How to Change The Date And Time On A Rolex Watch?

Owning your first Rolex is an exciting experience. Naturally, you want to get the most out of it, so you probably have questions about its features. Some of these functions are ones you'll use often.

Do you know how to set up a Rolex watch? It's important to start with the correct time and date. You might also wonder how and when to wind it. 

Understanding the Mechanism of a Rolex Watch

Knowing how a Rolex works is important to understand how to adjust the date and time. Rolex watches are known for their precision and reliability, especially their date function.

The date mechanism in a Rolex includes a thin disc with numbers for each day of the month along its edge. This disc is connected to a system of gears and springs that move the date forward by one day at midnight every day.

In most Rolex models, you can see the date disc through a small window near 3 o'clock under the watch's face. Some models, like the Rolex Day-Date, also show the day of the week.

Rolex watches often feature a quickset mechanism for easy and precise date adjustments. This feature lets you change the date without adjusting the time by pulling out the crown to a specific position and turning it. It's a convenient way to set the date quickly.

Interestingly, Rolex's date changes gradually over about two hours, starting around 10 PM and finishing by midnight. This gradual shift helps protect the delicate parts of the date mechanism from damage.

Understanding the details of how the Rolex date mechanism works deepens your appreciation for each watch's craftsmanship and helps you care for it properly. Later sections will discuss specific Rolex models and provide step-by-step guides for accurately setting the date.

Identifying Your Rolex Watch Model for Adjusting the Date and Time

Before you attempt to adjust both the date and time on your Rolex watch, it's crucial to identify the specific model you own. While the basic steps for setting these functions are generally similar across most Rolex watches, there may be slight variations depending on the model.

Over the years, Rolex has introduced numerous models, each with its own unique features and complications. Some popular Rolex models with date and time functions include the Rolex Datejust, Rolex Day-Date, Rolex Submariner, and Rolex GMT-Master II.

To determine your Rolex model, start by examining the dial. Look for any text that indicates the model name, such as "Datejust" or "Submariner." If the model name isn't immediately visible, check the reference number engraved on the case between the lugs at the 12 o'clock position. This serial number can help identify your watch's specific model and production year.

If you're still uncertain about your Rolex model, consult any accompanying documentation, such as the warranty card or manual. Alternatively, seek assistance from an authorized Rolex retailer or a reputable watch specialist to accurately identify your watch model.

How to Set the Time and Date on a Rolex Watch

Rolex, renowned for its luxury watches, used to make quartz models in the past. However, all their newer models are automatic mechanical watches that use your wrist's motion to wind and keep the gears running.

Whether your watch is brand new or has stopped due to lack of wear, you must set the time and date when you wear it.

Setting the time and date on your Rolex depends on your specific model. It's not as simple as it sounds, and there are important things to avoid when setting automatic and mechanical watches. On a Rolex, the crown is located on the case at 3 o'clock and has 4 positions numbered 0 to 3.

• Position 0 : This is when the crown is fully locked and watertight, which should be its standard position when not winding or setting the watch.
• Position 1: Used for winding the watch when necessary.
• Position 2: It sets the date and day if your watch has the quickset feature.
• Position 3: Adjusts the actual time.

Winding Your Rolex Watch

1. Start by ensuring your watch is properly wound. For quartz watches, this means replacing the battery to restart the mechanisms. Automatic and mechanical watches, like Rolex, require manual winding.

2. Locate the crown on the side of the watch case at 3 o'clock. This crown stays locked for waterproofing. To unlock it, turn the crown counterclockwise until it releases completely.

3. Once unlocked, turn the crown clockwise in one full rotation. Repeat this 30 to 40 times to fully wind the watch. You'll feel increasing resistance as the spring inside tightens. Most modern watches have safety features to prevent overwinding and damaging the spring.

4. Press the crown back toward the case and turn it clockwise to lock it securely into place with the threads.

Setting the Time on Your Rolex Watch

1. To set the time, first unscrew the crown located at 3 o'clock by turning it counterclockwise. Once the threads are released, gently pull the crown to position 3. Position 1 is for winding the watch.

