You can change a Timex Expedition battery yourself with basic tools, or take it to a jeweler or watch repair shop

Most Timex Expedition watches use a standard coin-cell battery that you can replace at home in about 10 minutes if you have a case opener and a small screwdriver. The battery type varies by model — common ones are SR927W, SR626SW, or CR2032 — so you will need to know which one your watch uses before you buy a replacement. If you are not comfortable opening the watch back yourself, any jeweler or watch repair shop can do it for $10 to $25, usually while you wait.

The entire process involves five steps: identifying your battery type, gathering tools, opening the case back, swapping the old battery for the new one, and closing the case. None of these steps requires special skill, but they do require patience and a steady hand. If anything feels stuck or wrong, stop and take the watch to a professional rather than risk damaging the case or the water-resistant seal.

Key Takeaways

  • Timex Expedition watches use replaceable coin-cell batteries, most commonly SR927W, SR626SW, or CR2032, which cost $3 to $8 at drugstores or online.
  • You can find your watch's battery type on the original packaging, in the user manual, or by searching your model number on Timex's website.
  • Opening the watch case requires a case opener tool (under $10) and a small flathead screwdriver, both available at hardware stores or online.
  • A jeweler or watch repair shop can change the battery for $10 to $25 if you prefer not to open the watch yourself.
  • After installing a new battery, test the watch for 24 hours before assuming the replacement worked, because some models take time to register power.

Find your watch model and battery type

The first step is identifying which battery your Timex Expedition uses. Check the original box or instruction manual — the battery type is usually printed on the back of the watch case or inside the manual. If you no longer have either, search your model number on Timex's official website or call their customer service line at 1-800-448-4639. You can also take a photo of your watch to a jeweler and ask them to identify the battery type without opening it.

Write down the exact battery code (for example, SR927W or CR2032) before you shop. Buying the wrong size will not fit, and forcing it can damage the watch. Once you have the code, you can buy a replacement at any drugstore, supermarket, or online retailer for $3 to $8.

Gather the tools you need

You will need three things: the replacement battery, a case opener, and a small flathead screwdriver. A case opener is a specialized tool with a slot that fits into the groove on the back of the watch case and lets you pry it open without damaging the metal. You can buy one at any hardware store, jewelry supply shop, or online for $5 to $15. A small flathead screwdriver (size 0 or 1) is used to remove the battery holder or clip inside the case.

If you do not want to buy tools, a jeweler will have everything on hand and can do the job in minutes. This is the safest option if your watch is expensive or has sentimental value, because a jeweler knows how to avoid scratching the case or damaging the gasket that keeps the watch water-resistant.

Open the watch case

Lay the watch face-down on a clean, soft surface like a cloth or towel so you do not scratch the crystal. Locate the groove that runs around the edge of the case back — this is where the case opener fits. Insert the slot of the case opener into the groove and gently rotate it counterclockwise, as if you were opening a jar. Do not force it; if it does not turn easily, try a different spot on the groove.

Once the case back is loose, lift it off carefully. You will see the battery holder, which is usually a small metal clip or plastic tray holding the coin-cell battery in place. Some watches have a rubber gasket (a thin ring) between the case and the back — keep this in place and do not lose it, because it seals the watch against water.

Remove the old battery and install the new one

Use the flathead screwdriver to gently lift the edge of the battery holder or clip. The old battery should come free easily — if it does not, do not pry hard, because you can damage the holder. Once the old battery is out, note which side was facing up (usually the positive side, marked with a + symbol, faces toward you).

Place the new battery into the holder with the same orientation as the old one. Press it down gently until the clip or holder snaps back into place. The battery should sit flat and not wobble. If it does not fit snugly, double-check that you have the correct battery type — a wrong size will not seat properly.

Close the case and test the watch

Align the case back with the case body and press it down firmly. Use the case opener to rotate it clockwise until it is snug — do not over-tighten, because you can crack the case back or damage the gasket. The case should close smoothly without forcing.

Put the watch on and check that it is running. The second hand should move smoothly, and the display (if digital) should light up. Some Timex models take a few hours to fully register a new battery, so if the watch does not start right away, wait 24 hours before assuming the battery is bad. If it still does not work after a day, the battery may be defective, or the watch may have an internal problem that requires professional repair.

When to take your watch to a professional

If the case back is stuck or will not budge, stop and take the watch to a jeweler. Forcing it can strip the threads or crack the case. If the watch still does not run after you install a new battery and wait 24 hours, the problem is likely inside the watch — a broken circuit, corroded contacts, or a damaged movement — and a repair shop can diagnose it.

Water-resistant Timex Expedition watches should be re-sealed after a battery change to maintain their water resistance. Some jewelers do this automatically; others charge an extra $5 to $10 for it. If you opened the watch yourself, ask a jeweler to check the gasket and re-seal it if needed, especially if you plan to wear the watch near water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my Timex Expedition battery is dead?

A dead battery usually stops the watch completely — the second hand does not move, and a digital display will not light up. Some watches show a low-battery warning, like a blinking second hand or a fading display. If the watch worked fine and suddenly stopped, the battery is almost certainly dead.

Can I use a different battery type if I cannot find the exact one?

No. Using the wrong battery type can damage the watch's circuit board or cause the battery to leak. Always use the exact type specified for your model. If you cannot find it locally, order it online — most arrive within a few days.

Will opening the watch myself void the warranty?

Most Timex warranties do not cover battery replacement, so opening the watch yourself will not void anything. However, if your watch is still under warranty and you damage the case or gasket while opening it, Timex may refuse to repair it. When in doubt, ask a jeweler.

How often do Timex Expedition batteries need to be replaced?

Most coin-cell batteries last 2 to 5 years depending on the watch model and how often you use features like the backlight or alarm. Check your manual for the expected battery life for your specific model.

What should I do with the old battery?

Coin-cell batteries contain small amounts of mercury or lithium and should not go in the trash. Take the old battery to a drugstore, supermarket, or recycling center that accepts batteries — most do this for free. Some jewelers will also dispose of it for you.