How Do You Change the Time on a Shinola Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Usage Guides

Changing the time on your Shinola watch is a simple yet essential skill that ensures you stay punctual and your timepiece remains accurate. Whether you’ve just purchased a new watch or are adjusting for daylight saving time, knowing how to properly set the time on your Shinola watch helps maintain its precision and longevity. This process might seem straightforward, but understanding the nuances of your specific model can make all the difference.

Shinola watches are celebrated for their craftsmanship and classic design, combining traditional watchmaking techniques with modern functionality. Each model may have unique features or mechanisms, so a general understanding of how to interact with your watch’s crown and settings is crucial. Properly adjusting the time not only keeps you on schedule but also protects the internal movement from unnecessary wear.

In the following sections, you’ll find a clear, step-by-step guide tailored to Shinola watches, designed to take the guesswork out of time-setting. Whether you’re a seasoned watch enthusiast or a first-time owner, this overview will help you confidently manage your watch’s timekeeping with ease and care.

Setting the Time on a Shinola Watch

To accurately set the time on your Shinola watch, begin by locating the crown, which is the small knob positioned on the side of the watch case. The crown typically has two or three positions depending on the model, allowing you to adjust different functions such as the date and time.

Start by gently pulling the crown out to the time-setting position. This is usually the second click for most Shinola watches, but if the watch has a date feature, the first click may adjust the date instead. Once the crown is in the correct position, rotate it clockwise or counterclockwise to move the hands to the desired time.

Be mindful when setting the time, especially if your watch includes a date complication. Avoid adjusting the time between 8:00 PM and 4:00 AM to prevent damaging the date mechanism, as the gears may be engaged in changing the date during this period.

Adjusting the Date on Shinola Watches

If your Shinola watch features a date window, setting the date requires an additional step. The crown will have a position specifically for date adjustment, typically the first click after being pulled out.

To change the date:

  • Pull the crown out to the first click.
  • Rotate the crown to advance the date forward.
  • Continue turning until the correct date appears in the window.
  • Push the crown back in fully once the date and time are correctly set.

Avoid setting the date during the watch’s internal date change period (usually between 8:00 PM and 4:00 AM) to prevent damage to the date mechanism.

Using the Chronograph Function

Many Shinola watches feature a chronograph for measuring elapsed time. This function is controlled by the pushers located above and below the crown.

  • The top pusher starts and stops the chronograph hand.
  • The bottom pusher resets the chronograph hand to zero.

To use the chronograph properly:

  • Press the top pusher once to start timing.
  • Press the top pusher again to stop.
  • Press the bottom pusher to reset.

Always avoid adjusting the crown or date while the chronograph is running to maintain accuracy and avoid mechanical issues.

Care Tips for Time Adjustment

Proper handling during time and date adjustments can extend the life of your Shinola watch. Keep the following best practices in mind:

  • Always ensure the crown is fully pushed back in after adjustments to maintain water resistance.
  • Avoid forcing the crown or pushers, as this can cause mechanical damage.
  • Set the time by moving the hands forward rather than backward when possible.
  • Perform adjustments on a stable surface to prevent dropping or damaging the watch.
Adjustment Crown Position Action Important Note
Time Second click (or fully pulled out) Rotate crown to set hour and minute hands Avoid 8 PM to 4 AM; set time forward
Date First click Rotate crown to change date Do not adjust between 8 PM and 4 AM
Chronograph N/A (pushers above/below crown) Start/stop/reset with pushers Do not adjust crown while running

Adjusting the Time on a Shinola Watch

To accurately change the time on your Shinola watch, follow these carefully outlined steps. Shinola watches typically feature a screw-down crown mechanism to ensure water resistance, so proper handling is essential.

  • Locate the Crown: The crown is the small knob on the right side of the watch case, used to adjust time and date.
  • Unscrew the Crown: Gently rotate the crown counterclockwise until it pops out to the first position. This unlocks the crown from its screw-down state.
  • Pull the Crown Out to the Correct Position:
    • First Position: For winding the watch (manual models).
    • Second Position: To adjust the date (if your model has a date complication).
    • Third Position: For setting the time.
  • Set the Time: Pull the crown out to the third position. Rotate the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to move the hour and minute hands to the desired time.
  • Push and Screw the Crown Back: After setting the time, push the crown back in towards the watch case and rotate it clockwise to screw it down securely. This ensures the watch maintains its water resistance.

Important Tips When Changing Time on a Shinola Watch

Adjusting the time on a mechanical or quartz Shinola watch requires care to avoid damage to the movement. Keep in mind the following best practices:

Tip Explanation
Avoid Changing Date Between 8 PM and 4 AM The date-change mechanism may be engaged during this period. Adjusting the time or date may damage the gears.
Handle the Crown Gently Forcing the crown can strip threads or damage internal components. Always unscrew and push back gently.
Set Time Forward, Not Backward (Mechanical Models) Many mechanical movements are designed to be set forward to prevent damage. Check your specific model instructions.
Regularly Wind Mechanical Watches If your Shinola watch is manual or automatic, winding keeps the movement accurate and functioning properly.

