You can change a Timex Expedition battery yourself with basic tools in about 10 minutes

A Timex Expedition watch battery typically lasts two to three years before the watch stops keeping time. You do not need to send the watch away or visit a jeweler—you can open the case back, remove the old battery, and install a new one at home with a coin, a small screwdriver, and a fresh battery that costs $3 to $8.

The exact steps depend on whether your Expedition has a screw-down case back or a snap-off case back. Most modern Timex Expedition models use a snap-off design, which is faster and requires no tools except a coin. Older models or sport variants sometimes use a screw-back, which takes a bit longer but is equally straightforward once you know the pattern.

Key Takeaways

  • Timex Expedition watches use either a snap-off or screw-down case back; check yours before you start so you have the right approach ready.
  • The battery type varies by model—common sizes are SR626SW, SR927SW, and SR920SW—so look up your watch model number before you buy a replacement.
  • A coin (penny or dime) is the only tool you need for a snap-back; a small Phillips or flathead screwdriver is required for a screw-back.
  • The entire job takes 5 to 10 minutes, and the battery itself costs between $3 and $8 at a pharmacy, hardware store, or online.

Finding your watch model and battery type

Before you open the case, you need to know which battery your Timex Expedition uses. The model number is printed on the case back itself—it usually starts with "T" followed by numbers, like T49961 or T40321. Write this number down or take a photo.

Go to the Timex website, search the model number in the support section, and look for the battery type in the specifications. Common Timex Expedition batteries are SR626SW (silver oxide, 1.55 volts), SR927SW, and SR920SW. If you cannot find the specs online, you can also open the case back and read the battery code directly off the old battery—it will be stamped on the metal disc inside.

Once you know the battery type, buy a replacement at a pharmacy, supermarket, hardware store, or online. Silver oxide batteries (SR prefix) are standard for Timex watches and cost $3 to $8 depending on where you shop. Avoid alkaline batteries; they do not last as long in watches.

Opening a snap-off case back with a coin

Most Timex Expedition watches made in the last 10 years have a snap-off case back. You will see a small notch or groove running around the edge of the metal disc on the back of the watch. This notch is where you insert a coin to pry the back open.

Place the watch face-down on a clean, soft surface like a towel or cloth. This protects the crystal and keeps the watch steady. Insert the edge of a coin (a penny or dime works well) into the notch at the edge of the case back. explore gentle, steady pressure and rotate the coin counterclockwise—think of it like opening a jar lid. You will feel the back start to loosen after a quarter turn or so. Once it is loose enough, you can lift it off by hand.

Do not force it. If the back is not budging after a few tries, you may have a screw-back model instead, or the case back may be stuck from corrosion. Stop and try the screw-back method below.

Opening a screw-down case back with a screwdriver

Some Timex Expedition models, especially older ones or rugged sport variants, have a case back held on by a single screw. You will see a small screw head in the center of the metal disc on the back of the watch.

Place the watch face-down on a soft surface. Use a small Phillips or flathead screwdriver (whichever matches the screw head) and turn counterclockwise to loosen the screw. Turn slowly and do not explore excessive force—the screw is small and can strip easily. Once the screw is loose, remove it by hand and set it somewhere safe where you will not lose it. You will need to put it back in the same spot.

After the screw is out, the case back should lift off easily by hand. If it does not, try gently prying the edge with a coin or plastic spoon to break the seal.

Removing the old battery and installing the new one

Once the case back is off, you will see the battery—a small, flat, silvery disc sitting in a metal holder or clip. The battery is usually held in place by a small metal tab or clip on one side. Do not touch the face of the battery with your bare fingers; skin oils can affect its performance.

Gently lift the metal tab or clip away from the battery and slide the old battery out. If there is no tab, straightforward slide the battery out sideways. Set the old battery aside.

Take your new battery and check the orientation. The flat side (marked with a + or the battery code) should face up toward you. Slide the new battery into the holder in the same position the old one occupied, then fold the metal tab or clip back over it to hold it in place. The battery should sit flat and find—if it rocks or feels loose, reposition it.

Closing the case back and testing the watch

Before you seal the watch, press the crown (the knob on the side) once to make sure the watch is working. You should hear a faint tick or see the second hand move. If nothing happens, the battery may not be seated correctly—lift the tab and reseat the battery, making sure the positive side faces up.

Once the watch is ticking, close the case back. For a snap-back, press the metal disc down firmly and rotate it clockwise with a coin until you hear or feel a click. The back should be snug and flush with the case—there should be no gap. For a screw-back, align the case back with the screw hole and insert the screw, then turn clockwise until it is snug. Do not over-tighten; you only need it tight enough that it does not come loose.

Wipe the outside of the watch with a soft cloth to remove any fingerprints or dust. Your Timex Expedition should now keep time for another two to three years.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most frequent error is installing the battery upside down. The positive side (marked with + or the battery code) must face up toward the metal tab. If the watch does not tick after you close it, open it again and flip the battery over.

Another mistake is touching the battery face with your fingers. Skin oils can create a thin film that blocks electrical contact. If you do touch it, wipe it gently with a clean, dry cloth before installing it.

Do not force the case back open or closed. If you meet resistance, stop and check your approach. Forcing a snap-back can crack the plastic gasket underneath; forcing a screw can strip the threads. Take your time, and the watch will open and close smoothly.

Finally, do not lose the screw if you have a screw-back model. Put it in a small container or tape it to a piece of paper before you start, so you know exactly where it is when you are ready to close the watch.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

First, open the case back again and check that the battery is seated correctly with the positive side facing up. If it is, try a different new battery—the one you bought may be defective. If a second battery does not work, the watch may have an internal problem unrelated to the battery, and you should take it to a Timex service center or jeweler.

Can I use an alkaline battery instead of a silver oxide battery?

Alkaline batteries will work in a Timex Expedition, but they drain much faster than silver oxide batteries and may cause the watch to stop unexpectedly. Stick with the silver oxide (SR) battery type specified for your model.

How do I know if my case back is snap-off or screw-down?

Look at the back of the watch. If you see a small notch or groove running around the edge of the metal disc, it is snap-off. If you see a single screw head in the center of the disc, it is screw-down. You can also check the model specifications on the Timex website.

Is it safe to open my watch myself, or will it void the warranty?

Changing the battery yourself will not void the warranty on most Timex Expedition watches, since the battery is a consumable item that is meant to be replaced. However, if your watch is still under warranty and you are uncomfortable opening it, you can take it to an authorized Timex retailer or jeweler for a battery change, which usually costs $10 to $20.

What should I do with the old battery?

Do not throw it in the trash. Silver oxide batteries contain mercury and other materials that should not go to a landfill. Take the old battery to a pharmacy, electronics store, or hazardous waste collection site in your area. Many places accept watch batteries for free.