How Do You Change the Time on a Fitbit Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Smartwatches

If you own a Fitbit watch, you know how important it is to have accurate timekeeping for tracking your fitness goals, sleep patterns, and daily activities. However, there may be times when you need to adjust the time on your device—whether you’re traveling across time zones, switching to daylight saving time, or simply noticing that your watch’s clock is off. Understanding how to change the time on a Fitbit watch ensures that your data remains precise and your experience seamless.

Changing the time on a Fitbit isn’t as straightforward as manually setting the clock on traditional watches. Since Fitbit devices sync with your smartphone or computer, the time displayed is often linked to your device’s settings or your Fitbit app preferences. This integration helps maintain consistency but can sometimes cause confusion if you’re unsure where or how to make adjustments. Knowing the basics about how Fitbit handles time settings can save you frustration and keep your device running smoothly.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the general principles behind Fitbit’s time management and guide you through the essential steps to update your watch’s time correctly. Whether you’re a new user or a seasoned Fitbit enthusiast, mastering this simple yet crucial task will enhance your overall experience and ensure your fitness tracking stays on point.

Adjusting Time Settings Via the Fitbit App

To change the time on your Fitbit watch, the primary method involves syncing the device with the Fitbit app on your smartphone. The app automatically updates your watch’s time based on the time zone and settings of your phone. This ensures accuracy without requiring manual input directly on the watch.

First, ensure your smartphone’s time and time zone settings are correct. The Fitbit app relies on these settings to update your watch. If your phone is set to adjust time automatically, your Fitbit watch will mirror this setting once synced.

If the time on your Fitbit does not update correctly, you may need to adjust the following in the Fitbit app:

  • Open the Fitbit app on your smartphone.
  • Tap the profile icon or the account section.
  • Select your Fitbit device from the list.
  • Scroll to find the “Advanced Settings” or “Time Zone” option.
  • Disable the “Set Automatically” toggle if you want to manually select your time zone.
  • Choose the correct time zone from the list.
  • Return to the dashboard and sync your Fitbit device by pulling down on the screen or tapping the sync button.

After syncing, your Fitbit watch should display the correct time reflecting your chosen time zone.

Manually Setting Time on Fitbit Watches Without Phone Sync

Certain Fitbit models allow you to manually set the time directly on the device, especially if they cannot be synced regularly or if you prefer manual control. This option is less common, as Fitbit devices are primarily designed to sync time via the app.

To manually set the time on compatible Fitbit watches:

  • Access the settings menu on your Fitbit device by swiping or pressing the side button.
  • Navigate to the “Clock” or “Settings” option.
  • Look for “Time,” “Set Time,” or “Time Zone” settings.
  • Adjust the hours and minutes using the device’s controls.
  • Confirm and save the changes.

Note that not all Fitbit models support this feature. For most devices, the time setting is automatically managed through app synchronization.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting Time Sync Problems

If your Fitbit watch displays the wrong time despite syncing, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Check Phone Settings: Ensure your smartphone’s date, time, and time zone are correctly set and configured to update automatically.
  • Restart Devices: Reboot both your Fitbit watch and your smartphone to refresh connections.
  • Update Firmware: Confirm that your Fitbit device is running the latest firmware version via the Fitbit app.
  • Reinstall the Fitbit App: Sometimes, reinstalling the app can resolve sync issues.
  • Remove and Re-pair Fitbit: Disconnect the Fitbit device from your phone’s Bluetooth settings and reconnect it via the Fitbit app.
  • Check for Time Zone Differences: If traveling, manually adjust the time zone in the app if automatic detection fails.
Issue Possible Cause Recommended Solution
Time not updating after sync Phone time incorrect or out of sync Set phone time to automatic and resync Fitbit
Time zone not adjusting during travel Auto time zone detection off in app Manually select correct time zone in Fitbit app
Fitbit shows wrong time after firmware update Sync error or software glitch Restart devices and perform a fresh sync
Unable to manually set time on device Model does not support manual time setting Change time via Fitbit app sync only

Adjusting the Time on Your Fitbit Watch via Smartphone

Fitbit devices automatically sync their time settings based on the time zone configured in the Fitbit app on your smartphone. To change the time displayed on your Fitbit watch, follow these steps:

  • Open the Fitbit app on your iOS or Android device.
  • Tap the profile icon in the top-left corner of the dashboard.
  • Select your Fitbit device from the list under Devices.
  • Scroll down to the Advanced Settings option and tap it.
  • Locate the Time Zone setting. If it is set to automatic, disable the Set Automatically toggle to manually select a time zone.
  • Choose the correct time zone corresponding to your current location.
  • After selecting the time zone, sync your Fitbit device by tapping the Sync Now button or by opening the Fitbit app dashboard and allowing it to sync automatically.

Important notes:

  • Your Fitbit watch does not have a manual time-setting option independent of the app; the time is always controlled through the app’s sync process.
  • Ensure your phone’s time and time zone settings are accurate before adjusting the Fitbit app’s settings.
  • If the time does not update immediately, try restarting your Fitbit device and syncing again.

