Skagen’s new watches are inspired by a Danish island

colourful Skagen Samsø Series watch against a blue sky

(Image credit: Skagen)

published 13 July 2023

Sustainable watch design is given a Danish twist by Skagen, which looks to self-sufficient Samsø Island for inspiration for its latest watch.

The Samsø Series watches nod to Samsø Island’s rethink of its energy system, with its move from fossil fuels to renewable energy making it the world’s first renewable energy island. Skagen has reflected this commitment in the design of its watches, crafted from upcycled, ocean-bound plastic waste.

‘After learning about Samsø Island’s transformation, and how it resonated with Skagen's journey of increasing the mindfulness of our material usage in product development, we felt compelled to create a watch collection with impact in mind,’ says Ian Miller, Skagen global director of concept and design. ‘The new Samsø Series allows us to showcase all the different materials and processes we can implement in a single style. As our knowledge and material library grows, we’ll continue evolving collections with responsibility in mind.’

A solar-powered movement and fully recycled woven watch straps stay faithful to this ethos, encapsulated in four summery hues. ‘When working with materials that explore Earth-conscious components, many considerations, testing, thoughtfulness, and intention, are factored into the process,’ adds Miller. ‘Does it meet our high standards of durability? Will the colours endure? Will it weather exposure to the elements? Is the look timeless? Everything is factored in. With Samsø, we believe we’ve achieved all of the above.’

The solar movement, visible on the dial, has a useful power reserve of six months, once fully charged. ‘When taking in the landscape of Samsø Island, you can’t help but be moved by the momentum and efficiency of its approach to sustainability. The energy for all things good is powerful. Wind turbines and solar panels supply enough electricity to support the island’s residents. Knowing that, it was only natural that Samsø would be powered with solar technology.’

skagen.com

Hannah Silver is the Art, Culture, Watches & Jewellery Editor of Wallpaper*. Since joining in 2019, she has overseen offbeat art trends and conducted in-depth profiles, as well as writing and commissioning extensively across the worlds of culture and luxury. She enjoys travelling, visiting artists' studios and viewing exhibitions around the world, and has interviewed artists and designers including Maggi Hambling, William Kentridge, Jonathan Anderson, Chantal Joffe, Lubaina Himid, Tilda Swinton and Mickalene Thomas.