How To Adjust & Set The Time On Your Rolex Submariner

The Rolex Submariner, revered for its underwater prowess, is equally admired for its precision on land. But to keep it ticking in perfect harmony with your schedule, it’s essential to know how to adjust and set the time correctly. If you’re seeking a hands-on guide to ensure your Submariner is always on point, this is your anchor. We’ll guide you through the process, step by step, ensuring that your timepiece is synchronised to perfection. 

How Do You Adjust A Submariner Watch?

It’s important to exercise caution and ensure you have the proper tools and knowledge to adjust the Submariner bracelet properly. Look for the small arrows on the inside of the bracelet links. These arrows indicate the removable links that can be adjusted to resize the bracelet.

To adjust the bracelet of a Rolex Submariner watch, you can follow these general steps:

1. Determine the Desired Fit: Decide how loose or tight you want the bracelet to be on your wrist. Keep in mind that it should fit comfortably but not too tight or loose.
2. Locate the Links: Look for the small arrows on the inside of the bracelet links. These arrows indicate the removable links that can be adjusted to resize the bracelet.
3. Prepare the Tools: To adjust the Submariner bracelet, you’ll need a small screwdriver or a specialised tool called a spring bar tool. Ensure that the tool is appropriate for the bracelet’s type of screws or spring bars.
4. Remove the Pins or Screws: Insert the screwdriver or spring bar tool into the small holes on the side of the links marked with arrows. For screw-type pins, rotate the screws counterclockwise until they loosen. For spring bars, apply gentle pressure to release the spring bar from the link.
5. Remove the Desired Links: Once the pin or screw is loosened, slide it out of the link, and set it aside. Repeat this step for the number of links you want to remove to achieve the desired fit.
6. Reconnect the Bracelet: After removing the necessary links, reattach the remaining bracelet sections by aligning the ends and inserting the pins or screws back into place. For screw-type pins, rotate them clockwise to secure them back into position.
7. Test the Fit: Once the bracelet is reconnected, try on the watch to ensure it fits comfortably. If further adjustments are needed, repeat the process by removing additional links as necessary.
8. Fine-tune the Clasp: The Submariner bracelet clasp usually has micro-adjustment holes or a Glidelock extension system. These features allow for minor adjustments to fine-tune the fit. Refer to the specific clasp mechanism of your Submariner model for instructions on how to make these adjustments.

How Do You Set The Time On A Submariner?

The Submariner is a self-winding watch, meaning it will continue to operate and keep time as long as it is worn or moved. If the watch has stopped due to extended periods of inactivity, you may need to manually wind it by unscrewing the crown and gently rotating it clockwise a few times before setting the time.

1. Unscrew the Crown: The Submariner features a screw-down crown to ensure water resistance. Unscrew the crown by gently turning it counterclockwise until it pops out slightly from the case.
2. Pull Out the Crown to Position 2: Once the crown is unscrewed, gently pull it out to the second position. This is the position for setting the time.
3. Set the Hour and Minute Hands: Rotate the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to advance the hour and minute hands to the desired time. Take note of whether the watch indicates AM or PM, as the Submariner does not have a 24-hour indicator. Ensure the hands are set accurately.
4. Set the Date (Submariner Date Models): If you own a Submariner Date model with a date complication, you can adjust the date by rotating the crown counterclockwise in position 2 until the desired date is displayed in the date window. It’s recommended to avoid setting the date between 9:00 PM and 1:00 AM to prevent potential damage to the movement.
5. Push the Crown Back In: Once the time and date (if applicable) are set, gently push the crown back in toward the case. Ensure it is fully pushed in to ensure water resistance.
6. Screw Down the Crown: To ensure the Submariner’s water resistance, securely screw down the crown by turning it clockwise until it is snug against the case. Be careful not to overtighten the crown, as it can damage the threads.

💡 Read more: Rolex Submariner Basics: History, Production & Specifications