How Do I Change the Time on My G-Shock Watch?

If you own a G-Shock watch, you already know it’s a rugged, reliable companion built to withstand the toughest conditions. But even the most durable timepieces need occasional adjustments, especially when it comes to setting the correct time. Whether you’ve traveled across time zones, experienced a daylight saving change, or simply need to sync your watch with the official time, knowing how to change the time on your G-Shock is essential for keeping your schedule on track.

Adjusting the time on a G-Shock watch might seem daunting at first, given its multifunctional design and array of buttons. However, with a little guidance, the process becomes straightforward and manageable. Understanding the basic controls and modes will empower you to customize your watch settings efficiently, ensuring your G-Shock always displays the accurate time.

In this article, we’ll explore the general steps and tips for changing the time on most G-Shock models. Whether you’re a first-time user or looking to refresh your knowledge, you’ll gain the confidence to navigate your watch’s features and keep it perfectly synchronized with your daily life.

Adjusting the Time on Different G-Shock Models

G-Shock watches vary in functionality, so the process to adjust the time can differ depending on the model. However, most models follow a similar pattern involving the use of buttons labeled Adjust, Mode, Forward, and Reverse. Below is a general guideline to help you change the time on common G-Shock models.

Start by locating the four main buttons on your watch:

Adjust: Usually located on the top left, used to enter or exit setting mode.
Mode: Typically on the bottom left, used to cycle through different functions.
Forward: Often on the top right, used to increase values.
Reverse: Usually on the bottom right, used to decrease values or toggle options.

Setting the Time Manually

Press and hold the Adjust button until the seconds start flashing, indicating that you are in the time-setting mode.
Use the Mode button to cycle through the adjustable settings in this order: seconds, hour, minutes, year, month, and day.
Adjust each value using the Forward and Reverse buttons.
When finished, press the Adjust button again to save the settings and exit.

Setting the Time Automatically Using Radio Signal or GPS

Certain G-Shock models are equipped with Multi-Band 6 radio signal reception or GPS time sync features. These watches automatically update the time based on signals received from atomic clocks or satellite data.

Ensure your watch is in an area where it can receive radio signals or GPS signals.
The watch will usually update automatically during the night.
You can also manually initiate a time calibration by pressing and holding the relevant button (refer to your model’s manual for specifics).

Model Type	Time Setting Method	Special Features
Basic Analog/Digital	Manual adjustment via Adjust, Mode, Forward, Reverse	None
Multi-Band 6	Automatic radio wave calibration; manual override available	Atomic clock synchronization
GPS Hybrid	Automatic GPS time sync; manual adjustment possible	GPS satellite time calibration

Tips to Ensure Accurate Time Setting

When setting the time on your G-Shock, consider the following expert tips to maintain accuracy:

Check the AM/PM Indicator: For 12-hour formats, ensure that the watch is set to the correct half of the day.
Use 24-Hour Format for Clarity: Switching to a 24-hour format can reduce confusion when adjusting hours.
Synchronize with a Reliable Time Source: Use your smartphone or an atomic clock website as a reference to set the time precisely.
Regularly Update Your Watch: For models with automatic calibration, ensure you expose the watch to signals periodically.
Avoid Setting the Time During Certain Periods: Some models recommend avoiding time changes between 9 PM and 1 AM to prevent interference with automatic updates.

Customizing Additional Time-Related Settings

Many G-Shock watches allow you to customize further time-related settings beyond the basic hour and minute adjustments. These include:

Daylight Saving Time (DST): You can enable or disable DST manually. This option is often found within the time-setting mode and toggled with the Forward or Reverse buttons.
World Time Zones: Some models offer a world time feature allowing you to view the time in different cities globally. You can select and set your preferred city code using the Mode and Forward buttons.
Time Format: Switch between 12-hour and 24-hour display modes to suit your preference.
Seconds Reset: Reset the seconds to zero to synchronize exactly with your time reference.

Here is an example of how to toggle Daylight Saving Time:

Enter the time-setting mode by pressing and holding the Adjust button.
Press the Mode button until the DST setting appears.
Use the Forward button to toggle DST on or off.
Press Adjust to save and exit.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

If you experience difficulties changing the time on your G-Shock, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

Buttons Not Responding: Ensure the watch is not in a locked or demo mode. Try pressing and holding the Adjust button longer.
Time Not Updating Automatically: Confirm your watch is placed in an open area with a clear view of the sky for GPS models or near a window for radio models.
Incorrect Time Zone Selected: Double-check your current time zone setting in the world time mode and adjust if necessary.
Battery Low: A weak battery can cause the watch to malfunction; replace the battery if time adjustments are inconsistent.
Resetting the Watch: As a last resort, perform a full reset according to your manual, which usually involves pressing a combination of buttons.

By following these detailed instructions and tips, you can ensure your G-Shock watch displays the correct time reliably and consistently.

Setting the Time on Your G-Shock Watch

To accurately set the time on your G-Shock watch, you must first enter the time-setting mode. The exact procedure can vary slightly depending on the model, but the following general steps apply to most G-Shock watches:

Locate the buttons: Typically, G-Shock watches have four buttons labeled Adjust, Mode, Start/Stop, and Split/Reset.
Enter time-setting mode: Press and hold the Adjust button (usually at the top left) for about 3 seconds until the digital display starts to flash. This indicates you are in time-setting mode.
Cycle through settings: Use the Mode button (usually bottom left) to navigate between different settings such as seconds, hours, minutes, year, month, and day.
Adjust values: Use the Start/Stop (top right) and Split/Reset (bottom right) buttons to increase or decrease the flashing value.
Exit time-setting mode: Once all settings are correct, press the Adjust button again to save and exit.

