How to Reset a Citizen Eco-Drive Watch the Right Way

Citizen Eco-Drive watches are renowned for their eco-friendly solar-powered technology, eliminating the need for battery replacements. However, like any advanced timepiece, they may require a reset from time to time to ensure optimal performance. So, do you know how to reset a Citizen Eco-Drive watch?

There are some reasons why resetting a watch is needed, such as changing to a new time zone or simply ensuring that your watch is functioning at its best. To help you know how to reset a Citizen Eco-Drive watch properly, this article will guide you through the steps needed – from basic time and date adjustments to a full all-reset procedure, we've got you covered.

General Steps on How to Reset a Citizen Eco-Drive Watch

If this is your first time wearing a Citizen Eco-Drive watch, you might ask yourself “How do I reset my Citizen Eco-Drive watch” the right way. Also known as all reset, this action allows you to change the whole watch settings back to default. Here is the step-by-step guide to reset your Eco-Drive watch.

1. Ensure the Watch is Fully Charged

Before performing any reset, make sure your Eco-Drive watch is fully charged. Place the watch under direct sunlight for several hours. A fully charged watch will operate for months without additional exposure to light.

2. Identify the Model

Different models of Citizen Eco-Drive watches have different reset procedures. Refer to your watch’s manual for specific instructions. If you don't have the manual, you can usually find it on the Citizen website by entering your watch’s model number.

3. Basic Time and Date Reset

It usually takes simple steps to reset the time and date. You can follow these steps:

1. Pull the crown: Gently pull the crown (the small knob on the side of the watch) out to the first or second click position, depending on your model.
2. Set the time: Rotate the crown to set the correct time. For watches with a 24-hour format, ensure you set the correct AM/PM.
3. Set the date: If your watch has a date function, pull the crown to the appropriate position and rotate it to set the correct date.
4. Push the crown back: Once the time and date are set, push the crown back to its original position to resume normal operation.

Read also: How to Charge Citizen Eco-Drive Watch – All You Need to Know

4. All-Reset Procedure (for Advanced Models)

For models with additional features such as chronographs, alarms, or perpetual calendars, an all-reset procedure may be required.

1. Pull the crown: Pull the crown out to the setting position.
2. Press and hold buttons: Depending on your model, press and hold specific buttons simultaneously. Common combinations include pressing the top right (A) and bottom right (B) buttons together.
3. Wait for confirmation: The watch hands may spin or the digital display may blink to indicate a reset.
4. Release the buttons: Once the reset is confirmed, release the buttons and push the crown back to its normal position.
5. Set the functions: Re-enter the correct time, date, and any other specific settings as outlined in your manual.

5. Synchronize the Hands (if necessary)

For models with multi-function displays or sub-dials, you may need to synchronize the hands:

1. Pull the crown to the setting position.
2. Press and hold the designated buttons until the hands start moving.
3. Use the crown to move the hands to their zero positions.
4. Push the crown back to finalize the synchronization.

Common Reasons for Resetting

As mentioned above, resetting a watch is common due to several reasons. Here are the explanations:

Time and Date Adjustment

Over time, your Citizen Eco-Drive watch may display incorrect time or date due to various factors like changes in time zones, daylight saving time adjustments, or even minor inaccuracies that accumulate over months. Regularly resetting the time and date ensures that your watch remains a reliable and accurate timekeeping tool.

Change of Time Zone

Traveling across different time zones can disrupt the accuracy of your watch's displayed time. Resetting your watch when you reach a new time zone allows you to stay on schedule and avoid confusion. This is especially important for frequent travelers who rely on their watches for precise timekeeping.

Power Reserve Issues

Although Citizen Eco-Drive watches are designed to operate for months on a full charge, prolonged periods without exposure to light can deplete the power reserve. If your watch stops or exhibits erratic behavior, it may be due to insufficient charging. Resetting the watch after fully recharging it can help restore normal operation.

Function Synchronization

Advanced Citizen Eco-Drive models come with multiple functions, such as chronographs, alarms, and perpetual calendars. Sometimes, these functions may become unsynchronized due to accidental button presses or other disruptions. Performing a reset can help realign all the hands and sub-dials, ensuring that each function works correctly.

Gnomon’s Picks: Popular Eco-Drive Watches

Here, we highlight three popular Eco-Drive models available in our store, each offering unique features and exceptional reliability.

The Citizen Eco-Drive Tosa Washi Blue Ref. AQ4091-56M

The Citizen Eco-Drive Tosa Washi Blue Ref. AQ4091-56M stands out with its unique use of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and modern technology. This watch features a dial made from Tosa Washi paper, a durable and lightweight material known for its translucency and strength. 

The 40mm stainless steel case houses the exquisite blue dial, which is both elegant and eye-catching. Powered by Citizen’s Eco-Drive movement, it harnesses any light source to keep the watch running indefinitely, ensuring consistent and reliable performance.

Price: $2,490.00 USD 

The Citizen Super Titanium Ivory Ref. AQ4100-57A

The Citizen Super Titanium Ivory Ref. AQ4100-57A combines the innovative Eco-Drive technology with the strength and lightness of Super Titanium. This watch features a 40mm case made from Citizen's proprietary Super Titanium, which is five times harder and 40% lighter than stainless steel. 

Additionally, the ivory dial provides a classic, sophisticated look, enhanced by the sleek, minimalist design. The Eco-Drive movement ensures the watch remains powered by any light source, eliminating the need for battery replacements. 

Price: $2,280.00 USD

Citizen Promaster Titanium Diver Black 1000 Ref. BN7020-09E

If you’re looking for a robust and reliable timepiece designed for serious divers, the Citizen Promaster Titanium Diver Black 1000 is an excellent choice. Featuring a 52.5mm titanium case, this watch is incredibly durable yet lightweight, making it comfortable to wear even during long dives. 

The black dial is designed for maximum legibility, with large luminous hands and markers. The Promaster Diver is water-resistant up to an impressive 1000 meters and includes a helium escape valve, making it suitable for professional diving activities.

Price: $1,860.00 USD

Final Thought

Resetting your Citizen Eco-Drive watch is a straightforward process that ensures your timepiece continues to function accurately. Regularly exposing your watch to light and following the appropriate reset procedures will maintain its performance and longevity. For model-specific instructions, always refer to the user manual or Citizen’s official resources.

Read also: How to Set Citizen Eco-Drive Watch: A Comprehensive Guide