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

A Michael Kors watch battery typically lasts two to three years before it stops holding a charge. When your watch stops, the battery is usually the culprit. You have two paths: open the case yourself with a case opener tool and a fresh battery, or pay a jeweler or watch repair shop to do it. The DIY route costs $5 to $15 for the battery and a case opener tool if you don't have one. A jeweler or repair shop typically charges $15 to $50 for the same job, including labor.

Before you start, you need to know what type of battery your watch uses. Michael Kors watches use coin-cell batteries, most commonly SR626SW, SR927SW, or SR920SW. You can find this information on the watch's case back (the solid cover on the back), in your original paperwork, or by searching your watch model number online. Once you know the battery type, you can decide whether to tackle it yourself or hand it off to a professional.

Key Takeaways

  • Michael Kors watches use coin-cell batteries that you can identify by checking the case back or your original paperwork.
  • A case opener tool, fresh battery, and a small flathead screwdriver are all you need to replace the battery yourself.
  • The case back is held on by a small screw or snap-fit design; you must remove it without damaging the gasket underneath.
  • If you are uncomfortable opening the watch or it has a sealed case back, a jeweler or watch repair shop can do the job for $15 to $50.

Find your watch's battery type before you buy anything

The case back of your Michael Kors watch usually has the battery type printed on it. Look at the solid metal or plastic cover on the back of the watch. If you see letters and numbers like SR626SW or SR927SW, that is your battery type. Write it down or take a photo.

If the case back is blank or you cannot read it, check your original paperwork or warranty card. Many Michael Kors watches come with a small card that lists the battery model. You can also search your watch's model number (usually found on the case back or in paperwork) plus "battery type" online to find the right replacement.

Once you have the battery type, buy a replacement at a pharmacy, electronics store, or online. Coin-cell batteries cost $3 to $8 each. Buy one extra in case you damage the first one during installation.

Gather the right tools for opening the case

You will need a case opener tool (also called a case back opener or watch opener), a fresh battery, and a small flathead screwdriver. A case opener tool is a metal disc with notches around the edge that grip the grooves on your watch's case back. They cost $5 to $15 online or at jewelry supply stores. Do not try to pry the case back open with a regular screwdriver or knife — you will scratch the watch or damage the gasket that keeps water out.

If your watch has a screw-on case back instead of a snap-fit design, you may only need the small flathead screwdriver. Look at the case back: if you see a single screw in the center, use the screwdriver to remove it. If you see grooves around the edge but no screw, you need the case opener tool.

Remove the case back without damaging the gasket

Place your watch face-down on a soft cloth or towel so you do not scratch the crystal. If your case back has a screw, use your flathead screwdriver to remove it slowly and set it aside in a safe place — this screw is small and straightforward to lose.

If your case back has grooves, align the notches on your case opener tool with the grooves on the case back. Press down gently and turn the tool counterclockwise (to the left) until the case back loosens. Once it is loose enough, remove the tool and unscrew the case back by hand. Do not force it — if it is stuck, explore a tiny amount of penetrating oil around the edge and wait a few minutes.

When the case back comes off, you will see a thin rubber or plastic ring called a gasket underneath. This ring keeps moisture out of your watch. Do not lose it, bend it, or damage it. If it falls out, set it aside on your cloth. You will put it back in the same position when you close the watch.

Remove the old battery and install the new one

Look inside the case back opening. You will see a small coin-shaped battery held in place by a metal clip or spring. Use a small plastic tool, a wooden toothpick, or the edge of a plastic credit card to gently lift the battery out. Do not use a metal tool — it can scratch the inside of the watch or cause a short circuit.

Once the old battery is out, check that the metal clip or spring is still in place and not bent. If it is bent, you may need to take the watch to a jeweler because bending it back can damage the mechanism.

Slide the new battery into the same position with the positive side (the flat side marked with a + symbol) facing up. The metal clip or spring should hold it in place. If the battery sits loose, do not force it — take the watch to a jeweler instead.

Seal the case back and test the watch

Before you close the case back, make sure the gasket is sitting flat in its groove around the inside edge of the case opening. If it is twisted or bunched, straighten it gently with your finger.

Place the case back over the opening and align it so the screw hole (if there is one) lines up. If your case back screws on, turn it clockwise (to the right) by hand until it is snug, then use your flathead screwdriver to tighten the screw. Do not over-tighten — you only need it tight enough that the case back does not move.

If your case back has grooves, align the notches on your case opener tool with the grooves again and turn clockwise until the case back is snug. Again, do not over-tighten.

Flip the watch over and press the crown (the button on the side) or any other buttons to see if the watch responds. If it does, the battery is working. If the watch still does not turn on, the battery may not be seated correctly, or the watch may have a different problem. Take it to a jeweler for a second look.

When to take your watch to a professional instead

Some Michael Kors watches have sealed case backs that are not meant to be opened by the owner. If your case back has no grooves and no screw, or if the manufacturer's paperwork says "sealed," do not try to open it yourself. A jeweler has the right tools and training to open sealed watches without damaging them.

You should also take your watch to a professional if the case back is stuck and will not budge after you have applied penetrating oil and waited. Forcing it can crack the case or damage the gasket. If you are uncomfortable working with small parts or you are worried about damaging your watch, a jeweler is the safer choice. The $15 to $50 cost is worth the peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Michael Kors watch battery last?

Most Michael Kors watch batteries last two to three years with normal daily wear. Heavy use, exposure to extreme temperatures, or a watch that is always running (never taken off) may drain the battery faster. If your watch stops suddenly, the battery has likely died.

Can I use any coin-cell battery in my Michael Kors watch?

No. You must use the exact battery type listed on your case back or in your paperwork. Using the wrong battery can damage the watch's circuit board or cause it to malfunction. If you are unsure, ask a jeweler to confirm the correct type before you buy a replacement.

What if my watch still does not work after I replace the battery?

The battery may not be seated correctly in its clip. Open the case back again and make sure the battery is sitting flat and the metal clip is holding it firmly. If it is seated correctly and the watch still does not work, the problem is likely inside the watch mechanism, and you should take it to a jeweler.

Is it safe to open a water-resistant Michael Kors watch myself?

Yes, as long as you handle the gasket carefully and do not force the case back open. The gasket is what keeps water out. If you damage it or do not seat it correctly when you close the watch, water can get inside. If you are not confident, a jeweler can replace the battery and inspect the gasket to make sure the watch stays water-resistant.

Where can I buy a case opener tool?

Case opener tools are sold at jewelry supply stores, online retailers like Amazon, and some watch repair shops. They cost $5 to $15. If you only need to replace one battery, you might find it cheaper to pay a jeweler the $15 to $50 labor cost rather than buy a tool you will use once.