2. In position 3, turn the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the time to the correct hour and minute.

3. After setting the time, push the crown back into the case and secure it by turning it clockwise to lock it in place.

Setting the Date on Your Rolex Watch

1. If your Rolex has a quickset feature, you can adjust the date separately from the time. Unlock the crown by turning it counterclockwise and pulling it to position 2.

2. In position 2, turn the crown until the date on the watch face shows the correct day.

3. Push the crown back into the case and secure it by turning it clockwise. Locking the crown is essential for maintaining your watch's waterproofing.

How to Change the Time on a Non-Date Rolex Watch

The Oyster Perpetual watch uses a perpetual self-winding movement. If your watch has been idle for over two days, you'll likely need to wind it before adjusting the time. Most self-winding watches can keep running for about two days when fully wound. Some newer, higher-end models can last up to 70 hours on a full wind.

As with all Rolex watches, you adjust the settings using the crown.

1. Unscrew the crown of your watch until you hear a small click.

2. To set the time, turn the crown clockwise or counterclockwise until you see the correct time is being displayed.

3. After adjusting the time, press the crown back into place and screw it down clockwise to secure it to the case. Properly locking the crown ensures the watch remains waterproof. Failing to secure it risks exposing the movement to moisture and dust, potentially causing damage.

How to Change The Date And Time On Different Rolex Models

Changing the date and time on your Rolex watch can differ between models. Whether you have a Datejust, Day-Date, Submariner, or another model, knowing the right way to do it is important. 

Here are the steps to help you adjust the date and time on different Rolex watches.

1. Rolex Day Date

The Rolex Day Date, also called the "President," shows both the date and the day of the week. Here's how to set it:

• Turn the crown counterclockwise to unscrew it.
• Pull the crown to the first position to wind the watch if needed.
• Pull the crown to the second position to set the date. Turn it clockwise until the correct date appears in the window at 3 o’clock.
• Pull the crown to the third position to set the day of the week. Turn it clockwise until the right day appears in the window at 12 o’clock.
• Push the crown back in and screw it down clockwise to lock it in place.

2. Rolex Datejust

The Rolex Datejust is a classic model known for its date window at the 3 o’clock position. To set the date on a Datejust, follow these simple steps:

• Turn the crown counterclockwise to unscrew it.
• Pull the crown to the first position, allowing you to wind the watch if needed.
• Pull the crown to the second position to set the date. Turn it clockwise until the correct date appears in the window.

Remember, the Datejust comes in different sizes, such as 28mm, 36mm, and 41mm. This means the crown size might differ depending on your watch's case size. Make sure to handle the crown carefully to avoid any damage.

3. Rolex Submariner Date

The Rolex Submariner Date is a popular dive watch with a date window at 3 o’clock. To set the date, follow these simple steps:

• Turn the crown counterclockwise to unscrew it. The crown might feel more solid because of the watch’s strong build and water resistance.
• Pull the crown to the first position to wind the watch if needed.
• Pull the crown to the second position to set the date. Turn it clockwise until the correct date shows in the window.
• Push the crown back in and screw it down clockwise to lock it securely.

4. Rolex GMT-Master II

The Rolex GMT-Master II is designed for travelers and can track two time zones simultaneously. Here's how to set it:

• Turn the crown counterclockwise to unscrew it.
• Pull the crown to the first position to wind the watch if needed.
• Pull the crown to the second position to set the date. Turn it clockwise until the correct date appears.
• Pull the crown to the third position to set the second time zone. Turn it clockwise or counterclockwise to move the 24-hour hand independently.
• Push the crown back in and screw it down clockwise to lock it securely.

5. Rolex Oyster Perpetual

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual may or may not have a date window, depending on the model:

• With Date Function: If your Oyster Perpetual has a date window, follow the general steps for setting the date mentioned earlier.

• Without Date Function: If your model lacks a date window, you can skip the date-setting process and set the time.

Conclusion

Changing the date and time on your Rolex watch is a straightforward process once you understand the specific steps for your model. Whether you own a Datejust, Day-Date, Submariner, GMT-Master II, or Oyster Perpetual, following these instructions ensures accuracy and preserves your watch’s performance.

Located in New York, NY, ElegantSwiss is committed to offering top-quality luxury watches. Whether you need assistance with repairing and restoring your luxury timepieces or simply wish to purchase one, our knowledgeable staff is ready to help.