You can change most Timex watch batteries yourself with a coin and a flat surface

Most Timex watches use a battery you can replace at home without tools or a jeweler. The process takes five minutes and costs between $3 and $8 for the battery itself. You need a coin (a dime or penny works), a clean flat surface, and the correct replacement battery model for your watch.

The hardest part is not losing the tiny screws. Everything else is straightforward: pop the case back, remove the old battery, note its model number, buy the same one, and snap it back in. If your Timex has a sealed case or is water-resistant beyond 30 meters, the back may not open by hand — that one does require a jeweler.

Key Takeaways

  • Most Timex watches have a screw-off case back that you can open with a coin in about one minute.
  • The battery model number is printed on the old battery itself, so you know exactly what to buy at a drugstore or online.
  • Common Timex batteries are SR626SW, SR927SW, and CR2032 — all cost under $10 and are sold at CVS, Walgreens, and Amazon.
  • If your watch is water-resistant to 100 meters or deeper, or if the case back has no slot for a coin, take it to a jeweler instead.

Find the case back and check if it opens by hand

Flip your watch over and look at the back. You will see either a solid metal disc with a thin slot around the edge, or a solid back with no slot at all. If there is a slot, your watch is designed to open at home. If the back is smooth with no slot, your watch is sealed and needs a jeweler.

The slot runs all the way around the case back in a thin groove. It is designed to catch the edge of a coin. Place your watch on a clean, soft surface — a cloth napkin or paper towel works — so the face does not get scratched while you work.

Remove the case back with a coin

Insert the edge of a dime or penny into the slot at the case back. You do not need force. Rotate the coin counterclockwise (to the left) slowly. The back will loosen after a quarter turn or so. Once it is loose enough, lift it off by hand — do not pry it, just lift.

Set the case back and any screws in a small container or on a piece of tape so they do not roll away. If your watch has a rubber gasket (a thin rubber ring) inside the case back, leave it in place unless it is cracked or dried out. You will reinstall it the same way.

Identify the old battery and note its model number

Inside the case, you will see a small silver or gold disc — that is the battery. It sits in a metal holder or clip. Look at the top of the battery. The model number is stamped or printed on it. Common Timex batteries are SR626SW, SR927SW, SR920SW, and CR2032. Write down the exact number or take a photo with your phone.

Do not touch the battery with your bare fingers if you can avoid it. Skin oils can reduce battery life. If you must touch it, wash your hands first or use a clean cloth.

Buy the replacement battery

Take the model number to any drugstore, supermarket, or electronics retailer. CVS, Walgreens, Target, and Walmart all stock common watch batteries in the pharmacy or electronics section. You can also order online from Amazon or eBay — search for the model number and "watch battery" together. A single battery costs between $3 and $8.

Buy only the exact model number you wrote down. Do not guess or buy a "universal" watch battery. The wrong battery will not fit, will not power the watch, or will damage the movement. If you cannot find the exact model, take the old battery to the store and match it by size and shape.

Install the new battery and close the case

Remove the new battery from its packaging. Slide it into the metal holder inside the watch case, positive side up (the flat side with the model number faces up). The battery should sit flat and click or snap into place. If it does not sit flush, you have it upside down — flip it and try again.

Once the battery is seated, place the case back on the watch. Align the slot with your coin and rotate clockwise (to the right) until it is snug. Do not overtighten — stop as soon as you feel resistance. Your watch should now display the correct time and the second hand should move smoothly. If it does not, the battery may be installed upside down or the old battery was defective. Open the case again and check.

When to take your watch to a jeweler instead

If your Timex is water-resistant to 100 meters or deeper, the case back is sealed and requires special tools to open without damaging the water seal. A jeweler has these tools and will replace the battery for $15 to $30, including labor. The same applies if your watch has no slot on the case back, or if the back will not budge after gentle rotation.

Chronograph Timex watches (those with multiple subdials for timing) sometimes have case backs that require a special opener. If you are unsure, take a photo of the back and ask a jeweler before you try to force it. A forced case back can crack the crystal or strip the threads, and repair costs more than a battery replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the watch still does not work after I put in the new battery?

First, open the case and check that the battery is installed positive side up — the flat printed side should face up. If it is correct, the battery itself may be defective. Buy a second battery from a different store or brand and try again. If the watch still does not work, the movement may be damaged and a jeweler should inspect it.

Can I reuse the old battery if I take it out and put it back in?

No. Once a watch battery is dead, it will not work again. A dead battery will not power the watch even if you remove it and reinstall it. You must buy a new battery with the same model number.

How long does a Timex watch battery last?

Most Timex batteries last two to five years depending on the model and how often you use the watch. Watches worn every day drain the battery faster than watches worn occasionally. When the second hand starts to skip or stutter, the battery is low and needs replacement soon.

Is it safe to open my Timex watch myself?

Yes, if your watch has a slot on the case back. The slot is designed for a coin and the process is safe if you work on a soft surface and do not force the back. If the back will not turn after gentle rotation, stop and take it to a jeweler — forcing it can crack the crystal or damage the threads.

Where can I buy a Timex watch battery?

CVS, Walgreens, Target, Walmart, and most supermarkets sell watch batteries in the pharmacy section. Amazon and eBay have them online. Some jewelry stores and watch repair shops also sell batteries, though they may charge more. Always search by the exact model number printed on your old battery.