To change the date on your Diesel analog watch, you will typically use the watch's crown. The method depends on whether your watch has a "quick-set" date feature or requires manual advancement of the hands.
Understanding Your Watch's Crown
The crown is the small knob on the side of your watch case, usually at the 3 o'clock position. It has different positions that allow you to wind the watch (if mechanical), set the date, and set the time.
Method 1: Using the Quick-Set Date Feature (Most Common)
Most modern analog watches, including many Diesel models, feature a quick-set date function, making the process straightforward.
- Locate the Crown: Gently pull the crown out. You will usually feel a distinct first click position. This is often the date-setting position.
- Note: If your watch has a screw-down crown (common on dive watches for water resistance), you'll need to unscrew it first by turning it counter-clockwise before you can pull it out.
- Set the Date: Once in the first click position, turn the crown clockwise. You will see the date numeral advance in the date window. Continue turning the crown clockwise until the correct date is showing.
- Adjust for "Danger Zone" (Optional but Recommended): To prevent potential damage to the watch's internal date mechanism, it's generally advised to avoid setting the date manually between 9:00 PM and 3:00 AM. If the current time on your watch falls within this range, first advance the time past 3:00 AM before setting the date. Then, once the date is set, reset the correct time.
- Return the Crown: Once the desired date is set, push the crown firmly back into its original, fully pushed-in position. If you have a screw-down crown, gently screw it back down clockwise until secure to maintain water resistance.
Method 2: Manual Date Adjustment (Advancing the Hands)
Some analog watches, particularly older models or those with simpler movements, do not have a quick-set date feature. In this case, you'll need to manually advance the time to change the date.
- Pull the Crown to Time-Setting Position: Pull the crown out to its furthest second click position. This is the position used for setting the time.
- Advance the Hands: Rotate the crown to move the hour and minute hands forward. For the date to change by one day, you will need to advance the hands through a full 24-hour cycle (two full rotations of the hour hand).
- Repeat as Needed: Continue advancing the hands by full 24-hour cycles until the correct date is displayed in the date window.
- Set the Time: Once the correct date is showing, continue to advance the hands to set the correct time for your watch. Be mindful of AM/PM if your watch has a 24-hour indicator or if you want the date to change at midnight.
- Return the Crown: Push the crown back into its fully pushed-in position.
Important Considerations for Setting Your Watch Date
- Consult Your Watch Manual: While these methods are standard, always refer to your specific Diesel watch's instruction manual for precise details and any unique features.
- Water Resistance: Always ensure the crown is fully pushed in (and screwed down if applicable) after setting the date to maintain your watch's water resistance.
- Smooth Operation: If you encounter resistance or feel anything is not moving smoothly, do not force the crown or hands. Seek professional assistance from a watchmaker.
For more general information on watch care and setting, you can refer to reputable horology resources like Hodinkee.
