Recycled Steel and Sustainable Watch Cases: How Panatere Is Leading the Revolution

The Sustainability Challenge in Watch Case Manufacturing

While much attention focuses on recycled straps and ocean plastics, the production of watch cases themselves represents a significant environmental consideration. Swiss case manufacturer Panatere is at the forefront of sustainable case production, supplying 100% recycled steel cases to brands like Kari Voutilainen and ID Genève.

Panatere's Sustainable Approach

Based in Switzerland, Panatere has emerged as a key supplier in sustainable watch case manufacturing. The company produces cases from 100% solar-recycled steel for independent watchmakers and has seen demand from major luxury groups.

Liselotte Thuring, Senior Product Manager Sustainability at Panatere, stated: "Brands have to change in terms of being carbon neutral and in brand image as well by propositioning real changes and not just 'greenwashing'. We are speaking with big groups and big brands right now, who will unveil novelties using our production very soon."

Leading Sustainable Watch Projects

The Ethical Sourcing Revolution

Beyond recycled materials, ethical sourcing has become increasingly important. Chopard committed to using 100% Fairmined gold for all watch case production starting in 2018, ensuring that gold mining communities receive fair compensation and operate under safe conditions. This initiative extends to gemstones, where certified "fair trade diamonds" guarantee that supply chains treat workers equitably.

Panerai's eco-friendly manufacture represents another model, with the brand's Submersible eLAB-ID constructed from 98.6% recycled-based materials — including 100% recycled Super-LumiNova. This demonstrates that near-total material recycling is achievable in luxury watch production.

The Role of Independent Watchmakers

Independent brands and case manufacturers are often more agile in adopting sustainable practices than large groups. Panatere's success with Kari Voutilainen and ID Genève shows that smaller operations can pioneer recycled material use, with demand eventually reaching larger brands. The company won the Responsibility and Sustainability Award at the Luxury Innovation Summit in November 2021, recognizing its contribution to sustainable luxury manufacturing.

Future Outlook

The shortage of recycled raw materials — as noted by Panatere — indicates growing industry demand. As more brands commit to recycled content, supply chains will need to scale. This presents both challenges and opportunities for the watch industry's transition to circular manufacturing models.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fairmined gold?

Fairmined gold is certified by the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM) and ensures that artisanal and small-scale mining communities receive fair prices, safe working conditions, and environmental protections. Chopard has committed to using 100% Fairmined gold since 2018.

Is recycled steel as strong as virgin steel?

Yes. Recycled steel maintains identical mechanical properties to virgin steel when properly processed. Panatere's solar-recycled steel meets the same quality standards as conventionally produced steel alloys used in luxury watchmaking.

Which brands use the most recycled materials?

Panerai leads with 98.6% recycled content in the eLAB-ID, followed by Ulysse Nardin at 90% recycled titanium in the Diver [Air]. ID Genève and Kari Voutilainen use 100% recycled steel cases from Panatere.

Source: Monochrome Watches — How Ecologically Sound is our Watch? and Ulysse Nardin DIVER NET (2020-2021)

Also read: Swiss Watch Manufacturing Guide