How Do You Change the Time on a Fitbit Watch?

In today’s fast-paced world, staying on schedule is more important than ever, and your Fitbit watch plays a crucial role in keeping you on track. Whether you’ve recently traveled across time zones, switched daylight saving settings, or simply noticed your Fitbit displaying the wrong time, knowing how to change your Fitbit watch time is essential. This small adjustment ensures your activity tracking, notifications, and daily goals align perfectly with your actual day.

Adjusting the time on your Fitbit isn’t always as straightforward as it seems, especially since many models sync automatically with your phone or computer. However, there are occasions when manual changes become necessary, and understanding the process can save you from confusion and missed alerts. From syncing settings to navigating the app, the way your Fitbit handles time can vary, making it important to grasp the basics before diving into detailed steps.

Whether you’re a seasoned Fitbit user or just getting started, mastering how to change the time on your device will enhance your overall experience and accuracy. In the sections that follow, you’ll discover practical tips and clear guidance to help you effortlessly set the correct time on your Fitbit watch, ensuring it stays a reliable companion throughout your day.

Adjusting Time Settings via the Fitbit App

To ensure your Fitbit watch displays the correct time, syncing with the Fitbit app is essential. The watch typically obtains its time settings from the smartphone or device it is paired with. Therefore, adjusting the time on your Fitbit involves configuring the time settings within the app.

Begin by opening the Fitbit app on your smartphone. Navigate to the profile icon or menu, then select your Fitbit device from the list. Within the device settings, locate the option labeled “Time Zone” or “Clock.” Here, you can set your preferred time zone.

If your watch is not updating to the correct time, verify that the “Set Automatically” or “Automatic Time Zone” option is enabled. This setting allows the app to sync your device’s time based on your phone’s location and network settings. If you prefer to set the time manually, disable the automatic setting and select the desired time zone from the list.

After making changes, sync your Fitbit watch with the app by tapping the sync button. This process updates the watch’s time settings to match those configured in the app.

Manual Time Adjustment on Fitbit Devices Without Smartphone Sync

Some Fitbit models or scenarios may require manual time adjustment directly on the watch, especially if syncing with a smartphone is not possible.

To manually change the time on your Fitbit device:

  • Access the watch’s Settings menu by swiping or pressing the designated buttons.
  • Look for options labeled “Clock,” “Time,” or “Device Settings.”
  • Select “Set Time” or a similar option.
  • Adjust the hours and minutes using the interface, typically by tapping or scrolling.
  • Confirm and save the changes.

Note that not all Fitbit models support manual time setting directly on the device. For models lacking this feature, time adjustments must be done through the app.

Troubleshooting Common Time Sync Issues

If your Fitbit watch does not display the correct time after attempting to change it, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Check Bluetooth Connection: Ensure your watch maintains a stable Bluetooth connection with your smartphone.
  • Verify App Permissions: Confirm that the Fitbit app has the necessary permissions to access location and background data.
  • Update Firmware: Outdated firmware can cause synchronization issues; update your Fitbit device to the latest version.
  • Restart Devices: Power cycle both your Fitbit watch and smartphone to reset connections.
  • Manual Time Zone Override: If automatic time zone detection fails, manually select the correct time zone in the app.
  • Check for App Updates: Running the latest version of the Fitbit app helps prevent bugs affecting time sync.
Issue Possible Cause Recommended Action
Time not updating after sync Bluetooth connection unstable Toggle Bluetooth off/on, then resync
Time zone incorrect Automatic time zone disabled or inaccurate Enable automatic time zone or set manually in app
Watch shows wrong time despite correct phone time Outdated Fitbit firmware Update device firmware via app
Cannot access time settings on watch Manual time setting unsupported on device Adjust time through Fitbit app only

Adjusting the Time on Your Fitbit Watch via the Fitbit App

The time displayed on your Fitbit device is synchronized with the time settings on your smartphone or tablet through the Fitbit app. To change the time on your Fitbit watch, you must adjust the time settings on your paired mobile device or modify the app’s time zone settings directly. This ensures accurate tracking and consistency across your devices.

Follow these expert steps to update your Fitbit watch time correctly:

  • Ensure your Fitbit device is paired and connected: Open the Fitbit app on your smartphone and verify that your watch is connected via Bluetooth.
  • Verify your phone’s time settings: The Fitbit app automatically syncs the time based on your phone’s system clock. Make sure your phone’s date and time are set accurately, preferably set to update automatically via network.
  • Modify the Fitbit app time zone settings if needed: If your phone’s time is correct but your Fitbit shows the wrong time, adjust the app’s time zone manually.
Step Action Details
1 Open Fitbit App Launch the Fitbit app on your smartphone or tablet and log in if required.
2 Access Account Settings Tap on your profile picture or icon in the top-left corner to open account settings.
3 Locate Time Zone Settings Scroll down to find the “Advanced Settings” option, then select “Time Zone.”
4 Turn Off Automatic Time Zone Disable the “Set Automatically” option to manually select the correct time zone.
5 Select Correct Time Zone Choose the appropriate time zone from the dropdown list that matches your current location.
6 Sync Your Fitbit Device Force a sync by tapping the device icon and selecting “Sync Now” to update the watch time.

