You can change a Michael Kors watch battery yourself with basic tools, or take it to a jeweler for $15 to $50

A Michael Kors watch battery typically lasts two to three years before it stops working. You have two options: open the case back yourself using a case opener tool and a fresh battery, or visit a jeweler, department store, or the Michael Kors website to arrange a battery replacement. The DIY route costs $5 to $15 for the battery and a case opener tool if you don't already own one. Taking it to a professional costs more but eliminates the risk of damaging the watch case or water-resistant seal.

The method depends on your watch model. Most Michael Kors watches have a screw-down case back (the solid metal cover on the back), which requires a case opener tool to remove. Some newer models have a snap-on case back that pops off with gentle pressure. Before you start, check your watch manual or the Michael Kors website to confirm which type you have—opening the wrong way can scratch or crack the case.

Key Takeaways

  • Michael Kors watch batteries last two to three years and cost $5 to $15 to replace yourself, or $15 to $50 at a jeweler.
  • You need a case opener tool (also called a case back remover), a fresh battery in the correct size, and a small Phillips or flathead screwdriver to change the battery yourself.
  • Screw-down case backs require a case opener tool to grip and turn; snap-on case backs pop off with gentle upward pressure on the edges.
  • Write down the battery size before you buy a replacement—common sizes for Michael Kors watches are SR626SW, SR927SW, and CR2032, and using the wrong size will not work.
  • If you damage the case back seal or strip the threads, a jeweler can repair it, but prevention is easier than repair.

What battery size your Michael Kors watch uses

The battery size is printed on the old battery itself or on a sticker inside the case back. Common Michael Kors watch batteries are SR626SW (silver oxide, used in most dress and casual watches), SR927SW (thinner silver oxide, used in slimmer models), and CR2032 (coin cell, used in some larger sport watches). Do not guess—buying the wrong size means a wasted trip back to the store and a watch that still does not work.

If you cannot find the size on the old battery or inside the case, check your watch manual or visit the Michael Kors website and search for your specific watch model number. The model number is usually on the back of the watch case or on the original paperwork. Once you know the size, buy the battery at a pharmacy, electronics store, or online—they cost $3 to $8 per battery.

Tools and materials you need

Gather these items before you open the case: a case opener tool (also called a case back remover, $8 to $20), the correct replacement battery, a small Phillips or flathead screwdriver, and a clean, soft cloth or paper towel. A case opener tool is a metal disc with notches around the edge that grip the grooves on the case back. You can buy one at a jewelry supply store, online, or sometimes at a watch repair counter in a department store.

Work on a clean, flat surface with good lighting. Lay the cloth down to catch small parts if they fall—a battery or screw rolling across a table is straightforward to lose. Wear glasses or use a magnifying glass if you have trouble seeing small details. Keep your phone or a small container nearby to hold the old battery and any screws you remove.

How to remove a screw-down case back

A screw-down case back has grooves or notches around the edge and requires a case opener tool to remove. Place the watch face-down on your cloth. Position the case opener tool so the notches grip the grooves on the case back—you may need to try two or three positions to find one that fits snugly. Once the tool is seated, turn it counterclockwise (to the left) slowly and steadily. Do not force it; if it does not turn, reposition the tool slightly and try again.

After one or two full rotations, the case back should loosen enough to unscrew by hand. Finish unscrewing it with your fingers and set it aside on your cloth. Inside, you will see the battery, usually held in a small metal clip or sitting flat against the watch movement. Some batteries are held in place by a metal retaining clip that you gently pry up with a flathead screwdriver. Others straightforward lift out. Take a photo of the battery position before you remove it so you remember how to put the new one in.

How to remove a snap-on case back

A snap-on case back has a smooth or slightly ridged edge with no grooves and pops off without tools. Place the watch face-down on your cloth. Using your fingernail or the flat edge of a plastic spoon, gently pry upward on the edge of the case back where you see a small gap or seam. Work your way around the edge, lifting a little at a time, until the case back pops free. Do not use a metal tool or screwdriver on a snap-on back—you will scratch the finish.

