Setting the time on an Armitron watch depends entirely on whether your model uses a traditional crown or digital push buttons. Because Armitron manufactures a wide variety of quartz analog dress pieces and multi-function sports digital styles, the exact button sequence varies. This guide breaks down the precise steps for both watch types so you can get your timepiece running accurately in minutes.
If you own an analog Armitron watch with hands, you'll use the winding crown on the side of the case. If you have a digital sports model with multiple pushers, you'll use a combination of the mode and set buttons. Follow the specific section below that matches your watch style.
Setting an Analog Armitron Watch
Analog Armitron watches rely on a side crown that pulls out into positions for adjusting the date and time.
- Locate the crown on the right side of the watch case. If your watch has a screw-down crown, gently unscrew it counterclockwise until it pops out to its neutral resting position.
- Pull the crown out to the first click position. For watches with a date window, turning the crown in this position adjusts the date. If your watch doesn't feature a date complication, skip this step.
- Pull the crown out to the second click position until it extends fully. You'll feel a distinct second click. This position engages the gear train for the hour and minute hands.
- Rotate the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to move the hands. Advance the minute hand past the 12 o'clock mark to verify whether the date flips over at midnight rather than noon.
- Set the hands to the exact current time, aligning the minute hand precisely with the target minute marker.
- Push the crown firmly all the way back into the case against the watch body. For screw-down crowns, press it in while turning clockwise to secure the water resistance seal.
Setting a Digital Armitron Watch
Digital Armitron sports watches feature a standard four-button layout, typically labeled Mode, Reset (or Set), Start/Stop, and Light.
- Ensure you're in standard timekeeping mode. If you see stopwatch digits or alarm settings, press the Mode button repeatedly until the normal time of day is displayed.
- Press and hold the Reset or Set button—usually located on the top-left side of the case—for about two to three seconds until the watch emits a beep or the digits on the screen begin to flash. Flashing numbers indicate that the watch has entered programming mode.
- Press the Mode button to cycle through the adjustable fields, which usually blink in sequence: seconds, hour, minute, year, month, and day.
- When the field you want to change is flashing, press the Start/Stop button (usually on the right side) to advance the number. Holding down the Start/Stop button will accelerate through the numbers quickly.
- Toggle between 12-hour and 24-hour time formats if your model supports it, typically by pressing the 12/24 hour toggle or using the Start/Stop button while the hour field flashes.
- Press the Reset or Set button once more to save your changes and exit programming mode. The flashing digits will stop, locking in your accurate time.
Troubleshooting Common Time Setting Issues
Even with clear instructions, minor complications can arise during the adjustment process.
If the hands on your analog Armitron refuse to move, ensure the crown is pulled out to the furthest second click rather than the first date-setting click. If the crown is pushed all the way in, turning it only winds the mainspring on mechanical models or does nothing on quartz watches.
If your digital watch buttons aren't responding, check whether a button is stuck or if the watch is currently locked in chronograph or countdown mode. You must return to the home timekeeping screen before initiating the setup sequence.
When a digital watch screen appears dim, faded, or completely blank when you press the backlight, the internal cell battery likely needs replacement. Quartz movements require steady electrical voltage to keep accurate time, and a dying battery causes the watch to lose minutes or reset randomly. You can visit a local jeweler or replace the back gasket and battery yourself if you have a caseback removal tool.
For official warranty details and product manuals specific to your exact model number, consult the Armitron Official Website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't my digital Armitron watch stop flashing?
You are still in the setting or programming mode. Press the top-left Set or Reset button once to exit the configuration menu and return to normal time display.
Should I turn the analog crown counterclockwise?
Yes, you can turn the crown in either direction on most modern quartz movements to move the hands forward or backward safely. However, moving hands backward across midnight on date-display models can occasionally misalign the date change gear.
How do I fix the AM and PM indicator on my digital watch?
Cycle through the hour settings during the programming phase until you pass 12 hours. Look for an "P" indicator or a 24-hour military format marker to confirm whether the watch registers morning or evening correctly.
Why is my watch losing time every day?
A slow-running watch almost always indicates a weak battery or internal lubrication that has thickened over time. Replacing the silver oxide battery typically resolves accuracy issues on quartz watches.