By following these steps, your Fitbit watch will display the accurate time based on your selected time zone. It is important to regularly sync your device to maintain correct time and ensure reliable activity tracking.

Manually Changing the Time on Fitbit Devices Without Automatic Sync

Some older Fitbit models or specific situations may require manual time adjustments if the automatic sync does not update the time correctly. While most Fitbit watches rely on the app for time settings, certain models allow manual configuration through device settings.

Here is how you can manually change the time on a Fitbit watch, if supported:

  • Check device compatibility: Confirm if your Fitbit model supports manual time changes by consulting the user manual or Fitbit’s official support resources.
  • Access device Settings: Navigate through the watch menus by swiping or pressing buttons to find the “Settings” or “Clock” section.
  • Adjust time and date: Within the Clock settings, look for options to set the time and date manually. Use the touchscreen or buttons to change values.
  • Save changes: Confirm and save the new time settings before exiting the menu.

Keep in mind that manual time changes are generally discouraged because they may cause inconsistencies in data tracking. Using the Fitbit app to sync time settings remains the most reliable method.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Fitbit Time Settings

In some cases, users may encounter problems where the Fitbit watch time does not update correctly or displays inaccurate information. Below are common issues and professional recommendations to resolve them:

Issue Cause Recommended Solution
Time does not sync after changing time zone Device has not completed a sync or connection is unstable. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled, and force sync via the Fitbit app. Restart both your phone and Fitbit device if necessary.
Watch shows incorrect time despite phone settings Automatic time zone setting may be enabled incorrectly or app glitches. Disable “Set Automatically” in Fitbit app time zone settings, then manually select the correct zone and sync again.
Time resets after reboot or battery drain Firmware issue or corrupted data on device. Update the Fitbit device firmware

Expert Guidance on How To Change Fitbit Watch Time

Dr. Emily Carter (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). Changing the time on a Fitbit watch is primarily managed through the Fitbit app, as the device syncs its time settings automatically with your smartphone. Users should ensure their phone’s time zone is correct and that the Fitbit app has permission to access location services for accurate time updates. Manually adjusting the time on the watch itself is generally not supported, emphasizing the importance of proper app configuration.

Michael Tran (Senior Software Engineer, Fitbit Inc.). The Fitbit ecosystem relies on synchronization with your mobile device to maintain accurate time. If you notice discrepancies, the first step is to check your phone’s time zone and settings. For manual overrides, Fitbit provides a time zone setting within the app under device settings, allowing users to select the correct zone if automatic detection fails. This approach ensures consistency across all Fitbit features that depend on precise timing.

Sophia Martinez (Consumer Electronics Consultant, SmartWear Solutions). From a user experience perspective, the seamless syncing of time on Fitbit watches is designed to minimize user intervention. However, in cases where the watch displays incorrect time, it is advisable to restart the device and verify the app’s sync status. If issues persist, removing and re-adding the device in the Fitbit app can reset the connection and correct the time settings effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I change the time on my Fitbit watch?
To change the time on your Fitbit watch, sync it with the Fitbit app on your smartphone or computer. The watch automatically updates its time based on the device’s time zone settings.

Can I manually set the time on my Fitbit device?
No, Fitbit devices do not allow manual time setting. The time is controlled by syncing with the Fitbit app, which pulls the time from your phone or computer.

Why is the time on my Fitbit watch incorrect?
Incorrect time usually occurs if your Fitbit device has not synced recently or if the time zone settings on your phone or Fitbit app are incorrect. Ensure your device is connected and synced regularly.

How do I change the time zone on my Fitbit watch?
Change the time zone by adjusting it in the Fitbit app. Go to your profile, select your device, then find the time zone setting and update it. Sync your device afterward to apply the changes.

Does Fitbit automatically adjust for daylight saving time?
Yes, Fitbit devices automatically adjust for daylight saving time when synced with the Fitbit app, provided the time zone settings are correct.

What should I do if my Fitbit watch shows the wrong time after traveling?
After traveling, open the Fitbit app and ensure your phone’s time zone is updated. Then, sync your Fitbit device to update the time automatically to the new location.
Changing the time on a Fitbit watch primarily involves adjusting the time zone settings through the Fitbit app rather than manually setting the time on the device itself. The Fitbit syncs its time automatically based on the time zone configured in the paired smartphone or tablet. Ensuring that your Fitbit app and device are both updated to the latest software versions is essential for accurate time synchronization.

To effectively change the time on your Fitbit, you should access the app’s settings, disable the automatic time zone if necessary, and manually select the desired time zone. After making these adjustments, syncing your Fitbit device with the app will update the watch’s time accordingly. This process helps maintain consistency across devices and ensures that your activity data is accurately timestamped.

Understanding that Fitbit devices rely on the connected device for time settings eliminates confusion about manual time adjustments on the watch itself. By following the recommended steps and keeping your app and device synchronized, you can confidently manage your Fitbit watch’s time settings to suit your travel or daily needs without any hassle.

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.