Horloge des marées "la gravière" posée sur un rocher à la plage

How to Correctly Set Your Little Wave Tide Clock: Complete Guide 2025

Have you just purchased a Petite Vague tide clock and are wondering how to set it correctly? This detailed guide will take you step by step through how to synchronize your tide clock with the ocean's natural cycles so you can fully enjoy this practical and decorative instrument.


What is a tide clock and what is it used for?

A tide clock is a specialized measuring instrument that tracks the natural rhythm of the oceans. Unlike traditional clocks that operate on a 24-hour cycle, Petite Vague tide clocks follow a 12-hour and 25-minute cycle, corresponding exactly to the average time between two successive high tides.

This essential tool allows you to know at a glance:
  • If the tide is rising Or descending
  • The approximate time of the next high tide Or low tide
  • The best time to plan your coastal activities



Who is a tide clock useful for?

The Petite Vague tide clock is essential for:
  • THE surfers looking for the best wave conditions
  • Lovers of fishing on foot wishing to access uncovered areas at low tide
  • Fans of coastal walks and marine photography
  • THE browsers and boaters
  • THE ocean lover who wish to live to the rhythm of the tides



Step-by-step guide to setting your Little Wave tide clock

To ensure optimal accuracy of your handmade tide clock, follow these adjustment instructions carefully.


1. Find the exact time of the next high tide

Before setting your clock, you need to know the exact time of the next high tide in your area:
  • Consult a specialized site like Maree.info Or Shom.fr
  • Use a mobile application dedicated to tides
  • Refer to the local tide calendar of your coastal town (Hossegor, Biarritz, Capbreton, etc.)
Pro tip : For maximum accuracy, use data from the tide gauge station closest to where you live or where you practice boating.


2. Position the needle correctly so that it points north

Once the time of the next high tide has been identified, proceed with the adjustment:
  1. Locate the adjustment wheel located on the back of your Petite Vague clock
  2. Gently turn this wheel to rotate the needle
  3. Position the needle precisely so that it points north (or "HIGH" / "HIGH TIDE",... depending on your model)
  4. Check the perfect alignment of the needle with the corresponding marker

3. Start the tide gauge mechanism

To activate the operation of your tide clock:
  1. Insert a new AA battery in the compartment provided for this purpose
  2. Check that the needle has moved (after one hour)
Your Little Wave tide clock is now perfectly synchronized with the natural tidal cycle in your area. The specially calibrated mechanism will automatically follow the ocean's rhythm.



Maintenance and adjustments of your tide clock

To maintain the accuracy and extend the life of your Petite Vague tide clock, a few maintenance steps are recommended.


Monthly verification and recalibration

Tide times are constantly changing based on lunar cycles, seasons, and weather conditions. For optimal accuracy:
  • Check the synchronization of your clock once a month
  • Readjust the needle if necessary by following the initial procedure
  • Pay special attention during seasonal changes and high equinox tides


Battery Replacement and Maintenance

To ensure smooth operation:
  • Replace the AA battery as soon as you notice a slowdown or a stop
  • Preferably use quality alkaline batteries for longer life
  • Avoid leaving a used battery in the mechanism to prevent leakage


Cleaning and preservation

Your Petite Vague tide clock is handcrafted from recycled materials from the beaches of the Basque Country and Landes. To preserve its beauty:
  • Use only one soft, dry cloth for cleaning
  • Avoid contact with water and excessive humidity
  • Protect it from direct sunlight which could alter the colors
  • Handle with care to protect natural and recycled materials


Live to the rhythm of the tides with Petite Vague

Your Petite Vague tide clock is more than just a time-measuring instrument. It's an invitation to reconnect with the ocean's natural cycles and adopt a lifestyle more in harmony with nature.


An eco-designed and meaningful object

Each Little Wave tide clock tells a story:
  • Handcrafted in Hossegor by Elise and Pedro
  • Designed from recycled materials collected on local beaches
  • Created using an upcycling approach and respect for the environment
  • Bearer of the values ​​of sustainability and of connection to the ocean


Integrate the tides into your daily life

Thanks to your Petite Vague tide clock, you can:
  • Plan your surf sessions at the best times
  • Organize your fishing trips on foot safely
  • Plan your coastal walks when the landscapes are the most spectacular
  • Decorate your interior with an object that is both aesthetic and functional
  • To raise awareness those around you to the importance of natural cycles


Need more help?

Do you have any questions about setting or maintaining your Petite Vague tide clock? Our team is here to help.



Discover our other products

Explore our complete collection of tide clocks and our other ocean-inspired creations, all handcrafted from recycled materials.

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