Setting a standard "clockwise" watch primarily involves adjusting the watch's hands to the correct time using the crown. The process is straightforward, but the direction you turn the crown to move the time forwards or backwards can sometimes vary depending on the watch model.
Steps to Set Your Watch Time
Here are the general steps to set the time on most watches:
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Locate the Crown: The crown is the small knob on the side of the watch case, usually on the right side (3 o'clock position).
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Pull Out the Crown: Gently pull the crown outwards. Most watches have multiple crown positions; you typically need to pull it out to the furthest position to set the time. For many watches, this is the second click or position from the pushed-in state. Pulling the crown often stops the second hand, allowing for precise time setting.
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Turn the Crown: Rotate the crown in either direction to move the watch hands forwards or backwards until they show the desired time.
- As noted in references regarding setting automatic watches, turning the crown anti-clockwise (towards yourself) may turn the time backwards on some watch models.
- However, on other watches, such as certain Citizen models, turning the crown anti-clockwise can turn the time forwards.
- Conversely, turning the crown clockwise will typically have the opposite effect to anti-clockwise turning on that specific watch.
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Push the Crown Back In: Once the hands are set to the correct time (ideally syncing with an accurate time source like an atomic clock or phone), push the crown fully back into its original position against the watch case. This re-engages the movement and starts the watch running again (if the second hand stopped).
Understanding Crown Direction
The specific mechanism determining whether turning the crown clockwise or anti-clockwise moves the time forwards or backwards varies between watch movements. While many watches follow a common convention, it's important to observe the effect as you turn the crown on your particular watch. If you're unsure, gently turn the crown in one direction after pulling it out to the time-setting position and note whether the hands move forwards or backwards.
Always ensure the crown is pushed fully back in after setting to maintain the watch's water resistance and prevent dust or moisture from entering the case.
