You can replace a Michael Kors watch battery yourself with basic tools, or take it to a jeweler or watch repair shop for about $10 to $25

Most Michael Kors watches use a standard coin-cell battery that you can access by opening the case back. If you have a screwdriver, tweezers, and a replacement battery that matches your watch model, you can do this at home in about five minutes. If you prefer not to open the watch yourself, any jeweler or department store with a watch counter can do it quickly and inexpensively.

The first step is finding out which battery your watch uses. Check the instruction manual that came with the watch, or look at the back of the watch case — many models print the battery type directly on the case back. Common Michael Kors batteries are SR626SW, SR927SW, and SR920SW. You can buy replacements at drugstores, supermarkets, online retailers, or watch repair shops for $3 to $8.

Key Takeaways

  • Most Michael Kors watches have a removable case back that you can open with a small flathead screwdriver or a coin.
  • The battery type is usually printed on the case back or listed in your watch manual — write down the exact model number before you buy a replacement.
  • When you remove the old battery, note which side faces up so you can install the new one the same way.
  • If the case back is glued shut or you are uncomfortable opening the watch, a jeweler or watch repair shop can replace it for $10 to $25 and usually finishes the same day.

Finding Your Battery Type and Buying a Replacement

Look at the back of your watch case. Most Michael Kors watches have a stainless steel or metal case back with text printed or engraved on it. You should see a battery code — usually a combination of letters and numbers like SR626SW or SR927SW. If the case back is blank or you cannot read it clearly, check your watch manual or the original box it came in.

Once you have the battery code, you can buy a replacement at a pharmacy, grocery store, or online. Walgreens, CVS, and Target all stock common watch batteries in their jewelry or pharmacy sections. Online options include Amazon, eBay, and specialty watch retailers. Buy the exact model number — do not guess or buy a "universal" battery, because the wrong size will not fit or will not work properly.

Opening the Case Back Without Damage

Examine the case back closely. Most Michael Kors watches have a case back that screws off — you will see a thin seam around the edge and sometimes small notches or grooves. A few models have a snap-on back that pops off with gentle pressure, but screwed backs are far more common.

For a screw-on back, use a small flathead screwdriver or a coin. Hold the watch face-down on a soft cloth or towel so it does not slide around. Position the screwdriver or coin in the groove or notch on the case back and turn slowly counterclockwise. Do not force it — if it does not turn easily, you may have the wrong tool or the back may be glued. Stop and take the watch to a jeweler instead. Once the back is loose, unscrew it by hand and set it aside on a clean surface where you will not lose it.

Removing the Old Battery and Installing the New One

Look inside the case. You will see a small round battery sitting in a metal holder or battery seat. Before you touch it, note which side is facing up — the positive side is usually marked with a plus sign (+) and faces toward you. The negative side faces down into the watch.

Use tweezers to gently lift the old battery straight up and out of its seat. Do not pry it sideways or use force. Once it is out, inspect the battery seat for any dirt, corrosion, or debris. If you see white or green crusty buildup, wipe it gently with a dry cotton swab or soft cloth. This buildup can prevent the new battery from making good contact.

Take your new battery and hold it with tweezers. Orient it so the positive side (+) faces up, the same way the old battery was positioned. Gently lower it straight down into the battery seat until it sits flat and snug. Do not force it — it should settle into place with light pressure. The battery should not move or rattle when you gently shake the watch.

Closing the Case Back and Testing Your Watch

Once the battery is installed, pick up the case back and line up the seam with the seam on the watch body. If the back has notches or grooves, align them with the corresponding marks on the watch. Hold the watch face-down on a soft cloth and use your screwdriver or coin to turn the case back clockwise. Tighten it firmly but do not over-tighten — you should feel resistance when it is snug, and then stop.

Flip the watch over and check that it is running. You should see the second hand moving. If the watch does not start, the battery may not be making contact. Open the case back again, remove the battery, and check that the positive side is facing up. Reinstall it and close the back. If the watch still does not work after a second try, the battery may be defective or the watch may need professional service.

When to Take Your Watch to a Professional

If the case back is glued shut, sealed with epoxy, or has no visible seam or notches, do not try to force it open. You risk cracking the case or damaging the internal components. Take the watch to a jeweler, watch repair shop, or the accessories counter at a department store like Macy's or Nordstrom.

Professional battery replacement usually costs $10 to $25 and takes 15 minutes to an hour. Many shops offer same-day service. Some Michael Kors stores also offer battery replacement, though they may charge more or require you to have purchased the watch there. Call ahead to confirm pricing and whether you need an appointment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most common error is installing the battery upside down. If the negative side faces up instead of the positive side, the watch will not work. Always check the old battery before you remove it, and match the orientation exactly.

Another mistake is touching the battery with bare fingers. Skin oils can interfere with the electrical contact. Use tweezers throughout the process, and if you do touch the battery, wipe it gently with a clean, dry cloth before installing it.

Do not over-tighten the case back. If you turn the screwdriver too hard, you can strip the threads or crack the case. Tighten until you feel firm resistance, then stop. The case back should be snug but not require force to open next time.

Finally, do not throw away the old battery. Batteries contain chemicals and should be recycled. Most pharmacies and retailers that sell batteries have a battery recycling bin near the checkout or customer service desk.

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. If you wear the watch constantly, the battery may drain faster. If you wear it occasionally, it may last longer. Once the watch stops, the battery is dead and needs replacement — there is no way to recharge it.

Can I use any coin-cell battery, or does it have to be the exact model?

You must use the exact model number printed on your case back or listed in your manual. Different coin-cell batteries have different voltages and sizes. Using the wrong one can damage the watch or cause it to malfunction. The correct battery costs only a few dollars, so it is worth buying the right one.

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

First, open the case back and check that the battery is installed with the positive side facing up. If it is, remove the battery, wipe both the battery and the battery seat with a clean, dry cloth, and reinstall it. If the watch still does not work, the problem may be a faulty battery, a damaged battery seat, or an internal component that needs repair. Take it to a jeweler or watch repair shop.

Is it safe to open my Michael Kors watch myself?

Yes, if the case back is designed to screw off. Millions of people replace watch batteries at home every year without damage. The risk is very low if you work slowly, use the right tools, and do not force anything. If you feel uncomfortable or the case back will not budge, a professional can do it safely for a small fee.

Do I need any special tools?

You need a small flathead screwdriver or a coin, tweezers, and a replacement battery. A soft cloth or towel to work on is helpful so the watch does not slide around. You do not need a watch repair kit or specialized equipment. All of these items are inexpensive and available at hardware stores, drugstores, or online.