Once the case back is off, you will see the battery in the same way as a screw-down model. Remove it by lifting straight up or by gently prying up any metal clip that holds it in place. Again, take a photo before you remove the old battery so you know which way the new one goes in.

Installing the new battery and closing the case

Before you touch the new battery, wash your hands or wear clean cotton gloves. Skin oils can corrode the battery contacts and shorten its life. Place the new battery into the same position as the old one—the positive side (usually marked with a + or the flat side) should face up toward the watch movement, unless your photo shows otherwise. If there is a metal clip, gently press it down over the battery to hold it in place.

For a screw-down case back, align the grooves on the case back with the grooves on the watch body and screw it clockwise (to the right) by hand until it is snug. Then use the case opener tool to tighten it another quarter turn—firm enough that it does not rattle, but not so tight that you strip the threads. For a snap-on case back, press down on the edges until you hear or feel a click all the way around. Test the watch to make sure it is working before you put it away.

When to take your watch to a professional instead

If your watch is water-resistant or has a screw-down case back with a rubber gasket seal, consider taking it to a jeweler instead of opening it yourself. Removing and reinstalling the case back can damage the seal, and a professional can replace the gasket at the same time for a small extra fee. If your watch is vintage, has sentimental value, or is still under warranty, a jeweler is the safer choice—a damaged case back or movement can cost hundreds to repair.

You can take your Michael Kors watch to any jewelry store, department store jewelry counter, or watch repair shop. Some Michael Kors boutiques also offer battery replacement. Call ahead to ask the cost and how long it takes—most places finish the job in one to two hours, though some may need a few days. The cost is usually $15 to $50 depending on the location and whether the watch needs a new gasket.

Common mistakes to avoid

Do not force the case opener tool or case back. If it does not turn or pop off easily, you may have the wrong tool or the wrong technique. Stop, reposition, and try again. Forcing it will strip the grooves and make the case back impossible to open without damage. Do not touch the battery with bare hands more than necessary—skin oils corrode the contacts. Do not mix up the old and new batteries; throw the old one away or recycle it when ready so you do not accidentally put it back in.

Do not overtighten a screw-down case back. You only need it snug enough that it does not rattle. Overtightening strips the threads and makes it impossible to open next time. Do not assume the positive side of the battery faces up—check your photo or the manual. Installing the battery backward will not damage it, but the watch will not work. Do not forget to test the watch before you close it up; if it does not work, you can still troubleshoot while the case is open.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my Michael Kors watch battery is dead?

The watch will stop keeping time or the second hand will stop moving. Some watches have a battery indicator that shows a low battery warning before it dies completely. If the watch has been sitting unused for months, the battery may have drained even if the watch is relatively new. A fresh battery should start the watch when ready.

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

It must be the exact size and chemistry. SR626SW and SR927SW are not interchangeable even though they are both silver oxide—they have different thicknesses and voltages. Using the wrong battery can damage the watch movement or cause it to run fast or slow. Always match the exact model number printed on the old battery.

What should I do if I strip the grooves on the case back?

Take the watch to a jeweler. They can install a new case back or repair the threads, though this costs more than a straightforward battery replacement—usually $30 to $75. This is why it is important not to force the case opener tool. If you feel resistance, stop and reposition rather than push harder.

Will opening the case back void my warranty?

It depends on your warranty terms. Most Michael Kors watches are no longer under warranty after the first year, so this is not an issue. If your watch is still under warranty, check the paperwork or contact Michael Kors before opening it. Opening the case yourself may void coverage for defects, though it usually does not affect accidental damage coverage.

How often do I need to change the battery?

Most Michael Kors watch batteries last two to three years with normal use. 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. Once you change the battery once, you will know roughly when to expect the next change.