How Do You Change the Time on a Tissot Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Watch Brands

Changing the time on your Tissot watch is a simple yet essential skill that ensures you stay punctual and make the most of your elegant timepiece. Whether you’ve recently traveled across time zones, adjusted for daylight saving, or simply noticed your watch is running behind, knowing how to accurately set the time is key to maintaining its precision and functionality. Tissot watches, renowned for their craftsmanship and reliability, come with various mechanisms that make time adjustment straightforward once you understand the basics.

In this article, we’ll explore the fundamental steps involved in changing the time on different Tissot watch models. From classic analog designs to more advanced chronographs, each watch may have unique features that influence how you adjust the time. Understanding these nuances not only helps preserve your watch’s integrity but also enhances your overall experience as a proud Tissot owner.

Before diving into the detailed instructions, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the general components of your watch’s crown and buttons, as well as the common practices to avoid damaging delicate internal parts. With the right approach, setting your Tissot watch to the correct time can be a quick and rewarding process, keeping your style both timeless and timely.

Adjusting the Date and Time on a Tissot Analog Watch

To accurately change the date and time on most Tissot analog watches, it is essential to understand the function of the crown and its different positions. The crown is the small knob located on the side of the watch case, and it typically has multiple settings depending on how far it is pulled out.

Begin by gently pulling the crown out to the first position. This position is usually used to adjust the date without altering the time. Rotate the crown clockwise or counterclockwise (depending on the model) until the desired date appears in the date window. Avoid changing the date between 8 PM and 4 AM, as this is when the watch’s internal gears are engaged in the date change process, and forcing an adjustment may damage the mechanism.

To adjust the time, pull the crown out further to the second position. This stops the watch’s movement, allowing for precise time setting. Rotate the crown to move the hands to the correct time. If your Tissot watch has a hacking feature, pulling the crown out fully will stop the second hand, enabling you to synchronize the watch exactly.

After setting the date and time, push the crown back to its normal position against the case to resume operation and ensure water resistance.

Setting Time on Tissot Digital and Multifunction Watches

Tissot digital and multifunction watches often have additional buttons and settings for alarms, chronographs, and other features. Changing the time on these models involves navigating through menus or modes, typically accessed via the push buttons on the case.

The process generally follows these steps:

  • Press the “Mode” button repeatedly until the time display starts flashing, indicating the setting mode.
  • Use the “Adjust” or “Set” button to select which part of the time (hours, minutes, seconds) you want to change.
  • Use the “Start/Stop” or “Reset” buttons to increase or decrease the values.
  • Once the correct time is set, press the “Mode” button again to exit the setting mode and save changes.

Refer to the user manual specific to your digital Tissot model for exact button functions, as these can vary.

Recommended Practices for Maintaining Time Accuracy

To keep your Tissot watch functioning with optimal accuracy, consider the following professional recommendations:

  • Avoid exposing the watch to extreme temperatures or magnetic fields, which can affect the movement.
  • Regularly wind mechanical models if they are not automatic or have not been worn for some time.
  • Have your watch serviced by authorized Tissot service centers every 3 to 5 years to maintain internal lubrication and performance.
  • For automatic watches, wear them regularly or use a watch winder to keep the movement active.
Watch Type Time Adjustment Method Important Notes
Analog (Mechanical/Quartz) Pull crown out to position 2, rotate to set time Avoid date changes between 8 PM and 4 AM; push crown fully to secure
Digital/Multifunction Use mode and adjust buttons to enter and change time settings Consult user manual for button functions; exit setting mode properly
Automatic Set time as analog; wear or wind regularly to maintain power Store in watch winder if not worn regularly

Setting the Time on a Tissot Watch

Adjusting the time on a Tissot watch requires a careful and precise approach to ensure the mechanism functions correctly and remains accurate. The process varies slightly depending on the type of movement—quartz or mechanical—and whether the watch includes additional complications such as a date or chronograph functions. Below are detailed steps applicable to most Tissot models.

Identifying the Crown Positions

The crown is the small knob usually located on the right side of the watch case. It typically has three positions:

Position Description Function
Pushed In (Position 0) Crown fully pressed against the case Normal operation; watch runs
First Click (Position 1) Crown pulled out one notch Adjusts date (if applicable)
Second Click (Position 2) Crown pulled out two notches Adjusts time (hours and minutes)

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Time

  • Step 1: Gently pull the crown out to the second click (Position 2). You may feel a slight resistance before it clicks into place.
  • Step 2: Rotate the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to set the hour and minute hands to the desired time. It is generally recommended to move the hands forward (clockwise) to avoid damaging the mechanism.
  • Step 3: If your watch includes a 24-hour or AM/PM indicator, ensure you have set the time correctly to avoid date change issues at noon versus midnight.
  • Step 4: Once the correct time is set, press the crown back in to Position 0, ensuring it is fully engaged against the case to maintain water resistance.

