Earth Day April 2021: Mondaine Essence Sustainable Watch Collection

This Earth Day we take a look at the Mondaine Essence collection. This Swiss watch company is committed to reducing their ecological footprint and is one of the first entirely carbon-neutral watch companies is the world.

What is Earth Day?

Since the first Earth Day in 1970, this day continues to be momentous and unifying each and every year. Many important environmental events have happened on Earth Day over the years including the recent signing of the Paris Agreement. This year is no exception with a crucial global climate summit convened by the Biden Administration taking place today.

As the world turns to climate action, the watch industry is looking more closely at the ways in which sustainability can be increased. Whether using renewable energy to power production or utilising sustainable materials for their watches, packaging and display material, steps are being made. However, there is a long way to go.

Mondaine

Swiss watch company Mondaine is leading the way in terms of sustainability.

The Swiss brand has been committed to sustainability for more than 30 years. Also, they are one of the first entirely carbon-neutral watch companies in the world. Furthermore, carbon neutrality extends to all areas of its business. This includes the factory, watch components, packaging, waste, power, water and business travel. Moreover, a huge photovoltaic system on the factory roof, use of hydroelectricity at its headquarters, a reduction in the volume and weight of packaging and the use of eco-friendlier materials in its packaging, casings and straps have all had a positive impact on the company’s carbon footprint.

Essence

In 2017 Mondaine launched what is probably the world’s most sustainable watch collection: ESSENCE.

Firstly, the case is made from 70% natural raw materials, namely from the oil of the wondertree plant and glass powder. Secondly, no straps in the ESSENCE collection are made from leather. Instead, they are made from wondertree oil or recycled PET bottles. Also, the underside of the strap is lined with natural cork. Even the packaging of the essence models consists of more than 96% recycled PET bottles. Additionally, the packaging is designed to be repurposed as a case for a mobile phone or eyewear.

The ESSENCE collection retains the iconic Swiss Railways dial with a fresh new twist. Let’s take a look at some of the key models in the collection.

Essence Black

Elegant in monochrome, Essence Black is available in 32mm and 41mm case sizes and with a choice of black or white dials. Additionally, the black strap is made from natural rubber which feels comfortable on the wrist. Fitted with quick release spring bars, it is easy to change the strap for an alternative look. Also, Essence Black is suitable for vegans. Priced at £175.

Essence White

With a white case made from oil from the wonder tree, Essence White has a crisp, fresh look. Also available in 32mm or 41mm case sizes, we love the unisex 41mm version MS1.41110.LP. With its red woven strap textile strap made from recycled materials and natural cork lining it is a eye-catching piece with a gentle charm. Priced at £169.

New to the Essence White collection are six models inspired by natural dyes. Perfect for summer, there is a choice of 3 straps: pink, sand or ivory. Also, there is the same choice of two case sizes. Take a look at the pink strap version MS1.41111.LP in 41mm and the ivory strap in 32mm MS1.32111.LT. Both are priced at £189.

Essence Grey

Finally, Essence Grey is a real keeper. Toning with everything, it would be my choice. Whether 41mm or 32mm, choose between a white or grey dial with either dark or light grey strap. The perfect union of elegance and sustainability. All are priced at £189.

Take a look at our Women’s Sustainable Watches and Men’s Sustainable Watches this Earth Day. It is telling that Mondaine is currently the only watch brand featured. Let’s hope that by Earth Day 2022 we will be able to offer more sustainable watches from other watch brands.

About Watch Specialists

All the Mondaine Essence watches in this article are available to buy from an Independent UK Retailer through watchspecialists.com.  With watches from £100-£5,000 we have a beautiful watch for every budget. All watches on our site are supplied by our network of Inspiring Independent Retailers who are all Authorised Retailers of the brands they sell. All watches come with a full warranty and upon request can be sized and gift wrapped free of charge. Shop with confidence and support the great British High Street.