You can change most watch batteries yourself with a few basic tools and about ten minutes
A dead watch battery is one of the easiest home repairs you can do. Most watches use a standard battery that costs between $3 and $15, and the tools you need are inexpensive and reusable. If your watch has a straightforward snap-off or screw-off back, you can open it, swap the battery, and close it again without any special training. The whole job takes longer to find your tools than to do the work.
Not every watch is a candidate for home battery replacement. Watches that are water-resistant, have sealed backs, or are vintage or luxury models should go to a professional. If you are unsure whether your watch can be opened safely, a jeweler or watch repair shop can tell you in seconds and often charge $10 to $20 to do the swap if you decide to let them handle it.
Key Takeaways
- Most watch batteries are standard sizes (like SR626SW or LR626) that you can buy at drugstores, supermarkets, or online for a few dollars.
- You need only a case opener (a flat tool designed for watch backs), tweezers, and sometimes a small screwdriver — all available as a kit for under $10.
- Snap-off backs are the easiest to open; screw-off backs take a bit longer but are still straightforward if you use the right tool.
- Water-resistant watches, sealed backs, and luxury watches should be opened by a professional to avoid damaging the seal or the movement.
- The battery itself usually lasts two to five years depending on the watch model and how often you wear it.
Identify your watch back type before you start
Watch backs come in three main types: snap-off, screw-off, and sealed. A snap-off back has a small notch or groove around the edge and pops off with gentle prying. A screw-off back has visible screw slots around the perimeter and requires a screwdriver to turn it counterclockwise. A sealed back is smooth with no notch or slots — these are usually water-resistant and should not be opened at home.
Look at the back of your watch under good light. If you see a groove or notch all the way around the edge, it is snap-off. If you see small slots or a cross-shaped recess, it is screw-off. If the back is completely smooth or says "water-resistant" or "water-proof", do not attempt to open it yourself. The seal that keeps water out will be damaged if you pry or force it, and resealing it properly requires a professional tool and training.
Find the correct battery size and buy a replacement
The battery size is printed on the old battery itself or on the inside of the watch case. Common sizes include SR626SW, LR626, SR927SW, and LR927 — the letters and numbers tell you the chemistry and dimensions. Take a photo of the old battery or write down the number before you go shopping.
You can buy watch batteries at most drugstores (CVS, Walgreens), supermarkets with pharmacy sections, jewelry stores, and online retailers. Prices are usually $3 to $8 per battery. Buy one extra in case you drop it or install it incorrectly the first time. If you cannot find the exact size, a jeweler can tell you what you need and often has stock on hand.
Gather your tools and prepare your workspace
You need a case opener (a flat, thin tool with a notch designed to fit watch case grooves), tweezers, and sometimes a small screwdriver. A complete watch battery replacement kit costs $8 to $15 and includes all three. You can also buy them separately at hardware stores or online.
Work at a clean, well-lit table. Lay down a soft cloth or paper towel to catch the battery and any small parts. Wash your hands or wear cotton gloves — oils from your skin can corrode the battery contacts and shorten its life. Have your new battery and the old one within arm's reach so you do not lose either one.
Open a snap-off watch back
Locate the small notch or groove around the edge of the case back. Place the flat edge of your case opener into the notch and explore steady, gentle pressure — do not pry hard or twist. The back should pop off with light force. If it does not move after a few seconds of steady pressure, try a different spot on the groove; sometimes one side is easier than another.
Once the back is off, set it aside on your cloth. You will now see the battery, usually held in a small metal clip or sitting loose in a shallow compartment. If the battery is held by a clip, note which end is positive (marked with a + sign) and which is negative. Take a photo if it helps you remember the orientation.
Open a screw-off watch back
Examine the back to see whether the screws are Phillips head (cross-shaped) or flat head (single slot). Use the matching screwdriver and turn counterclockwise slowly. The screws are small and straightforward to strip, so explore steady downward pressure as you turn rather than forcing it. Remove all visible screws and place them in a small container so you do not lose them.
Once all screws are out, the back should lift off easily. If it is stuck, try gently prying with your case opener at the groove, but do not force it. Set the back and screws on your cloth in the order you removed them so you can reassemble in reverse.
Remove the old battery and install the new one
Use your tweezers to lift the old battery out of its compartment. If it is held by a metal clip, gently lift the clip away from the battery first, then remove the battery. Dispose of the old battery according to your local rules — many drugstores and supermarkets have battery recycling bins near the checkout.
Before you install the new battery, check the orientation. The positive side (marked +) should face up toward you, and the negative side should face down toward the watch movement. Slide the new battery into the compartment and, if there is a clip, gently press it down over the battery to hold it in place. Do not force the clip; it should settle with light pressure.
Close the watch back and test it
For a snap-off back, align the notch with the groove on the case and press down firmly until you hear or feel a click. The back should sit flush with the case. For a screw-off back, align the back with the case, insert the screws, and turn clockwise slowly until snug — do not overtighten, as you can strip the threads.
Once the back is closed, put the watch on your wrist and listen for the tick or feel for the vibration. Most quartz watches will start when ready. If the watch does not start, open the back again and check that the battery is seated properly and facing the right direction. If it still does not work after a second attempt, the battery may be defective — try a fresh one from a different package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the battery in a waterproof watch?
No. Water-resistant and waterproof watches have sealed backs that require special tools and informed to open without damaging the seal. A jeweler or watch repair shop can do it for $15 to $40 and will reseal the watch properly. Attempting it at home risks water damage to the movement.
What if the battery is stuck and I cannot remove it with tweezers?
Stop and do not force it. A stuck battery usually means it has corroded or swollen slightly. Use tweezers to gently rock it side to side rather than pulling straight up. If it still will not budge, close the watch and take it to a jeweler — forcing it can damage the compartment or the movement underneath.
How long does a new watch battery last?
Most watch batteries last two to five years depending on the watch model and how often you wear it. Watches you wear daily typically drain the battery faster than ones you wear occasionally. The battery size and type also affect lifespan — larger batteries usually last longer than smaller ones.
What should I do with the old battery?
Take it to a drugstore, supermarket, or electronics retailer with a battery recycling program. Many have collection bins near the checkout or customer service desk. Do not throw it in the trash, as batteries contain materials that should be recycled.
Can I use a different battery size if I cannot find the exact one?
No. Battery size matters because it affects voltage and fit. Using the wrong size can damage the watch movement or cause the battery to sit loose and lose contact. Always use the exact size printed on the old battery or the case back.