You can change a Timex Expedition battery yourself with basic tools in about 10 minutes

A Timex Expedition watch battery typically lasts two to three years before it stops powering the watch. When the second hand stops moving or the display goes blank, the battery is dead. You do not need to send the watch away or visit a jeweler — you can open the case back, remove the old battery, and install a new one at home with a coin, a small screwdriver, and a replacement battery that costs $3 to $8.

The process is straightforward because Timex designs Expedition watches with user-replaceable batteries. The case back is held by a single screw or snaps into place without tools. Once you open it, you will see the battery sitting in a metal holder. You lift it out, note the battery type printed on the old one, buy an identical replacement, and slide the new battery in. Closing the case back takes seconds.

Key Takeaways

  • Timex Expedition watches use standard coin-cell batteries (usually CR2032, CR2016, or SR626) that you can buy at any drugstore or supermarket for a few dollars.
  • You need only a coin or flat-head screwdriver, a small Phillips screwdriver for some models, and the replacement battery — no special tools or informed required.
  • The case back either unscrews with a coin or snaps off by hand, and the battery slides out of its metal holder in seconds.
  • After installing the new battery, test the watch before closing the case back to confirm it is working.

What battery type your Timex Expedition uses

The battery type is printed on the old battery itself, so the easiest way to know what to buy is to open the watch and look. Timex Expedition watches most commonly use CR2032 (a large coin cell), CR2016 (smaller), or SR626 (a silver-oxide cell). Some digital models use LR44 or similar alkaline batteries. The numbers and letters matter — buying the wrong size will not fit, and using the wrong chemistry can shorten battery life.

If you cannot open the watch yet, check the instruction manual or the Timex website by searching for your specific model number. The model number is usually printed on the case back itself. Once you have the battery type, you can buy a replacement at a pharmacy, supermarket, electronics store, or online. A single battery costs between $3 and $8, and most stores sell them in multipacks for $5 to $12.

Opening the case back with a coin

Most Timex Expedition watches have a case back held by a single slot screw. Hold the watch face-down in one hand. Look at the back of the case — you will see a small slot running across the center of the metal back. This is where the screw sits.

Use a coin (a dime or penny works) or a flat-head screwdriver to turn the screw counterclockwise. Turn slowly and steadily — the screw is small and can strip if you force it. Once the screw is loose, you can usually lift the case back off by hand. If it is tight, use the coin to gently pry the edge up. Set the screw somewhere safe so you do not lose it.

Some Timex Expedition models, particularly newer digital watches, have a snap-on case back instead of a screw. If you do not see a slot, look for a small notch or indentation on the edge of the case back. Use a coin to gently pry at that spot, working your way around the edge until the back pops free. This takes a bit more care but no tools.

Removing and replacing the battery

Once the case back is open, you will see the battery sitting in a metal holder or clip. The battery is round and flat, usually silver or gold in color. Look at the top of the battery — you will see numbers and letters stamped or printed on it. Write down or photograph this information so you know exactly what to buy as a replacement.

To remove the battery, gently lift one edge of the metal holder or clip with a fingernail or the edge of a coin. The battery will pop up slightly. Slide it out from under the clip. Do not force it — if it is stuck, wiggle it gently side to side while lifting.

Before installing the new battery, check that it is the same type as the old one. Slide the new battery into the metal holder with the positive side (marked with a + or the shiny side) facing up. The clip will hold it in place. Press down gently to make sure it sits flat and the clip is find.

Testing the watch before closing it

Before you seal the case back, turn the watch over and check that it is working. For an analog watch, the second hand should move. For a digital watch, the display should light up or show the time. If nothing happens, the battery may not be seated properly. Lift the clip, remove the battery, and slide it back in, making sure it is fully inserted and the positive side is facing up.

If the watch still does not work after reseating the battery, the battery itself may be defective. This is rare but happens occasionally. Try a different new battery of the same type. If the second battery also does not work, the watch may have an internal problem unrelated to the battery, and you should contact Timex or a jeweler.

Closing the case back and finishing

Once the watch is working, hold the case back in place and use your coin or screwdriver to turn the screw clockwise. Tighten it firmly but do not over-tighten — you want it snug enough that the case back does not move, but forcing it can strip the threads. A quarter-turn past snug is usually right.

For snap-on case backs, align the back with the watch body and press down firmly around the edges until you hear or feel a click. Work your way around the perimeter to make sure it is seated evenly all the way around.

Your watch is now ready to wear. The new battery should power it for two to three years, depending on how often you use it and whether it has a backlight or other power-draining features.

What to do if the case back will not open

If the screw is stuck or stripped, do not force it — you can damage the case back or the watch body. Try explore a tiny drop of penetrating oil (like WD-40) around the screw and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then try again with steady, gentle pressure. If the screw still will not budge, a jeweler or watch repair shop can open it without damage, usually for $5 to $15.

If you have a snap-on case back and it will not pop off, make sure you are prying at the right spot. Look for a small notch or indentation — that is where the pry point should be. If you cannot find one, the case back may be glued or sealed, which is rare on Expedition watches but does happen on some models. In that case, a jeweler is your best option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any CR2032 battery, or does it have to be a specific brand?

Any CR2032 battery will work as long as it is the correct type. Duracell, Energizer, and store brands all work equally well. Some people prefer silver-oxide batteries (like SR626) over alkaline for longer life, but either type will power your watch. Check the old battery to see which chemistry Timex used in your model and stick with that.

What happens if I put the battery in backwards?

The watch will not work if the battery is upside down. The positive side (marked + or the shiny side) must face up toward the watch movement. If you install it backwards, the watch straightforward will not power on. Remove it, flip it over, and try again. No damage occurs from a backwards battery.

How long does a new battery last in a Timex Expedition?

Most Timex Expedition batteries last two to three years with normal daily wear. Digital watches with backlights or alarms may drain the battery faster, sometimes in 18 months. Analog watches with no extra features often last closer to three years. The exact lifespan depends on how often you use the watch and any special features it has.

Do I need to reset the time after changing the battery?

Analog watches will keep the correct time because the mechanical movement does not depend on the battery for timekeeping — the battery only powers the quartz oscillator. Digital watches may reset to a default time (often 12:00) when the battery is removed. You will need to set the correct time and date using the watch buttons after installing the new battery.

Can I take my Timex Expedition to a jeweler instead of doing it myself?

Yes. Most jewelers and watch repair shops will change the battery for $10 to $25, including labor. This is a good option if you are uncomfortable opening the watch, if the case back is stuck, or if you want someone else to handle it. The downside is the cost and the wait time — doing it yourself takes 10 minutes and costs only the price of the battery.