How Do You Change the Time on a Garmin Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Smartwatches

Changing the time on a Garmin watch might seem straightforward, but with the variety of models and features available, it can sometimes be a bit confusing. Whether you’ve just traveled across time zones, switched daylight saving settings, or simply want to adjust your watch’s display, knowing how to update the time correctly ensures your Garmin device stays accurate and reliable. Understanding the process not only helps you keep track of time but also enhances your overall experience with your watch’s advanced functionalities.

Garmin watches are designed to sync seamlessly with GPS signals and smartphones, often updating the time automatically. However, there are occasions when manual adjustments are necessary, such as when automatic syncing is disabled or unavailable. Learning the general approach to changing the time on your Garmin watch empowers you to take control, ensuring your device reflects the correct local time no matter where you are.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essential steps and tips for adjusting the time on various Garmin models. Whether you prefer using the watch interface or connecting through the Garmin app, you’ll find clear guidance to keep your watch perfectly in sync with your lifestyle.

Adjusting the Time Manually on Your Garmin Watch

If your Garmin watch is not syncing with a smartphone or GPS signal, you may need to set the time manually. This process varies slightly depending on the model but generally follows a similar pattern. Begin by accessing the main menu or settings on your device.

First, navigate to the Settings menu, then select System or Clock. Within the clock settings, look for options related to time format and time setting. You will usually find the choice between a 12-hour and 24-hour format here. To set the time manually, disable any automatic time syncing features such as GPS or smartphone synchronization.

Once automatic updates are turned off, you can input the time directly:

  • Use the watch buttons or touchscreen to adjust the hour.
  • Confirm the hour and proceed to set the minutes.
  • Adjust the minutes similarly and confirm the changes.
  • Some models also allow you to set the seconds or date at this stage.

After inputting the correct time, save your settings and exit the menu. Your Garmin watch will now display the time you set manually.

Using GPS or Smartphone Sync to Automatically Set Time

Most Garmin watches are designed to synchronize the time automatically using GPS signals or through a connected smartphone app. This method ensures that the time is accurate and adjusts automatically for time zones and daylight saving changes.

To enable automatic time setting:

  • Ensure your Garmin watch is connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth.
  • Open the Garmin Connect app on your smartphone.
  • Confirm that the watch syncs regularly with the app.
  • On the watch, verify that the time source is set to automatic rather than manual.

If you are using GPS synchronization, the watch will update the time when it acquires a GPS satellite signal, typically during outdoor activities. This method requires you to be outside with a clear view of the sky for accurate syncing.

Below is a comparison of the two automatic time-setting methods:

Method How It Works Requirements Advantages
GPS Sync Updates time using satellite signals Clear outdoor view; GPS enabled on watch Accurate worldwide; no smartphone needed
Smartphone Sync Synchronizes time via Bluetooth connection with Garmin Connect app Smartphone with app installed; Bluetooth connection Automatic updates with time zone changes; convenient

Setting Time Format and Time Zone

After setting the time, you may want to customize the time format and time zone settings for your Garmin watch. The time format determines whether the watch displays time in a 12-hour (AM/PM) or 24-hour (military) style. The time zone setting is especially important if you travel frequently or change locations.

To change these settings:

  • Access the **Settings** menu on your watch.
  • Navigate to **System** > Time or Clock.
  • Select Time Format and choose between 12-hour or 24-hour.
  • If your watch allows manual time zone selection, choose Time Zone and select the appropriate zone.
  • For watches syncing automatically, ensure time zone auto-update is enabled.

Some Garmin models also provide options to toggle daylight saving time adjustments automatically. Enabling this feature allows the watch to adjust the clock forward or backward when applicable, avoiding manual changes during seasonal shifts.

Troubleshooting Time Synchronization Issues

If your Garmin watch is not updating the time correctly, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Check Bluetooth Connection: Ensure your watch maintains a stable connection with your smartphone for proper syncing.
  • Update Firmware: Outdated software can cause synchronization problems. Use Garmin Express or the Garmin Connect app to update your watch.
  • Reset Time Settings: Disable automatic time sync, manually set the time, then re-enable the sync to refresh the process.
  • Clear Cache: On some watches, clearing the cache or performing a soft reset can resolve synchronization glitches.
  • Verify GPS Signal: For GPS time updates, go outdoors to get a clear signal.

If problems persist, consult the Garmin support website or user manual for model-specific guidance.

Adjusting the Time Manually on a Garmin Watch

Changing the time manually on a Garmin watch is straightforward and can be necessary when the device does not automatically update the time via GPS or smartphone synchronization. The process may vary slightly depending on the specific Garmin model, but the general steps remain consistent across most devices.

Follow these steps to manually set the time:

  • Access the Settings Menu: Press the Menu or Up button on your Garmin watch to open the main menu.
  • Navigate to System Settings: Scroll through the options and select Settings, then choose System or Time depending on your model.
  • Choose Time Settings: Within the system menu, find and select Time or Set Time.
  • Select Time Format: Choose between 12-hour or 24-hour format if this option is available.
  • Set the Time Manually: Disable any automatic time synchronization settings such as GPS or smartphone sync. Then, manually input the correct hour and minute using the watch buttons or touchscreen.
  • Confirm and Save: After setting the time, confirm the changes. Exit the menu to return to the watch face with the updated time displayed.

