Garmin has released the new Instinct 2X Solar, a rugged smartwatch that never needs to be externally charged.

Garmin said the 2X produces 50 per cent more energy through its solar charging array than the previous generation’s Instinct 2. As long as you keep it in the sunlight for long ago, it need never be plugged into a physical charger.

The 50mm polymer case has a scratch-resistance face, and MIL-STD-810-standard water resistance, shock resistance, and thermal protection. It can survive in a depth of 100 metres.

It has multi-band GNSS support for GPS accuracy, a powerful LED flashlight, a barometric altimeter sensor, and a 3-axis compass that will work even when the face isn’t held horizontally.

Health-wise, it offers sleep tracking, respiration, and blood oxygen monitoring, and will track your swimming, running, and cycling.

There are two models:  the Instinct 2X Solar and the Instinct 2X Solar Tactical Edition, with the standard model costs $670 and the Tactical Edition is $749.