How to Reset Citizen Eco-Drive Watch GN-4W-S

Introduction
Citizen Eco-Drive watches are renowned for their innovative technology, which harnesses the power of light to keep the watch running without the need for a battery replacement. Among the many models, the GN-4W-S series is particularly popular for its durability, precision, and eco-friendly features. However, like any other piece of technology, there may be times when you need to reset the watch due to time discrepancies, after a battery change, or after it has been left in the dark for too long. This guide will walk you through the steps to reset your Citizen Eco-Drive GN-4W-S watch, ensuring it operates smoothly and accurately.

Why You Might Need to Reset Your Citizen Eco-Drive Watch
There are several reasons why resetting your Citizen Eco-Drive GN-4W-S might be necessary:

1. Time Discrepancy: If the time shown on your watch does not match the actual time, it might need to be reset.
2. Battery Change: Although Eco-Drive watches use light to recharge, sometimes, after years of use, the battery might still need attention.
3. Watch Reset After Complete Discharge: If your Eco-Drive watch stops due to complete darkness over an extended period, resetting might be necessary after exposing it to light.
4. Daylight Saving Time Adjustments: When daylight saving time begins or ends, you may need to adjust your watch manually.

Step-by-Step Guide to Resetting Citizen Eco-Drive GN-4W-S

1. Identify the Crown and Pushers
Before starting, it’s essential to identify the different parts of the watch. The crown is the knob located on the side of the watch, typically at the 3 o'clock position. There may also be pushers (small buttons) on the side of the watch, which will assist in resetting the time or other functions.

2. Pulling the Crown to the Correct Position

• Pull the crown out gently to the first or second click position.
• The first click is usually for setting the date, while the second click is for setting the time. Ensure you pull it out to the second click to reset the time.

3. Setting the Time

• Rotate the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to set the correct time.
• Pay attention to the AM/PM setting. If your watch has a 24-hour format, you might need to go around the dial twice to set it correctly.

4. Resetting the Date (If Applicable)

• If your model has a date function, you might need to reset it as well.
• Pull the crown to the first click.
• Rotate the crown to set the correct date. Make sure the time is not around midnight when setting the date to avoid incorrect day and night settings.

5. Pushing the Crown Back In

• Once the time and date are set correctly, press the crown back to its original position.
• Ensure it is securely in place to maintain the watch's water resistance and prevent any dust or moisture from entering.

6. Synchronizing the Watch

• Some Citizen Eco-Drive GN-4W-S models come with radio-controlled synchronization features.
• If your model has this feature, place the watch near a window where it can receive radio signals.
• It will automatically synchronize with the atomic clock, ensuring accurate timekeeping.

7. Charging the Watch

• After resetting, make sure to charge the watch by exposing it to natural or artificial light.
• Place the watch under a bright light source for several hours to ensure the battery is fully charged.
• Avoid charging under extreme heat, such as direct sunlight on a hot day, to prevent damage.

8. Performing an All-Reset Procedure

• If the standard resetting method doesn’t work, you may need to perform an all-reset procedure.
• To do this, pull the crown to the setting position and hold down the buttons (if any) for several seconds.
• Refer to your user manual for the specific combination, as it may vary depending on the model.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Watch Is Not Keeping Accurate Time
If your watch still does not keep accurate time after resetting, try the following:

• Make sure the watch is fully charged by exposing it to a light source for at least 8 hours.
• Check for any interference from other electronic devices that might affect the radio signal.
• Perform an all-reset procedure and try resetting the time again.

2. Date Is Not Changing at Midnight

• If the date is not changing at midnight, you might have set the time incorrectly.
• Pull the crown to the second position and move the hands forward 12 hours, then reset the date.
• Ensure that the time is set accurately to differentiate between AM and PM.

3. Watch Has Stopped Completely

• If the watch has stopped, it might have been kept in the dark for too long, leading to complete battery drainage.
• Expose the watch to bright light for an extended period, and it should start running again.
• If the watch still doesn’t start, consult a Citizen service center for further assistance.

Maintenance Tips for Citizen Eco-Drive GN-4W-S Watch

• Regular Exposure to Light: Make sure your watch is exposed to light regularly to keep it charged. Even indoor lighting can help maintain the battery.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Do not expose the watch to extreme heat or cold, as it can affect the battery life and functionality.
• Keep It Clean: Wipe the watch regularly with a soft cloth to keep it free from dust and moisture. Avoid using any harsh chemicals.
• Service Check: Regularly check the watch’s performance and consider taking it for servicing every few years to ensure it remains in excellent working condition.

Conclusion
Resetting a Citizen Eco-Drive GN-4W-S watch is a straightforward process if you follow the steps correctly. Whether it's a time discrepancy or a complete reset after a full discharge, understanding the functionalities of your watch and how to maintain it will ensure its longevity and precision. Always refer to your user manual for model-specific instructions, and if you encounter any issues beyond simple resetting, consult with a professional. By taking good care of your Eco-Drive watch, you can enjoy its reliable and eco-friendly technology for many years to come.