You can replace most Bulova watch batteries yourself with basic tools

Most Bulova watches use a standard battery that you can swap out at home in 10 to 15 minutes. You will need a case opener (a small flat tool), tweezers, and a replacement battery that matches your watch model. The battery type is printed on the back of your watch case or in your manual — common sizes are SR626SW, SR927SW, and SR516SW. You can buy these batteries at drugstores, electronics retailers, or online for $3 to $8.

The process is straightforward: open the case back, note where the battery sits, remove the old one, and install the new one with the positive side facing up. If your watch is water-resistant or has a sealed case back, or if you are uncomfortable opening it yourself, a jeweler or watch repair shop can do this in minutes for $10 to $25 including the battery.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Bulova battery type is printed on the case back or in the manual — match this exactly when you buy a replacement.
  • A case opener, tweezers, and a steady hand are all you need to open the case and swap the battery yourself.
  • The battery goes in with the positive (+) side facing up; inserting it backwards will not damage anything but the watch will not work.
  • Water-resistant watches may have sealed case backs that require a jeweler's tools to open safely without damaging the seal.
  • If you drop the battery or feel uncertain, a jeweler can replace it for less than the cost of a new watch.

Finding your Bulova battery type and size

The battery type is almost always stamped on the back of your watch case. Look for a code like SR626SW, SR927SW, SR516SW, or similar — the "SR" prefix means it is a silver oxide battery, which is standard for Bulova watches. If the case back is blank or worn, check your watch manual or warranty card; the model number there will help a jeweler identify the right battery.

If you have neither the case back markings nor the manual, take a photo of your watch and bring it to a jewelry store or watch repair shop. They can identify the model and tell you the battery type in seconds. Do not guess — installing the wrong size battery can prevent the watch from closing properly or cause it to sit loose inside the case.

Tools and materials you will need

A case opener (also called a case back opener or watch opener) is a small flat tool with a notch or slot designed to fit into the groove on the case back. You can buy one for $5 to $15 at jewelry supply stores, electronics retailers, or online. A butter knife or flathead screwdriver will sometimes work if the case back has a large slot, but a proper opener reduces the risk of slipping and scratching the case.

Tweezers help you lift the old battery out and position the new one without touching it with your fingers. Any tweezers work, but fine-point tweezers give you better control. You will also need the replacement battery itself — buy it before you open the watch so you have it ready to install when ready.

Lay out a clean, flat surface with good lighting. A small bowl or cup nearby catches the battery if you drop it. Wear glasses or use a magnifying glass if you have trouble seeing small objects.

Step-by-step battery replacement

Step 1: Locate the groove on the case back. Most Bulova watches have a small notch or groove cut into the edge of the case back. This is where the case opener fits. Rotate the watch to find it — it is usually on one side, not centered.

Step 2: Insert the case opener and gently pry. Fit the notch of the opener into the groove and explore steady, gentle pressure. Do not force it — the case back should pop off with light pressure. If it does not budge after a few seconds, try a different spot on the groove; sometimes the opening point is not obvious.

Step 3: Remove the old battery. Once the case back is off, you will see the battery sitting in a small compartment. Use tweezers to lift it straight up and out. Set it aside — you do not need it anymore unless you want to recycle it.

Step 4: Install the new battery. Check that the positive (+) side is facing up. Slide the new battery into the compartment and press it gently until it sits flat and level. It should not require force; if it does not fit smoothly, you may have the wrong size.

Step 5: Close the case back. Align the case back with the watch body and press down firmly until you hear or feel a click. The case back should sit flush with the case — no gaps or edges sticking up. Rotate the watch to check that the seam is even all the way around.

When to take your watch to a professional

If your Bulova is water-resistant (marked "water resistant" or "WR" on the dial or case back), the case back may have a rubber gasket or seal that keeps moisture out. Opening and closing it yourself can damage this seal, leaving your watch vulnerable to water damage. A jeweler has the right tools and replacement gaskets to do this safely.

Screw-down case backs are also best left to professionals. These backs twist on and off rather than popping off, and over-tightening or under-tightening can damage the threads or the seal. If your case back has a slot that looks like it takes a coin or special tool, take it to a jeweler.

If you drop the battery during removal or feel uncertain at any step, stop and take the watch to a repair shop. The cost is low, and a dropped battery inside the case can be difficult to retrieve without the right tools.

Testing your watch after replacement

After you close the case back, hold the watch to your ear and listen for a ticking sound. If you hear it, the battery is installed correctly and the watch is working. If you do not hear anything, the battery may be inserted backwards (positive side down) or the wrong size. Open the case back again and check the battery position.

Set the watch aside for a few hours and check it again. Sometimes a new battery needs a moment to make full contact. If the watch still does not work after several hours, the battery may be defective — try a fresh one from a different package or store. If a second battery does not work, the watch may have an internal problem and should go to a jeweler.

Storing old batteries and recycling

Old watch batteries contain silver oxide and should not go in the trash. Most drugstores, electronics retailers, and jewelry stores have battery recycling bins near the checkout or customer service desk. Some will take them for free; others may ask for a small fee. You can also check Earth911.com or Call2Recycle.org to find a recycling location near you.

Store the old battery in a cool, dry place until you can recycle it. Keep it away from children and pets — watch batteries are small and can be a choking hazard.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the case back will not open?

Try a different spot on the groove — the opening point is not always obvious. Make sure you are using a proper case opener, not a coin or knife, which can slip and damage the case. If you have tried several spots and the case back still will not budge, stop and take the watch to a jeweler. Forcing it risks scratching or denting the case.

Can I use any silver oxide battery, or does it have to be the exact model number?

The size and voltage must match exactly. SR626SW and SR626 are the same battery, but SR626SW and SR927SW are different sizes and will not fit properly. Always match the code on your case back. If you are unsure, ask a jeweler or call the battery seller before you buy.

How long does a Bulova watch battery last?

Most Bulova batteries last two to four years with normal daily wear. Watches worn less often may go longer. If your watch stops after only a few months, the battery may be defective or the watch may have a drain. Have a jeweler check it.

Is it bad to leave a dead battery in the watch?

A dead battery will not damage the watch, but it may leak slightly over time if left in for months or years. Replace it as soon as you notice the watch has stopped. If you are not wearing the watch, remove the battery to prevent any potential leakage.

What if I installed the battery backwards?

The watch straightforward will not work. Open the case back, flip the battery so the positive (+) side faces up, and close it again. No damage occurs from a backwards battery — it just breaks the circuit so the watch cannot run.