Batteries Plus does replace watch batteries at most locations

Batteries Plus Bulbs, the national battery and lighting retailer, offers watch battery replacement at the majority of its stores. The service is available for most common watch types, including quartz watches with standard battery sizes. You bring your watch in, a staff member removes the old battery and installs a new one, and you leave with a working watch—usually the same day.

The cost varies by battery type and location, but typically ranges from $5 to $15 for the battery and installation combined. Some locations may charge differently, so calling ahead to confirm the price for your specific watch is worth doing. Batteries Plus also sells the batteries themselves if you prefer to replace them at home, though opening a watch case requires care and sometimes special tools.

Key Takeaways

  • Batteries Plus replaces watch batteries at most store locations, with the service completed while you wait.
  • The cost is usually between $5 and $15 total, but varies by battery type and store location.
  • You can call your local Batteries Plus before visiting to confirm they handle your watch type and current pricing.
  • If your watch requires a special tool to open or has a sealed case, some locations may decline the job or charge extra.
  • Batteries Plus also sells replacement batteries for home installation if you want to do the work yourself.

What to bring when you visit

Bring your watch and nothing else—you do not need documentation or proof of purchase. The staff member will examine the watch to determine the battery type and whether the case can be safely opened. If your watch is a luxury brand, vintage, or has a sealed case, mention that when you arrive, because some locations may not service those watches or may refer you elsewhere.

If you know your watch battery size (printed on the old battery or in the manual), you can mention it, but the staff will identify it anyway. Bring the watch in working condition if possible; if the battery is completely dead, the staff can still replace it, but they may not be able to test the new battery before you leave.

How long the replacement takes

Watch battery replacement typically takes 10 to 20 minutes at Batteries Plus. The staff member opens the case, removes the old battery, installs the new one, and closes the case back up. You can usually wait in the store while this happens.

Busy locations may have a short wait if multiple customers are ahead of you. If the store is out of your specific battery size, they may order it and ask you to return later, or they may have it in stock and complete the job when ready. Calling ahead during slower hours—usually weekday mornings—can reduce wait time.

When Batteries Plus may not be the right choice

Some watches should not be serviced at a general battery retailer. Luxury watches, vintage watches, or watches with water-resistant seals often need a jeweler or the manufacturer's service center instead. Opening these watches incorrectly can damage the seal or the case, and Batteries Plus staff are trained for standard quartz watches, not specialized repairs.

If your watch is under warranty, check the warranty terms before having the battery replaced anywhere. Some manufacturers void the warranty if the case is opened by an unauthorized service center. Waterproof watches also require special care when the case is reopened—the seal must be reapplied correctly, which not all Batteries Plus locations are equipped to do.

Finding your nearest Batteries Plus location

Use the Batteries Plus Bulbs store locator on their website to find the nearest location and confirm it offers watch battery replacement. The locator shows store hours, phone numbers, and services available at each location. Not every Batteries Plus location offers watch battery replacement, so checking before you visit saves a trip.

You can also call the store directly and ask whether they replace watch batteries and what the current cost is. Staff can tell you if they carry your specific battery size or if you should bring it in for them to check. Some locations may ask you to describe the watch type so they can confirm they can handle it.

Other places that replace watch batteries

Jewelry stores, both independent and chain retailers, replace watch batteries and often have more experience with different watch types than Batteries Plus. They typically charge $10 to $20 and can usually handle luxury or vintage watches. Jewelry stores may also clean the watch or inspect it for other issues while they have it open.

Walmart, Target, and some pharmacies with optical departments also offer watch battery replacement at similar prices. Department stores with jewelry counters sometimes provide the service as well. If you have a luxury watch or are unsure whether a general retailer can handle it safely, a jewelry store is the safer choice, even if it costs slightly more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Batteries Plus replace batteries in smartwatches?

Most smartwatches have sealed, non-replaceable batteries and require manufacturer service or a specialized repair shop. Batteries Plus does not typically replace smartwatch batteries. Contact the smartwatch manufacturer or an authorized service center for battery replacement.

What if my watch is waterproof?

Waterproof watches need the case resealed after battery replacement to maintain the water resistance. Not all Batteries Plus locations have the equipment to do this correctly. Call ahead and ask whether they can reseal waterproof watches, or take it to a jewelry store that specializes in watch service.

Can I buy the battery and replace it myself?

Yes, Batteries Plus sells replacement watch batteries. You will need a small screwdriver or a watch case opener tool, which you can buy separately. Opening the case yourself risks scratching the watch or damaging the seal, so this works best for inexpensive watches you do not mind if something goes wrong.

How much does a watch battery cost at Batteries Plus?

The battery itself usually costs $3 to $8, depending on the size and type. Installation adds another $2 to $7. Total cost is typically $5 to $15, but prices vary by location. Call your local store for exact pricing.

What if the store cannot open my watch?

Some watch cases are sealed too tightly or require special tools to open safely. If Batteries Plus cannot open your watch, they will tell you and may recommend a jewelry store or the manufacturer's service center instead. Do not force the case open yourself.