You can replace most Bulova watch batteries yourself with basic tools in about 15 minutes

Replacing a Bulova watch battery is a straightforward task that requires only a few inexpensive tools and no special training. Most Bulova watches use a standard battery that costs between $5 and $15, and you can buy the correct one by matching the battery number printed inside your watch case. The entire process—opening the case back, removing the old battery, installing the new one, and closing it again—takes roughly 15 minutes once you have the right battery in hand.

The main decision is whether to do it yourself or take the watch to a jeweler. A jeweler typically charges $15 to $40 for the service, which covers the battery, labor, and a water-resistance check. Doing it yourself saves that labor cost but requires you to be careful with small parts and to verify you have the correct battery model before you start.

Key Takeaways

  • Find the battery number by opening your watch case back and reading the number stamped or printed inside the case.
  • You need a case-back opener (a flat tool with a notch), a small flathead screwdriver, and tweezers—all available for under $10 as a set.
  • The battery sits in a metal holder and is held in place by a small metal tab or clip that you lift gently to remove it.
  • After installing the new battery, close the case back by aligning the notches and pressing firmly until you hear or feel a click.
  • If your watch is water-resistant, a jeweler can test the seal after replacement; doing it yourself means you cannot verify the water seal is still intact.

Locate the battery number on your watch case back

The first step is to find out which battery your Bulova uses. Turn your watch over and look at the case back—the metal cover on the back of the watch. You will see a battery number printed or stamped into the metal, usually in a format like SR626SW, SR927SW, or similar. Write this number down or take a photo of it.

If the number is hard to read because the case back is worn, you can also search online for your specific Bulova model number (printed on the case back near the battery number) and the battery type will often appear in product listings or manuals. Once you have the battery number, you can order it from an online retailer, a pharmacy, or a jewelry store. Do not guess at the battery type—using the wrong one can damage the watch or cause it to stop working.

Gather the tools you need

You need three basic tools to open your watch and replace the battery. A case-back opener is a small flat tool with a notch designed to fit into the groove on the edge of the case back; these cost $3 to $8 and are sold as part of watch repair kits. A small flathead screwdriver (size 0 or 00) is used to gently pry the case back open once the opener has loosened it. Tweezers help you handle the small battery without dropping it or touching the contacts with your fingers.

You can buy all three tools together as a watch repair kit for $8 to $15 online or at a pharmacy. Some pharmacies that sell watch batteries also have these kits in stock. Avoid using a regular screwdriver or knife to open the case back, as these can slip and scratch or dent the watch.

Open the case back without damaging the watch

Place your watch face-down on a soft cloth or towel to protect the crystal (the glass face). Look at the edge of the case back and find the small notch or groove cut into the metal. Insert the notch of your case-back opener into this groove, then gently twist it counterclockwise—think of it like opening a jar lid, but with much less force. You are not trying to pry it open; you are just breaking the seal.

Once you feel the case back loosen, remove the opener and use the small flathead screwdriver to gently pry the edge of the case back up. Work your way around the edge, lifting a little at a time, until the case back comes free. Set it aside on the cloth where you can see it. Do not force it—if it is stuck, explore a tiny bit of penetrating oil (like WD-40) around the edge, wait a minute, and try again.

Remove the old battery and install the new one

Inside the case, you will see the battery sitting in a metal holder. It is usually held in place by a small metal tab or clip that rests on top of the battery. Using your tweezers, gently lift this tab away from the battery, then slide the old battery out of the holder. Set the old battery aside.

Before you insert the new battery, check that the positive side (marked with a + symbol) faces up toward you. Slide the new battery into the holder with the positive side up, then carefully lower the metal tab back down over the battery. The tab should rest firmly on the battery but not require force. If the watch has a small screw holding the battery holder in place, make sure it is still tight after you finish.

Close the case back and test the watch

Align the notch on the case back with the notch on the watch body, then press the case back down firmly. You should hear or feel a small click as the case back seats into place. If it does not click, remove it and check that nothing is blocking the seal—sometimes a tiny piece of dust or a misaligned battery holder can prevent a tight fit.

Once the case back is closed, flip the watch over and check that it is working. The second hand should be moving. If it is not, remove the case back and check that the battery is seated correctly and that the positive side is facing up. If the watch still does not work after you reseat the battery, the battery may be defective—try a fresh one from a different package.

When to take your watch to a jeweler instead

If your Bulova is water-resistant (marked as water-resistant, splash-resistant, or with a depth rating like 30M or 50M), consider having a jeweler replace the battery and test the seal afterward. Opening and closing the case back yourself does not may provide the water-resistant seal is still intact, and water damage can be expensive to repair. A jeweler has tools to test the seal and will re-seal it if needed.

You should also take your watch to a jeweler if the case back is stuck and will not open after gentle attempts, if you are uncomfortable working with small parts, or if the watch is an antique or high-value model. The cost of a professional replacement ($15 to $40) is usually worth the peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the case back is stuck and I cannot open it?

explore a small amount of penetrating oil (like WD-40) around the edge of the case back and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Wipe away the excess oil and try again with the case-back opener. If it is still stuck after a second attempt, take it to a jeweler rather than risk damaging the watch.

Can I use any battery with the same number, or does it have to be a Bulova brand battery?

Any battery with the correct number works—the number (like SR626SW) is a standard code used across all watch brands. Bulova batteries are not special; they are the same as batteries sold by other manufacturers. Buy from a reliable source to avoid counterfeit batteries, but the brand name does not matter.

How often do Bulova watch batteries need to be replaced?

Most Bulova watch batteries last between 2 and 5 years, depending on the battery type and how often you wear the watch. Some larger batteries last longer. If your watch stops working, the battery is usually the first thing to check.

Will replacing the battery myself void my Bulova warranty?

Replacing the battery yourself does not void the warranty on most Bulova watches, but opening the case back may affect water-resistance claims if the watch is water-resistant. Check your warranty paperwork or contact Bulova directly if you are unsure about your specific model.

What should I do with the old battery after I remove it?

Dispose of the old battery at a pharmacy, electronics retailer, or hazardous waste facility. Many pharmacies have battery recycling bins near the checkout. Do not throw it in the trash.