Posted by QuickReadAbout.com Staff in Light powered watches (also labeled as solar powered watches) are basically watches which gain their power from the sun, or any other light source. The term solar powered isn’t exactly correct, given that light powered watches don’t exactly need light produced by the sun to successfully operate.
Getting to know how light powered watches operate isn’t exactly that complicated to explain. Its working dynamics can even be explained in one sentence: Light powered watches are no different from any other type of watch, except that they utilize light, as their power source.
Light powered watches gain power from a light source when light enters the watch through the watch’s dial/crystal. The light hits a solar cell positioned under the dial. Some light powered watches have solar cells as big as the watch’s disk, while some are simple bands of solar cells, positioned under the watch’s dial (light entry point). As how solar cells operate, once light hits it electrons within the solar cell/solar cells are knocked loose, thus creating electrical current. The current is then stored inside a capacitor or rechargeable battery.
Light powered watches then operate as how a “regular” quartz watch would from then on. The electricity coming from the capacitor or battery sets the quartz crystal vibrating. The vibrations are then split into second length impulses, which runs the motor, which runs the gears, and then to the watch’s display.
Light powered watches run their best in normal lighting conditions during the day. Sunlight and/or indoor lights provide them with enough power to function effectively. The energy stored within its charging system (either the capacitor or rechargeable battery) keeps it running through the night.
Most light powered watches have built-in “low-power indicators”. They warn the wearer about the recharge condition of the watch. Most light power watches have this distinction as their low power status giveaway: once the second hand jumps at two second intervals. Though not a true to all brands, most light powered watches’ “low-power indicators” are triggered once five days worth of power is left for the watch to work on.
Citizen and Seiko are two of the top brands selling light powered watches. Seiko’s Pulsar Solar collection has put Seiko on the map. Citizen’s Eco-Drive line isn’t exactly limited only in producing light powered watches. Citizen’s Eco-Drive Thermo relies on thermal energy as its power source.
Light powered watches replenish their power through sunlight exposure. This saves users the trouble of bringing the watch to a repair shop, as well as saves a part of the environment.