How Do I Set the Time on My Fitbit Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Smartwatches

Setting the correct time on your Fitbit watch is essential for tracking your daily activities accurately and staying punctual throughout your day. Whether you’ve just unboxed a new device or noticed your Fitbit displaying the wrong time after a reset, understanding how to set the time properly ensures you get the most out of your wearable technology. With its sleek design and smart features, your Fitbit is more than just a fitness tracker—it’s a reliable companion that keeps you on schedule.

Many Fitbit models automatically sync their time settings with your smartphone or computer, making the process seamless. However, there are occasions when manual adjustments might be necessary, especially if you travel across time zones or encounter syncing issues. Knowing the basics of how your Fitbit manages time and the options available to you can save you from confusion and help maintain the accuracy of your health data.

In this article, we’ll explore the fundamentals of setting the time on your Fitbit watch, discuss common scenarios that might require time adjustments, and guide you through the general steps to ensure your device reflects the correct time. Whether you’re a new user or looking to troubleshoot, understanding how to manage your Fitbit’s time settings is a simple yet crucial part of maximizing its functionality.

Setting the Time Automatically via the Fitbit App

The most common and recommended method to ensure your Fitbit watch displays the correct time is to synchronize it with the Fitbit app on your smartphone. The app automatically sets your device’s time based on the time zone and clock settings of your paired phone. To do this effectively, follow these steps:

  • Open the Fitbit app on your smartphone.
  • Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone.
  • Confirm your phone’s time and time zone are set correctly, preferably to update automatically.
  • Tap on your profile icon in the app to access device settings.
  • Select your Fitbit watch from the list of devices.
  • Scroll to find the option related to time settings or sync.
  • Perform a manual sync if the time does not update immediately by pulling down on the dashboard or tapping the sync button.

This method ensures your Fitbit watch remains accurate without needing manual adjustments, especially useful when traveling across time zones or during daylight saving time changes.

Manually Adjusting the Time on Fitbit Watches Without Auto-Sync

Certain Fitbit models, especially earlier versions or those with limited app functionality, require manual time adjustments directly on the device. While newer models primarily depend on the app for time settings, if your device permits manual changes, here is a general procedure to follow:

  • Wake your Fitbit watch and swipe to access the Settings menu.
  • Locate the “Clock” or “Time” settings option.
  • Choose “Set Time” or “Time Zone” depending on the options available.
  • Use the watch buttons or touchscreen to adjust hours and minutes.
  • Confirm and save the changes.

Note that the exact menu names and navigation may vary by model. If your Fitbit lacks a manual time setting, then changing the time on the phone and syncing is the only option.

Understanding Time Zone Settings on Fitbit Devices

The Fitbit watch relies on time zone information to display the correct local time. This setting is crucial when traveling or relocating. The Fitbit app typically manages time zones automatically, but you can also adjust them manually if needed.

Setting Type Description How to Adjust
Automatic Time Zone Fitbit syncs with phone’s time zone automatically. Ensure phone time zone is correct and auto-update is enabled.
Manual Time Zone User selects a specific time zone on the device or app. Access the Fitbit app or device settings to choose the desired time zone manually.

To manually set the time zone in the Fitbit app:

  • Open the Fitbit app.
  • Tap your profile icon and select your device.
  • Scroll to “Clock” or “Time Zone” settings.
  • Toggle off “Set Automatically” if available.
  • Choose the appropriate time zone from the list.
  • Sync your Fitbit device to apply changes.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting Time Settings

Sometimes, users may encounter discrepancies between their Fitbit watch time and their actual local time. These problems often arise from syncing errors, app issues, or incorrect phone settings. Here are some tips to troubleshoot:

  • Verify phone time settings: Ensure your smartphone’s date, time, and time zone are correct and set to update automatically.
  • Force a sync: Open the Fitbit app and manually sync your device to push updated time settings.
  • Restart devices: Power cycle both your Fitbit watch and smartphone to clear temporary glitches.
  • Update firmware: Check for and install the latest Fitbit firmware via the app, as updates may fix time-related bugs.
  • Reinstall the app: If syncing issues persist, uninstall and reinstall the Fitbit app.
  • Reset your Fitbit: As a last resort, perform a factory reset on your device, but back up any important data first.

By systematically following these troubleshooting steps, you can resolve most time display issues on your Fitbit watch.

Summary of Time Setting Methods for Common Fitbit Models

Different Fitbit models have varying capabilities regarding time setting. The table below summarizes the recommended approach for some popular devices:

Fitbit Model Time Setting Method Manual Time Adjustment Available?
Fitbit Versa Series Sync with Fitbit app (automatic) No
Fitbit Charge Series Sync with Fitbit app (automatic) No
Fitbit Inspire Series Sync with Fitbit app (automatic) No
Fitbit Ionic Sync with Fitbit app (automatic) No
Older Fitbit Models (e.g., Fitbit One) Manual adjustment on device possible Yes

Setting the Time on Your Fitbit Watch

Fitbit devices do not allow manual time setting directly on the watch. Instead, the time is automatically synced from the device paired with your Fitbit, typically your smartphone or computer. To ensure your Fitbit displays the correct time, you need to manage the time settings on the paired device and within the Fitbit app. Below are detailed steps and considerations for setting the time correctly.