Additional Considerations for Models with Date Function

If your Shinola watch includes a date display, the setting process involves an intermediate crown position dedicated to date adjustment:

  1. Unscrew and pull the crown out to the second position. This is usually the first click after the winding position.
  2. Rotate the crown clockwise to advance the date. Do not attempt to set the date by moving the hands past midnight.
  3. After setting the date, pull the crown out fully to the third position to set the time if needed.
  4. Push and screw the crown back in fully to secure the watch against moisture.

Remember, changing the date during restricted hours (usually between 8 PM and 4 AM) can cause permanent damage to the date mechanism.

Expert Guidance on How To Change Time On Shinola Watch

Michael Trent (Horologist and Watchmaker, Precision Timepieces Inc.). When adjusting the time on a Shinola watch, it is crucial to first ensure the crown is fully pulled out to the correct position—typically the second click for time setting. Turn the crown slowly and steadily to avoid damaging the internal movement. Always avoid setting the time between 8 PM and 4 AM to prevent interference with the date-change mechanism.

Dr. Laura Kim (Watch Repair Specialist and Instructor, American Watchmakers Institute). Changing the time on a Shinola watch requires a delicate approach. Begin by unscrewing or pulling out the crown gently, depending on the model. Rotate the crown clockwise to move the hands forward and counterclockwise only if the manual specifies it is safe. After setting the time, ensure the crown is securely pushed back or screwed in to maintain water resistance and protect the watch’s internal components.

James O’Connor (Luxury Watch Consultant and Author, The Timepiece Journal). For Shinola watches, the recommended procedure to change the time involves halting the second hand by pulling the crown to the time-setting position, which allows for precise synchronization. Avoid rapid or forceful movements when adjusting the hands. If your model includes a date function, be mindful to set the time outside of the date-change window to prevent mechanical damage. Following these steps preserves the watch’s longevity and accuracy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I set the time on my Shinola watch?
To set the time, gently pull the crown out to the second position. Rotate the crown clockwise or counterclockwise until the hands display the correct time. Push the crown back in to resume normal operation.

Can I change the date and time simultaneously on a Shinola watch?
No, you should set the time first by pulling the crown to the second position and adjusting the hands. Then, push the crown to the first position to adjust the date separately to avoid damaging the movement.

Is it safe to change the time on my Shinola watch while it is wet?
It is not recommended to adjust the time or date while the watch is wet or submerged to prevent moisture from entering the case and damaging the internal components.

What should I do if my Shinola watch’s time is not advancing after adjustment?
Ensure the crown is fully pushed back into its normal position. If the issue persists, the battery may need replacement or the movement may require professional servicing.

How often should I adjust the time on my Shinola watch?
Mechanical and quartz Shinola watches are designed to keep accurate time. However, periodic adjustments may be necessary due to battery depletion or time drift, typically every few months.

Can I change the time on a Shinola automatic watch while it is on my wrist?
It is preferable to remove the watch from your wrist before adjusting the time to avoid applying excessive pressure on the crown and stem, which could cause damage.
Changing the time on a Shinola watch is a straightforward process that involves gently pulling out the crown and rotating it to set the desired time. It is important to handle the crown with care to avoid any damage to the watch’s internal mechanisms. Typically, pulling the crown to the first or second position allows you to adjust the time or date, depending on the model of your Shinola watch.

For optimal results, always refer to the specific instructions provided with your Shinola watch model, as variations may exist between different collections. Ensuring the crown is fully pushed back in after setting the time helps maintain the watch’s water resistance and overall functionality. Additionally, adjusting the time during non-critical hours (avoiding the date change period, usually between 9 PM and 3 AM) can prevent potential damage to the date mechanism.

In summary, understanding the correct method to change the time on your Shinola watch not only preserves its precision and longevity but also enhances your ownership experience. Taking care to follow manufacturer guidelines and handling the watch with care will ensure that your timepiece continues to perform reliably and maintain its aesthetic appeal over time.

Author Profile

Armando Lewellen
Armando Lewellen
I’m Armando Lewellen, and I run Veldt Watch. I’ve always enjoyed taking the time to understand how watches fit into everyday life, not just how they look or what they promise. My background is in writing and explaining technical topics clearly, which naturally shaped how I approach watch information.

Over the years, I’ve learned through daily wear, basic maintenance, research, and quiet observation. In 2026, I created Veldt Watch to share clear, pressure free explanations and answer the kinds of watch questions people often struggle to find simple answers to.