I have to tap the Digital Crown to see the time. It defaults to blank screen.

The Apple Watch SE does not support the Always On Display:

Use the Always On feature with your Apple Watch - Apple Support

But you can use the Wake on Wrist Raise feature.

Make sure this is enabled on your watch in Settings/Display&Brightness ->Wake on Wrist Raise

Turn on and wake Apple Watch - Apple Support

sheila d.frombowling green wrote:

how can I set my watch to show time always

Even if the model watch you have doesn't have Always on Display, it should show you the time when you raise your wrist. If it doesn't, you may have Theatre Mode enabled. Go to the Control Center by tapping on the Side button (the flat oval one next to the Digital Crown). Look for the icon that shows two theatre masks. If it is highlighted, tap it to turn it off. 

What series Apple Watch and iOS version are you using?