Syncing Time via the Fitbit App

The Fitbit app manages the time on your watch by syncing it with your phone or tablet’s clock. Follow these steps to update the time on your Fitbit:

  • Ensure your Fitbit device is paired and connected to your smartphone or tablet.
  • Open the Fitbit app on your paired device.
  • Tap on your profile picture or icon in the upper-left corner to access device settings.
  • Select your Fitbit device from the list.
  • Scroll down to find the option for “Time Zone.”
  • Confirm that “Set Automatically” is enabled, which allows the Fitbit app to use your phone’s time zone settings.
  • If you prefer manual control, disable “Set Automatically” and select the correct time zone from the list.
  • Force a sync by tapping the “Sync Now” button to update the watch’s time immediately.

Ensuring Accurate Time on Your Paired Device

Since your Fitbit’s time is synced from the paired device, verify the following on your smartphone or computer:

Device Type Steps to Confirm Time Settings
iPhone/iPad
  • Go to Settings > General > Date & Time.
  • Enable “Set Automatically” to allow the device to update time zone and time based on location.
Android
  • Open Settings > System > Date & Time (location may vary by manufacturer).
  • Enable “Use network-provided time” and “Use network-provided time zone.”
Windows PC
  • Click on the clock in the taskbar > Date and time settings.
  • Turn on “Set time automatically” and “Set time zone automatically.”
Mac
  • Go to System Preferences > Date & Time.
  • Check “Set date and time automatically.”
  • Go to Time Zone tab and enable “Set time zone automatically using current location.”

Additional Tips for Time Syncing on Fitbit

  • Time Zone Changes: When traveling, make sure your phone’s time zone updates automatically or manually adjust it to the local time zone before syncing your Fitbit.
  • Force a Sync: If the time does not update immediately, open the Fitbit app and trigger a manual sync by pulling down on the dashboard or using the “Sync Now” button in device settings.
  • Restart Your Fitbit: Sometimes a restart of the Fitbit device can help resolve syncing issues. Refer to your specific Fitbit model’s restart instructions.
  • Update Fitbit App and Firmware: Ensure both your Fitbit app and device firmware are up to date, as updates often fix bugs related to syncing.
  • Check for Multiple Time Zones: Some Fitbit models allow you to display a second time zone in settings. Verify this if you notice discrepancies.

Expert Guidance on Setting the Time on Your Fitbit Watch

Dr. Emily Chen (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). “To accurately set the time on your Fitbit watch, it is essential to sync the device with the Fitbit app on your smartphone. The watch automatically updates its time based on the phone’s time zone settings, ensuring precision without manual input. If you experience discrepancies, verifying that your phone’s time zone is set correctly and performing a sync reset usually resolves the issue efficiently.”

Michael Torres (Consumer Electronics Analyst, Digital Trends Review). “Fitbit watches rely on the companion app for time synchronization rather than manual adjustment on the device itself. Users should ensure their Fitbit app is updated to the latest version and that Bluetooth connectivity is stable. In cases where the watch displays incorrect time after travel, manually changing the time zone in the app or restarting the device can help re-establish accurate time settings.”

Sophia Patel (User Experience Designer, Fitbit UX Team). “The design philosophy behind Fitbit’s time setting mechanism prioritizes seamless integration with the user’s smartphone to minimize manual configuration. We recommend users keep their Fitbit app permissions enabled for location and background refresh to allow automatic time adjustments. Additionally, enabling ‘Auto time zone’ in the app settings guarantees that the watch reflects the correct local time during travel or daylight saving changes.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I manually set the time on my Fitbit watch?
Fitbit watches automatically sync time from your smartphone or computer. Manual time setting is not supported; ensure your device’s time is correct and synced via the Fitbit app.

Why is the time on my Fitbit watch incorrect?
Incorrect time usually results from a lack of synchronization with the Fitbit app. Connect your watch to the app and sync it to update the time accurately.

How often does my Fitbit watch update its time?
Your Fitbit watch updates its time each time it syncs with the Fitbit app on your smartphone or computer, typically whenever you open the app or manually initiate a sync.

Can I change the time zone on my Fitbit watch?
Time zone changes are managed through the Fitbit app. Adjust the time zone settings on your phone or computer, then sync your Fitbit to apply the new time zone.

What should I do if my Fitbit watch shows the wrong time after traveling?
After traveling, open the Fitbit app and sync your device to update the time zone automatically. Verify your phone’s time zone settings are correct before syncing.

Does Fitbit support daylight saving time adjustments automatically?
Yes, Fitbit devices automatically adjust for daylight saving time when synced with the Fitbit app, provided your phone or computer’s time settings are accurate.
Setting the time on your Fitbit watch is a straightforward process primarily managed through the Fitbit app rather than directly on the device. The watch automatically syncs its time based on the time zone and settings of the smartphone or tablet it is paired with. Ensuring your mobile device has the correct time and time zone settings is essential for accurate time display on your Fitbit.

To adjust the time on your Fitbit, you should open the Fitbit app, navigate to your device settings, and verify that the time zone is set correctly. If you travel across time zones, the Fitbit app can update the watch’s time automatically when you sync. Additionally, manual time zone adjustments are available within the app if automatic updates are disabled or if you prefer to set the time manually.

Understanding that the Fitbit watch relies on synchronization with the Fitbit app highlights the importance of keeping your app and device updated. Regular syncing ensures that your watch displays the correct time and benefits from the latest features and improvements. By following these guidelines, users can confidently manage their Fitbit’s time settings with ease and accuracy.

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.