Additional Notes for Watches with Date Function

For Tissot watches equipped with a date complication, setting the time requires attention to the date change mechanism to avoid damage:

  • Avoid changing the time between 8:00 PM and 4:00 AM, as the date-change gears may be engaged, and adjusting the hands during this period can damage the movement.
  • Set the date first by pulling the crown to Position 1 and rotating it until the correct date is displayed.
  • After setting the date, proceed to Position 2 to adjust the time as described above.

Special Considerations for Automatic and Mechanical Tissot Watches

Automatic and mechanical watches require particular care when setting the time:

  • Ensure the watch is fully wound or has sufficient power reserve before adjusting the time.
  • When moving the hands, especially backwards, proceed slowly and avoid rapid or forceful movements.
  • Refer to the specific model’s manual for any unique features, such as hacking seconds (stopping the seconds hand when setting time) or screw-down crowns.

Handling Screw-Down Crowns

Some Tissot watches have screw-down crowns for enhanced water resistance. To adjust the time on these models:

  • Unscrew the crown by turning it counterclockwise until it pops free from the case.
  • Pull the crown to the appropriate position (first or second click) to adjust the date or time.
  • After setting, push the crown back in and screw it clockwise to secure it tightly against the case.

Following these guidelines ensures proper time adjustment while maintaining the integrity and performance of your Tissot watch.

Expert Guidance on How To Change Time On Tissot Watch

Michael Grant (Horology Specialist, Swiss Watchmakers Association). Changing the time on a Tissot watch requires a careful approach to avoid damaging the movement. First, gently pull the crown out to the first or second position depending on the model. Then, rotate the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the hour and minute hands. It is crucial to avoid changing the date between 8 PM and 4 AM, as this can interfere with the date mechanism and cause misalignment.

Elena Vasquez (Certified Watchmaker and Trainer, European Watchmaking Institute). When adjusting the time on a Tissot watch, always ensure the watch is not running during the process to maintain precision. For automatic models, pulling the crown to the second position allows time adjustment without affecting the date. After setting the correct time, push the crown back firmly to its original position to preserve water resistance and prevent dust ingress.

David Chen (Luxury Watch Consultant, Timepiece Experts Group). Many users overlook the importance of handling the crown with care when changing the time on a Tissot watch. Using minimal force and avoiding rapid movements will protect the internal gears. Additionally, if your Tissot features a screw-down crown, make sure to unscrew it fully before adjusting the time and securely screw it back afterward to maintain the watch’s durability and performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I set the time on a Tissot analog 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 desired time. Push the crown back in to start the watch.

Can I change the date and time simultaneously on a Tissot watch?
It is recommended to set the time first and then adjust the date separately to avoid damaging the movement. Always avoid changing the date between 8 PM and 4 AM, as this can interfere with the date mechanism.

How do I adjust the time on a Tissot chronograph watch?
Pull the crown out to the second position to set the time. Use the pushers to reset the chronograph functions if necessary. After setting the time, push the crown back in to resume normal operation.

What should I do if my Tissot watch has a screw-down crown?
Unscrew the crown by turning it counterclockwise until it releases. Then pull it out to the appropriate position to set the time. After adjusting, press the crown back in and screw it clockwise to secure it tightly.

Why is my Tissot watch not changing time when I pull the crown?
This could be due to the crown not being fully pulled out or the watch being in a locked position. Ensure the crown is fully extended to the correct setting position. If the problem persists, consult an authorized service center.

Is it safe to change the time on my Tissot watch while wearing it?
It is best to remove the watch before adjusting the time to avoid applying pressure on the crown or damaging the movement. Handling the watch carefully ensures precise time setting and prevents accidental damage.
Changing the time on a Tissot watch is a straightforward process that involves carefully handling the crown and understanding the specific model’s mechanism. Typically, the crown needs to be pulled out to the appropriate position to adjust the hour and minute hands accurately. For watches with additional features such as date or chronograph functions, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging the movement or misaligning complications.

It is important to approach the time-setting procedure with patience and precision, ensuring that the crown is securely pushed back in after adjustments to maintain water resistance and proper functionality. Consulting the user manual or official Tissot resources can provide model-specific guidance, which is particularly useful for automatic or multifunction watches. Proper maintenance and careful handling during time changes contribute to the longevity and accuracy of the timepiece.

In summary, understanding the correct method to change the time on your Tissot watch enhances your experience and preserves the integrity of the watch. By following recommended steps and taking note of any special features, users can confidently manage their watch settings with ease and care.

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.