You can replace a Movado watch battery yourself if the case back is straightforward, but many Movado models require a professional

Movado watches fall into two categories: those with a screw-off case back (which you can open at home) and those with a snap-fit or glued case back (which need a professional). Before you attempt anything, check whether your specific model has a removable back. If it does, you can buy the correct battery, open the case, swap it out, and close it again in about ten minutes. If it doesn't, a jeweler or Movado service center will do the job for $50 to $150, depending on the model and your location.

The difference matters because forcing a sealed case back can crack the crystal, bend the lugs, or damage the water-resistance seal—repairs that cost far more than a professional battery replacement. This guide walks you through identifying which type you have, finding the right battery, and doing the swap safely if your watch is designed for it.

Key Takeaways

  • Movado watches with a screw-off case back can be opened at home with the right tools; those with snap-fit or glued backs must go to a professional.
  • The correct battery type is printed on the old battery itself or in your watch manual, usually a three-digit code like SR626W or SR927W.
  • You need a case opener (a small flat tool), tweezers, and the replacement battery, all available at drugstores or online for under $20 total.
  • If you open the case yourself, avoid touching the battery terminals or the movement with bare fingers, as oils can interfere with the connection.
  • A professional replacement takes one to two weeks and includes a water-resistance check that a home replacement does not.

Identify whether your Movado case back is removable

Look at the back of your watch. If you see a thin line running around the edge of the case back and small notches or slots spaced evenly around the perimeter, it is a screw-off back. If the back is smooth with no visible seams or notches, or if you see a thin line but no way to grip it, it is a snap-fit or glued back and cannot be opened at home.

You can also check your watch manual or contact Movado directly with your model number (usually printed inside the case back or on the dial). Movado's customer service can tell you in one call whether your model is user-serviceable. If you are unsure, do not force anything—a damaged case back is expensive to repair, and forcing a sealed back can crack the crystal or compromise the water-resistance seal.

Find the correct battery type for your model

The battery code is printed on the old battery itself. Remove your watch and look at the case back. If you can see through a small transparent window, you may spot the battery code there. Otherwise, you will need to open the case to read it. Common Movado battery types include SR626W, SR927W, SR920W, and SR616W—each is a different size and voltage.

If you cannot read the old battery, search online for your watch model number plus "battery type" or check the manual. Once you have the code, buy a replacement at a pharmacy, drugstore, or online retailer. Expect to pay $3 to $8 for the battery itself. Buying the exact code matters—installing the wrong size can prevent the case back from closing properly or cause the battery to lose contact with the terminals.

Gather the tools you need

You will need three things: a case opener (a small flat tool with a notch at the end), tweezers, and the replacement battery. A case opener is not the same as a flathead screwdriver—it is designed to fit into the notches on the case back without slipping and damaging the watch. You can buy a case opener, tweezers, and a battery together in a watch repair kit at most drugstores or online for $10 to $20.

Some Movado case backs have a small slot instead of notches. If yours does, you may be able to use a thin flathead screwdriver, but a proper case opener is safer. Avoid using a knife, coin, or any tool not designed for this job—they will slip and scratch the case. A scratched case back is cosmetic damage, but a slipped tool can bend the case back itself or damage the seal.

Open the case back and remove the old battery

Place your watch on a clean, flat surface with the case back facing up. Insert the case opener into one of the notches on the edge of the case back and gently turn counterclockwise, as if unscrewing a jar lid. Do not force it—if it does not turn easily, stop and reconsider whether the back is truly removable. Once the back is loose, unscrew it the rest of the way by hand and set it aside on a clean cloth.

Inside, you will see the battery held in place by a small metal clip or spring. Use the tweezers to gently lift the clip or spring away from the battery, then slide the battery out. Do not touch the battery terminals or the metal parts of the movement with your bare fingers. If you do, wipe them clean with a lint-free cloth before reinstalling. Skin oils can create a thin film that blocks the electrical connection and prevents the watch from running.

Install the new battery and close the case

Slide the new battery into the same position as the old one, with the positive side facing up (the side marked with a + symbol, if visible). Gently lower the metal clip or spring back over the battery to hold it in place. The battery should sit flat and not rock or shift. If the clip is bent or the battery does not sit flush, stop—forcing it can damage the battery or the movement.

Screw the case back on by hand first, then use the case opener to tighten it. Turn clockwise until it is snug, but do not over-tighten—you should feel resistance, not a hard stop. Once the back is closed, your watch should start running when ready if it was straightforward dead. If it does not, the battery may be installed backwards, the clip may not be making contact, or the movement may need professional service.

When to take your watch to a professional instead

If your case back is not removable, if you cannot open it without force, or if the watch does not run after you install a new battery, take it to a jeweler or Movado service center. A professional will open the case using specialized equipment, replace the battery, check the water-resistance seal, and test the movement. This service usually costs $50 to $150 and takes one to two weeks.

Professional service is also the safer choice if your watch is vintage, has sentimental value, or is still under warranty. Opening the case yourself may void the warranty, and a professional can may support the seal is tight enough to protect the movement from moisture and dust. If you have already opened the case and the watch still does not run, a jeweler can diagnose whether the problem is the battery, the clip, or something inside the movement itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I damage my watch by opening it myself?

You can scratch the case back or damage the seal if you use the wrong tool or force it. If you follow the steps carefully and stop if you feel resistance, the risk is low. A small scratch on the back is cosmetic; a damaged seal lets moisture in and can ruin the movement.

What if the battery I bought does not fit?

Double-check the battery code on the old battery and the new one—they must match exactly. If they do match but the new battery does not slide in, the clip may be bent. A jeweler can straighten it or install the battery for you.

How often do Movado watch batteries need to be replaced?

Most watch batteries last two to five years, depending on the movement and how often you wear the watch. If your Movado stops running, a dead battery is the most common cause. Some models with chronographs or other complications may drain the battery faster.

Will replacing the battery myself affect the water resistance?

If you close the case back properly, water resistance should not be affected. However, a professional can test the seal with specialized equipment to confirm. If you are unsure about your seal, have a jeweler check it.

Where can I buy a Movado battery?

Watch batteries are sold at pharmacies, drugstores, jewelry stores, and online retailers. You can also order directly from Movado if you provide your model number. Buying from a jeweler costs more but includes installation if you want it.