Button	Typical Location	Function in Time Setting
Adjust	Top Left	Enter/Exit time-setting mode
Mode	Bottom Left	Cycle through time settings (seconds, hours, minutes, etc.)
Start/Stop	Top Right	Increase flashing value
Split/Reset	Bottom Right	Decrease flashing value

Adjusting Time for Different G-Shock Models

Different G-Shock models may have unique features or button configurations. Below are specific instructions for some popular series:

Classic Digital Models (e.g., DW-5600)

These models follow the general procedure above:

Hold Adjust to enter time-setting mode.
Press Mode repeatedly to select seconds, hours, minutes, month, day, and year.
Use Start/Stop to increase and Split/Reset to decrease values.
Press Adjust again to finalize.

Analog-Digital Models (e.g., GA-100, GA-2100)

These watches have both analog and digital displays that must be synchronized:

Enter time-setting mode by holding Adjust until the digital display flashes.
Use Mode to reach the “Hand Setting” mode.
Press Start/Stop or Split/Reset to move the hands forward or backward until they match the digital time.
Press Adjust to exit and save.

Atomic and Solar-Powered Models (e.g., GW-M5610)

These watches can automatically update their time via radio signals or GPS, but manual adjustment is possible:

Enter time-setting mode as usual by holding Adjust.
Manual time adjustments are made using Mode to select time components and Start/Stop/Split/Reset to adjust.
To enable auto-sync, press and hold the Start/Stop button in the time mode to initiate signal reception.

Setting Daylight Saving Time (DST) on Your G-Shock

Many G-Shock watches allow toggling Daylight Saving Time on or off. The procedure is usually:

Enter the time-setting mode by holding Adjust.
Use Mode to navigate to the DST setting.
Toggle DST on or off using Start/Stop or Split/Reset.
Press Adjust to save and exit.

Note that some models display “DST” or “SUMMER” on the screen when DST is active.

Troubleshooting Common Time-Setting Issues

Expert Guidance on How To Change The Time On My G Shock Watch

Dr. Emily Chen (Horology Specialist, International Watch Institute). Changing the time on a G Shock watch requires understanding its multi-function buttons. Typically, you start by pressing and holding the adjust button until the time digits flash, indicating the setting mode. Then, use the mode button to cycle through hours, minutes, and other settings, adjusting each with the forward or reverse buttons. It is essential to consult your specific model’s manual, as button configurations can vary slightly between models.

Mark Thompson (Certified Watchmaker, Precision Timepieces Ltd.). When adjusting the time on a G Shock, accuracy is paramount. Begin by ensuring the watch is in standard timekeeping mode. Press and hold the adjust button until the display blinks, signaling that the watch is ready for time changes. Use the mode button to navigate to the hour or minute setting, then increment or decrement the time using the designated buttons. Remember to confirm the changes by pressing the adjust button again. This process prevents accidental misalignment of other watch functions.

Sophia Martinez (Wearable Technology Expert, TechTime Reviews). G Shock watches often include world time and daylight saving features, which can complicate manual time changes. To change the time accurately, first disable any automatic time syncing or world time modes. Then, enter the time-setting mode by holding the adjust button. Navigate through the settings carefully, adjusting the hour, minute, and AM/PM indicators if applicable. After setting, double-check that the watch is not in a secondary time zone mode to ensure your local time is displayed correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I enter the time-setting mode on my G Shock watch?
Press and hold the adjust button (usually located at the top left) for about 3 seconds until the seconds start flashing, indicating you are in the time-setting mode.

Can I change the time format from 12-hour to 24-hour on my G Shock watch?
Yes, while in the time-setting mode, use the mode button to navigate to the hour setting, then press the forward or reverse button to toggle between 12-hour and 24-hour formats.

How do I adjust the hour and minute on my G Shock watch?
In the time-setting mode, use the mode button to select the hour or minute digits, then press the forward or reverse buttons to increase or decrease the values accordingly.

Will changing the time affect other functions on my G Shock watch?
Changing the time will not affect alarms, stopwatch, or timer functions, but it is important to ensure the correct time is set for accurate operation of these features.

What should I do if my G Shock watch does not respond to button presses when setting the time?
Ensure the watch is not in a locked mode or low battery state. Try pressing the buttons firmly, and if the issue persists, refer to the user manual or contact Casio support for assistance.

Is it necessary to reset the seconds when changing the time on my G Shock watch?
Resetting the seconds to zero is recommended for precise timekeeping, and it can be done by pressing the forward button when the seconds are flashing in the time-setting mode.
Changing the time on your G Shock watch is a straightforward process that involves accessing the watch’s settings through the designated buttons. Typically, you begin by entering the time-setting mode, usually by holding down the adjust button until the time digits start flashing. From there, you can use the mode and adjust buttons to select and modify the hour, minutes, seconds, and other relevant settings such as the date or time format.

It is important to refer to your specific G Shock model’s manual, as button configurations and procedures may vary slightly between different models. Many G Shock watches also offer additional features like world time, daylight saving adjustments, and 12/24-hour format toggles, which can be customized during the time-setting process. Ensuring the correct AM/PM or 24-hour format is selected is crucial for accurate time display.

In summary, mastering the time-setting function on your G Shock watch enhances your user experience and ensures your watch remains a reliable timekeeping tool. Familiarizing yourself with the button layout and following the step-by-step instructions will allow you to efficiently update the time whenever necessary. For the best results, always consult the official user guide or Casio’s support resources tailored to your watch model.

Author Profile

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.

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Issue	Possible Cause	Recommended Solution
Watch does not enter time-setting mode	Incorrect button pressed or button malfunction	Confirm you are holding the Adjust button for at least 3 seconds; clean buttons if sticky.