If you enter the wrong passcode for your Apple Watch six times in a row, you'll be locked out. You'll also see a message that says to try again in a few minutes.
If you can't remember your passcode, you need to use the steps below to erase your Apple Watch. After you erase your Apple Watch, you can pair it with your companion device again and restore from a backup if you have one. The passcode isn't stored in the backup.
Erase your Apple Watch
If you have your iPhone, you can use the Watch app to erase your Apple Watch. Make sure you keep your Apple Watch and iPhone close together while completing these steps:
- Open the Watch app and tap the My Watch tab.
- Tap General > Reset.
- Tap Erase Apple Watch Content and Settings, then tap again to confirm. You might need to enter your Apple ID password.
If you don't have the iPhone that was paired to your Apple Watch, you can use these steps:
- Connect your Apple Watch to its Apple Magnetic Charging Cable.
- Press and hold the side button until you see the Power Off slider.
- Firmly press the Power Off slider, then lift.
- Tap Erase all content and settings.
Set up your Apple Watch from a backup
Use these steps to pair your Apple Watch again. When asked, restore from a backup.