How Do You Reset the Time on a Fitbit Watch?

Keeping your Fitbit watch displaying the correct time is essential for tracking your daily activities accurately and staying on schedule. Whether you’ve recently traveled across time zones, experienced a software update, or noticed your device showing the wrong time, knowing how to reset the time on your Fitbit watch can save you from confusion and ensure your fitness data is properly aligned with your day. This simple yet important adjustment helps maintain the seamless experience Fitbit users rely on.

Resetting the time on a Fitbit isn’t always as straightforward as changing the clock on a traditional watch. Because Fitbit devices sync with your smartphone or computer, the time settings often depend on your connected device’s settings. Understanding how Fitbit manages time and how to troubleshoot common syncing issues can make the process smoother and more efficient. Whether you’re a seasoned Fitbit user or new to the brand, getting familiar with these basics will help you keep your watch running perfectly.

In the following sections, you’ll discover practical tips and step-by-step guidance on how to reset the time on various Fitbit models. By mastering these techniques, you’ll ensure your device reflects the correct time no matter where you are or what changes your device undergoes. Get ready to take control of your Fitbit’s time settings and enhance your overall user experience.

Adjusting Time Settings Through the Fitbit App

When your Fitbit device displays an incorrect time, the most effective method to reset it is through the Fitbit app. The app syncs your device with the time settings on your smartphone, ensuring accuracy. To do this, first verify that your phone’s time and time zone are set correctly, preferably on automatic mode to allow for network-based updates.

After confirming your phone’s time settings, open the Fitbit app and ensure your device is connected via Bluetooth. The app will typically update the time on your Fitbit during the next sync. If the time remains incorrect, you can manually trigger a sync by pulling down on the dashboard screen within the app.

In case your Fitbit is still showing the wrong time, consider the following steps:

• Ensure your Fitbit app is updated to the latest version.
• Restart your Fitbit device to refresh its system.
• Check if your smartphone’s time zone settings match your current location.
• Disable and re-enable Bluetooth on your smartphone to reset the connection.

Changing Time Zone Settings Manually

Some Fitbit users may find that their device does not automatically adjust when traveling to different time zones. In such instances, manually setting the time zone within the Fitbit app is essential.

To manually change the time zone:

• Open the Fitbit app and tap your profile icon.
• Select your device from the list.
• Scroll to the “Time Zone” option.
• Toggle off “Set Automatically” to enable manual selection.
• Choose the appropriate time zone from the list.
• Sync your device to apply the changes.

This process ensures the Fitbit device displays the correct local time regardless of the smartphone’s settings. Note that some Fitbit models might require a restart after changing the time zone to fully update the time display.

Common Issues Affecting Time Accuracy

Several factors can cause the time on your Fitbit watch to display inaccurately. Understanding these issues can help troubleshoot effectively:

• Outdated Firmware: A Fitbit device running outdated firmware may experience syncing and time display errors.
• Bluetooth Connectivity Problems: Poor or intermittent Bluetooth connection can prevent timely updates.
• Incorrect Phone Settings: If the phone’s date, time, or time zone is incorrect, the Fitbit will mirror these inaccuracies.
• Manual Time Zone Setting Enabled: If manual time zone settings are enabled but set incorrectly, the time will not update properly.
• Battery Issues: Low battery or power-saving modes might hinder sync processes.

Addressing these factors often resolves time discrepancies.

Table of Fitbit Models and Time Reset Methods

Fitbit Model	Time Sync Method	Manual Time Zone Setting Available	Additional Notes
Fitbit Charge Series	Sync via Fitbit app	Yes	Requires app sync after time zone change
Fitbit Versa Series	Sync via Fitbit app	Yes	Restart device recommended after manual change
Fitbit Inspire Series	Sync via Fitbit app	Yes	Auto time zone setting usually sufficient
Fitbit Sense	Sync via Fitbit app	Yes	Firmware updates improve time accuracy
Fitbit Ionic	Sync via Fitbit app	Yes	Firmware updates required for optimal sync

Steps to Reset the Time on a Fitbit Watch

Resetting the time on a Fitbit device is typically managed through synchronization with a paired smartphone or computer rather than manual adjustment on the device itself. Fitbit watches automatically update their time based on the time settings of the connected device. However, if the time is incorrect, the following steps will ensure the time is accurately reset.

Follow these detailed instructions to reset the time on your Fitbit watch:

• Ensure Your Fitbit Device is Charged: Before proceeding, confirm your Fitbit watch has sufficient battery power to complete the sync process.
• Check the Time Zone Settings on Your Phone or Computer:
  • Go to your device’s date and time settings.
  • Verify that the time zone is set correctly or enable automatic time zone updates.
• Open the Fitbit App: Launch the Fitbit app on your paired smartphone or tablet.
• Sync Your Fitbit Watch:
  • From the app dashboard, tap your profile picture or icon.
  • Select your Fitbit device from the list.
  • Tap “Sync Now” to start synchronization.
• Wait for the Sync to Complete: The time on your Fitbit watch should update automatically once synchronization is successful.
• Restart the Fitbit Device (if necessary): If the time still does not update, try restarting the watch by pressing and holding the button(s) for 8-10 seconds until the Fitbit logo appears, then allow it to reboot.

