How To Change Date On A Citizen Watch

How to Change the Date on Your Citizen Watch: A Step-by-Step Guide

Citizen watches are known for their reliability and innovative technology. However, navigating the date-changing mechanism on some models can be a bit tricky. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process to help you adjust the date on your Citizen watch, regardless of its specific model. Remember, always refer to your watch's manual for specific instructions, as methods can vary slightly.

Understanding Your Citizen Watch's Crown

Before we begin, let's understand the crown – that small knob on the side of your watch. It's your key to adjusting the time and date. Most Citizen watches use a push-pull crown. This means you need to pull it out to a specific position to adjust the time and date, then push it back in to secure it.

Identifying the Crown Positions

Typically, there are three positions:

• Position 1 (Pushed In): This is the normal setting. The crown is fully pushed in, and the watch keeps time accurately.

• Position 2 (First Pull): Pulling the crown out slightly allows you to adjust the time. Rotating the crown clockwise advances the time, and rotating it counter-clockwise sets the time back.

• Position 3 (Second Pull, if applicable): On some Citizen models, pulling the crown out further allows you to adjust the date. This is usually only possible after the time has been set. This is the position we'll focus on in this guide. Not all Citizen watches have this position. If your crown only has two positions, the date setting is usually integrated with the time setting, as described below.

How to Change the Date: Method 1 (Separate Date Setting)

This method applies if your Citizen watch has a separate date-setting function (a third crown position).

1. Identify the correct crown position: Gently pull the crown out to the second position (if your watch has one). You may feel some resistance as you pull it out; this is normal.

2. Adjust the date: Rotate the crown to change the date. Rotating it clockwise advances the date, while rotating it counter-clockwise sets the date back. You'll usually need to rotate it several times to change the day.

3. Return the crown to its normal position: Once you've set the correct date, gently push the crown back into its original, fully-in position (Position 1). Ensure the crown is fully seated.

How to Change the Date: Method 2 (Integrated Time and Date Setting)

Some Citizen watches integrate date setting into the time adjustment process. This means there's only one pull-out position for both time and date.

1. Pull the crown out to the first position: Gently pull the crown out to the first position.

2. Set the time past midnight: Slowly adjust the time. Many watches will automatically change the date when the time passes midnight (12:00 AM). Set the time past midnight (e.g. to 12:01 AM), and the date will usually adjust accordingly.

3. Push the crown back in: Once you've set the time, gently push the crown back into its original position.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• The date doesn't change: Double-check that you've pulled the crown out to the correct position. If you're unsure, consult your watch's manual. If this happens after the time has passed midnight (Method 2), try changing the time further past midnight.

• The crown is stuck: Do not force the crown. If it's stuck, consult a watch repair professional.

• The date is incorrect after setting: Make sure the time is correctly set, and then double-check that you followed the steps appropriately for your particular Citizen watch model.

By carefully following these steps and consulting your watch's manual, you'll be able to confidently change the date on your Citizen watch. Remember, gentle handling is crucial to prevent any damage. If you're still having trouble, it's always best to seek professional assistance from a watch repair specialist.