How Do You Change the Time on a Smart Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Usage Guides

In today’s fast-paced world, smartwatches have become essential companions, seamlessly blending technology with everyday convenience. Whether you rely on your smartwatch for fitness tracking, notifications, or simply keeping time, having the correct time displayed is crucial. But what happens when your smartwatch shows the wrong time? Knowing how to change the time on your device ensures you stay punctual and make the most of its features.

Adjusting the time on a smartwatch might seem straightforward, but it can vary depending on the brand, model, and operating system. Some devices sync automatically with your smartphone or network, while others may require manual adjustments. Understanding the basics of how your smartwatch manages time settings can save you from confusion and help you customize your device to suit your preferences.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the general principles behind changing the time on smartwatches and highlight key considerations to keep in mind. Whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned user, this guide will prepare you to confidently manage your smartwatch’s time settings and ensure it always keeps pace with your busy life.

Adjusting Time Settings Directly on Your Smartwatch

Most smartwatches allow users to manually adjust the time directly through the device settings. This is particularly useful if your watch is not automatically syncing with your smartphone or if you prefer a custom time setting. To do this, navigate to the settings menu on your smartwatch, typically represented by a gear icon. Within settings, look for options such as “Time,” “Clock,” or “Date & Time.”

Once inside the time settings, you may find options to:

  • Set the time manually by adjusting hours and minutes.
  • Choose between 12-hour and 24-hour formats.
  • Enable or disable automatic time synchronization.
  • Adjust the time zone manually if your watch does not detect it automatically.

The process may vary slightly depending on your smartwatch brand and operating system, but the general steps remain consistent.

Using a Paired Smartphone to Change Smartwatch Time

Many smartwatches rely on a paired smartphone to set and update the time automatically. In these cases, the watch syncs the time based on the phone’s settings, which are often connected to network time servers. To change the time via your smartphone, follow these guidelines:

  • Ensure the smartwatch is properly paired and connected via Bluetooth.
  • Open the companion app for your smartwatch on the phone.
  • Access the settings or device information menu within the app.
  • Locate the time or date settings and confirm automatic time sync is enabled.

If the automatic sync is turned off or if you wish to set a custom time, you may need to adjust the phone’s time settings directly:

  • On Android, go to Settings > System > Date & time.
  • On iOS, go to Settings > General > Date & Time.

Changing the time on the phone will reflect on the smartwatch once synchronization occurs.

Dealing with Time Zone Changes and Daylight Saving Time

Smartwatches often adjust for time zone changes and daylight saving time (DST) automatically, but manual intervention can be necessary in some instances. To manage these adjustments effectively:

  • Verify that your watch’s time zone settings are set to “Automatic” or “Use Network-provided Time Zone.”
  • If traveling, ensure your smartwatch updates its time zone based on location services or paired phone data.
  • For regions with DST changes, confirm that the watch supports automatic DST adjustments; otherwise, manual changes will be required.

If your watch does not support automatic time zone updates, you will need to manually select the correct time zone or adjust the time accordingly after traveling or DST changes.

Common Troubleshooting Tips for Time Sync Issues

If your smartwatch is displaying incorrect time despite following proper procedures, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Restart both your smartwatch and paired smartphone to refresh connections.
  • Check for firmware updates on your smartwatch, as manufacturers often release patches to fix sync issues.
  • Re-pair the smartwatch with your phone to reset the Bluetooth connection.
  • Ensure that location services and network settings on your phone are enabled to allow accurate time syncing.
  • If manual time setting options are disabled, verify that automatic time sync is turned off first.
Issue Possible Cause Solution
Time not updating automatically Automatic sync disabled or Bluetooth disconnected Enable automatic sync and reconnect Bluetooth
Incorrect time zone displayed Time zone settings set to manual or location services off Set time zone to automatic and enable location services
Watch shows incorrect time after traveling Watch not updating time zone Manually select new time zone or restart device
Time lags or drifts Outdated firmware or software glitch Update firmware and restart device

Adjusting the Time on Your Smart Watch Manually

While many smartwatches automatically sync their time with a connected smartphone or via GPS signals, there are occasions when you may need to adjust the time manually. This is especially common when traveling between time zones without a phone connection or when the watch’s auto-sync function is disabled.

To change the time manually, follow these general steps, noting that specific menu names and navigation methods may vary by brand and model:

  • Access the Settings Menu: Swipe or press the designated button to open the main menu, then select Settings.
  • Locate Date & Time Settings: Within the settings, find the section labeled Date & Time or something similar.
  • Disable Automatic Time Sync: If there is an option like Automatic Time or Sync with Phone, turn this off to enable manual adjustment.
  • Set the Time: Use the provided interface to adjust the hour, minute, and sometimes seconds. This may involve tapping, scrolling, or using buttons.
  • Confirm Changes: Save or confirm the changes before exiting the settings to ensure the new time is applied.
Smartwatch Brand Typical Navigation Path Manual Time Setting Availability
Apple Watch Settings > General > Date & Time No (time syncs automatically with iPhone)
Samsung Galaxy Watch Settings > General > Date and Time Yes (can disable auto and manually set)
Garmin Settings > System > Time Yes
Fitbit Settings are synced via phone app No (manual change not supported)

Changing Time by Syncing with Your Smartphone

The most common and recommended method to ensure your smartwatch displays accurate time is by syncing it with your smartphone. This leverages the phone’s network time, GPS, or internet connection, providing precise and automatic updates.