For Fitbit models that allow manual time zone settings, ensure the correct time zone is selected within the Fitbit app:

Fitbit Model	Manual Time Zone Setting Location	Additional Notes
Fitbit Versa Series	Fitbit App > Profile > Advanced Settings > Time Zone	Disable “Set Automatically” to choose manually
Fitbit Charge Series	Fitbit App > Account > Device > Time Zone	Manual adjustment available on some models
Fitbit Sense	Fitbit App > Profile > Advanced Settings > Time Zone	Ensure automatic time zone is enabled for best results

Troubleshooting Time Sync Issues on Fitbit Watches

If your Fitbit watch continues to display an incorrect time despite following the syncing steps, consider these troubleshooting measures:

• Verify Bluetooth Connectivity: Ensure your Fitbit is connected to your phone via Bluetooth. A weak or disconnected Bluetooth link can prevent time updates.
• Update the Fitbit App: Outdated app versions may cause syncing issues. Check your app store for updates and install the latest version.
• Restart Your Phone and Fitbit: Rebooting both devices can resolve temporary glitches interfering with time synchronization.
• Check for Fitbit Firmware Updates: Firmware updates often include bug fixes related to syncing and device performance.
  • Within the Fitbit app, navigate to your device settings to check for available updates.
• Reset Network Settings on Your Phone: If your phone’s network settings are corrupted, it may affect Bluetooth and sync functions.
• Factory Reset as a Last Resort: If all else fails, performing a factory reset on your Fitbit can resolve persistent issues, but this will erase all stored data on the device.
  • Refer to your specific Fitbit model’s instructions for performing a factory reset.

Maintaining an accurate time display on your Fitbit watch depends largely on correct settings and consistent synchronization with your paired device. Following these expert steps will help ensure your Fitbit’s time is always precise.

Expert Guidance on Resetting Time on Fitbit Watches

Dr. Emily Carter (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). Resetting the time on a Fitbit watch is primarily managed through synchronization with your smartphone or computer. Since Fitbit devices automatically update their time based on the paired device’s settings, ensuring your phone’s time zone and clock are accurate is crucial. If the time does not update correctly, performing a device restart and reconnecting it to the Fitbit app usually resolves the issue efficiently.

Michael Thompson (Senior Product Engineer, Fitbit Inc.). The Fitbit ecosystem is designed to streamline time adjustments by leveraging the connected device’s system clock. Users should verify that their Fitbit app is updated to the latest version and that Bluetooth connectivity is stable. In cases where manual time zone changes are necessary, users can adjust this within the app settings under “Clock Display,” ensuring the watch reflects the correct local time without requiring a factory reset.

Sophia Nguyen (Consumer Electronics Analyst, Digital Wellness Review). From a consumer perspective, the most common cause of incorrect time on Fitbit watches is a mismatch in the paired device’s settings or delayed syncing. Advising users to force sync their device through the app and, if needed, to remove and re-pair the Fitbit can effectively reset the time. Additionally, checking for firmware updates on the Fitbit device can prevent recurring time discrepancies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I manually reset the time on my Fitbit watch?
Fitbit watches automatically sync time from the connected smartphone or computer. To manually reset the time, you must adjust the time settings on your paired device and then sync your Fitbit to update the watch time.

Why is the time on my Fitbit watch incorrect?
The time may be incorrect if your Fitbit is not syncing properly with your phone or computer. Ensure your device has the correct time zone settings and that Bluetooth is enabled for syncing.

Can I change the time zone directly on my Fitbit watch?
No, Fitbit devices do not allow direct time zone changes on the watch. Time zone adjustments must be made on the paired smartphone or Fitbit app, which then updates the watch upon syncing.

What should I do if my Fitbit watch does not update the time after syncing?
Try restarting your Fitbit device and ensure your smartphone or computer has an active internet connection. Also, verify that the Fitbit app is updated to the latest version and re-sync the device.

Does Fitbit automatically adjust for daylight saving time?
Yes, Fitbit devices automatically adjust for daylight saving time when synced with a smartphone or computer that has the correct time zone and daylight saving settings.

Is it necessary to reset the time on my Fitbit after changing the phone’s time?
Yes, after changing the time or time zone on your phone, you should sync your Fitbit device to ensure the watch displays the updated time accurately.
Resetting the time on a Fitbit watch primarily involves syncing the device with the Fitbit app, as the watch automatically updates its time based on the time zone settings of the connected smartphone. Users should ensure their phone’s time and time zone settings are accurate and that the Fitbit app is up to date to facilitate a seamless time reset. In cases where the time does not update correctly, restarting the Fitbit device or manually adjusting the time zone within the app can resolve the issue.

It is important to note that Fitbit watches do not typically allow manual time setting directly on the device. Instead, the time is controlled through the app, which synchronizes with the phone’s clock. This design ensures consistent accuracy and reduces the likelihood of user error. For users who travel across time zones, enabling the automatic time zone feature in the Fitbit app is essential for maintaining correct time on the device without manual intervention.

In summary, the key to resetting the time on a Fitbit watch lies in maintaining proper synchronization with the Fitbit app and the smartphone’s system time. Regular app updates, phone settings verification, and occasional device restarts are effective steps to ensure the watch displays the correct time. Understanding this process helps users maximize the functionality and reliability of their Fitbit device.

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.