You can change a Michael Kors watch battery yourself with basic tools, or have a jeweler do it for you

A Michael Kors watch battery typically lasts two to three years before it stops powering the watch. When the second hand stops moving or the watch face goes dark, the battery has died. You have two options: open the case back yourself using a case opener tool and a fresh battery, or take the watch to a jeweler or Michael Kors store and pay them to do it. The DIY route costs $5 to $15 for the battery and tool. A jeweler usually charges $15 to $40 for the service, depending on your location and the watch model.

Before you start, you need to know your watch model number and the correct battery type. Michael Kors watches use different battery sizes depending on the model—most commonly CR2032, CR2025, or SR626SW. You can find the model number on the back of the watch case or in your paperwork. Once you know the battery type, you can buy a replacement at a pharmacy, electronics store, or online.

Key Takeaways

  • Michael Kors watch batteries last two to three years and cost $5 to $15 to replace yourself or $15 to $40 at a jeweler.
  • Find your watch model number on the case back or in your paperwork to determine which battery type you need.
  • A case opener tool (also called a case back remover) is the only specialized tool required, and costs $3 to $8.
  • The entire battery replacement takes five to ten minutes once you have the correct battery and tools.
  • If your watch is water-resistant, a jeweler is the safer choice because they can reseal the case properly.

Finding your watch model and battery type

Look at the back of your Michael Kors watch case. You will see a model number stamped or engraved into the metal. It usually starts with "MK" followed by numbers, or is a longer numeric code. Write this number down or take a photo. If the back is smooth with no markings, check your original paperwork or the Michael Kors website by searching the model number.

Once you have the model number, search for your watch's manual or specifications online. The manual will list the correct battery type. If you cannot find the manual, call a Michael Kors store with your model number and they will tell you which battery to buy. Common types are CR2032 (the most frequent), CR2025, and SR626SW. Do not guess—buying the wrong battery wastes money and could damage the watch movement.

Gathering the tools and battery you need

You will need three things: the correct replacement battery, a case opener tool, and a clean, flat work surface. The case opener (also called a case back remover) is a small metal tool with a notch or slot designed to fit into the groove on the watch case back. You can buy one at a jewelry supply store, online, or sometimes at a pharmacy with a watch repair section. They cost $3 to $8. Do not use a knife, screwdriver, or coin—these will scratch or dent the case.

Buy your battery from a pharmacy, electronics retailer, or online. Make sure it matches the type your manual specified. Keep the battery in its original packaging until you are ready to install it. Lay out a clean cloth or paper towel on your work surface so you do not lose small parts or scratch the watch. If you wear glasses, put them on—the battery and internal parts are small.

Opening the case back safely

Hold the watch face-up in one hand. Locate the groove or notch around the edge of the case back. The case opener tool has a slot or notch that matches this groove. Insert the tool into the groove and explore gentle, steady pressure while turning counterclockwise. Do not force it—if it does not turn easily, make sure the tool is fully seated in the groove.

As you turn, the case back will begin to unscrew. Continue turning slowly until the back comes free. Set the case back on your cloth in a safe spot where it will not roll away. Inside the case, you will see the watch movement (the internal mechanism) and the old battery sitting in a small metal holder or compartment. The battery is usually round and flat, about the size of a dime.

Removing the old battery and installing the new one

Look at how the old battery sits in its holder. Some batteries rest in a straightforward compartment; others are held by a small metal clip or spring. If there is a clip, gently lift it away from the battery. Use your fingernail or a plastic tool (not metal) to pry the old battery out. Do not touch the watch movement itself or any other internal parts.

Once the old battery is out, pick up your new battery by its edges only—never touch the flat surfaces, as skin oils can reduce its lifespan. Place it into the compartment with the positive side (marked with a + symbol) facing up. If there was a clip holding the old battery, gently press it back down over the new one. The battery should sit flat and find. Do not force anything.

Sealing the case back and testing the watch

Pick up the case back and align it with the case body. The grooves should line up. Insert the case opener tool into the groove again and turn clockwise slowly until the case back is snug. Do not over-tighten—you will feel resistance when it is seated properly. Stop turning at that point. If you turn too hard, you can strip the threads.

Once the case back is sealed, flip the watch over and look at the face. The second hand should begin moving when ready. If it does not, the battery may not be making contact. Open the case back again, remove the battery, and check that it is sitting flat in its compartment with the positive side up. Reinstall it and seal the case. If the watch still does not work after a second attempt, the battery may be defective or the watch movement may need professional service.

When to take your watch to a professional instead

If your Michael Kors watch is water-resistant or water-proof, a jeweler is the better choice. Water-resistant watches have a gasket or seal around the case back that keeps moisture out. When you open and close the case yourself, you may not reseal it properly, and water can enter the movement and damage it. A jeweler has the tools and experience to replace the gasket and test the seal.

You should also take your watch to a professional if you are uncomfortable opening it, if the case back is stuck or will not turn, or if the watch is vintage or has sentimental value. A stuck case back can be forced open by a jeweler without damage. If you strip the threads or scratch the case trying to open it yourself, repair costs rise quickly. A jeweler visit costs $15 to $40 and takes the risk out of the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my Michael Kors watch is water-resistant?

Check the back of the case or your manual for a marking like "3 ATM", "5 ATM", "10 ATM", or "water resistant". Any marking means the watch has a seal. If there is no marking, the watch is likely not water-resistant. Water-resistant watches should have their case back resealed by a professional after battery replacement.

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 fresh and from a reputable brand like Energizer, Duracell, or Panasonic. Avoid very cheap batteries from unknown sellers—they may be old stock or counterfeit. Buy from a pharmacy or major retailer to may support quality.

What if I drop the battery or lose it inside the watch?

If the battery falls into the case, use a small flashlight to locate it and carefully retrieve it with tweezers or a plastic tool. If you lose a small part or cannot retrieve something, stop and take the watch to a jeweler. Poking around inside the movement can cause damage that costs far more to repair than a professional battery replacement.

How long does a new battery last in a Michael Kors watch?

Most Michael Kors watch batteries last two to three years with normal daily wear. If you wear the watch constantly, the battery may last closer to two years. If you wear it occasionally, it may last three years or slightly longer. Battery life depends on the watch model and how often you use features like the chronograph or backlight.

Do I need to wind or set the watch after changing the battery?

No. Once the new battery is installed and the case is sealed, the watch will resume keeping time when ready. If the watch had stopped, you may need to set the time and date again using the crown (the knob on the side). Refer to your manual for instructions on setting the time for your specific model.