zero battery replacements (due to, you know, being solar powered). So, with typical coin cell batteries lasting 3-5 years, that’s a handful of batteries that aren’t being made, and aren’t ending up in the trash (or the local recycling center, where they should go).

In other words, it’s steps in the right direction (and if you really want to reduce that toxic waste, find yourself a mechanical movement, with no batteries or power cells), and perfect for someone who wants a watch that just works and works and works. Here, with the Skagen Grenen Solar coming in at 37mm, it will fit a wide variety of wrists. And with five different finishes (and strap/bracelet combinations), there’s enough variety to satisfy many tastes. With it costing just $195, it’s a low-cost introduction to the brand for a watch that can cover a variety of scenarios from casual to dressy, with that lovely minimalistic approach. Check them out over at skagen.com

Tech Specs from Skagen

Case Size: 37MM
Movement: Solar Powered Three Hand

Platform: GRENEN SOLAR POWERED
Strap Material: Leather. By purchasing this product, you are supporting Leather Working Group certified tanneries.
Case Water Resistance: 3 ATM