How Do You Change the Time on a Shinola Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Usage Guides

Changing the time on a Shinola watch is a simple yet essential skill for any owner who wants to keep their timepiece accurate and reliable. Whether you’ve just purchased your watch, traveled across time zones, or experienced daylight saving time changes, knowing how to adjust your Shinola watch ensures it continues to function perfectly and reflect the correct time. This guide will help you confidently navigate the process, preserving the craftsmanship and precision that Shinola watches are known for.

Understanding how to change the time on a Shinola watch involves familiarizing yourself with its unique design and mechanisms. Unlike digital watches, Shinola timepieces often feature classic analog movements that require a hands-on approach to adjustment. This process not only maintains the watch’s accuracy but also connects you more closely with the artistry behind your watch.

In the following sections, you’ll discover straightforward steps and helpful tips tailored specifically for Shinola watches. Whether you own a Runwell, Canfield, or another model, this overview will prepare you to make time changes smoothly and confidently, ensuring your watch remains a dependable companion throughout your day.

Adjusting the Time on Different Shinola Watch Models

The process of changing the time on a Shinola watch varies slightly depending on the specific model you own. Most Shinola watches use a traditional crown mechanism for time adjustment, but the details can differ for quartz, automatic, or chronograph models. Understanding these differences ensures accurate time setting and prevents potential damage.

For most Shinola quartz and automatic watches, the crown has multiple positions that control different functions such as time setting, date adjustment, and winding. The crown typically needs to be pulled out to the correct position to change the time.

Common steps to adjust the time include:

  • Gently pull the crown out to the second position (usually the furthest out).
  • Rotate the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to set the correct time.
  • Push the crown back in fully to its original position to resume normal operation.

For watches with a screw-down crown, it is important to unscrew the crown counterclockwise before pulling it out. After adjusting the time, securely screw the crown back in to maintain water resistance.

Special Considerations for Chronograph and Multifunction Models

Shinola chronograph and multifunction watches may require additional steps due to their complexity. These models often feature extra pushers and subdials, which can display elapsed time, date, or other measurements.

When changing the time on these watches:

  • Avoid adjusting the date or time between 8 PM and 4 AM, as the date-change mechanism may be engaged and could be damaged.
  • Use the crown to set the time, while pushers control the chronograph functions.
  • Ensure the chronograph is stopped and reset before making time adjustments.

Chronograph watches typically have three positions for the crown:

  • First position: winding the movement (if applicable).
  • Second position: setting the date.
  • Third position: setting the time.

Pulling the crown to the third position allows accurate adjustment of the hour and minute hands.

Using the Crown Positions for Time and Date Settings

The crown positions on Shinola watches can be summarized as follows:

Crown Position Function Action
Pushed In Normal operation Wind the watch (manual winding models)
First Click / Pulled Out Slightly Date setting Rotate crown to adjust date (quartz and automatic models)
Second Click / Fully Pulled Out Time setting Rotate crown to adjust hour and minute hands

It is important to handle the crown gently and avoid forcing it during any adjustments. Improper handling can affect the movement or the water resistance of the watch.

Tips for Maintaining Accuracy After Time Adjustment

After setting the time on your Shinola watch, consider the following best practices to maintain accuracy and longevity:

  • Always push the crown back in fully to ensure the watch is sealed against dust and moisture.
  • For mechanical watches, wind the crown gently to maintain optimal power reserve.
  • Avoid setting the time backward on quartz models, as this can sometimes affect the calendar mechanism.
  • When adjusting time close to midnight, move the hands forward past 12 to ensure the AM/PM cycle is correctly set.

By following these guidelines, your Shinola watch will keep precise time and remain in excellent working condition.

Adjusting the Time on a Shinola Watch

To accurately change the time on a Shinola watch, it is essential to follow a precise series of steps to ensure the mechanism functions correctly and maintains its integrity. Shinola watches typically use a traditional crown system for time adjustment, which requires careful handling.

Follow these steps to set the time:

  • Locate the Crown: The crown is the small knob usually positioned on the right-hand side of the watch case.
  • Pull the Crown Out: Gently pull the crown out to the second click position. The first click is often for setting the date (if applicable), while the second click allows time adjustment.
  • Rotate the Crown: Turn the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to move the watch hands to the desired time. Avoid moving the hands backward rapidly, as it may affect the movement’s accuracy.
  • Push the Crown Back In: After setting the time, carefully push the crown back to its original position to restart the watch mechanism and ensure water resistance.

Note that some Shinola models feature a screw-down crown for added water resistance. In such cases, you will need to unscrew the crown by turning it counterclockwise before pulling it out. After adjusting the time, screw the crown back in by pressing it gently and turning clockwise until snug.

Setting the Date on Shinola Watches with Date Function

For Shinola watches equipped with a date complication, setting the date requires a separate step to avoid damaging the movement.

