If you’re tired of dealing with flat watch batteries, Rip Curl’s new range of solar-powered surf watches is exactly what you need. These timepieces are designed for surfers and ocean lovers, blending durability, water resistance, great style and sustainable solar technology. At Blitz Surf Shop in Gisborne, New Zealand, we stock the latest models including the Drake Solar, Detroit Solar, Daze Solar, and Sun Rays Solar (for women).
This blog explains how Rip Curl solar watches work, the innovations behind them, a little history of Rip Curl watches, and why Blitz Surf Shop is your go-to place to buy them.
Why Choose a Solar Watch for Surfing?
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No more battery swaps: Solar watches use sunlight to power a rechargeable battery, so you don’t need regular replacements.
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Built for the ocean: All models are water resistant to 100m, making them safe for surfing, swimming, and everyday wear. Not only do they look good but they are all functional surf watches
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Eco-conscious: Fewer disposable batteries means less waste — good for the planet as well as your lifestyle.
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Set and forget: With a full charge lasting months, you can spend more time in the water and less time worrying about power.
The Rip Curl Solar Watch Range
Drake Solar
A clean, minimalist everyday watch with a solar-powered movement, rechargeable battery, and 100m water resistance. Perfect for surfers who like a classic design with practical tech.
👉 Shop Drake Solar watch
Detroit Solar
A bold stainless steel design with a solar dial and built-in solar panels beneath the face. The Detroit is durable, stylish, and perfect if you want a tougher, metal look.
👉 Shop Detroit Solar Watch
Daze Solar
The Daze Solar combines simplicity with a sandblasted stainless dial, 100m water resistance, and a solar-powered rechargeable battery. A solid, surf-ready option for everyday wear.
👉 Shop Daze Solar Watch
Sun Rays Solar (Women’s)
The Sun Rays Solar is designed for women, with sleek styling and solar power built into a durable, ocean-ready case. A perfect mix of fashion and surf function.
👉 Shop Sun Rays Solar Women's Watch
How Rip Curl Solar Watches Work
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Solar cell under the dial: Light passes through the watch dial to a solar panel that converts it into energy.
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Rechargeable battery: That energy is stored in an internal cell, keeping the watch ticking for months on a single charge.
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Works in all light: Sunlight charges fastest, but even indoor lighting will keep the battery topped up.
Rip Curl’s Innovation in Surf Watches
Rip Curl isn’t new to watch technology. They’ve been making surf-specific watches for decades, from tide-tracking models to the legendary SearchGPS series. Their innovations include:
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Surf durability: Marine-grade stainless steel, hardened mineral crystals, and 100m water resistance.
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Solar technology: Dial-integrated solar panels that don’t compromise style.
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Sustainability: Promoting long-lasting, rechargeable watch batteries with minimal environmental impact.
👉 Read our blog on the Rip Curl Search GPS 3 Watch here
A Short History of Rip Curl
Rip Curl was founded in 1969 in Torquay, Australia, by Doug “Claw” Warbrick and Brian Singer. What started as a surfboard and wetsuit business has grown into one of the world’s leading surf brands.
Rip Curl’s dedication to surf innovation has led to breakthroughs in wetsuit technology (like the FlashBomb) and surf watches — including solar watches and the GPS-enabled Search range. When you buy a Rip Curl watch, you’re getting decades of surf engineering experience.
Read our blog about Rip Curl watches here
FAQ: Rip Curl Solar Watches
Do solar watches work on cloudy days?
Yes — they’ll still charge under cloudy skies or indoor light. Sunlight is just faster.
How long does a Rip Curl solar watch run on a full charge?
A full charge lasts for several months. With regular daylight use, they’ll keep running indefinitely.
Are Rip Curl solar watches waterproof?
Yes — all current models are water resistant to 100m, perfect for surfing and swimming.
Do I ever need to replace the battery?
They use a rechargeable cell instead of disposables. After many years it may need replacing, but most users never worry about it.
What’s the difference between the Drake, Detroit, Daze and Sun Rays?
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Drake Solar: clean and minimal.
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Detroit Solar: bold stainless steel.
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Daze Solar: simple, surf-ready stainless dial.
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Sun Rays Solar: stylish women’s solar watch.
Rip Curl Solar Watch Comparison
| Model | Case / Style | Movement & Power | Water Resistance | Strap Options | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drake Solar | Minimalist, everyday design | Solar 3-hand, rechargeable battery | 100m | Stainless steel / leather | Clean, classic style with solar tech |
| Detroit Solar | Bold stainless steel build | Solar 3-hand, rechargeable battery | 100m | Marine-grade stainless steel | Durable, heavier look with ocean toughness |
| Daze Solar | Sandblasted stainless dial | Solar 3-hand, rechargeable battery | 100m | Stainless steel | Simple, surf-ready watch for everyday wear |
| Sun Rays Solar | Sleek women’s style | Solar 3-hand, rechargeable battery | 100m | Stainless / leather options | Stylish yet durable solar watch for women |
Why buy from Blitz Surf Shop?
We’re a locally owned surf shop in Gisborne, NZ, with Rip Curl watches in stock both in-store and online. You’ll get expert surf advice, warranty support, and great seasonal deals at www.blitzsurf.co.nz.
Rip Curl Links
Here’s where to place links within the blog:
Final Word
Solar-powered surf watches are the future — reliable, sustainable, and built for the ocean. Whether you prefer the minimalist Drake, the bold Detroit, the simple Daze, or the stylish Sun Rays, you’ll find them all at Blitz Surf Shop in Gisborne or online at www.blitzsurf.co.nz.
