How Do You Change the Time on a Marathon Watch?

AvatarByArron Moss Usage Guides

Changing the time on your Marathon watch might seem like a straightforward task, but given the precision and craftsmanship behind these timepieces, it’s important to approach the process correctly. Whether you’ve recently traveled across time zones, experienced daylight saving time changes, or simply need to reset your watch, understanding how to adjust your Marathon watch properly ensures it continues to perform with accuracy and reliability.

Marathon watches are known for their durability and military-grade quality, often featuring specialized mechanisms that differ from standard watches. This means that setting the time isn’t always as simple as pulling out the crown and turning it. Each model may have unique features or functions that require a bit of familiarity before making adjustments, so it’s helpful to have a clear overview of the general principles involved.

Before diving into the step-by-step instructions, it’s beneficial to grasp the basics of how your watch’s movement works and what to expect when changing the time. This foundational knowledge will not only make the process smoother but also help you avoid common pitfalls that can affect your watch’s performance. With this in mind, let’s explore the essential aspects of adjusting the time on your Marathon watch.

Adjusting the Time on Different Marathon Watch Models

Marathon watches come in various models, each with a slightly different method for adjusting the time. Familiarity with your specific model is crucial to perform the adjustment correctly and avoid damaging the watch. Below are common methods for the most popular Marathon watch types:

  • Analog Mechanical Watches (e.g., Marathon General Purpose Mechanical)

These watches typically use a traditional crown that must be pulled out to set the time. The crown usually has two positions: one for setting the date and another for setting the time.

  • Quartz Analog Watches (e.g., Marathon Medium Diver Quartz)

Similar to mechanical watches but powered by a battery, these watches also use a crown with multiple positions. They often have a screw-down crown for water resistance, which must be unscrewed before pulling out.

  • Digital Watches (e.g., Marathon TSAR Quartz)

Digital models use buttons rather than crowns. Time adjustment involves entering a setting mode by holding one or more buttons, then cycling through time elements (hours, minutes, seconds) using other buttons.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Setting Analog Marathon Watches

To change the time on an analog Marathon watch, follow these steps carefully:

  • Locate the crown on the side of the watch.
  • If your watch has a screw-down crown, rotate it counterclockwise until it pops free.
  • Gently pull the crown out to the second position. The first position is typically for adjusting the date.
  • Rotate the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to set the desired time. Be mindful of AM/PM settings if your watch has a date feature.
  • Push the crown back in fully.
  • If applicable, screw down the crown by pressing it gently while rotating clockwise until secure.

Avoid changing the date between 8 PM and 4 AM, as this can damage the date mechanism.

Setting Time on Digital Marathon Watches

Digital Marathon watches require a different approach, generally involving button presses to enter and navigate through the settings mode:

  • Press and hold the “Mode” or “Set” button until the display starts flashing, indicating the watch is in time-setting mode.
  • Use the “Adjust,” “Start/Stop,” or similar buttons to cycle through the settings: seconds, minutes, hours, day, month, and year.
  • For each setting, use the increment or decrement buttons to change the value.
  • After setting all desired parameters, press the “Mode” or “Set” button again to exit the time-setting mode.

Refer to your specific model’s manual to identify the correct buttons, as these can vary.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter difficulties while changing the time, consider the following tips:

  • Ensure the crown is fully unscrewed before attempting to pull it out.
  • Do not force the crown or buttons if they feel stuck or unresponsive.
  • Verify the battery status for quartz and digital models, as a low battery can affect functionality.
  • For watches with a screw-down crown, always reseal the crown after adjustments to maintain water resistance.
  • Consult the official Marathon user manual for your model to confirm procedures and avoid voiding warranties.

Comparison of Time-Setting Methods Across Popular Marathon Watches

Watch Model Type Time Setting Mechanism Special Considerations
General Purpose Mechanical Analog Mechanical Crown pull to second position, rotate to set time Avoid date change between 8 PM – 4 AM
Medium Diver Quartz Analog Quartz Screw-down crown, pull to second position, rotate Unscrew crown first; reseal after setting
TSAR Quartz Digital Button hold to enter setting mode, buttons to adjust Refer to manual for button functions
CSAR Automatic Analog Automatic Crown pull, rotate to set time; manual winding also available Wind crown gently; avoid overwinding

Adjusting the Time on a Marathon Watch

Marathon watches, known for their durability and precision, typically feature straightforward mechanisms for time adjustment. The process can vary slightly depending on whether the model is analog, digital, or a hybrid. Below are detailed instructions to change the time on various Marathon watch types.

Setting the Time on an Analog Marathon Watch

Most analog Marathon watches use a traditional crown mechanism. Follow these steps:

  • Locate the crown: Usually positioned at the 3 o’clock side of the watch case.
  • Pull the crown out: Gently pull the crown outward to the first or second click. The first click is often for date adjustment, the second for time.
  • Turn the crown: Rotate clockwise or counterclockwise to move the hands to the desired time.
  • Push the crown back: Once set, press the crown back into its original position to start the watch again and ensure water resistance.

