You can change an MK watch battery yourself or take it to a jeweler

A Michael Kors watch battery typically lasts two to three years before it stops holding a charge. When your MK watch stops, you have two routes: open the case back yourself and swap the battery, or pay a jeweler or watch repair shop to do it. The DIY route costs $5 to $15 for the battery itself. A jeweler usually charges $15 to $50 for the service, depending on your location and whether the watch is water-resistant.

The decision depends on whether you have the right tools and feel comfortable working with small parts. If your watch is water-resistant or has a sealed case back, a jeweler is the safer choice — opening it yourself can damage the seal and let water in later. If it's a basic fashion watch with a snap-off case back, the DIY method is straightforward and takes about five minutes.

Key Takeaways

  • MK watch batteries are usually CR2032 or similar coin-cell types, which you can buy at drugstores, electronics retailers, or online for $3 to $10.
  • You need a case opener tool (a flat-edged watch tool or even a butter knife in a pinch) to pry off the case back without scratching the watch.
  • If your watch has a screw-down case back or is labeled water-resistant, take it to a jeweler instead of opening it yourself.
  • After you install the new battery, test the watch before you close the case back to avoid having to open it again.
  • A jeweler can usually complete a battery change while you wait, though some shops require an appointment.

Finding the right battery type for your MK watch

Michael Kors watches use standard coin-cell batteries, most commonly CR2032 or SR626SW. The easiest way to find out which one yours needs is to look at the old battery once you open the case back — the type is printed on it. If you want to know before you open it, check the MK website with your watch model number, or call a jeweler with the model and they can tell you over the phone.

CR2032 batteries are the most common and cost $3 to $8 at CVS, Walgreens, Target, Best Buy, or Amazon. SR626SW batteries are less common but still widely available. Buy a fresh battery from a retailer with high turnover — old batteries sitting on a shelf lose charge. If you're not sure which type you need, buy both; they cost so little that it's worth having a backup.

Tools you need to open the case back

You need something flat and thin to pry the case back open without scratching the watch. A proper watch case opener tool costs $5 to $15 and has a notch designed to fit into the slot on the case back. You can find them at jewelry supply stores, Amazon, or eBay. If you don't want to buy one, a butter knife, flathead screwdriver, or even a coin can work in a pinch — just be careful not to slip and scratch the watch face or band.

Lay the watch face-down on a soft cloth or towel so you don't scratch it while you work. Position the flat tool into the slot on the case back and gently pry upward. The case back should pop off with light pressure. If it doesn't budge after a few tries, stop — you may have a screw-down back or a sealed case, and forcing it risks damaging the watch.

Steps to replace the battery yourself

Once the case back is off, you'll see the battery sitting in a small metal holder or clip. Note which side is facing up — the positive side (marked with a +) should face outward. Use a plastic tool, wooden toothpick, or the edge of a plastic card to gently pry the old battery out of its holder. Do not use metal tools directly on the battery, as they can cause a short circuit.

Place the new battery into the holder with the positive side facing the same direction as the old one was. Press gently until it clicks into place. Before you close the case back, press the crown (the button on the side of the watch) or move the hands to see if the watch powers on. If it does, you're ready to close the case back. If it doesn't, try flipping the battery over — you may have installed it backwards.

Once the watch is running, align the case back with the watch body and press it down firmly until you hear or feel a click. The case back should sit flush with the body. If there's a gap, it may not be seated correctly and could let moisture in. Press around the edges to make sure it's fully closed.

When to take your MK watch to a jeweler instead

If your watch has a screw-down case back (you'll see small screws around the edge), do not try to open it yourself unless you have a proper screwdriver set for watches. Screw-down backs are usually on water-resistant or dive watches, and opening them wrong can strip the threads and ruin the seal.

If your watch is labeled water-resistant or water-proof, a jeweler should handle the battery change. They have the tools to open the case back without damaging the gasket — the rubber seal that keeps water out. Once they close it, they can test the seal to make sure it still works. If you open it yourself and the seal gets damaged, water can seep in and ruin the movement, which costs $100 to $300 to repair.

Most jewelry stores, department store jewelry counters, and dedicated watch repair shops offer battery replacement. Call ahead to ask if they can do it while you wait or if you need an appointment. Some shops charge a flat fee; others charge by the watch model. If you're not sure whether your watch is water-resistant, the jeweler can tell you when you bring it in.

What to do if the watch still doesn't work after a new battery

If you installed a new battery and the watch still won't turn on, the battery may be defective or installed backwards. Remove the case back again, flip the battery over, and test it. If that doesn't work, try a different new battery from a different package — it's rare, but batteries can be dead on arrival.

If a fresh battery in the correct orientation still doesn't work, the watch movement itself may be damaged or the contacts inside may be corroded. This is beyond a straightforward battery change and requires a jeweler or watch repair shop. They can clean the contacts, test the movement, and tell you whether it's worth repairing. For a basic fashion watch, repair costs may exceed the watch's value, so you may decide to replace the watch instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an MK watch battery last?

Most Michael Kors watch batteries last two to three years with normal daily wear. Heavy use, exposure to extreme cold, or a watch that runs fast can drain the battery sooner. If your watch stops after less than a year, the battery may have been defective or the watch may have an internal problem.

Can I use any CR2032 battery in my MK watch?

Yes. CR2032 is a standard size, and any brand of CR2032 will work in an MK watch that uses that battery type. Energizer, Duracell, and store brands are all compatible. Buy from a retailer with good turnover to may support the battery is fresh.

What if I lose a screw when I open the case back?

If your watch has screws and you lose one, take the watch to a jeweler with the screw you still have. They can match it and replace the lost one. Bring the watch in its original condition so they can see exactly what you need.

Will opening the case back void my MK watch warranty?

If your watch is still under warranty, opening it yourself may void the warranty. Check the warranty paperwork or contact Michael Kors customer service before you open it. If the watch is out of warranty, opening it for a battery change is safe as long as it's not water-resistant.

How much does it cost to have a jeweler change the battery?

Most jewelers charge $15 to $50 for a battery change, depending on your location and the watch type. Call a few shops in your area to compare prices. Some department store jewelry counters offer the service for $10 to $20. If your watch is water-resistant, expect to pay toward the higher end because the jeweler needs to test the seal afterward.