02.07.2025
Setting the time and date correctly
Setting the time and date correctly is essential to ensure that your automatic watch runs reliably - especially after a long period of inactivity. Correct handling is crucial here. Errors in this sensitive process can lead to damage to the movement. The following article explains how to set an automatic watch correctly.
Preparation & operation
The setting is made using the crown - the small wheel on the side of the case. For screw-down crowns, such as those found on dive watches, this must first be carefully unscrewed in the direction of the 6. Depending on the model, the crown has three positions:
- Position 0 (pushed in): The watch runs normally.
- Position 1 (slightly pulled out): Setting the date (only available on watches with a date display).
- Position 2 (fully pulled out): Setting the time.
Always proceed with caution when pulling out the crown so as not to strain the movement. Particularly important: Neither the date nor the time should be adjusted between 8pm in the evening and 4am in the morning. During this period, the movement is often in automatic date change mode - manual intervention could lead to permanent damage.
Setting the date
If the automatic watch has a date window, this should always be set before the time. To do this, pull the crown into position 1. The date can be changed by turning it clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on the movement.
As automatic watches automatically jump to the 1st of the following month after the 31st, months with 28, 29 or 30 days must be adjusted manually.
The date must not be adjusted manually within the above-mentioned time window, as this could damage the switching mechanism. If the date has been inadvertently adjusted during this period, it is recommended that you first turn the clock forward by 12 hours before correcting the date again.
Setting the time
After setting the date, the time can be adjusted. To do this, pull the crown fully into position 2. When turning the hands, you should - if possible - only work in a clockwise direction so as not to put unnecessary strain on the gear train.
Particular attention should be paid to the distinction between morning (AM) and afternoon (PM). If the date continues to turn at midday, the clock is in the wrong 12-hour cycle. In this case, the time must be advanced by 12 hours and then the date corrected so that the date changes correctly again at midnight.
Once all the settings have been adjusted, the crown is gently pushed back into its original position. In the case of screw-down crowns, you should also ensure that the crown is fully screwed back in to maintain water resistance.
Conclusion
Setting the time and date is not a complicated process. With the right technique and the necessary knowledge of how the movement works, the service life of an automatic watch can be significantly extended. Regular wearing or manual winding prevents stoppages - and ensures lasting precision. A correctly adjusted automatic watch from CiRCULA not only impresses with its technology, but also reliably accompanies you through everyday life.