You can replace a Timex Expedition battery yourself with basic tools in about 10 minutes

A Timex Expedition watch battery typically lasts two to three years before the watch stops keeping time. You do not need to send the watch away or visit a jeweler—the battery compartment on most Expedition models opens from the back with a coin or small screwdriver, and replacement batteries cost between $3 and $8. The entire job takes longer to find your tools than to do the work.

The process is the same whether your Expedition is digital or analog: open the caseback, remove the old battery, note its size, install the new one, and seal it shut. The hardest part is not dropping the small parts on a dark floor.

Key Takeaways

  • Timex Expedition watches have a removable caseback held by a small screw or friction fit, accessible with a coin or flathead screwdriver.
  • Battery size varies by model—common sizes are SR626SW, SR927SW, and CR2032—so check your old battery or the caseback before you buy a replacement.
  • The battery slides or clips into a metal holder; install it with the positive side (marked +) facing up unless the holder shows otherwise.
  • After installation, test the watch for 30 seconds before sealing the caseback to avoid reopening it if the battery is defective.
  • If the watch still does not work after battery replacement, the problem is likely a corroded contact or internal damage, not the battery itself.

What you need before you start

Gather a coin (a dime or penny works), a small flathead screwdriver, a clean dry surface, and a replacement battery. A magnifying glass or phone flashlight helps you see inside the caseback, especially if the battery holder is small. Keep a small container or piece of tape nearby—you will remove tiny parts and need to keep track of them.

The most important step is identifying your battery size before you open the watch. Look at the caseback itself; many Timex models print the battery type directly on the back. If you do not see it printed there, you can open the watch, remove the old battery, and read the code stamped on it. Common Timex Expedition batteries are SR626SW (silver oxide, 1.55 volt), SR927SW (silver oxide, 1.55 volt), and CR2032 (lithium, 3 volt). Do not guess—installing the wrong voltage can damage the watch circuit.

Opening the caseback without damaging the watch

Most Timex Expedition watches have a caseback held by a single screw or a friction-fit design. If you see a small slot or notch on the edge of the caseback, use a coin or flathead screwdriver to turn it counterclockwise. Turn slowly and stop as soon as you feel resistance—forcing it can strip the slot. If the caseback has no visible screw, it is friction-fit; use a coin to gently pry the edge up, working your way around the perimeter rather than prying hard at one spot.

Once the caseback is loose, lift it straight up and set it on your clean surface with the inside facing up. Do not touch the inside of the caseback or the watch face—oils from your skin can corrode the contacts. If a rubber gasket comes out with the caseback, set it aside; you will reinstall it later to keep moisture out.

Removing the old battery and installing the new one

Look inside the watch and locate the battery holder—a small metal bracket or clip that holds the battery flat against the circuit board. The old battery will be a small silver or gold disc. If it is held by a clip, gently lift the clip edge with a fingernail or the tip of a plastic tool (not metal, which can short the circuit). Slide the battery out toward you. If the battery is straightforward resting in the holder, tip the watch slightly and let it slide out into your hand.

Before you install the new battery, check the polarity markings inside the holder. Most holders have a + symbol on one side and a − symbol on the other. The positive side of the battery (the flat side, usually marked +) must face the side marked + in the holder. Install the new battery by sliding it into the holder with the correct polarity, then find any clip that was holding the old one. Press gently to make sure the battery sits flat and makes contact with the metal surfaces.

Testing before you seal the caseback

Before you close the watch, test it for 30 seconds. If it is a digital watch, the display should light up or show numbers. If it is analog, the second hand should tick. If nothing happens, remove the battery and check that you installed it with the correct polarity. Wipe the battery and the metal contacts inside the holder with a clean, dry cloth—corrosion or moisture can prevent contact.

If the watch still does not work after you clean and reinstall the battery, the problem is likely a corroded contact or internal circuit damage, not the battery. In that case, you will need professional service. Do not keep trying; you risk damaging the circuit further.

Closing the caseback and sealing the watch

Once the watch is working, reinstall the rubber gasket if one came out. Place it back in the groove on the caseback, making sure it sits evenly all the way around. Align the caseback with the watch body and press it down firmly until you feel it seat. If your watch has a screw, turn it clockwise with a coin or screwdriver until it is snug—do not overtighten, which can crack the caseback or strip the screw.

The gasket keeps moisture and dust out of the watch. If you lost the gasket or it is cracked, the watch will still work but is no longer water-resistant. Timex sells replacement gaskets for most Expedition models for a few dollars if you need one later.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

The most common error is installing the battery upside down. If the watch does not work after you close it, open it again and flip the battery. The second mistake is touching the metal contacts inside the watch with bare fingers or metal tools, which can leave oils or cause a short. Use a plastic tool or your fingernail, and avoid the circuit board itself.

A third mistake is forcing the caseback screw or prying too hard on a friction-fit back. Timex casebacks are aluminum and strip easily. Turn screws slowly and stop at the first sign of resistance. For friction-fit backs, work your way around the edge with a coin rather than prying hard at one point.

Finally, do not throw away the old battery. Batteries contain metals and should be recycled. Most pharmacies, electronics stores, and municipal hazardous waste facilities accept watch batteries for free.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I cannot find the battery size printed on my watch?

Open the caseback and remove the old battery. The battery itself will have a code stamped on it—SR626SW, SR927SW, CR2032, or similar. Write down the code and take a photo before you close the watch. You can then order the correct replacement online or buy it at a pharmacy, electronics store, or jewelry counter.

Can I use a regular alkaline battery instead of a silver oxide or lithium battery?

No. Alkaline batteries have a different voltage and shape, and they will not fit the holder or power the watch correctly. Always match the battery type and voltage printed on the old battery or the caseback. Using the wrong battery can damage the circuit.

My watch still does not work after I replaced the battery. What went wrong?

First, open the watch and check that the battery is installed with the correct polarity—the + side facing the + marking in the holder. If polarity is correct, remove the battery and clean the metal contacts inside the holder with a dry cloth. Corrosion or moisture can prevent contact. If the watch still does not work, the circuit or contacts are likely damaged and the watch needs professional repair.

How do I know if the rubber gasket is damaged?

When you open the caseback, look at the gasket—a thin rubber ring that sits in a groove around the inside edge. If it is cracked, flattened, or missing pieces, it should be replaced. A damaged gasket means the watch is no longer water-resistant. Timex sells replacement gaskets for most models for a few dollars.

Is it safe to replace the battery myself, or should I take it to a jeweler?

It is safe to replace the battery yourself if you work slowly and avoid touching the circuit board or metal contacts with bare fingers. The only risk is installing the battery upside down, which you can fix by opening the watch again. A jeweler will charge $15 to $30 for the same job, so doing it yourself saves money and takes about the same amount of time once you have the tools.