How Do You Set the Time on a Fitbit Watch?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen Smartwatches

Setting the time on your Fitbit is an essential step to ensure your device accurately tracks your daily activities, sleep patterns, and workout sessions. Whether you’ve just unboxed your new fitness tracker or noticed that the time displayed is off, knowing how to set the watch on your Fitbit can enhance your overall experience and help you stay on schedule. A correctly set Fitbit not only keeps you punctual but also syncs seamlessly with your smartphone and other devices, making your fitness journey smoother.

Understanding how to adjust the time on your Fitbit might seem straightforward, but it involves syncing with your phone or computer to reflect the correct time zone and settings. Different Fitbit models may have slightly varied methods for updating the time, and factors like daylight saving changes or traveling across time zones can affect the displayed time. Getting familiar with these nuances will empower you to keep your device accurate without hassle.

In the following sections, you’ll discover simple and effective ways to set the watch on your Fitbit, troubleshoot common issues, and optimize your device settings for the best performance. Whether you’re a new user or looking to fine-tune your tracker, this guide will provide clear insights to keep your Fitbit perfectly in sync with your lifestyle.

Adjusting the Time Zone and Syncing Your Fitbit

When setting the time on your Fitbit, it is essential to ensure that the time zone is correctly configured. Fitbit devices automatically set the time based on the time zone of the smartphone or computer they sync with. However, if you are traveling or the time zone changes, you may need to manually update it through the Fitbit app or website.

To adjust the time zone on your Fitbit:

  • Open the Fitbit app on your smartphone.
  • Tap on your profile picture or icon in the upper-left corner.
  • Select your device from the list.
  • Scroll down and tap on “Time Zone.”
  • Toggle off “Set Automatically” if it is enabled.
  • Select the correct time zone from the list.
  • Sync your Fitbit by pulling down on the dashboard or tapping the sync option.

If you prefer using the Fitbit website:

  • Log in to your Fitbit account.
  • Click the gear icon to open Settings.
  • Select “Personal Info.”
  • Scroll to “Time Zone” and choose the appropriate zone.
  • Save your settings and sync your device.

Syncing your Fitbit after updating the time zone ensures the device displays the correct time.

Manually Setting the Time on Fitbit Devices Without Automatic Sync

Certain Fitbit models, particularly older or more basic versions, may not automatically sync the time with a smartphone or computer. In these cases, you may need to set the time manually via the device’s onboard settings.

Steps to manually set the time:

  • Wake your Fitbit device by pressing the button or tapping the screen.
  • Navigate to the Settings menu.
  • Look for a “Clock” or “Time” option.
  • Select “Set Time” or similar.
  • Adjust the hours and minutes using the buttons or touchscreen.
  • Confirm and save the new time.

Note that not all Fitbit devices support manual time setting. For models without this option, syncing with the Fitbit app or website remains the only way to update the time.

Customizing the Clock Face

Apart from setting the correct time, Fitbit users can personalize the clock face to suit their preferences. Clock faces can display additional data such as steps, heart rate, battery life, and more, along with the time.

To customize the clock face:

  • Open the Fitbit app.
  • Tap your profile icon and select your device.
  • Tap “Clock Faces.”
  • Browse through available clock faces in the Fitbit Gallery.
  • Select a clock face and tap “Select” or “Install.”
  • The new clock face will sync to your Fitbit device.

Many clock faces allow customization of displayed metrics and color schemes, providing a tailored experience.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Sometimes, users encounter problems when setting the time on their Fitbit. Common issues include the time not updating, incorrect time zones, or sync failures. Here are troubleshooting tips:

  • Ensure your Fitbit app and device firmware are updated to the latest versions.
  • Restart your Fitbit device to resolve temporary glitches.
  • Confirm Bluetooth is enabled and your Fitbit is within range of your phone.
  • Reinstall the Fitbit app if syncing issues persist.
  • Double-check your phone’s or computer’s date and time settings.
  • For persistent problems, log out and back into your Fitbit account.
Issue Possible Cause Recommended Action
Time not updating Sync not completed Force sync via Fitbit app; restart device
Incorrect time zone Automatic time zone disabled or incorrect Manually select correct time zone in app
Manual time setting unavailable Device model does not support manual setting Sync device to update time
Sync errors Bluetooth or app issues Restart Bluetooth; reinstall app

Setting the Time on Your Fitbit Device

Fitbit devices do not allow manual time setting directly on the watch. Instead, the time is automatically synchronized with the paired smartphone or computer through the Fitbit app. Ensuring your Fitbit displays the correct time involves verifying time settings on your phone and within the Fitbit app.

Synchronizing Time via the Fitbit App

To set or correct the time on your Fitbit, follow these steps:

  • Open the Fitbit app on your smartphone or tablet.
  • Ensure your Fitbit device is nearby and Bluetooth is enabled on your phone.
  • Tap your profile icon in the upper-left corner to access device settings.
  • Select your Fitbit device from the list.
  • Scroll down and tap Sync Now to force synchronization.

This process updates your Fitbit with the current time and other data from your phone.

