Setting the time and date on a Rolex Submariner requires careful handling of the screw-down crown to maintain water resistance. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions to adjust your Submariner’s time and date settings accurately while preserving its legendary durability.
Quick Summary Table
| Task | Crown Position | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Unlock Crown | Position 0 | Unscrew counterclockwise |
| Set Date | Position 2 | Turn clockwise |
| Set Time | Position 3 | Turn clockwise or counterclockwise |
| Lock Crown | Position 0 | Push and screw clockwise |
Understanding Your Rolex Submariner Crown Positions
The Submariner features a Triplock screw-down crown with three distinct positions. Position 0 is the locked position where the crown sits flush against the case. Position 2 allows date adjustment when pulled out one click. Position 3, pulled out fully, enables time setting. This system protects the watch’s water resistance rating of up to 300 meters.
Setting the Time on Your Rolex Submariner
Unscrewing the Crown
- Step 1: Turn the crown counterclockwise (left) about 6-8 full rotations until it pops out slightly
- Step 2: Feel for the release – the crown will spring away from the case when fully unscrewed
- Step 3: Avoid forcing the crown if resistance is felt; continue turning gently until it releases naturally
Adjusting the Time
- Step 1: Pull the crown out to Position 3 (the furthest position from the case)
- Step 2: Notice the seconds hand will stop, allowing precise time setting
- Step 3: Turn the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to move the hands to the desired time
- Step 4: Reference an accurate time source like this online clock tool for precision
- Step 5: Set the time slightly ahead, then turn back to the exact minute for optimal accuracy
Pro-Tip: Always set the time by moving the hands forward (clockwise) rather than backward when possible. This reduces wear on the movement’s gears and ensures smoother operation over time.
Setting the Date on Your Rolex Submariner
Date Adjustment Process
- Step 1: With the crown unscrewed, pull it out to Position 2 (one click out)
- Step 2: Turn the crown clockwise to advance the date forward
- Step 3: Continue turning until the correct date appears in the window at 3 o’clock
- Step 4: If the date needs to go back, advance it forward through the full month cycle
Important Date Setting Guidelines
Never adjust the date between 8:00 PM and 4:00 AM. During this period, the date mechanism is engaged and preparing to change automatically. Forcing the date during these hours can damage the delicate gears inside the movement. Most people find that setting the date during daytime hours eliminates any risk of mechanical damage.
Pro-Tip: To determine whether the watch is showing AM or PM, advance the time past 12 o’clock and observe if the date changes. If the date clicks over, the watch was showing midnight (AM). If it doesn’t change, the watch is at noon (PM).
Securing the Crown After Setting
- Step 1: Push the crown all the way back to Position 0 against the case
- Step 2: While applying gentle pressure toward the case, turn the crown clockwise (right)
- Step 3: Continue screwing until the crown feels snug and secure
- Step 4: Ensure the crown is fully tightened – it should not wobble or pull away from the case
- Step 5: Verify the crown sits flush with no gaps visible
The Triplock crown is what keeps water out of the movement. A properly secured crown maintains the Submariner’s dive-ready water resistance. This works best when the crown threads are clean and free from debris or salt deposits.
Tips for Maintaining Your Rolex Submariner
- Clean the crown threads periodically with fresh water and a soft brush to prevent salt and dirt buildup
- Never operate the crown underwater or when the watch is wet
- Service the watch every 5-10 years to maintain water resistance and movement accuracy
- Store the watch with the crown fully screwed down to protect the gaskets
- Use time comparison tools when traveling to quickly set multiple time zones
- Wind the watch manually by unscrewing the crown and turning it clockwise 30-40 times if it hasn’t been worn for several days
- Avoid exposing the watch to extreme temperature changes which can affect the gaskets
Common Problems When Setting a Rolex Submariner
Crown Won’t Unscrew
Apply a small amount of pressure toward the case while turning counterclockwise. Sometimes dried lubricants or debris can cause the threads to stick. Never force the crown with excessive strength. If resistance continues, professional servicing may be required to clean the crown tube.
Date Changes Slowly or Incompletely
This indicates the watch may be low on power reserve. Wind the watch manually by turning the crown clockwise 30-40 times in Position 0 (after unscrewing but before pulling out). The automatic movement needs sufficient energy to properly advance the date mechanism.
Crown Feels Loose After Screwing Down
The crown gasket may be worn or damaged. This compromises water resistance and requires immediate attention from an authorized Rolex service center. Continue wearing the watch but avoid water exposure until repaired.
Time Loses Accuracy Quickly
Rolex movements should maintain accuracy within -2/+2 seconds per day when fully wound. Greater deviation suggests the movement needs servicing. Magnetization from electronic devices can also affect timekeeping – most watchmakers can demagnetize the movement in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the date be set backwards on a Rolex Submariner?
No, the date mechanism only advances forward. To go back one day, advance the date forward through the entire month. Attempting to force the date backward can damage the date wheel and jumper spring inside the movement.
Why can’t the date be changed at night?
Between 8:00 PM and 4:00 AM, the date change mechanism is already engaged and preparing to advance automatically at midnight. Manually changing the date during this period can cause the gears to clash, potentially breaking the date wheel teeth or jumper spring.
How often should a Rolex Submariner be serviced?
Rolex recommends servicing every 10 years under normal wearing conditions. However, watches exposed to harsh environments, frequent water immersion, or showing signs of moisture intrusion should be serviced sooner. Regular servicing maintains water resistance and movement longevity.
What happens if water gets inside the Submariner?
Moisture inside the case requires immediate professional attention. Condensation under the crystal or foggy appearance indicates compromised water resistance. Stop wearing the watch and bring it to an authorized service center within 24-48 hours to prevent rust and movement damage.
How tight should the crown be screwed down?
The crown should be snug but not overtightened. Turn clockwise until firm resistance is felt – usually 8-10 full rotations. Overtightening can damage the crown tube threads, while undertightening compromises water resistance. The crown should sit completely flush against the case.
Can the Submariner be worn while setting the time?
Yes, the watch can remain on the wrist during time and date setting. However, removing the watch provides better visibility and control over the crown, reducing the risk of accidentally pulling too hard or cross-threading when screwing down.
Does the date change instantly at midnight?
The date on most Submariner models changes within a few minutes of midnight, typically between 11:58 PM and 12:03 AM. This gradual change is normal and designed to reduce shock to the movement. Some newer calibers feature instantaneous date change exactly at midnight.
How many times should the crown be turned to wind the watch?
Turn the crown clockwise 30-40 full rotations in Position 0 (unscrewed but not pulled out) to fully wind a Submariner from a stopped state. The watch cannot be overwound – a slipping clutch mechanism prevents damage once fully wound.
Why does the seconds hand move when setting the time?
The seconds hand should stop completely when the crown is pulled to Position 3. If it continues moving, the crown may not be pulled out far enough, or there could be an issue with the keyless works inside the movement requiring professional inspection.
Can the time be set while timing something with the rotating bezel?
Yes, the unidirectional rotating bezel operates independently from the crown and time-setting functions. The bezel can be adjusted before, during, or after setting the time without affecting the watch’s operation. Use an online stopwatch to cross-reference timing accuracy.