What applies to our planet also holds true in watchmaking: the most abundant, free, and universally accessible source of energy is solar power. To put things into perspective, it is estimated that just 45 minutes of incoming solar energy would be enough to cover the needs of humanity (8.3 billion people) for an entire year.
Watchmaking at the cutting edge of solar innovation
Of course, watchmaking is not where solar energy is primarily harnessed. Yet, as a field rooted in advanced microtechnology, it often serves as a testing ground where innovation emerges before spreading elsewhere. Over the past five years, the industry has taken a leading role in several developments in this domain.
This should not be underestimated: with a surface area of less than 2 square centimeters, creating a watch capable of powering multiple complications for months, or even years, is a significant technological feat. This is precisely the challenge addressed by the new TAG Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph models, now introduced in a fresh “Pastel” collection.
An icon of the ’80s
The Formula 1 is one of the brand’s most iconic creations, now celebrating its 40th anniversary. Launched in 1986, it is tied to an era dominated by drivers who have since become legends: Alain Prost, Nigel Mansell, Nelson Piquet and Ayrton Senna, among others.
Originally conceived as an accessible entry point into the TAG Heuer universe, it was produced in large volumes, featured fashionable colors, and was priced accordingly, hence its quartz movement. Today’s Solargraph collection continues this legacy of battery-powered watches, now entering a new, light-driven chapter. Always evolving, sometimes surprising, the “Pastel” capsule collection also contrasts with the traditionally bold Formula 1 aesthetic by introducing softer, more understated tones.
Powered by La Joux-Perret
The 2023 Aquaracer collection was TAG Heuer’s first to include solar-powered technology, and in 2025 Formula 1 followed suite. The movement itself is not developed in-house but produced by La Joux-Perret, a subsidiary of the Citizen Group. It is also used by Citizen and Alpina, both part of the same group.
These watches rely on natural or artificial light as an almost unlimited energy source. Just one minute of sunlight exposure provides enough power for a full day, while a complete charge, achieved in under 40 hours, ensures up to 10 months of operation in total darkness. Even after stopping, the watch can restart with only 10 seconds of light exposure. Its internal energy storage system is designed to last up to 15 years, underscoring its durability.
Competition catches up
These technical specifications position the Solargraph movement competitively within the market. Within the Swatch Group, through its subsidiary Nivarox, the T-Touch by Tissot remains vague, citing a power reserve lasting “months.” That said, the watch offers an extensive range of features, step counter, calories burned, distance tracking, altimeter, barometer, temperature, weather trends, compass, azimuth, and notifications, whose usage directly impacts autonomy. Developed in Neuchâtel, it is also worth noting that the T-Touch is a connected watch, unlike the Formula 1 Solargraph. Its price starts below CHF 1,000.
Within Richemont, Cartier has also developed its own solar-powered movement in Switzerland, now featured in the Tank. This “SolarBeat” claims up to 16 years of operation before battery replacement. It requires just two minutes of sunlight to power a full day, although total autonomy is not disclosed. Its average price is around CHF 2,500.
Finally, Basel-based Ronda has recently introduced its own solar calibers, the Solartech 200 and 2000. These offer a power reserve of eight months in darkness (five months for chronographs). If fully discharged, three minutes of sunlight are enough for one day of operation, while ten hours provide a full charge. Ronda is currently the only manufacturer offering two solar movements, including one specifically designed for chronographs. These are used by brands such as Mondaine, Swiss Military, Victorinox and others. Thanks to its competitive positioning, Ronda enables these brands to offer entry-level prices starting at CHF 650.
Pastel tones and limited editions
Following TAG Heuer’s modus operandi of always evolving, the 2026 Formula 1 “Pastel” capsule collection also contrasts with the traditionally bold Formula 1 aesthetic by introducing softer, more understated tones.
Five versions are available, including yellow, pink, green, blue, and pastel blue. All models feature a 38 mm case and come with either a steel or rubber strap, resulting in prices ranging from CHF 1,850 to CHF 2,650.
Production is limited: 1,500 pieces for the green model, 1,000 for the pastel blue version with gem-set indexes, 3,000 for the non-set variant, 3,500 for the yellow, and 2,500 for the pink. While this distribution by color may raise questions, it does clearly distinguish each model.