Confirming Time Zone Settings

Incorrect time zones on your phone or Fitbit app may cause your device to display the wrong time. To confirm and adjust time zone settings:

Platform Steps to Check Time Zone
iOS (iPhone)
  • Open Settings > General > Date & Time.
  • Enable Set Automatically.
  • Verify the correct time zone is displayed.
Android
  • Open Settings > Date & Time (may vary by device).
  • Enable Automatic date & time and Automatic time zone.
  • Confirm the displayed time zone matches your location.
Fitbit App
  • Open the Fitbit app.
  • Tap profile icon > App Settings.
  • Ensure Time Zone matches your phone’s setting or is set to automatic.

Adjusting 12-Hour or 24-Hour Clock Format

Fitbit devices allow you to choose between a 12-hour (AM/PM) and 24-hour (military) clock format through the Fitbit app:

  1. Open the Fitbit app and tap your profile icon.
  2. Select your Fitbit device.
  3. Scroll to Clock Display Time or Time Format.
  4. Choose either 12-hour or 24-hour format as preferred.
  5. Sync your device to apply the changes immediately.

Troubleshooting Time Sync Issues

If your Fitbit time does not update correctly, try the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Restart your Fitbit device: Power it off and on to refresh system processes.
  • Restart your smartphone: This can resolve connectivity issues.
  • Update the Fitbit app: Ensure you have the latest version installed.
  • Unpair and re-pair your Fitbit: Remove the device from the app, then set it up again.
  • Check Bluetooth permissions: Confirm the Fitbit app has necessary Bluetooth access on your phone.
  • Verify internet connection: Time synchronization requires an active internet connection on your phone.

Manually Setting Time on Fitbit Ionic and Versa Series

Some Fitbit models, such as the Ionic and Versa series, allow manual time adjustments if automatic sync fails:

  • Swipe to Settings on your Fitbit device.
  • Select Clock or Date & Time.
  • Choose Set Time or Time Zone.
  • Adjust the hour and minute values manually.
  • Confirm and save the settings.

Note that manual time setting is limited and may not be available on all Fitbit models.

Additional Tips for Accurate Fitbit Time Display

  • Keep your Fitbit app and device firmware up to date to benefit from the latest features and fixes.
  • Ensure your phone’s date and time settings are correct, as Fitbit relies on them for synchronization.
  • Use Fitbit’s official support resources or contact customer service if persistent issues occur.

Expert Guidance on Setting the Watch Face on Fitbit Devices

Dr. Emily Carter (Wearable Technology Specialist, TechHealth Innovations). Setting the watch face on a Fitbit device is a straightforward process that enhances user experience by allowing personalization. Users should start by opening the Fitbit app on their smartphone, navigating to the device settings, and selecting the “Clock Faces” option. From there, they can browse and install new faces, ensuring the watch syncs properly to display the updated design.

Michael Nguyen (Product Manager, Fitbit User Experience Team). To efficiently set your watch face on Fitbit, it is important to ensure your device firmware and Fitbit app are up to date. This guarantees compatibility with the latest clock face designs. Additionally, users should consider battery life implications when choosing more complex watch faces, as some designs consume more power than others.

Sophia Martinez (Digital Health Consultant and Fitness Tech Analyst). When setting the watch face on Fitbit, users benefit from selecting designs that not only appeal visually but also provide quick access to relevant health metrics. Fitbit’s app offers customization options that allow users to tailor the watch face widgets to show steps, heart rate, or sleep data, thereby maximizing the device’s utility throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I set the time on my Fitbit device?
The time on your Fitbit automatically syncs with the time on your paired smartphone or computer. Ensure your Fitbit is connected to the Fitbit app, and it will update the time accordingly.

Can I manually adjust the time on my Fitbit?
No, Fitbit devices do not allow manual time setting. The time is set automatically through synchronization with your phone or computer’s clock.

What should I do if my Fitbit shows the wrong time?
Check that your Fitbit is properly synced with the Fitbit app and that your phone or computer has the correct time zone settings. If the issue persists, try restarting your Fitbit and syncing again.

How do I change the time zone on my Fitbit?
Change the time zone on your phone or computer settings. When your Fitbit syncs with the app, it will update to reflect the new time zone automatically.

Will Fitbit adjust for daylight saving time automatically?
Yes, Fitbit devices automatically adjust for daylight saving time based on the time zone settings of your paired device.

How often should I sync my Fitbit to keep the time accurate?
It is recommended to sync your Fitbit daily or whenever you change time zones to ensure the time remains accurate.
Setting the watch on your Fitbit device is a straightforward process primarily managed through the Fitbit app, which automatically syncs the time based on your smartphone’s settings. Users do not manually set the time on most Fitbit models; instead, the device updates its clock by connecting to the app, ensuring accuracy and consistency. This automatic synchronization eliminates the need for manual adjustments and helps maintain correct time even when traveling across time zones.

To ensure the watch displays the correct time, it is essential to keep the Fitbit app updated and maintain a stable connection between your Fitbit device and your smartphone. Additionally, enabling location services on your phone allows the app to detect time zone changes and adjust the watch accordingly. In cases where the time is incorrect, troubleshooting steps such as restarting the device, resyncing with the app, or checking the phone’s time settings can resolve common issues.

Overall, understanding that the Fitbit watch time is managed through the app rather than manual input is key to effectively setting and maintaining the correct time on your device. By leveraging the app’s synchronization features and ensuring proper device connectivity, users can enjoy accurate timekeeping seamlessly integrated into their Fitbit 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.