Stuck and need some help working out how to change the time on a pocket watch? Well, you've come to the right place.
Pocket watches are fantastic heirloom watches but they sometimes don't come with instructions. To change the time on a pocket watch you will first need to identify which pocket watch you have.
There are four common types: key-set, lever-set, pendant-set, and pin-set. Fortunately, all of them are very simple to use and have basically the same way to change the time. Check out our video below to find out how to change the time on a pocket watch or read on to find a step by step guide.
How To Change The Time On A Pocket Watch Overview:
- Changing the time on a pendant/stem set pocket watch
- Changing the time on a key set pocket watch
- Changing the time on a lever set pocket watch
- Our favourite pocket watches
Changing The Time On A Pendant/Stem Set Pocket Watch
Pendant set pocket watches or stem-set pocket watches are by far the most common. They offer a more convenient way to set the time compared to other pocket watches because removing the bezel is not required.
Watch the video above or follow these steps to change the time on your pendant pocket watch:
- Opening the case by giving the button a push
- Pull out the crown, you'll feel it click out and the movement will stop
- Simply twist the crown to set the time
- Once you're done with that, just push the crown back in
There you go, now you're ready to enjoy your pocket watch to its fullest extent.
Changing The Time On A Key Set Pocket Watch
Very early pocket watches came with a metal key that would snugly fit around a winding square at the centre of the mainspring barrel. The key was also used to set the time because it could manipulate the hands.
While you may not have ever seen one or own one of these pocket watches, it is still important to understand how to change the time.
It's as simple as:
- Locating and opening the bezel of the pocket watch
- Fit the end of the key over the centre dial where both hands are attached
- Rotate the key until the hands indicate the correct time
- Remove the key and carefully snap the cover back into place
Changing The Time On A Lever Set Pocket Watch
Lever set pocket watches were extremely popular in the late 1800s. The setting lever is concealed under the bezel at the edge of the dial. If you are lucky enough to own one of these watches, you need to know how to set the time.
Use the following steps to change the time on a lever set pocket watch:
- If the watch is contained in a case that has a cover, open it and locate the lever
- If the watch is contained within an open face, you'll have to remove the bezel to access the lever
- Once you have located the lever around the edge of the dial, use your fingernail to swing the lever away from the dial
- Rotate the crown until the hands set the correct time
- Swing the lever back toward the dial and carefully replace the bezel or close the case
Our Favourite Pocket Watches
While we do not stock the largest range of pocket watches, here at Shiels, we have some options for you. Sekonda watches produce a fantastic range of pocket watches and we are certainly obsessed with them. Check out our favourites below:
Sekonda SK3798 Pocket Watch
$129.00
A traditional piece, this Sekonda SK3798 Pocket Watch is simple with intricate details. Stay on time with the reliable watchmaking and craftsmanship of Sekonda. Crafted in durable stainless steel and etched in the finest details, this piece is beautiful in… read more
