You can replace a Michael Kors watch battery yourself if the case is not sealed, or take it to a jeweler or Michael Kors store
Most Michael Kors watches use a standard coin-cell battery that lasts two to three years. If your watch has stopped, the battery is almost certainly dead. You have three options: open the case yourself and swap the battery (takes 10 minutes and costs $3 to $8), take it to a jeweler ($15 to $30), or visit a Michael Kors store ($20 to $40). The choice depends on whether your watch case is sealed or screw-back, and whether you are comfortable working with small parts.
Before you start, know that some Michael Kors watches have sealed cases that cannot be opened without special tools. If your watch is water-resistant or labeled "sealed," a jeweler is your safest route. If the case back has visible screws or a notch for a case opener, you can do it yourself.
Key Takeaways
- Most Michael Kors watches use a CR2032 or similar coin-cell battery that you can buy for $3 to $8 at any drugstore or online.
- If your watch case back has screws or a slot for a case opener, you can open it yourself with basic tools; sealed cases require a jeweler.
- Write down the battery type before you buy a replacement—it is printed on the old battery or in your watch manual.
- When you open the case, note how the battery sits and which side faces up, because reversing it will prevent the watch from working.
Identify your watch battery type
The battery type is printed on the battery itself. Open your watch at a jeweler or look in your manual to find the code—usually something like CR2032, SR626, or LR44. Write it down before you buy a replacement. If you cannot find the manual, search online for your specific Michael Kors model number (printed on the case back) plus "battery type."
Once you know the type, buy the replacement at a drugstore, supermarket, or online. A single battery costs $3 to $8. Buy one extra in case you drop it or install it backward the first time.
Check whether your case can be opened
Look at the case back—the metal or plastic panel on the back of the watch. If you see small screws around the edge, you can unscrew them and lift the back off. If you see a thin slot or notch, a case opener tool (a flat metal wedge) will fit there and pop the back open. Both of these mean you can do the work yourself.
If the case back is smooth with no screws or slot, or if it says "water resistant" or "sealed," do not force it. Take the watch to a jeweler or Michael Kors store. Forcing a sealed case can crack the crystal or damage the gasket that keeps water out.
Open the case back yourself
You will need a case opener tool (also called a case knife or case back opener), a small flathead screwdriver, and a clean, flat work surface. A case opener costs $5 to $15 at jewelry supply stores or online. If your case has screws, you may only need the screwdriver.
For a screw-back case: Use the flathead screwdriver to unscrew each screw counterclockwise. They are small and straightforward to lose, so place them in a small cup or on a piece of tape. Once all screws are out, gently lift the case back straight up. Do not pry at an angle, or you may bend it.
For a slot-back case: Insert the case opener into the slot and gently twist or pry upward. The back should pop off with light pressure. If it does not budge after a few tries, stop—you may have a sealed case. Take it to a jeweler instead.
Remove the old battery and install the new one
Once the case is open, look at how the battery sits. Most batteries rest in a small metal holder or clip. Note which side faces up—the flat side or the raised side. Take a photo with your phone if it helps you remember.
Gently lift the battery out. If there is a metal clip holding it, lift that first, then slide the battery out. Do not touch the battery surface with your bare fingers; skin oils can reduce its lifespan. Use a clean cloth or tweezers.
Place the new battery in the same position, with the same side facing up. If your old battery had the flat side up, the new one should too. Slide it under the clip if there is one, or straightforward set it in place. Press gently to make sure it sits flat and does not rock.
Close the case and test the watch
For a screw-back case: Align the case back with the body of the watch and press down gently. Screw each screw back in clockwise, turning by hand first to avoid cross-threading. Tighten them snugly but not hard—you can crack the case back if you over-tighten.
For a slot-back case: Align the slot with the case opener and press down firmly until you hear or feel a click. The back should sit flush with the case body.
Once the case is closed, press the crown (the knob on the side) or move the watch hands to see if it works. If nothing happens, open the case again and check that the battery is seated correctly and facing the right direction. If the watch still does not work after you have tried twice, the problem may not be the battery—take it to a jeweler.
When to take your watch to a professional
If your case is sealed or has no visible screws or slot, a jeweler or Michael Kors store can open it safely. Jewelers have specialized tools and can handle water-resistant cases without damaging the gasket. A Michael Kors store will replace the battery using genuine parts and can also check for other problems at the same time.
If you open the case yourself and the watch still does not work after installing a new battery, a jeweler can diagnose the real issue. It may be a broken circuit, a damaged contact, or a mechanical problem that a new battery cannot fix.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I drop the battery while the case is open?
Coin-cell batteries are small and straightforward to lose. Work over a white cloth or paper towel so you can see it if it rolls. If you cannot find it, you have already bought a spare, so install that one instead. Keep the lost battery away from children and pets—they are toxic if swallowed.
Can I use any CR2032 battery, or does it have to be a Michael Kors brand?
Any CR2032 (or whatever type your watch uses) will work. You do not need a Michael Kors brand battery. Buy from a reputable seller—drugstores and major online retailers sell reliable batteries at the lowest cost. Avoid very cheap batteries from unknown sellers, as they may die faster.
How do I know which side of the battery goes up?
Coin-cell batteries have a flat side and a raised side. The raised side is the positive terminal. Look at your old battery before you remove it, or take a photo. Most watches have the positive side facing up, but some face it down. Match the orientation of your old battery exactly.
What if the case back will not close after I put the battery in?
The battery may be sitting too high. Remove it, make sure it is fully seated in its holder, and try again. If the case back still will not close, the battery may be the wrong type or thickness. Check that you bought the exact battery type your watch uses. If you are still stuck, take the watch and battery to a jeweler to finish the job.
How long will the new battery last?
Most coin-cell batteries in Michael Kors watches last two to three years with normal wear. If you wear the watch every day, the battery may last closer to two years. If you wear it occasionally, it may last three years or longer. When it dies, you can replace it the same way.