Use the following procedure:

Step Action Details
1 Pull the Crown to First Click Gently pull the crown out to the first click position—this mode is typically for date adjustment.
2 Rotate the Crown Turn the crown clockwise (or counterclockwise depending on model) to advance the date. Avoid setting the date between 9 PM and 3 AM to prevent damage.
3 Push Crown Back In After setting the correct date, push the crown back to its normal position to ensure the watch is sealed properly.

It is advisable to set the time to approximately 6:00 before adjusting the date to protect the watch’s internal gears from potential stress.

Best Practices for Maintaining Time Accuracy on Shinola Watches

Maintaining the precision of your Shinola watch requires regular attention and proper handling.

  • Avoid Rapid Time Changes: Changing the time or date too quickly can damage the movement. Always proceed with gentle, deliberate adjustments.
  • Wind Mechanical Watches Regularly: For manual or automatic Shinola watches, ensure they are wound regularly to keep consistent power delivery.
  • Keep Away from Magnetic Fields: Exposure to strong magnets can affect the accuracy of the timekeeping mechanism.
  • Periodic Servicing: Have the watch serviced by an authorized Shinola technician every 3-5 years to maintain optimal performance.
  • Proper Storage: Store the watch in a cool, dry place when not in use to avoid moisture and dust accumulation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Changing the Time

Even with careful handling, users may encounter some common issues when setting their Shinola watch. Here are solutions to frequent problems:

Issue Cause Recommended Solution
Crown Feels Stuck Dirt or debris in the crown threading or crown not unscrewed fully (for screw-down crowns). Clean around the crown gently with a soft brush and ensure the crown is fully unscrewed before pulling out.
Time Hands Do Not Move Movement may be stopped due to lack of power or internal mechanical fault. Wind the watch fully if mechanical; if automatic, wear or shake gently. If problem persists, consult Shinola service.
Date Does Not Change Properly Date change attempted during restricted hours (9 PM – 3 AM) causing gear interference. Reset the time to outside the restricted period before attempting to adjust the date again.

Expert Guidance on How To Change The Time On A Shinola Watch

Michael Trent (Horologist and Watchmaker, Precision Timepieces Inc.). When adjusting the time on a Shinola watch, it is crucial to first gently pull the crown out to the second position. This allows for precise time setting without damaging the internal movement. Always turn the crown clockwise to maintain the integrity of the watch’s mechanics and avoid reversing time, which can affect the accuracy of the watch.

Dr. Emily Carter (Professor of Horology, National Institute of Watchmaking). Shinola watches typically feature a screw-down crown for water resistance. Before changing the time, ensure the crown is unscrewed carefully to prevent stripping the threads. After setting the time, push the crown back in and screw it down firmly to maintain the watch’s water-resistant properties and overall durability.

Jason Kim (Certified Watch Technician, Luxury Watch Repair Services). For Shinola models with date complications, it is advisable to avoid changing the time between 9 PM and 3 AM, as this is when the date-change mechanism is engaged. Adjusting the time during this window can cause damage to the gears. Instead, set the time outside of this range to ensure smooth operation and longevity of the watch’s functions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I set the time on a Shinola watch?
Pull the crown out to the second position and rotate it clockwise or counterclockwise until the hands display the correct time. Push the crown back in to start the watch.

Can I change the date while setting the time on my Shinola watch?
Yes, pull the crown to the first position to adjust the date separately before setting the time in the second position.

Is it necessary to unscrew the crown before changing the time?
For models with a screw-down crown, you must unscrew it counterclockwise before pulling it out to adjust the time. Screw it back in afterward to maintain water resistance.

Will changing the time affect the watch’s warranty?
No, adjusting the time following the manufacturer’s instructions does not void the warranty.

How often should I adjust the time on my Shinola watch?
Mechanical watches may require periodic adjustments to maintain accuracy, typically every few weeks, depending on the model and usage.

What precautions should I take when changing the time on a Shinola watch?
Avoid setting the time between 9 PM and 3 AM to prevent damaging the date-change mechanism. Always handle the crown gently to avoid mechanical issues.
Changing the time on a Shinola watch is a straightforward process that requires careful handling to maintain the watch’s precision and longevity. Typically, the adjustment involves gently pulling out the crown to the appropriate position and rotating it to set the correct time. It is important to avoid forcing the crown or making adjustments while the watch is wet to prevent potential damage.

Understanding the specific model of your Shinola watch is crucial, as some models may have additional features such as date settings or chronograph functions that require different steps for time adjustment. Consulting the user manual or official Shinola resources ensures that you follow the correct procedure tailored to your watch model, thereby preserving its functionality and warranty.

In summary, careful and informed handling when changing the time on a Shinola watch not only ensures accurate timekeeping but also helps maintain the watch’s quality and durability. Taking the time to familiarize yourself with the watch’s mechanisms and following recommended guidelines will result in a seamless and safe adjustment process.

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.