How to Change the Day on a Citizen Watch: A Comprehensive Guide

Citizen watches are renowned for their precision, durability, and timeless design. However, as with any watch, you may occasionally need to adjust the date, especially after months with fewer than 31 days. Changing the day on a Citizen watch may seem straightforward, but if not done correctly, it can lead to inaccurate timekeeping or even damage the movement. This article will provide a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to change the day on various models of Citizen watches, ensuring your timepiece remains accurate and in good condition.

Understanding Your Citizen Watch

Before diving into the steps, it’s essential to understand the different types of Citizen watches and their respective features. Citizen produces a wide range of watches, from Eco-Drive models that run on solar power to mechanical watches that require manual winding. The method to change the day may vary slightly depending on the watch model, so it's crucial to identify your watch type first.

Types of Citizen Watches:

• Eco-Drive Watches: Powered by light, these watches require minimal maintenance and do not need battery changes. The date and time adjustments are usually done via the crown.
• Automatic Watches: These watches are powered by the motion of your wrist and may require manual winding if not worn regularly.
• Quartz Watches: Powered by a battery, these watches are highly accurate and require periodic battery replacements.
• Mechanical Watches: These are manually wound watches that require regular winding to maintain time accuracy.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Day on a Citizen Watch

Step 1: Identify the Crown Position

The crown is the small knob on the side of your watch that is used to set the time and date. Citizen watches typically have three crown positions:

1. Position 0: The crown is fully pushed in. In this position, the watch operates normally.
2. Position 1: The crown is pulled out slightly. This position is usually for adjusting the date.
3. Position 2: The crown is pulled out fully. This position is for adjusting the time.

Important: Before adjusting the date, ensure the crown is in the correct position to avoid any damage to the watch's movement.

Step 2: Pull the Crown to Position 1

To change the day on your Citizen watch, gently pull the crown out to Position 1. You should feel a small click, indicating that the crown is in the correct position for date adjustment.

Step 3: Rotate the Crown to Change the Day

Once the crown is in Position 1, slowly rotate it clockwise or counterclockwise (depending on your watch model) to change the day. Be cautious not to force the crown if it feels resistant, as this could damage the internal mechanisms.

Tip: If your watch also displays the date, continue rotating the crown until the correct day appears. In some models, the day and date are adjusted simultaneously.

Step 4: Return the Crown to Position 0

After setting the correct day, push the crown back to Position 0. Ensure it is fully pushed in to resume normal watch operation. This step is crucial to maintaining the watch's water resistance and preventing dust or moisture from entering the case.

Step 5: Verify the Day and Time

Check the day and time to ensure everything is set correctly. If the day is not accurate, repeat the steps above. For watches with both day and date displays, make sure both are showing the correct information.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Citizen Watch

Avoid Changing the Date During Certain Hours: Many watches, including Citizen models, have a "date-change danger zone" typically between 9 PM and 3 AM. During this period, the date mechanism is engaged, and manually changing the day or date could damage the gears. It’s best to avoid adjusting the day or date during these hours.

Regular Servicing: To keep your Citizen watch in optimal condition, regular servicing by a professional watchmaker is recommended. This ensures the internal mechanisms are lubricated and functioning correctly, prolonging the life of your timepiece.

Store Your Watch Properly: When not in use, store your Citizen watch in a cool, dry place, preferably in a watch box. This prevents dust accumulation and protects the watch from potential damage.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

The Day Won't Change or Is Stuck

If the day on your Citizen watch won’t change or seems stuck, there could be several reasons for this:

• Crown Position: Ensure the crown is in the correct position for day adjustment. If it’s not, the day won’t change when you rotate the crown.
• Low Power: For Eco-Drive watches, low power could cause the day function to stop working correctly. Place the watch under direct light for a few hours to recharge it.
• Mechanical Issues: If the day is stuck despite correct crown operation, there may be an internal mechanical issue. In this case, it’s best to consult a professional watchmaker.

The Day Changes at Noon Instead of Midnight

This is a common issue that occurs when the watch’s AM/PM setting is incorrect. To fix this:

1. Set the time to 12:00 (noon or midnight).
2. Advance the time forward until the day changes.
3. Set the correct time.

This should align the day change with midnight instead of noon.

Advanced Adjustments for Perpetual Calendar Watches

Some Citizen watches come with a perpetual calendar feature, automatically adjusting the date and day, accounting for leap years and months with fewer than 31 days. Here’s how to manage this feature:

1. Identify the Perpetual Calendar Function: Check if your Citizen watch has a perpetual calendar. This feature usually requires setting the correct year and month.
2. Setting the Calendar: Pull the crown to Position 2 and rotate to adjust the year and month. Some models use a secondary subdial or digital display to set this feature.
3. Avoid Manual Day Adjustments: If your watch has a perpetual calendar, it’s best to avoid manually changing the day or date, as this could disrupt the calendar settings.

Conclusion

Changing the day on a Citizen watch is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail to avoid damaging the watch’s movement. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your watch remains accurate and functional. Whether you have an Eco-Drive, automatic, quartz, or mechanical Citizen watch, proper maintenance and correct adjustments will keep your timepiece in top condition for years to come.

Remember, if you encounter any issues or feel uncertain about making adjustments, consult the manual specific to your watch model or visit a professional watchmaker. Regular care and attention to your Citizen watch will preserve its precision, allowing you to enjoy its elegant design and reliable timekeeping.