Just like any other sector, the watch industry has a real environmental impact. In fact, the watchmaking industry produced a staggering 1.2 million metric tons of CO2 in 2021 alone (GITNUX). To put that into perspective, this is the equivalent of driving 8.8 billion miles — and it would take 1.3 million cubic meters of trees to absorb it (OpenCO2net).
If you’re trying to lead a sustainable life, you might assume that building a watch collection is out of the question. But this isn’t the case. There are plenty of more eco-friendly timepieces to choose from as brands find ways to become more sustainable. And with a few mindful switches, you can enjoy watch collecting without having to worry about your environmental impact. Looking for some inspiration? Read on to discover our top tips.
Shop pre-owned
Buying pre-owned watches comes with a whole host of benefits: you support the circular economy, often get a better deal on premium timepieces like Rolex and Omegas, and you stand a higher chance of finding a truly unique watch with a rich history. On top of all of that, choosing pre-loved pieces is better for the environment, making it the most sustainable option.
Going for a pre-owned watch gives the timepiece a new lease of life and saves it from going to landfill. This means that the energy and resources spent on crafting this piece don’t go to waste. Plus, when you shop pre-owned, you can get a premium watch that is built to last for less. This is much more cost-effective and sustainable than spending the same amount on a new, possibly lower-quality watch, which likely won’t stand the test of time.
Find sustainable watch brands
Over recent years, brands have become increasingly aware of their carbon footprints, and that goes for watch brands, too. This means that many of them are finding ways to be more environmentally friendly, from the materials they use to the watch-making process itself. For example, Rolex reduced its carbon footprint by 35% in 2023 through various measures, such as increasing Oystersteel recycling and reducing harmful emissions (Tatler).
The smaller brands are making an impact, too. Oris, for instance, offers a range of watches made with recycled ocean plastic to aid in marine conservation efforts. Chopard is also recognised for its sustainability, crafting watches out of responsibly sourced materials and managing the environmental impact of their production process, finding ways to reduce energy and water usage. From the big watchmakers to the smaller brands, manufacturers across the industry are making it easier for you to ensure your watch collection is sustainable.
Maintain and repair your existing pieces
Whether you already have a collection and are looking to expand or you’re starting from scratch, it can be tempting to race to get your next watch. But don’t forget about the timepieces you already own. Even the ones that aren’t in top condition are still worth your attention. If you have some watches that are looking worse for wear, spend some time restoring them first — you’d be surprised at what just a simple clean and a new strap can do.
Even broken watches are worth keeping, as they can often be given a new lease of life by a professional watch repairer. This is usually much cheaper than buying a brand-new watch, and most importantly, it extends the lifespan of your timepiece and keeps it out of landfill. For those extra-special pieces, it also allows you to cherish them for longer, and perhaps even pass them down to another watch enthusiast in your family one day.
Give your watches a new life
Whether you’re collecting watches to wear or simply admire, you should love the pieces you have. So if you have a model that isn’t sparking joy anymore, don’t just leave it sitting at the back of your watch box: give it a new lease of life. This could be gifting it to a fellow watch enthusiast, giving it to a charity shop, or selling it to make a bit of cash.
If you’re looking for a quick and hassle-free way to sell your watch, you’ve come to the right place. Here at H&T, we’ll give you a quote for your timepiece in as little as 30 minutes after filling in one of our forms. If you choose to sell to us, we even provide a pre-paid, insured, and addressed envelope, making the process easy from start to finish. If you don’t want to sell, but you don’t need your watch at the moment, you also have the option of pawning it with H&T. Read our pawnbroking guide to find out more about this service.
Now you know how to build a more sustainable watch collection, why not put these tips into action and explore our pre-owned watches? Whether you’re after classic pieces, modern styles, or something truly unique, H&T has a wide range of options to explore. Check out our men’s and women’s watches to find your next favourite timepiece. With options from under £250 to over £30,000, we have timepieces for every budget.
And don’t forget to explore the rest of our blog for more tips, inspiration, and fun reads on watches, including our blog post on the most expensive watches ever sold at auction.
