The basic steps to set G-Shock time

Most G-Shock watches use the same method to change the time. Press the button labeled Mode or Adjust (usually on the lower left) repeatedly until you see the time display flash or highlight. Once the hour digits are flashing, use the + button to increase the hour. When the hour is correct, press Mode again to move to the minutes, then use + to set those. Press Mode one more time to lock in the change.

The exact button names and positions vary slightly between G-Shock models — some use A, B, C, and D instead of labeled words. Check the small text on your watch case or the back of the band to confirm which button does what on your specific model. If you cannot read it, the manual for your model number is usually available free on Casio's website.

If your watch has a digital display with a seconds counter, you may also need to set seconds to zero. Follow the same process: press Mode until seconds flash, then use + to cycle through until you reach 00.

Key Takeaways

  • Press Mode repeatedly until the hour digits flash, then use the + button to change the hour.
  • After the hour is set, press Mode again to move to minutes and repeat the process.
  • Button names and positions differ by model, so check the text printed on your watch case or band.
  • If you lose the manual, search for your model number on Casio's website to find the correct button sequence.
  • Most G-Shock watches also let you set seconds to zero using the same Mode and + method.

Finding your model number and manual

Your G-Shock model number is printed on the back of the watch case, usually near the bottom. It starts with letters (like DW, GA, or GW) followed by numbers. Write this down or take a photo.

Go to Casio's official website and search for your model number in their support section. The manual will show you a diagram of your watch with each button labeled and the exact sequence to follow. Some models have a Set button instead of Mode, or use different button combinations entirely — the manual is the fastest way to know for certain.

If Casio's site does not have your model (usually because it is very old or region-specific), try searching "[your model number] manual PDF" in a search engine. Many watch forums and retailers host archived manuals.

Watches with multiple time zones

G-Shock models with world time or multiple city displays require an extra step. After you set the main time, you may need to press Mode additional times to reach a City or Zone screen. Use + to scroll through cities until you find your location, then press Mode to confirm. This tells the watch which time zone you are in.

Some models let you set a Home Time and a World Time separately. The manual will specify whether you need to set both or just one. If you skip this step, the watch will show the correct time but may display the wrong city name or offset.

Solar and atomic G-Shock watches

If your G-Shock is a Solar model (with a dark band across the face) or an Atomic model (marked Tough Solar or Radio Controlled, often with a GW prefix), the time-setting process is the same. However, these watches can also update automatically.

Solar models charge from any light source and hold the time indefinitely once set. Atomic models receive time signals from radio towers (in the US, from the National Institute of Standards and Technology in Colorado) and update themselves at night. If your atomic watch is not updating, check that you are within range of a signal — usually within 1,000 miles of the tower — and that the watch has enough battery charge.

You can still manually set the time on both types using the Mode and + buttons. The automatic update will override your manual setting the next time a signal is received, so only set it manually if the automatic update is not working.

What to do if the buttons are stuck or unresponsive

G-Shock watches are water-resistant, but salt water, sand, or dried sweat can jam the buttons over time. If a button does not respond when you press it, try pressing it firmly and repeatedly 10 to 15 times. Sometimes this clears debris enough to restore function.

If that does not work, rinse the watch under fresh running water while pressing the stuck button gently. Do not use hot water or soak the watch — just a quick rinse. Dry it completely with a soft cloth and try again.

If the button still will not work after rinsing, the watch may need professional service. Contact Casio directly or visit an authorized G-Shock retailer. Do not attempt to open the case yourself, as this can damage the water seal and void the warranty.

Resetting the watch if you get stuck

If you press Mode too many times and lose track of where you are in the menu, most G-Shock watches will return to normal time display after 30 seconds of inactivity. straightforward stop pressing buttons and wait. The watch will exit the adjustment mode and show the current time (which may still be wrong, but you can start over).

Some models have a Reset button or a reset sequence (like holding Mode for 3 seconds). Check your manual to see if your watch has this option. A reset will return all settings to factory defaults, including the time, so use it only if you have made multiple mistakes and want to start completely fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my G-Shock keep losing time?

If your watch loses a few minutes or hours every week, the battery may be low. Most G-Shock batteries last 2 to 10 years depending on the model. A dying battery will cause the watch to run slow or stop entirely. Take it to an authorized Casio retailer or jeweler to have the battery replaced. If the watch is very old, the internal quartz crystal may also have drifted — this is normal wear and cannot be fixed without professional service.

Can I change the time while the watch is in alarm or timer mode?

No. You must exit alarm or timer mode first by pressing Mode until you return to the main time display. Once you are back at the time screen, follow the standard time-setting steps. If you try to set the time while in another mode, you may accidentally change the alarm time or timer duration instead.

What if my watch shows 24-hour time and I want 12-hour time?

This setting is usually in a separate menu from the time itself. Press Mode repeatedly to find a screen labeled Format, Display, or 12/24. Use the + button to toggle between the two formats. The time itself will not change — only how it is displayed on the screen. Check your manual for the exact menu location, as it varies by model.

Do I need to remove the watch to change the time?

No. You can set the time while wearing the watch. The buttons are designed to be pressed while the watch is on your wrist. However, if you find it difficult to see the display or press the buttons accurately while wearing it, you can remove it temporarily — the time will not reset just from taking it off.

Why does my watch show the wrong time even after I set it?

If you set the time correctly but it is wrong again the next day, your watch may be receiving an automatic time update from a radio signal (if it is an atomic model). Check whether your model is atomic or solar by looking at the back of the case or the manual. If it is, the watch is overriding your manual setting with a signal. This is normal behavior. If your watch is not atomic and still shows the wrong time, the battery may be low or the quartz crystal may need service.