How Do You Adjust the Time on a Shinola Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Usage Guides

Adjusting the time on a Shinola watch is an essential skill for any owner who wants to keep their timepiece accurate and reliable. Known for their craftsmanship and timeless design, Shinola watches combine classic aesthetics with modern functionality. Whether you’ve recently purchased your watch or are simply resetting it after a battery change or daylight saving time adjustment, knowing how to properly set the time ensures your watch remains a precise and stylish accessory.

Understanding the basics of time adjustment on a Shinola watch can seem straightforward, but the process often involves subtle nuances unique to the brand’s design and movement. Each model may have specific features or mechanisms that require careful handling to avoid damaging the watch or compromising its performance. Taking the time to learn the correct procedure not only preserves the watch’s integrity but also enhances your overall experience as a proud Shinola owner.

In the following sections, we will explore the key steps and tips for adjusting the time on your Shinola watch with confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned watch enthusiast or a first-time user, this guide will provide you with the knowledge needed to maintain your watch’s precision and enjoy its craftsmanship for years to come.

Setting the Time on Your Shinola Watch

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

First, gently pull the crown out to the second position. This is usually the furthest it can be pulled out and is the setting mode for adjusting the hour and minute hands. Turn the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to move the hands to the desired time. Be mindful of the AM/PM cycle if your watch features a date function, as changing the time past midnight will also advance the date.

Once you have set the correct time, carefully push the crown back into its original position against the watch case. This action secures the setting and resumes the watch’s timekeeping functions.

Adjusting the Date on Shinola Watches with Date Function

For Shinola watches equipped with a date complication, the crown typically has a middle position specifically for adjusting the date without affecting the time.

  • Pull the crown out to the first position (one click out from the fully pushed-in position).
  • Rotate the crown slowly to change the date. Usually, turning the crown clockwise will advance the date forward.
  • Avoid changing the date between 8 PM and 3 AM, as this is when the watch’s internal mechanism is engaged in the date change process and forcing adjustments can damage the movement.

After setting the date, press the crown back in fully to ensure the watch is sealed and water-resistant.

Table of Crown Positions and Functions

Crown Position Function Action
Pushed In (Position 0) Normal operation Watch runs normally; crown secured against case
First Click (Position 1) Date adjustment (if available) Rotate crown to change date; avoid 8 PM – 3 AM
Second Click (Position 2) Time adjustment Rotate crown to set hour and minute hands

Additional Tips for Maintaining Accurate Time

To ensure your Shinola watch keeps accurate time after adjustment, consider the following:

  • Always make adjustments on a flat, stable surface to avoid accidental damage.
  • Avoid forcing the crown if it feels stuck or resistant; this could indicate internal issues requiring professional servicing.
  • If your model is mechanical or automatic, consider winding the watch fully before setting the time for optimal power reserve.
  • Regular servicing by an authorized Shinola service center will maintain the watch’s precision and longevity.

By carefully following these steps, you can confidently adjust your Shinola watch’s time and date settings while preserving its mechanical integrity.

Adjusting the Time on Your Shinola Watch

To set the time accurately on your Shinola watch, follow these precise steps designed to protect the watch’s movement and ensure proper timekeeping:

Most Shinola watches feature a screw-down crown or a standard push-pull crown. Understanding your specific model is crucial before proceeding.

  • Locate the Crown: Typically positioned at the 3 o’clock mark on the watch case.
  • Unscrew the Crown (if applicable): For screw-down crowns, gently rotate counterclockwise until it releases and pops out to the first position.
  • Pull the Crown Out: Carefully pull the crown to the second position. The first position is usually for date adjustment (if your model has a date function); the second position is for time setting.

Once in the correct crown position, adjust the time as follows:

  • Turn the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to move the hour and minute hands to the desired time.
  • Avoid setting the time between 9 PM and 3 AM if your watch has a date complication, as this could damage the mechanism.
  • Ensure AM/PM is correctly set by rotating the hands past 12 o’clock to verify the date changes at midnight, not noon.

After setting the time:

  • Push the crown back in firmly to its original position.
  • If your watch has a screw-down crown, rotate it clockwise while pressing it inward to secure the seal, maintaining water resistance.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Accurate Time

To keep your Shinola watch running smoothly and accurately, consider the following maintenance tips:

Tip Explanation
Regular Winding For mechanical models, wind your watch daily at the same time to maintain consistent power.
Avoid Magnetic Fields Keep your watch away from strong magnets to prevent timekeeping inaccuracies.
Service Intervals Have your watch professionally serviced every 3-5 years to ensure precision and longevity.
Proper Storage Store your watch in a cool, dry place when not in use to protect its components.

Expert Guidance on Adjusting Time on a Shinola Watch

Michael Trent (Horologist and Watchmaker, Precision Timepieces Inc.) advises that when adjusting the time on a Shinola watch, it is crucial to first gently pull the crown out to the second position to avoid damaging the movement. Turning the crown clockwise will advance the hands, and it is best to avoid setting the time between 9 PM and 3 AM to prevent interference with the date mechanism.

Laura Kim (Senior Product Specialist, Shinola Customer Care) emphasizes that users should handle the crown with care and ensure it is fully pushed back in after setting the time to maintain water resistance. She also recommends setting the time by moving the hands forward rather than backward to preserve the integrity of the watch’s internal gears.

David Morales (Certified Watch Technician, American Watchmakers Guild) highlights that for Shinola’s quartz models, adjusting the time is straightforward but requires precision. He suggests removing the watch from the wrist during adjustment to prevent accidental pressure on the crown and to achieve a more accurate time setting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I set the time on my Shinola watch?
Pull the crown out to the second position until it clicks. Rotate the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the hour and minute hands to the correct time. Push the crown back in to start the watch.

Can I adjust the date on my Shinola watch using the same crown?
Yes. Pull the crown to the first position and turn it clockwise to change the date. Avoid adjusting the date between 8 PM and 4 AM to prevent damage to the movement.

Is it necessary to unscrew the crown before adjusting the time?
If your Shinola watch has a screw-down crown, you must unscrew it counterclockwise before pulling it out to adjust the time. After setting, screw it back in to maintain water resistance.

How do I know when the crown is in the correct position for time adjustment?
The crown has multiple positions. The first click is usually for date adjustment, and the second click is for time setting. You will feel a distinct click when the crown reaches the time-setting position.

Can I adjust the time while the watch is running?
Yes. You can adjust the time while the watch is running, but it is recommended to stop the watch by pulling the crown out fully to prevent mechanical stress during adjustment.

What should I do if my Shinola watch does not respond when adjusting the time?
Ensure the crown is fully pulled out to the correct position. If the watch still does not respond, the movement may require servicing by an authorized Shinola technician.
Adjusting the time on a Shinola watch is a straightforward process that involves carefully manipulating the crown to set the correct hour and minute. Typically, you begin by gently pulling the crown out to the first or second position, depending on the model, which allows you to adjust the time without affecting other functions. It is important to turn the crown slowly and in the correct direction to avoid damaging the watch’s internal mechanism.

Understanding the specific features of your Shinola watch model, such as whether it has a date function or additional complications, is essential for proper time adjustment. Some models may require you to pull the crown to different positions to set the date or time separately. Always refer to the user manual for model-specific instructions to ensure accurate and safe adjustments.

In summary, careful handling and familiarity with your Shinola watch’s crown positions are key to successfully adjusting the time. Taking the time to follow the recommended steps will help maintain the watch’s precision and longevity. If any uncertainty arises during the process, consulting the official Shinola support or a professional watch technician is advisable to prevent inadvertent damage.

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.