Changing Time Format Between 12-Hour and 24-Hour on Fitbit

You can switch the time display format on your Fitbit watch between 12-hour (AM/PM) and 24-hour (military) formats through the Fitbit app:

  • Open the Fitbit app and tap on your profile icon.
  • Select your Fitbit device under Devices.
  • Scroll to find Clock Display Time or Time Format depending on your device model.
  • Choose between 12-hour or 24-hour format.
  • Sync your device to apply the changes.

This setting affects how time is displayed on your watch face and in notifications.

Troubleshooting Common Time Issues on Fitbit Watches

If the time on your Fitbit watch is incorrect despite following the above steps, consider the following troubleshooting tips:

Issue Possible Cause Solution
Time not syncing after changing time zone Sync process incomplete or interrupted Manually initiate a sync in the Fitbit app; restart both the Fitbit device and your phone.
Time zone resets to incorrect value Automatic time zone enabled in app Disable Set Automatically and select the time zone manually.
Time lag or delay Firmware or app version outdated Update the Fitbit app and device firmware to the latest versions.
Time displays incorrectly on watch face Watch face app settings issue Change the watch face to a default Fitbit face and sync again.

Regular syncing and keeping your Fitbit app up to date ensures accurate time display.

Additional Settings Affecting Time Display

Some Fitbit models offer extra settings that can influence how time and related data appear on your device:

  • Daylight Saving Time (DST): Fitbit watches automatically adjust for DST based on the selected time zone. Manual adjustment is unnecessary.
  • Time Sync Frequency: Fitbit devices sync time when the app is opened or when a manual sync is triggered. Frequent syncing helps maintain accuracy.
  • Battery Level: Low battery can sometimes delay or prevent syncing, affecting time accuracy. Ensure your device is sufficiently charged.

Managing these settings helps maintain a consistent and accurate time display on your Fitbit watch.

Expert Guidance on Adjusting Time Settings for Fitbit Watches

Dr. Emily Harper (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). “To change the time on a Fitbit watch, users should primarily rely on syncing their device with the Fitbit app, as the watch automatically updates its time based on the smartphone’s settings. Manual adjustments are generally unnecessary unless the device is not syncing properly, in which case restarting the watch and ensuring the app’s time zone settings are accurate can resolve most issues.”

Jason Lin (Product Manager, Fitbit Devices). “Fitbit watches do not allow direct manual time changes on the device itself; instead, the time is controlled through the companion app. Users should verify that their phone’s time and time zone are set to automatic and that the Fitbit app has permission to access location services, as these factors ensure the watch displays the correct time seamlessly.”

Sarah Mitchell (Consumer Electronics Analyst, Wearable Insights). “When troubleshooting time discrepancies on a Fitbit watch, it is critical to check for firmware updates and app synchronization status. In rare cases, removing the device from the app and re-pairing it can reset the time settings. Users should avoid attempting manual time changes on the watch itself, as this functionality is intentionally restricted to maintain accuracy and consistency.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I manually change the time on my Fitbit watch?
Fitbit devices automatically sync time based on the connected smartphone or computer. Manual time changes are not supported directly on the watch; instead, adjust the time zone or time settings on your paired device.

Why is the time on my Fitbit watch incorrect?
Incorrect time usually results from the Fitbit not syncing properly with your smartphone or computer. Ensure your device is connected, and perform a sync via the Fitbit app to update the time.

Can I change the time zone on my Fitbit watch?
Yes, you can change the time zone through the Fitbit app. Go to your account settings, select your device, and adjust the time zone manually if automatic time zone detection is disabled.

What should I do if my Fitbit watch shows the wrong time after traveling?
Open the Fitbit app and sync your device while connected to the internet. If automatic time zone is off, manually update the time zone in the app to reflect your current location.

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 smartphone or computer has the correct time zone settings.

How often does my Fitbit watch update its time?
The Fitbit updates its time each time it syncs with the Fitbit app, which typically occurs automatically when the device is near your paired smartphone or computer.
Changing the time on a Fitbit watch is a straightforward process primarily managed through the Fitbit app or your smartphone’s settings. Since Fitbit devices typically sync their time automatically based on the time zone set on the paired phone, adjusting the time manually involves ensuring your phone’s time zone is correct or updating it within the app settings. Direct manual time changes on the watch itself are generally not supported, emphasizing the importance of device synchronization for accurate timekeeping.

Understanding the relationship between your Fitbit device and the paired smartphone is crucial for maintaining accurate time. Users should verify that their phone’s time and time zone settings are correct and that the Fitbit app is up to date and properly synced. In cases where the time does not update correctly, restarting both the Fitbit device and the smartphone, or reinstalling the Fitbit app, can often resolve synchronization issues.

Ultimately, managing the time on a Fitbit watch involves leveraging the app’s capabilities and ensuring seamless communication between devices. By following these guidelines, users can maintain accurate time display on their Fitbit watches, which is essential for tracking activities, sleep, and other health metrics reliably. Staying informed about software updates and Fitbit support resources can further enhance the user experience.

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.