Jan
general
It’s Time to Gift an Eco-Friendly Watch
2025 is here and for many of us, that means thinking about those special, maybe a little more expensive, gifts we want to give our favorite people – gifts like a beautiful piece of jewelry or a cool watch. Watches, for sure, are a classic and stylish gift. But are they actually good for the planet? Is this watch the most sustainable choice, or should we be thinking about going for an eco-friendly watch? Those are definitely questions worth asking.
The watch industry has been under the spotlight for a while now, with concerns about how it gets its materials. See, a lot of watches use gold and other metals, which come from mining. And mining, unfortunately, can be pretty damaging to the environment and even to people. From the hands, the inside mechanism, and the case, to that little knob you use to set the time and the ring that holds the glass in place, and sometimes the bracelet. All those parts are made from these materials.
The way metals are mined often leads to environmental problems…
We’re talking about cutting down forests, animals losing their homes, polluted soil and water, and a lot of emissions going into the air. It’s even estimated that up to a third of the world’s forests could be affected by mining.
Regions like the Amazon, Southeast Asia, and the Congo, are especially at risk. That’s because metals, diamonds, and other gems, are often taken from mines that turn amazing, diverse rainforests into barren landscapes. And it’s not just the environment, sometimes there are human rights issues connected to mining as well.
But things are changing!
A growing number of watch companies are transitioning away from mined metals, understanding their responsibility to act now for the planet’s future.
Brands such as GOWOOD are making eco-friendly watches mostly from natural wood – a softer, more sustainable alternative to metal. They know it’s important to replace what we take, which is why you see GOWOOD working with organizations like Tree Canada to plant new trees! Other brands, including some big names like Panerai and Breitling, are using recycled materials. All this is to appeal to people who are looking for more responsible choices.
Now, here’s the cool thing about watches in general, the idea of passing down a timepiece from generation to generation is actually pretty sustainable. The tradition of watchmaking has always been about creating something that lasts.
So, if you’re thinking of buying a watch for someone you care about this new year, we’ve got you covered. Take a look at our top 3 eco-friendly watches, there is something for every budget!
Olive Wood Eco-Friendly Watch
with a real Portuguese brown cork wristband
This stunning eco-friendly watch is crafted from beautiful olive wood and features a precise, gold-toned Swiss-made movement with three hands for telling the hour, minutes, and seconds – ensuring top-notch accuracy.
What makes this wooden watch truly special is its unique wristband, made from genuine Portuguese cork – a fantastic vegan-friendly alternative to leather, so no animals were harmed in its making. The inside of the band is lined with soft, artificial leather that feels incredibly comfortable against the skin.
The watch’s case is also made entirely of real olive wood, which is not only a great way to cut down on plastic, but also feels warm and natural on the wrist – it’s like gifting a piece of nature. The wooden watch face is protected by ultra-clear acrylic glass, which is super scratch and impact-resistant.
The size of the dial is a versatile 42mm, which looks great on both men and women, making it a truly versatile gift. And, while this wooden watch isn’t fully waterproof, it is water-resistant and has been treated to withstand rain and splashes without any problems.
Finally, because this eco-friendly watch is made of wood, it’s incredibly lightweight – much lighter than a plastic or metal watch. So comfortable is the wooden watch, that after only a short while, its presence on the wrist becomes almost imperceptible.
Black Sandalwood Eco-friendly Watch
with a real Portuguese black cork wristband
Black Sandalwood, from the Guibourtia species, presents a truly exceptional profile, making it a distinguished choice for a timepiece. Its rich, deep hues – ranging from a sophisticated chocolate brown to an almost ebony black – are complemented by a subtle, captivating grain pattern that catches the eye.
This wood is strong and stable providing a sense of balance. This makes it a meaningful gift, symbolizing a connection to nature. Presenting this Black Sandalwood eco-friendly watch is a beautiful way to convey a commitment to both refined style and a life lived with mindfulness and intention, making it a truly unique gift.
Not to mention that this exquisite black Sandalwood watch features a precise, silver-toned Swiss-made movement with three hands to gracefully indicate the hour, minutes, and seconds, ensuring the very best in timekeeping accuracy and quality, a testament to the craftsmanship within.
Zebra Wood Eco-friendly Watch
with a real Portuguese natural cork wristband
Zebrawood, with its captivating grain and exceptional finish, makes this GOWOOD eco-friendly watch a truly special gift to celebrate the beginning of a new year.
Its patterns create a striking contrast, from bold to fine. This unique visual will be admired. Sandalwood, a luxury hardwood, gives the watch a refined feel. It perfectly houses the precise, silver-toned Swiss movement.
This timepiece is crafted with care and features three hands for accurate timekeeping. The case is made entirely from real Zebrawood, a thoughtful choice that reduces plastic use and brings a warmth and natural touch to the skin, a reminder of nature’s beauty.
Gifting a Zebrawood watch is a beautiful way to celebrate the start of a new year with a gift that is as distinctive as it is stylish.
You Might Be Wondering About the Battery Life of These Eco-Friendly Watches
You can expect it to last between 25 and 34 months, with a replacement typically needed around every two years.
Q. When the time comes, how does one go about replacing the battery in this watch?
Replacing the battery is manageable. Four small screws hold the watch case back. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to carefully remove them. This reveals the watch mechanism and battery. Then, use a mini flathead screwdriver to gently lift the battery out.
To ensure proper functioning, the replacement battery should be of the same type, either an SR626SW or SR616SW, which is usually printed directly on the battery itself.
Q. Does this eco-friendly watch come with a warranty?
Yes! All GOWOOD timepieces have a one-year limited warranty against factory defects. This warranty doesn’t cover normal wear and tear. For instance, the warranty covers a watch that stops working with a good battery. However, accidental damage, like a damaged dial from a snagged band, isn’t covered.
The start of a new year brings with it a renewed sense of possibility, and for many, the desire to give meaningful, lasting gifts! We invite you to explore our collection of eco-friendly wooden watches – each one a unique blend of nature and craftsmanship. And while you’re discovering the perfect timepiece, remember to follow @gowood.ca on Instagram for the latest designs, inspiration, and updates.
Happy New Year 2025!
Français