The basic steps to change the time on most G-Shock models

Most G-Shock watches use the same method to adjust the time, though the exact button sequence varies slightly by model. To change the time, you will hold down the button labeled Adjust (usually on the lower left) for about three seconds until the display starts flashing. The flashing tells you the watch is in time-setting mode. Once you see the flash, release the button and use the other buttons to move through the hours and minutes — typically the upper right button moves forward and the lower right button moves backward through the numbers.

The process takes about 30 seconds total. If you do not see the flashing display after holding Adjust, check your model number on the back of the watch — some older or specialty G-Shock models use a different entry method. You can find the exact sequence for your model in the instruction manual that came with the watch, or by searching "G-Shock [your model number] manual" online.

Key Takeaways

  • Hold the Adjust button (lower left) for three seconds until the display flashes, then use the upper and lower right buttons to change hours and minutes.
  • The time-setting mode exits automatically after about 10 seconds of no button presses, so work at a normal pace without rushing.
  • Some G-Shock models have a separate mode button you must press first before the Adjust button will work for time changes.
  • If your watch has a second hand, you can usually set it to zero by pressing a button once the hours and minutes are correct.

Finding your specific model's instructions

G-Shock makes over 200 different models, and while most share the same button layout, some digital-only or analog-digital hybrid models work differently. The fastest way to find the right steps is to look at the back of your watch for the model number — it usually starts with letters like DW, GA, GW, or GM followed by numbers.

Once you have the model number, go to the official Casio G-Shock website and search their manual database, or type the model number into a search engine with the word "manual." The PDF manual will show you a diagram of the buttons and walk through the time-setting sequence for your exact watch. This takes five minutes and saves you from guessing at button combinations.

What to do if the time won't change

If you hold Adjust and the display does not flash, the watch may be in a different mode. Some G-Shock models require you to press the Mode button first to cycle to the time display, then hold Adjust. Other models have a separate Time Set button instead of using Adjust for this function.

If the display flashes but the buttons do not move the numbers forward or backward, try pressing the buttons more firmly or in the opposite direction — some models use counterintuitive button assignments. If nothing works after trying both directions, the watch may have a dead battery, which prevents the time-setting mode from activating. Replace the battery (usually a CR2032 or similar coin cell) and try again.

Syncing your G-Shock with the correct time

Before you adjust, make sure you know the correct time. Use your phone, a computer, or a reliable clock to confirm the hour and minute. G-Shock watches do not automatically update for daylight saving time, so you will need to manually add or subtract an hour twice a year depending on where you live.

If your G-Shock has a radio-controlled or GPS feature (models with "RC" or "GPW" in the name), you can set it to sync automatically with an atomic clock or satellite signal. This usually happens at night when the watch is stationary. Check your manual for the sync settings, as you may need to enable this feature in the watch's menu.

Adjusting the date and day of the week

Most G-Shock models let you set the date and day at the same time you set the time. After you finish adjusting the hours and minutes, the flashing will move to the date field — continue pressing the forward and backward buttons to set the correct date. Then the day of the week field will flash, and you can set that the same way.

If you set the date incorrectly, you do not need to go through the entire time-setting sequence again. Many G-Shock watches let you hold Adjust a second time to jump directly to the date field without resetting the time. Check your manual to see if your model has this shortcut.

Why your G-Shock time might drift or lose accuracy

G-Shock quartz watches are accurate to within 15 to 30 seconds per month under normal conditions, which means you may notice the time is slightly off after a few weeks. This is normal and not a sign of a broken watch. If the drift is larger than that — losing or gaining several minutes per month — the battery may be running low and should be replaced.

Exposure to extreme temperatures, strong magnets, or physical shock can also affect accuracy temporarily. If your watch loses accuracy after being dropped or exposed to heat, try removing it for a few hours and letting it return to room temperature. If the problem persists after that, the internal quartz crystal may have been damaged and the watch will need professional repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the time-setting mode stay active?

Most G-Shock watches stay in time-setting mode for about 10 seconds after you stop pressing buttons. If the display stops flashing before you finish, hold Adjust again to re-enter the mode. You can do this as many times as you need.

Can I set the time without the instruction manual?

Yes, if your watch has the standard button layout (Adjust on lower left, Mode on upper left, two buttons on the right side). Hold Adjust for three seconds, then use the right-side buttons to adjust. If your watch looks different or has fewer buttons, you will need the manual for your specific model.

What if I set the time to the wrong hour by mistake?

Hold Adjust again to re-enter time-setting mode. The display will flash at the hour field, and you can use the forward and backward buttons to correct it. You do not lose the minutes you already set.

Does my G-Shock automatically adjust for daylight saving time?

No, standard G-Shock watches do not adjust automatically. You must manually add or subtract one hour twice a year. Radio-controlled models (marked "RC") can sync with an atomic clock signal, but you still need to enable this feature in the settings.

Why is my G-Shock time off by 12 hours?

You may have set the watch to 12-hour mode instead of 24-hour mode, or set the time to AM when you meant PM. Re-enter time-setting mode and check whether the display shows a small "PM" indicator. Adjust to the correct time and verify the AM/PM setting matches your local time.