How do I set the time on a Rolex Datejust?

To set the time on a Rolex Datejust with quickset, unscrew the crown, pull it to the first position to set the date, and then pull it to the second position to adjust the time. Always pass midnight to align AM/PM correctly, then screw the crown down tightly.

How do I know if my Rolex has a quickset date function?

Most Rolex watches made after the late 1970s have the quickset date function, which allows the date to be adjusted separately. If your watch changes the date without moving the hour hand, it has quickset.

Can I change the time on my Rolex while it's wet?

No. Never adjust the time or date on your Rolex while it's wet or submerged in water. Always dry the watch and your hands first, and ensure the crown is fully screwed down after any adjustment.

How do I set the time on a Rolex GMT-Master II?

To set a Rolex GMT-Master II, use the first crown position to adjust the local hour hand in one-hour increments. Use the second position to set the minute and GMT hands. This allows you to track multiple time zones accurately.

What is the best way to preserve accuracy when setting a Rolex?

Pull the crown to the final position to stop the seconds hand, then set the time a minute ahead and reverse it slightly to your target. Synchronize with an atomic clock and screw the crown down to protect the movement and maintain water resistance.

how to change the time on rolex

Master Your Timepiece: How to Set the Time on Your Rolex

jamie

Jun 20, 2025 • 3 min read

how to change the time on rolex

Your Rolex is more than just a symbol of prestige—it's a finely tuned mechanical instrument crafted to accompany you through life. While many models feature advanced complications, one essential skill every Rolex owner should master is setting the time. Whether adjusting for daylight saving, traveling across time zones, or simply restarting your watch after a pause, doing it right ensures both accuracy and longevity. Though the process is straightforward, the nuances can vary by model.

Understanding the Crown: Your Key to Control

The winding crown on the side of your Rolex is your primary interface for interacting with the watch’s functions: setting the time, winding the movement, and adjusting complications like the date or second time zone. Most Rolex models feature either a Twinlock (double seal) or Triplock (triple seal) system for enhanced water resistance, which you can identify by markings under the Rolex coronet on the crown.

Before beginning any adjustments:

Unscrew the Crown: Most modern Rolex watches have a screw-down crown for water resistance. Gently turn it counterclockwise until it pops out. Do not pull while unscrewing.
Avoid Water Exposure: Never adjust the crown near water or while the watch is wet.
Secure After Use: Once finished, always screw the crown back down firmly (but not excessively) to maintain water resistance.

Setting Time on Standard Rolex Models (Non-Date & Date Models)

For models such as the Oyster Perpetual, Explorer, and older Submariner/GMT-Master watches:

Unscrew the Crown and allow it to release.
Pull to the Second Notch: This is the outermost position. It will stop the seconds hand ("hacking"), allowing precise time-setting.
Adjust the Time: Rotate the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to move the hour and minute hands. Set the time slightly ahead, then reverse to the desired time for optimal accuracy.
Synchronize: Push the crown back in and screw it down at the exact second to sync with a reliable time source.

Setting the Time on Rolex Datejust & Other Date Models

Rolex models with date displays can have either quickset or non-quickset mechanisms:

Modern Quickset Models (e.g., Datejust, Submariner Date, GMT-Master II)

Unscrew the Crown.
Pull to First Notch: This position is for date setting.
Adjust the Date: Turn the crown to advance the date to the day before the current date.
Pull to Second Notch: This is for time-setting. Advance the hands past midnight to roll over to the correct date.
Set the Time: Finish setting the hour and minutes, ensuring you distinguish AM from PM.
Secure the Crown: Push and screw down the crown firmly.

Older Non-Quickset Models (Pre-1977)

Unscrew the Crown.
Pull to the Second Notch.
Advance the Time: Turn hands clockwise to advance the date one day at a time. Repeat until you reach the desired date.
Continue Past Midnight: Ensure the date changes at midnight, not noon.
Set the Time: Adjust the hands to the correct hour and minute.
Secure the Crown.

Special Complications: GMT-Master II and Sky-Dweller

GMT-Master II

This model allows for independent local time and GMT hand settings:

Unscrew the Crown.
Pull to First Notch: Adjust the local hour hand in one-hour jumps. The date changes accordingly.
Pull to Second Notch: Adjust the minute and GMT hands together to set your reference time.
Secure the Crown.

Sky-Dweller

Features both a dual time zone and annual calendar, managed via the Ring Command bezel:

Unscrew the Crown.
Rotate the Bezel: Choose from three positions to access different functions:
- 1st: Adjust month and date.
- 2nd: Adjust local hour hand.
- 3rd: Adjust minute hand and 24-hour disc.
Pull Crown & Set: Make adjustments per selected function.
Return Bezel & Secure Crown: Rotate bezel back to neutral and screw down the crown.

More Than Time: The Ritual of Setting a Rolex

Beyond the mechanics, setting your Rolex is a moment of connection—a ritual that links you to the craftsmanship and tradition of watchmaking. Taking a few deliberate moments to wind, adjust, and seal your watch isn’t just maintenance—it's appreciation. In this mindful act, the relationship between wearer and timepiece deepens.

Mastering the process of setting your Rolex not only ensures reliable performance but also reinforces your bond with a timeless mechanical masterpiece. Take care with each adjustment, and your Rolex will serve you faithfully for years to come.