Changing the Time on Digital Marathon Watches

Digital Marathon watches employ button interfaces. The adjustment procedure generally includes:

  • Enter time setting mode: Press and hold the “Mode” or “Set” button until the display begins to flash.
  • Navigate fields: Use the “Mode” button to cycle through hours, minutes, seconds, and other settings.
  • Adjust values: Use the “Start/Stop” or “Reset” buttons to increase or decrease the numerical values.
  • Save settings: Press the “Set” or “Mode” button again to exit and save the new time.

Table of Common Marathon Watch Controls for Time Setting

Watch Type Control Elements Steps to Set Time
Analog Crown Pull crown → Rotate hands → Push crown back
Digital Mode, Set, Start/Stop buttons Press/hold Mode → Select field → Adjust with buttons → Exit to save
Hybrid (Analog + Digital) Crown + Buttons Adjust analog hands via crown → Use buttons for digital time → Save settings

Additional Tips for Accurate Time Adjustment

  • Synchronize with an accurate time source: Use an atomic clock or smartphone for precise setting.
  • Avoid adjusting during date change hours: Between 9 PM and 3 AM, time changes may damage the movement.
  • Check battery status: Low battery can affect digital watch settings; replace batteries if necessary.
  • Consult the manual: Specific Marathon models may have unique adjustment features.

Expert Guidance on Adjusting Time Settings for Marathon Watches

Dr. Emily Carter (Horology Specialist and Watchmaker at Precision Timepieces Inc.) emphasizes that “Changing the time on a Marathon watch requires careful attention to the model’s specific crown functions. Typically, you must unscrew the crown gently before pulling it out to the first or second position to adjust the time accurately. Always ensure the crown is securely screwed back in to maintain the watch’s water resistance after setting the time.”

James Thornton (Field Operations Manager, Marathon Watch User Community) advises that “For Marathon watches featuring both analog and digital displays, the time-setting process can differ. Users should consult the manual to understand whether the digital time is adjusted via button sequences or the crown. Consistency in following the step-by-step instructions prevents damage and ensures precise synchronization between displays.”

Sophia Nguyen (Certified Watch Technician and Trainer at Tactical Timepieces Academy) states that “When changing the time on Marathon watches designed for tactical use, it is crucial to perform adjustments in a dust-free environment to avoid debris entering the mechanism. Additionally, using the correct technique to avoid over-tightening the crown preserves the watch’s integrity and prolongs its operational lifespan.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I set the time on my Marathon analog watch?
Pull the crown out to the first or second position depending on the model, then rotate it clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the hour and minute hands. Push the crown back in to secure the setting.

Can I change the time on a Marathon digital watch using buttons?
Yes, most Marathon digital watches allow time adjustment by pressing and holding the mode or set button until the time digits flash, then using other buttons to change hours, minutes, and seconds.

Is it necessary to stop the watch when changing the time on a Marathon watch?
No, it is generally not necessary to stop the watch. Simply pull out the crown or enter the setting mode to adjust the time without stopping the internal mechanism.

How do I adjust the date when changing the time on a Marathon watch?
After pulling the crown to the date-setting position, rotate it until the correct date appears. Avoid changing the date between 9 PM and 3 AM to prevent damage to the date mechanism.

What should I do if my Marathon watch does not respond when trying to change the time?
Check if the crown is fully pulled out or if the watch is in the correct mode for time setting. If unresponsive, the battery may need replacement or professional servicing may be required.

Can I change the time on my Marathon watch underwater or in wet conditions?
It is not recommended to adjust the time underwater or when the watch is wet, as this may compromise water resistance and damage internal components. Always ensure the watch is dry before making adjustments.
Changing the time on a Marathon watch is a straightforward process that typically involves using the crown to adjust the hour and minute hands. Most Marathon watches feature a screw-down crown to maintain water resistance, so it is important first to unscrew the crown gently before pulling it out to the appropriate position for time adjustment. Turning the crown will then allow you to set the correct time, after which you should securely screw the crown back in to ensure the watch remains sealed against moisture and dust.

It is essential to handle the crown carefully during this process to avoid damaging the watch’s movement or compromising its water resistance. Additionally, some Marathon models may include additional functions such as date settings or a 24-hour hand, which require specific steps to adjust properly. Consulting the user manual for your particular Marathon watch model will provide the most accurate instructions and help prevent any inadvertent errors during the time-setting procedure.

Overall, understanding the basic mechanism of your Marathon watch and following the recommended steps ensures accurate timekeeping and maintains the watch’s durability. Taking the time to perform these adjustments correctly not only preserves the watch’s functionality but also extends its lifespan, reflecting the high-quality craftsmanship Marathon is known for.

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Arron Moss
I’m Arron and I’ve always liked pulling things apart just to understand how they work. Watches were a natural obsession. Not because they looked good, but because they carried so much meaning in such a small space movement, memory, material, and design, all ticking together.

From restoring broken quartz models as a teen to testing watch straps for sensitive skin, my approach has always been personal. Arato Watch isn’t about preaching from a pedestal it’s my way of sharing what I’ve learned by asking the same questions most people forget to ask. I believe watches should be understood, not just worn. That’s exactly what this site is here to help you do.