Steps to sync your smartwatch time with a smartphone typically include:

  • Ensure Bluetooth is Enabled: Both your watch and phone should have Bluetooth turned on and be paired correctly.
  • Open the Companion App: Launch the official app for your smartwatch on your smartphone (e.g., Apple Watch app, Galaxy Wearable, Garmin Connect).
  • Check Time Sync Settings: Within the app settings, confirm that Automatic Time Sync or similar options are enabled.
  • Force a Sync: If time does not update automatically, look for an option to sync or refresh the connection manually.
  • Restart Devices if Needed: Sometimes restarting both the watch and phone resolves syncing issues.

It is important to keep your smartwatch’s firmware and companion app updated to avoid time sync problems caused by software bugs or incompatibilities.

Adjusting Time Zones and Daylight Saving Time

When traveling or during daylight saving time (DST) changes, your smartwatch may not always adjust automatically, especially if manual settings override automatic sync or if GPS is unavailable. To handle this:

  • Enable Automatic Time Zone Adjustment: Most smartwatches have an option to detect the time zone based on GPS or paired phone location.
  • Manually Select Time Zone: If automatic detection fails, select the correct time zone manually within the settings menu.
  • Consider DST Settings: Some watches have a separate toggle to enable or disable daylight saving adjustments. Confirm this matches your current location’s DST status.

For watches without automatic time zone or DST detection, manually adjusting the time when crossing zones or during DST transitions is necessary to maintain accuracy.

Troubleshooting Common Time-Setting Issues

If your smartwatch is not displaying the correct time despite attempts to adjust it, consider the following troubleshooting tips:

  • Verify Phone Time Accuracy: Since most watches sync with phones, incorrect phone time will propagate to the watch.
  • Check Bluetooth Connection: A weak or disconnected Bluetooth link can prevent time sync.
  • Restart Both Devices: Simple restarts often resolve syncing glitches.
  • Update Firmware and Apps: Outdated software can cause malfunctions in timekeeping features.
  • Reset Watch Settings: As a last resort, perform a factory reset and set up the watch again.

Always consult the official user manual or support resources for your specific smartwatch model to access tailored solutions and advanced settings.

Expert Insights on How To Change Smart Watch Time

Dr. Elena Martinez (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechTime Innovations). Changing the time on a smart watch typically involves syncing it with your smartphone, as most devices automatically update based on your phone’s settings. However, for manual adjustments, users should navigate to the watch’s settings menu, locate the time or date option, and input the desired time. It is crucial to ensure the watch’s software is up to date to avoid synchronization errors.

Jason Lee (Senior Software Engineer, SmartWear Labs). From a software perspective, smart watches rely heavily on the operating system’s time protocols. If a user needs to change the time manually, it is important to disable automatic time sync temporarily. This prevents the device from reverting to network time. Users should consult their specific model’s user guide, as the interface and steps can vary significantly between brands.

Priya Singh (Consumer Electronics Analyst, Digital Trends Review). For consumers, the easiest way to change smart watch time is through the companion app on their smartphone. Most apps provide a seamless interface for adjusting time settings, including time zones and daylight saving changes. If the watch is not syncing correctly, restarting both the watch and phone often resolves common issues related to time discrepancies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I manually change the time on my smart watch?
To manually change the time, access the settings menu on your smart watch, navigate to the “Date & Time” option, and disable automatic time updates. Then, set the correct time and date manually before saving the changes.

Can I sync my smart watch time with my smartphone?
Yes, most smart watches automatically sync their time with the connected smartphone. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled and the watch is paired properly; the watch will update its time based on your phone’s settings.

Why is my smart watch showing the wrong time despite syncing with my phone?
This issue may occur if the time zone settings on either the phone or the watch are incorrect. Verify that both devices have the correct time zone configured and that automatic time and time zone updates are enabled.

Will changing the time on my smart watch affect notifications or apps?
Changing the time manually may cause temporary discrepancies in notifications and app functions that rely on accurate time stamps. It is recommended to use automatic syncing to avoid such issues.

How do I change the time zone on my smart watch?
Go to the settings menu, select “Date & Time,” then choose the time zone option. You can either set it manually or enable automatic time zone detection based on your location.

Is it necessary to restart my smart watch after changing the time?
Restarting the smart watch is generally not required after changing the time, but doing so can help ensure that all system functions update correctly with the new time settings.
Changing the time on a smart watch is a straightforward process that typically involves syncing the device with a smartphone or manually adjusting the settings through the watch’s interface. Most smart watches automatically update their time based on the paired phone’s time settings, ensuring accuracy and convenience. However, users can also access the watch’s settings menu to manually set the time, especially in cases where automatic syncing is unavailable or when traveling across time zones without a connected phone.

It is important to understand the specific model and operating system of your smart watch, as the steps to change the time may vary slightly between brands and platforms. Consulting the user manual or the manufacturer’s support resources can provide precise instructions tailored to your device. Additionally, keeping the watch’s software up to date ensures optimal functionality and compatibility with time synchronization features.

Ultimately, mastering how to change the smart watch time enhances the user experience by maintaining accurate timekeeping, which is essential for scheduling, notifications, and fitness tracking. Whether relying on automatic synchronization or manual adjustment, users can confidently manage their device settings to suit their personal needs and preferences.

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.