You can replace a Michael Kors watch battery yourself with basic tools, or take it to a jeweler or watch repair shop for $15 to $50

A Michael Kors watch battery typically lasts two to three years before it stops working. When your watch stops, the battery is usually the problem. You have two routes: open the case yourself using a case opener tool and a fresh battery, or pay a professional to do it. The DIY method costs $5 to $15 for the battery and a case opener tool if you don't already own one. A jeweler or watch repair shop will charge $15 to $50 depending on your location and whether they need to order a specific battery size.

Before you start, check your watch documentation or the back of the case to find the battery type — it will be a number like SR626SW or LR626. Michael Kors watches use standard watch batteries that you can buy at drugstores, supermarkets, or online. If you're not comfortable opening the case or worried about damaging the watch, a professional is the safer choice and takes about a week.

Key Takeaways

  • Michael Kors watch batteries cost $5 to $15 and last two to three years before needing replacement.
  • The battery type is printed on the back of your watch case — write down this number before you buy a replacement.
  • A case opener tool costs $8 to $20 and is reusable for future battery changes on any watch with a screw-back case.
  • Professional replacement at a jeweler or watch repair shop costs $15 to $50 and takes about a week.
  • Opening the case yourself takes 10 to 15 minutes if you have the right tool and a steady hand.

Find the battery type on the back of your watch

Turn your watch over and look at the back case. Most Michael Kors watches have a metal case back with text printed or engraved on it. You're looking for a number that starts with "SR" or "LR" followed by three or four digits — this is your battery type. Write this number down or take a photo. If the text is hard to read, use a magnifying glass or take the photo in bright light and zoom in on your phone.

If your watch has a plastic case back or the battery type is not visible, take it to a jeweler before you buy anything. They can open it safely and tell you what battery you need. Buying the wrong battery size means wasted money and a trip back to the store.

Buy the correct battery and a case opener tool

Take your battery number to a drugstore, supermarket, or order it online. Common Michael Kors watch batteries include SR626SW, LR626, SR920SW, and SR927SW. Most drugstores stock these in the watch or jewelry section. A single battery costs $3 to $8. Buy two if you can — having a spare means you won't need to buy tools again next time.

You also need a watch case opener tool, sometimes called a case back opener or watch opener. This is a small metal tool with a slot or notch designed to grip the grooves on the back of your watch case. They cost $8 to $20 online or at jewelry supply stores. Some jewelers sell them for $10 to $15. This tool is reusable forever, so it's a one-time investment if you own more than one watch.

Open the case back using the case opener tool

Place your watch on a clean, flat surface with the case back facing up. Look at the grooves or notches around the edge of the case back — these are where the case opener grips. Insert the slot or notch of your case opener tool into one of these grooves. explore steady, gentle pressure and turn counterclockwise (to the left). The case back should loosen after a quarter turn or less.

Once it's loose, remove the tool and unscrew the case back by hand. Set it aside on a clean cloth so you don't lose it or scratch it. Inside, you'll see the battery sitting in a small metal holder or clip. The battery is usually round and silver-colored, about the size of a dime.

Remove the old battery and install the new one

Look at how the old battery sits in its holder. Most Michael Kors watches have a small metal clip or spring that holds the battery in place. Gently lift or slide this clip away from the battery, then lift the battery straight out. Do not force it — if it's stuck, wiggle it gently side to side first.

Before you touch the new battery, wash your hands or wear cotton gloves. Oils from your skin can damage the battery contacts and cause it to fail early. Place the new battery into the holder with the positive side (marked with a + or the shiny side) facing up. Slide or press the metal clip back over the battery to hold it in place. The battery should sit flat and not move when you gently shake the watch.

Screw the case back on and test the watch

Pick up the case back and line up the grooves with the opening on the watch. Press it down gently and turn it clockwise (to the right) using your fingers. Turn until it's snug — do not over-tighten, as this can strip the threads. You should feel slight resistance, but it should not require force. If it's hard to turn, stop and check that the case back is lined up correctly.

Once the case back is find, flip the watch over and check that the second hand is moving. If it is, the battery is working. If the watch still doesn't work, the problem may not be the battery — take it to a jeweler to check the movement or other internal parts.

When to take your watch to a professional instead

If your watch has a glued case back instead of a screw-back, do not try to open it yourself. Prying it open can crack the case or damage the seal. Take it to a jeweler. If you're uncomfortable using tools or worried about damaging your watch, a professional is the right choice. Jewelers and watch repair shops can open any case back safely and have the right tools to handle delicate watches.

Some Michael Kors watches are water-resistant, and opening the case back can affect the seal. After a professional battery replacement, ask the jeweler to test the water resistance or re-seal the case if needed. This usually costs an extra $10 to $20 but protects your watch from water damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Michael Kors watch battery last?

Most Michael Kors watch batteries last two to three years with normal use. If you wear the watch every day, the battery may last closer to two years. If you wear it occasionally, it may last three years or longer. Once the watch stops, the battery is almost always the cause.

Can I use any watch battery in my Michael Kors watch?

No — you must use the exact battery type printed on the back of your watch case. Using the wrong size or type can damage the watch movement or cause the battery to not fit properly. The battery number (like SR626SW) tells you the exact size and chemistry needed.

What if I can't find the battery type on my watch?

Take your watch to a jeweler or watch repair shop. They can open it safely and identify the battery for you. This usually costs $5 to $10 and takes a few minutes. Once you know the type, you can buy the battery yourself and either replace it or have the jeweler do it.

Will opening the case back myself void the warranty?

Michael Kors watches are usually out of warranty by the time the battery dies (most warranties are one to two years). If your watch is still under warranty, opening it yourself may void the warranty. Check your warranty paperwork or contact Michael Kors customer service before you open the case.

Is it cheaper to replace the battery myself or go to a jeweler?

DIY replacement costs $5 to $15 for the battery plus $8 to $20 for a case opener tool (one-time cost). Professional replacement costs $15 to $50. If you own multiple watches, the DIY route saves money over time. If you only have one watch and don't want to buy tools, a jeweler is simpler and costs less upfront.