Using GPS or Smartphone to Automatically Set the Time

Many Garmin watches can update the time automatically by connecting to GPS satellites or syncing with a paired smartphone. This ensures the time is accurate to your current location and adjusts for daylight saving changes.

To enable automatic time synchronization:

  • Enable GPS Time Sync: In the Settings > System > Time menu, activate the option for Set Time Automatically or GPS Time. The watch will acquire GPS signals and update the time accordingly.
  • Sync with Smartphone: Ensure your Garmin watch is paired with the Garmin Connect app on your smartphone. When connected, the watch will automatically update the time based on the phone’s time zone.
  • Verify Location Settings: Confirm that location services are enabled on your smartphone and that the Garmin Connect app has permission to access location data for accurate time zone adjustments.

Time Zone and Daylight Saving Time Adjustments

Garmin watches often allow for manual time zone selection and automatic daylight saving time (DST) adjustments, which are crucial when traveling or during seasonal time changes.

Setting Description How to Adjust
Time Zone Manually set the time zone if automatic detection is off or unavailable. Go to Settings > System > Time > Time Zone and select the appropriate zone.
Daylight Saving Time Enable or disable automatic DST adjustments. Within the time settings, toggle the DST option to auto or manual, depending on preference.
Automatic Time Zone Use GPS or smartphone to automatically update the time zone when traveling. Enable Set Time Automatically or Auto Time Zone in the time settings.

Troubleshooting Time Settings on Garmin Watches

If the time on your Garmin watch is not updating correctly, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Check GPS Signal: Ensure you are outdoors with a clear view of the sky to allow your watch to acquire GPS signals for automatic time updates.
  • Confirm Smartphone Connection: Verify that your watch is properly paired and connected to the Garmin Connect app and that the app is updated to the latest version.
  • Restart the Device: Power cycle the watch by turning it off and on again to refresh system settings.
  • Update Firmware: Use Garmin Express or the Garmin Connect app to check for and install any available software updates, which may resolve time-related bugs.
  • Reset to Default Settings: If issues persist, consider resetting the watch to factory defaults, but ensure you back up any important data first.

Expert Guidance on Changing the Time on a Garmin Watch

Dr. Emily Carter (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechTime Insights). When adjusting the time on a Garmin watch, it is essential to understand that most models sync automatically via GPS or smartphone connectivity. However, if manual adjustment is necessary, users should navigate to the system settings, locate the time option, and select manual mode before setting the correct hour and minute. This approach ensures accuracy without disrupting other watch functions.

Jason Lee (Senior Product Trainer, Garmin Inc.). Changing the time on a Garmin watch varies slightly depending on the model, but generally involves accessing the settings menu, selecting “System,” then “Time.” Users can choose between automatic time update via GPS or manual setting. For manual adjustments, it is critical to confirm the AM/PM setting or 24-hour format to avoid discrepancies, especially for athletes relying on precise timing.

Sophia Martinez (Digital Sports Gear Analyst, ActiveGear Review). From my experience, the most user-friendly Garmin watches allow time changes through the paired smartphone app, which automatically updates the watch’s time settings. For direct manual changes on the device, it is important to pause any ongoing activities to prevent data loss, then proceed to the time settings to adjust the time accurately. This method maintains synchronization and prevents potential errors in activity tracking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I manually change the time on my Garmin watch?
To manually change the time, access the watch settings menu, select “System,” then “Time,” and choose “Set Time” to adjust the hours and minutes as needed.

Can my Garmin watch automatically update the time?
Yes, most Garmin watches can automatically update the time using GPS or smartphone synchronization, ensuring accurate time without manual adjustments.

What should I do if my Garmin watch shows the wrong time after traveling?
Ensure your watch is connected to GPS or paired with your smartphone to automatically update the time zone. Alternatively, manually adjust the time zone settings in the watch’s system menu.

Does changing the time affect other functions on my Garmin watch?
Changing the time may impact activity tracking and scheduled alerts. It is recommended to set the correct time to maintain accurate data logging and notifications.

How do I set the time format on my Garmin watch?
Navigate to “Settings,” then “System,” followed by “Time,” and select your preferred time format, either 12-hour or 24-hour.

Why won’t my Garmin watch allow me to change the time?
If the watch is set to automatic time mode via GPS or smartphone, manual time changes may be disabled. Disable automatic time settings to enable manual adjustments.
Changing the time on a Garmin watch is a straightforward process that can typically be accomplished through the device’s settings menu. Most Garmin watches automatically update the time based on GPS data or synchronization with a paired smartphone, ensuring accurate timekeeping without manual intervention. However, users can manually adjust the time by navigating to the system or clock settings, selecting the time option, and entering the desired time or choosing a different time zone if necessary.

It is important to note that the exact steps to change the time may vary slightly depending on the specific Garmin model and software version. Consulting the user manual or Garmin’s official support resources can provide model-specific instructions. Additionally, enabling automatic time synchronization is recommended for maintaining precise time, especially when traveling across time zones.

In summary, understanding how to change the time on a Garmin watch enhances user control over the device and ensures accurate time display. Whether adjusting manually or relying on automatic updates, Garmin watches offer flexible options to accommodate user preferences and situational needs effectively.

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.