A closer look at sustainable, eco-friendly stunners in the watch world
By Sharan Sanil
CHOPARD ALPINE EAGLE XL CHRONO
The Chopard Alpine Eagle collection underscores Chopard’s commitment to sustainability, with the smaller base model crafted from Lucent Steel, a highly durable and environmentally friendly material. Building on this eco- conscious foundation, the Alpine Eagle XL Chrono elevates luxury with its 44 mm case entirely made from ethical 18-carat rose gold. The Bernina Grey dial, inspired by the Alpine rocks, enhances its refined aesthetic. Powered by the innovative Chopard 03.05-C movement, certified by the COSC, this high- precision chronograph features three patents that improve accuracy and functionality. Boasting a 60-hour power reserve, unidirectional gear drive system, vertical clutch, and flyback function, it exemplifies technical prowess. The hands and hour markers, coated with Grade XI Super-LumiNova®, ensure excellent legibility, while the tachymeter scale adds practical utility. Completing the design is a tapered bracelet in ethical 18-carat rose gold, reflecting Chopard’s ongoing journey towards sustainable luxury.
ULYSSE NARDIN DIVER NET OPS
The Ulysse Nardin Diver NET OPS is a sustainable sports watch with a 44 mm case made from 95% recycled stainless steel, featuring innovative materials like Nylo®, upcycled from fishing nets, and Carbonium ®, derived from aircraft manufacturing offcuts. The khaki green dial boasts a sandblasted finish with a prominent satin-finished ‘X’, power reserve indicator at 12 o’clock, and small seconds at 6 o’clock, all luminescent with beige Super-Luminova®. Water-resistant to 300 metres, it is powered by the automatic calibre UN-118, offering a 60-hour power reserve.
PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE QUARANTAQUATTRO ESTEEL
The Panerai Submersible QuarantaQuattro eSteel stands out with its gradient dial transitioning from grey to black, paired with a polished ceramic bezel for a sporty yet elegant look. The 44 mm case, crafted from recycled stainless steel known as eSteel, highlights Panerai’s commitment to sustainability. This eco-friendly material significantly reduces CO2 emissions during production. The watch is powered by the automatic calibre P.900, which offers a 3-day power reserve and features a slim profile at 4.2 mm in height. The model is equipped with durable straps made from recycled PET, ensuring both robustness and environmental responsibility.
SEIKO PROSPEX SPB439 SAVE THE OCEAN LIMITED EDITION
The Seiko Prospex Arctic Ocean GMT SPB439J1 Limited Edition (1,500 examples) underscores Seiko’s commitment to sustainability, featuring a 42 mm stainless steel case with a ceramic bezel, and a silver- coloured textured dial that mirrors the surface of an ice glacier. The GMT hand and 24-hour scale in ‘Arctic Blue’ enhance its unique design. This watch supports the PADI® and PADI Aware Foundation’s Marine Debris Program, reflecting Seiko’s dedication to ocean conservation. Powered by the calibre 6R54 movement, the first Seiko Prospex Diver’s mechanical GMT movement, it boasts a 72-hour power reserve and allows tracking of multiple time zones. The unidirectional rotating bezel is crafted from high-quality, scratch-resistant Japanese ceramic. The watch’s low centre of gravity and short-pitch bracelet ensure a comfortable fit. Additional features include a three-fold clasp with a secure lock, push-button release, screw-down crown, and 20 bar water resistance.
CITIZEN L EM1060-87N
Citizen’s CITIZEN L collection blends sustainability and elegance, inspired by the delicate beauty of May bells. The new models feature gently curving lines and a lustrous mother-of-pearl dial, with a single diamond at the 8 o’clock position symbolising a glistening raindrop. The EM1060- 87N and EM1063-89D models also include four diamonds at the 3 o’clock position, adding a touch of glamour. Each watch is powered by Citizen’s Eco-Drive technology, which converts natural and artificial light into energy, eliminating the need for regular battery changes and reducing environmental impact. The watches are crafted from sustainable materials, reflecting Citizen’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The stainless-steel cases and bands, along with the spherical sapphire glass, ensure durability and a luxurious feel. With a 29.5mm case diameter and 8.3mm thickness, these watches are both stylish and comfortable. Additionally, Citizen collaborates with the Salt Payatas Foundation to provide hand- embroidered pouches, supporting women in Payatas and promoting sustainable livelihoods.
TIMEX RECLAIM OCEAN
The Timex Reclaim Ocean 40mm is a testament to Timex’s commitment to sustainability and style. The case, made from upcycled ocean-bound plastic through a partnership with #tideTM, transforms waste into a premium, sustainable material. This eco-friendly initiative begins with fishermen collecting plastic from coastlines, which is then washed, shredded, and transported to Switzerland via carbon-neutral methods before being repurposed into watch components. The pictured Reclaim Ocean model features a tan case and a slip-through fabric strap, both crafted from #tideTM recycled ocean plastic. The watch includes a scratch-resistant mineral glass lens, 30m water resistance, and an INDIGLO® backlight for optimal visibility in low light conditions.
ORIS AQUIS DATE UPCYCLE
The Oris Aquis Date Upcycle is a noteworthy addition to the Aquis collection, reflecting Oris’s commitment to sustainability. Each watch features a unique dial made from recycled PET plastics, emphasising the brand’s ‘Change for the Better’ initiative. The dial with its one-of-a-kind blend of colours and patterns, is visually striking and underscores the importance of recycling. Available in 36.5mm, 41.5mm, and two versions of a 43.5mm case, the Aquis Date Upcycle offers versatility in size. The 43.5mm models are powered by either the Oris 733 movement, providing a 38-hour power reserve, or the in-house Oris Calibre 400, which boasts an impressive 120-hour power reserve. All models are water- resistant to 300 metres, ensuring durability and performance. The updates to the case, lugs, and bracelet enhance both aesthetics and comfort, while the new hands, applied hour markers, and matching date windows further refine the design.
Reproduced with permission from Mansworldindia.com
