The basic steps for digital G-Shock models

Most Casio G-Shock watches use the same method to change the time, whether you have a basic digital model or one with multiple functions. Press and hold the button labeled Mode (usually on the lower left) until the display shows a small indicator next to the hours — this puts the watch into time-setting mode. Once you see that indicator, use the + button (usually on the upper right) to increase the hours, then press Mode again to move to the minutes and adjust those the same way.

The exact button layout varies slightly between models, but the principle stays the same: Mode gets you into settings, the plus button moves the numbers forward, and Mode again moves you to the next field. If you overshoot the time, keep pressing the plus button — it will cycle all the way around. Some models let you hold the plus button to speed up the change, which saves time if you need to jump from 3 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Key Takeaways

  • Hold the Mode button until you see a small indicator next to the hour display — this enters time-setting mode on nearly all G-Shock models.
  • Use the plus button to increase the hours, then press Mode again to move to minutes and adjust those the same way.
  • If your model has a seconds field, you can usually set it to zero by pressing Mode one more time after the minutes.
  • The button layout differs between models, so check your watch's manual or the Casio website for your specific model number if the standard method does not work.

Finding your specific model number and manual

Your G-Shock model number is printed on the back of the watch case or sometimes inside the band. It usually starts with letters like DW, GA, GD, or GW followed by numbers — for example, DW5600E or GA100. Once you have the model number, you can search Casio's official support site or type the number directly into a search engine along with "manual" to find the exact instructions for your watch.

The manual will show you a diagram of where each button is located and what it does in each mode. This matters because some models have four buttons and others have six, and the functions shift depending on which watch you own. If you cannot find a manual online, Casio's customer service can email you one, though it may take a few days.

Analog G-Shock models and combination watches

If your G-Shock has hands (an analog face) along with a digital display, the process is different. You will usually need to press Mode until you reach the analog time-setting screen, then use the plus and minus buttons to move the hour and minute hands to the correct time. The digital time often syncs automatically once the hands are set, but not always — check your manual to see if you need to set the digital display separately.

Combination watches (analog hands plus digital display) are more common in G-Shock's higher-end lines, and the button sequence can be longer because there are more fields to adjust. Taking 30 seconds to find your manual before you start is faster than guessing and accidentally changing the alarm or the world time zone instead.

What to do if the time keeps resetting

If you set the time correctly but it resets to a wrong time the next day, your watch battery may be low or the time zone setting may be overriding your manual change. Some G-Shock models with world time or GPS features will reset the time automatically if they detect a time zone change or lose connection to a signal. Check whether your model has automatic time adjustment turned on — this is usually a separate menu option from the basic time setting.

If the battery is the issue, you will usually see a low-battery indicator on the screen before the time starts drifting. G-Shock batteries typically last five to ten years depending on the model and how often you use the backlight and alarms. A watch repair shop or Casio service center can replace the battery for you, though it costs between $20 and $50 depending on the model.

Syncing time on solar and radio-controlled models

Some G-Shock watches (usually models with "R" in the name, like GWR100) receive time signals from radio towers or satellites and update automatically. If your watch has this feature, you do not need to set the time manually — it will sync on its own when it picks up a signal. However, you may still need to set the time zone or daylight saving time preference manually, which uses the Mode button just like a regular time change.

If your radio or solar G-Shock is not syncing, make sure it is near a window or outside where it can receive the signal. Some models need to be in a specific mode (like "Time" mode rather than "Stopwatch" mode) to receive updates. Check your manual for the signal reception instructions for your specific model, as the process varies.

Adjusting for daylight saving time

When daylight saving time begins or ends, you have two options: manually change the time using the Mode and plus buttons as described above, or use the daylight saving time setting if your model has one. Some G-Shock watches let you toggle daylight saving on or off in the settings menu, which automatically shifts the time forward or backward by one hour. This is faster than manually adjusting if your watch supports it.

To find the daylight saving setting, press Mode repeatedly until you see a menu that includes options like "DST" or "Summer Time." The exact name and location depend on your model. If you cannot find it, your watch may not have this feature — in that case, the manual time adjustment is your only option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I press Mode and nothing happens?

The Mode button may be stuck or the watch may be in a locked mode. Try pressing it more firmly or holding it longer — some models require a two-second hold rather than a quick press. If the watch is completely unresponsive, the battery may be dead. Take it to a watch repair shop or contact Casio support with your model number.

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

No. You must first press Mode until you return to the main time display, then hold Mode again to enter time-setting mode. If you try to adjust time while in another mode, you will change that mode's settings instead. Always start from the basic time screen.

Why does my G-Shock show 24-hour time instead of 12-hour time?

Your watch is set to 24-hour format. You can usually change this in the settings menu by pressing Mode repeatedly until you find a format or display option, then using the plus button to toggle between 12-hour and 24-hour. The exact steps depend on your model — check your manual for the settings menu location.

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

No. You can change the time while wearing the watch. Just make sure you can reach all the buttons comfortably. If the buttons are hard to press, you may have the watch on too tightly — loosen it slightly so your wrist can move.

What happens if I accidentally press a button while setting the time?

You will move to a different field or exit time-setting mode entirely. straightforward press Mode again to re-enter time-setting mode and start over. There is no penalty for pressing the wrong button — the watch will not lose your settings or damage itself.