How to show seconds in macOS 12.7.6 menu bar clock?

I have used Macs for many years but can't find the seconds option for the menu bar clock on OS 12.7.6.

Posted on Jul 6, 2026 5:48 AM

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Posted on Jul 6, 2026 8:09 AM

Apple shifted things around a bit in macOS Monterey (12.x), moving the clock settings out of the old Date & Time pane and into the Dock & Menu Bar settings.

Here is exactly where to find it:

  1. Open System Preferences (from the Apple menu  or your Dock).
  2. In the sidebar on the left, scroll down to the Control Center section and select Clock.
  3. Check the box next to Display the time with seconds.

The change should apply instantly, and you'll see the seconds ticking away in your menu bar.

5 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jul 6, 2026 8:09 AM in response to Neville Hillyer

Apple shifted things around a bit in macOS Monterey (12.x), moving the clock settings out of the old Date & Time pane and into the Dock & Menu Bar settings.

Here is exactly where to find it:

  1. Open System Preferences (from the Apple menu  or your Dock).
  2. In the sidebar on the left, scroll down to the Control Center section and select Clock.
  3. Check the box next to Display the time with seconds.

The change should apply instantly, and you'll see the seconds ticking away in your menu bar.

How to show seconds in macOS 12.7.6 menu bar clock?

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