Imagine a rugged, reliable field watch that never needs a battery change, all for under $300. Sounds too good to be true? Think again. Dryden Watch Co. has just shaken up the affordable watch market with a solar-powered update to their beloved Heartlander field watch, and it’s a game-changer. But here’s where it gets controversial: does this solar-powered upgrade truly outshine its automatic predecessor, or is it a step too far for traditionalists? Let’s dive in.
Dryden, a Kansas City-based watchmaker known for its high-quality, sub-$1,000 timepieces, has always punched above its weight. Their limited catalog includes a diver, a chronograph, and the star of today’s story—the Heartlander field watch. Originally launched in 2022 as a 38mm automatic time-only piece, the Heartlander pays homage to the stunning landscapes of Kansas, where founder Jerry Wang grew up. Its Tudor Ranger-inspired dial and President-style steel bracelet quickly gained a following. But this latest update? It’s a bold departure.
Enter the Heartlander Solar: a time-and-date field watch powered by an Epson caliber VS42 solar quartz movement—the same technology used by Orient. This isn’t just a minor tweak; it’s a complete reimagining. The automatic Miyota movement is gone, replaced by a solar-powered engine that promises years of hassle-free use. And the price? It’s been slashed nearly in half, starting at just $279. But is this a step forward or a compromise too far?
Here’s the part most people miss: While the solar movement is undeniably practical, it’s not just about convenience. The Heartlander Solar introduces a fresh dial design, blending the ruler-style seconds track of the original with printed numeral hour markers. The logo now proudly declares “solar,” and the script “Heartlander” has been replaced with a bold, all-caps font. The date window has moved from six to three o’clock, and the entire dial glows with blue Super-LumiNova. It’s a modern twist on a classic design, but will purists embrace it?
The hands have also been completely overhauled. Out are the Ranger-inspired hands, in are beveled syringe hour and minute hands, paired with an arrow-shaped seconds hand. It’s a more traditional field watch look, but with a Dryden twist. The gray dial’s seconds hand is tipped in yellow, while the blue dial’s is red—small details that make a big impact.
And this is where it gets really interesting: Despite the lower price, the Heartlander Solar retains the same high-end specs as its automatic sibling. Think AR-coated sapphire crystal, a brushed steel 38mm case, and 100m water resistance. It’s a sub-$300 watch that feels like it should cost twice as much. But does the solar movement justify the shift away from mechanical purity?
For non-purists, the Epson solar quartz movement is a no-brainer. It’s reliable, low-maintenance, and more affordable to own than a Miyota automatic. But for those who cherish the soul of a mechanical watch, this might feel like a step too far. Is Dryden sacrificing tradition for accessibility? Or are they simply evolving with the times?
The Heartlander Solar launches on November 7 in four dial colors: green, blue, black, and gray. The black dial version, with its PVD-coated case, is a standout at $289. And for those who miss the steel bracelet, fear not—it’ll be available in December, along with a range of straps from Dryden’s catalog.
So, here’s the question: Is the Heartlander Solar a brilliant innovation or a controversial departure from what makes a field watch timeless? Let us know in the comments. One thing’s for sure—Dryden has once again proven that affordable doesn’t mean compromising on quality. But is this the future of field watches, or just a passing trend? You decide.
