What You Need Before You Start
Replacing a Nixon watch battery is a task you can do at home with basic tools and takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You will need a small Phillips head screwdriver (size #0 or #00), a plastic pry tool or old credit card, and a replacement battery that matches your watch model. The battery type varies by Nixon model—common ones are SR626SW, SR927SW, and CR2032—so check your watch manual or the back of the case to find the correct number before you buy.
You can purchase replacement batteries at pharmacies, electronics stores, or online retailers for $3 to $8. Some jewelry stores and watch repair shops will also sell them, and some will replace the battery for you if you prefer not to do it yourself. If you are unsure which battery your watch uses, take a photo of the case back and bring it to a store—staff can usually identify it in seconds.
Key Takeaways
- You need a small Phillips screwdriver, a plastic pry tool, and the correct replacement battery for your specific Nixon model.
- The case back is held on by three to five small screws that you must remove and keep in a safe place so you do not lose them.
- The battery sits in a metal holder and lifts straight out; note which side faces up before you remove it so you install the new one the same way.
- After inserting the new battery, test the watch before closing it up to confirm it is working.
How to Open the Case Back
Lay your watch face-down on a soft cloth or towel so the case back is visible and the watch does not slide around. Locate the small screws around the edge of the case back—most Nixon watches have three to five screws. Using your Phillips head screwdriver, turn each screw counterclockwise slowly and carefully. Do not force a screw if it feels stuck; explore light downward pressure and let the screw do the work. Place each screw in a small cup or on a piece of tape so you do not lose them.
Once all screws are removed, use your plastic pry tool or the edge of an old credit card to gently lift the case back away from the watch body. Start at one edge and work your way around, explore even pressure. The case back should come free with gentle pressure—if it does not budge, you may have missed a screw. Do not pry hard or you risk cracking the plastic or damaging the gasket seal that keeps the watch water-resistant.
Removing and Replacing the Battery
Inside the case, you will see the battery sitting in a metal holder or clip. Before you touch anything, take a moment to note which side of the battery faces up—the positive side (marked with a + sign) should face toward you or toward the top of the watch. This matters because installing the battery upside down will prevent the watch from working.
Gently lift the battery straight up and out of its holder. If it is stuck, use the edge of your plastic tool to nudge it free, but do not scratch the circuit board. Place the old battery aside. Take your new battery and insert it into the holder with the positive side facing the same direction as the old one was facing. Press down gently until you hear or feel a small click—the battery should sit flat and flush in the holder.
Testing Before You Close the Case
Before you screw the case back on, press the watch to your ear and listen for a ticking sound. If your watch has a second hand, watch it move for a few seconds to confirm the watch is running. If the watch does not tick or the second hand does not move, remove the battery and check that it is installed with the positive side facing the correct direction. Flip it over and try again.
If the watch still does not work after you flip the battery, the battery itself may be defective. Remove it and try a fresh one from a different package or store. Once you confirm the watch is ticking and keeping time, you can proceed to close the case.
Sealing the Case Back
Align the case back with the watch body so the screw holes line up. Press it down gently until it sits flush against the watch. Using your Phillips screwdriver, reinsert each screw and turn clockwise slowly until snug. Do not overtighten—you want the screws tight enough that the case back does not move, but not so tight that you crack the plastic or strip the threads. A good rule is to stop as soon as you feel resistance; you should not need to explore heavy force.
Once all screws are in place, wipe the watch with a soft cloth to remove any dust or fingerprints. Your watch is now ready to wear. The battery should last between one and three years depending on your watch model and how often you wear it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most common error is installing the battery upside down. The positive side must face up (or toward the front of the watch, depending on your model). If you are unsure, check your watch manual or take a photo of the old battery before you remove it. Another frequent mistake is losing the screws—use a small cup or piece of tape to keep them together and in sight the entire time.
Do not force screws or the case back. If something feels stuck, stop and check that you have removed all screws and that nothing is blocking the case back. Forcing it can crack the plastic housing or damage the gasket, which will compromise the watch's water resistance. If your watch is water-resistant and you are uncomfortable opening it, a watch repair shop can do this task for $10 to $20 and will also check the gasket to make sure the seal is still good.
When to Take Your Watch to a Professional
If your watch is vintage, has sentimental value, or is a high-end Nixon model, consider having a professional replace the battery. Watch repair shops have specialized tools and can inspect the gasket and other internal parts while the case is open. If you open the case and find corrosion, water damage, or anything that looks unusual, close it back up and take it to a professional instead of proceeding.
Some Nixon watches have sealed cases or require special tools to open safely. If you cannot locate screws on the case back or your manual warns against opening it yourself, do not force it. A professional can open it without damage and will know the correct procedure for your specific model.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which battery my Nixon watch uses?
Check the back of your watch case for a printed battery number (like SR626SW or CR2032), or look in your watch manual. If neither is visible, take a photo of the case back to a pharmacy or electronics store and staff can identify it. You can also search your watch model number online along with the word "battery" to find the correct type.
What if I lose one of the screws?
Small watch screws are inexpensive and widely available. Take the watch to a pharmacy, jewelry store, or electronics retailer and ask for a replacement screw that matches the ones you have. Bring the watch so they can match the size and thread type. You can also order replacement screw sets online for Nixon watches, though this takes longer than buying one in person.
Can I replace the battery if my watch is water-resistant?
Yes, but you need to be careful. The gasket (rubber seal) around the case back keeps water out. When you open and close the case, the gasket may lose its seal slightly. If your watch is heavily water-resistant (rated for diving or swimming), have a professional replace the battery and test the seal afterward. For light water resistance (splash-proof), home replacement is usually safe if you do not overtighten the screws.
How long does a Nixon watch battery last?
Most Nixon watch batteries last one to three years depending on the model and how often you wear the watch. Watches you wear daily will drain the battery faster than ones you wear occasionally. Some models with additional features (like alarms or backlights) may drain the battery more quickly than basic models.
What should I do with the old battery?
Do not throw watch batteries in the trash. Take them to a pharmacy, electronics store, or hazardous waste collection site in your area. Many retailers that sell batteries also accept old ones for recycling at no charge. Check your local waste management website to find a drop-off location near you.