The DHWatches 980 is a precision-crafted analog timepiece designed for reliability and classic style. One of its key features is the dual calendar display: both the day of the week and the current date. However, like many mechanical or quartz-powered watches with calendar functions, incorrect setup can lead to misalignment, skipped dates, or damage over time. Setting the day and date properly ensures your watch remains accurate and functional throughout the month.
While the process may seem straightforward, subtle nuances in crown positioning and timing can make a significant difference. This guide walks you through each phase with exacting detail so you never risk damaging your timepiece or misaligning the calendar indicators.
Understanding the DHWatches 980 Calendar Mechanism
The DHWatches 980 uses a bidirectional quick-set mechanism for both the day and date, activated via the crown in different positions. The crown has three distinct positions:
- Position 0: Fully pushed in – normal operation mode.
- Position 1: First pull – adjusts the date (and sometimes day, depending on model variation).
- Position 2: Second pull – sets the hour and minute hands.
Some variants allow independent adjustment of the day and date using Position 1 combined with rotating clockwise or counterclockwise. Always confirm your specific submodel’s behavior, as minor differences exist across production batches.
“Improper date setting is one of the most common causes of premature wear in automatic calendar watches.” — Carlos Mendez, Watchmaker & Horology Instructor at Geneva Institute of Timekeeping
When Not to Adjust the Date: Avoiding Internal Damage
A critical rule applies to nearly all watches with calendar functions: never set the date between 9 PM and 3 AM.
During this window, the internal gears are engaging or mid-transition to advance the date disc. Attempting to manually adjust during this period forces components against active motion, potentially bending gears, stripping teeth, or dislodging the calendar wheel.
Tip: If it's evening, wait until after 3 AM to adjust the date. Alternatively, move the hands past midnight before adjusting.To safely change the date:
- Advance the time to 6:00 AM.
- Set the date/day as needed.
- Then return the hands to the correct current time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Day and Date
Follow these steps carefully to ensure precise alignment without stress on the movement.
Step 1: Pull the Crown to Position 1
Gently pull the crown outward until it clicks into the first detent. This position typically controls the date function. On some DHWatches 980 models, turning the crown clockwise changes the date, while counterclockwise adjusts the day of the week.
Step 2: Determine Your Model’s Adjustment Logic
Not all DHWatches 980 units behave identically. Test yours:
- Turn crown clockwise: does the date change?
- Turn counterclockwise: does the day change?
If not, consult the user manual or contact customer support to verify configuration. Some versions require cycling through 24-hour increments to shift the day.
Step 3: Set the Correct Day
Using the method identified above, rotate the crown to display the correct day of the week. For example, if today is Thursday, align “THU” under the day indicator.
Tip: If your watch shows full-day names (e.g., MONDAY), ensure the entire word is visible and centered in the aperture.Step 4: Set the Correct Date
Adjust the numerical date to match the current day. Rotate slowly and observe the jump point—some watches click sharply at midnight, others transition gradually.
Step 5: Push the Crown Back In
Once both day and date are correct, gently push the crown back to its fully seated position. Ensure it seals properly to maintain water resistance.
Step 6: Verify Accuracy Over 24 Hours
Allow the watch to run for a full day. Check that the date advances exactly at midnight and that the day cycles correctly (e.g., Tuesday → Wednesday).
Do’s and Don’ts When Setting Day and Date
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Set the date when the time is between 6:00 AM and 7:00 PM | Never adjust the date between 9 PM and 3 AM |
| Use gentle pressure when pulling the crown | Don’t force rotation if the mechanism feels stuck |
| Confirm day/date alignment after setting | Don’t rely solely on quick-setting; verify real-time progression |
| Keep the watch wound (if automatic) during setup | Don’t leave the crown pulled out overnight |
Mini Case Study: Recovering from Incorrect Setup
Jamal received his DHWatches 980 as a gift and excitedly tried to set it on December 31st at 10:00 PM. He pulled the crown and adjusted the date to January 1st immediately. The next morning, he noticed the date hadn't advanced and was now stuck.
After consulting a local watch technician, he learned that forcing the date change during the internal advancement phase had jammed the date wheel. The repair required partial disassembly and cost $45. Since then, Jamal waits until mid-morning to set new dates and uses a small note reminder: “Wait till 6 AM.”
This case illustrates how a simple timing error can result in avoidable damage—even on affordable timepieces.
Checklist: Setting Day and Date Safely
- ✅ Confirm current day and date before starting
- ✅ Set watch time to 6:00 AM (avoiding 9 PM–3 AM window)
- ✅ Pull crown gently to Position 1
- ✅ Rotate clockwise to adjust date (verify direction on your unit)
- ✅ Rotate counterclockwise to adjust day (if supported)
- ✅ Align day abbreviation precisely in the window
- ✅ Double-check both displays match reality
- ✅ Push crown fully back in until sealed
- ✅ Monitor overnight to ensure proper auto-advance
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set the day and date simultaneously?
No. While both adjustments use the same crown position, they must be done separately. Most models require directional control (clockwise vs. counterclockwise). Simultaneous setting isn’t supported due to mechanical limitations in the gear train.
Why does my date skip every other day?
This usually means the watch is running slow or stopped briefly during the night. The date mechanism only triggers if the watch is actively moving past midnight. Ensure consistent power: wind the watch daily (if manual) or wear it for at least 8 hours to keep it charged (if automatic).
My day shows 'TUE' but should be 'FRI'—can I go backward?
Most DHWatches 980 models do not support reverse day adjustment. Instead, rotate the hands forward through the full 24-hour cycle multiple times until Friday appears. This prevents strain on the internal jumper spring.
Final Thoughts and Maintenance Tips
Setting the day and date on your DHWatches 980 correctly isn’t just about convenience—it’s about preserving the integrity of the movement. A well-maintained calendar function enhances usability and extends the lifespan of your timepiece.
Develop a habit of checking the date alignment weekly. Clean the case regularly with a soft cloth. And if you store the watch for more than a few days, consider placing it in a watch winder (for automatic models) to keep the mechanism engaged.
💬 Got a tip or question about your DHWatches 980? Share your experience below—your insight could help another enthusiast avoid a costly mistake!
