IWC vs Citizen: The Eco-Friendly Watch Choice in 2025

As we move through 2025, sustainability continues to be a significant focus for consumers in various industries, including luxury and everyday watches. IWC Schaffhausen and Citizen are two notable brands that have made strides in incorporating eco-friendly practices into their watchmaking processes. In this article, we will explore how both brands approach eco-friendliness, the materials they use, and the overall impact of their practices on the environment.

Overview of IWC and Citizen

IWC Schaffhausen, a Swiss luxury watch manufacturer, has a long-standing reputation for precision engineering and high-quality timepieces. Established in 1868, IWC focuses on crafting watches that combine both elegance and functionality. In recent years, the brand has increasingly prioritized sustainability, aiming to minimize its ecological footprint while maintaining its luxury appeal.

Citizen, on the other hand, is a Japanese brand known for its affordable yet reliable watches. Founded in 1918, Citizen has built its reputation on innovation and technology, particularly with its Eco-Drive line, which utilizes solar power to reduce reliance on traditional batteries. This commitment to eco-friendliness has become a cornerstone of Citizen's brand identity.

Sustainability Practices

IWC's Commitment to Sustainability

IWC has initiated several programs aimed at reducing its environmental impact. The brand has adopted a comprehensive approach to sustainability, focusing on three main areas:

Materials: IWC is increasingly using sustainable materials in its watch production. This includes responsibly sourced metals and environmentally friendly packaging. They have also begun to explore the use of recycled materials in their watch components.
Manufacturing Processes: The company has invested in energy-efficient manufacturing processes, including the use of renewable energy sources in its production facilities. IWC has also committed to reducing water consumption and waste generation during its manufacturing processes.
Social Responsibility: IWC is involved in various social initiatives, including partnerships with organizations that promote environmental conservation. The brand has supported projects aimed at preserving natural habitats and protecting endangered species.

Citizen's Eco-Drive Technology

Citizen's Eco-Drive technology is one of the most significant contributions to eco-friendliness in the watch industry. This innovative system harnesses light from any source—natural or artificial—and converts it into energy to power the watch. Key aspects of Citizen's sustainability efforts include:

Battery-Free Operation: By eliminating the need for disposable batteries, Citizen reduces electronic waste and contributes to a more sustainable future. Eco-Drive watches can run for months on a single charge, and when fully charged, they can operate for years without additional sunlight.
Recycled Materials: Citizen has also embraced the use of recycled materials in its watch production. The brand has developed watches that incorporate recycled metals and plastics, further reducing its environmental footprint.
Environmental Initiatives: Citizen actively participates in various environmental initiatives, including tree-planting campaigns and ocean conservation projects. Their commitment to sustainability is reflected not only in their products but also in their corporate responsibility efforts.

Comparing Materials

Both IWC and Citizen are making strides in using sustainable materials, but their approaches differ significantly due to their market positioning.

IWC

As a luxury brand, IWC focuses on high-quality materials such as stainless steel, gold, and ceramics. In recent years, the brand has started to incorporate more sustainable sourcing practices, ensuring that the materials used in their watches are ethically sourced. IWC's luxury positioning means that their watches often come with a higher price point, which can limit accessibility for some consumers.

Citizen

Citizen's use of recycled materials is a standout feature of their Eco-Drive line. The brand's focus on affordability means that it can reach a broader audience while still promoting sustainability. Citizen's watches are typically more accessible in terms of price, making eco-friendly options available to a larger demographic.

Environmental Impact: Luxury vs. Affordable Watches

When considering the environmental impact of luxury versus affordable watches, several factors come into play:

Production Volume: Affordable watches like those from Citizen are produced in larger volumes, which can lead to a significant environmental impact. However, their use of sustainable practices and materials helps mitigate this effect.
Longevity: Luxury watches, such as those from IWC, are often designed to last a lifetime, which can reduce waste over time. The durability of these timepieces means that they are less likely to be discarded compared to cheaper alternatives.
Consumer Awareness: As consumers become more aware of sustainability issues, brands are pushed to adopt eco-friendly practices. Both IWC and Citizen are responding to this demand, but their strategies reflect their brand identities and target markets.

Conclusion

In 2025, both IWC and Citizen are making significant strides toward more sustainable watchmaking practices. IWC, with its luxury positioning, is focusing on high-quality materials and responsible sourcing, while Citizen leverages its innovative Eco-Drive technology to promote battery-free watches and the use of recycled materials.

Ultimately, the choice between IWC and Citizen may depend on individual preferences regarding luxury versus affordability, as well as personal values related to sustainability. As consumers continue to prioritize eco-friendliness, both brands are likely to evolve and refine their practices to meet these expectations. Whether you prefer the craftsmanship of IWC or the innovative technology of Citizen, both brands are contributing to a more sustainable future in the watch industry.

Vote: IWC or Citizen