You can replace a Michael Kors watch battery yourself with basic tools, or take it to a jeweler or Michael Kors store for about $15 to $30

A Michael Kors watch battery typically lasts two to three years before it stops holding a charge. When your watch stops, you have three routes: do it yourself with a battery kit, visit a Michael Kors store, or take it to a local jeweler. The DIY route costs $5 to $15 for a replacement battery and a basic tool set. A jeweler or Michael Kors store charges $15 to $30 in labor, plus the battery itself.

The method depends on your watch model. Most Michael Kors watches use a screw-back case that you can open with the right tools. Some newer models have a snap-back case that requires less precision but more force. Before you start, check your watch manual or the Michael Kors website to confirm which type you have — opening the wrong way can damage the case or crystal.

Key Takeaways

  • Michael Kors watches typically use a screw-back or snap-back case; you must know which type before opening yours to avoid damage.
  • A DIY battery replacement costs $5 to $15 for tools and battery, while a jeweler or Michael Kors store charges $15 to $30 in labor.
  • The most common battery types in Michael Kors watches are SR626SW, SR927SW, and SR920SW; check your manual or the old battery itself to confirm the size.
  • If your watch is water-resistant, you will need to have the case resealed after battery replacement, which most jewelers include in their labor charge.

What you need to open a screw-back case

A screw-back case has a solid metal back held on by small screws around the edge. To open it, you need a case opener tool (also called a case wrench or case back opener), a small screwdriver set, and a clean, flat work surface. You can buy a complete watch battery replacement kit online for $8 to $15; these kits include the opener, screwdrivers, tweezers, and often a replacement battery.

The case opener has a notched wheel that grips the grooves on the watch back. You place the notches into the grooves, then turn counterclockwise to unscrew the back. The screws holding the case back are tiny — use a jeweler's screwdriver, not a standard one, or you will strip them. Keep the screws in a small cup or on a piece of tape so you do not lose them.

Steps to replace the battery in a screw-back watch

Step 1: Remove the case back. Place the watch face-down on a soft cloth to protect the crystal. Position the case opener tool's notches into the grooves on the back, then turn counterclockwise slowly. Do not force it — if it does not turn easily, you may have the wrong notch size. Once loose, unscrew by hand and set the back aside.

Step 2: Note the battery type and position. Look at the battery inside the case. It is a small, flat, silver disc. Write down the code printed on it (usually something like SR626SW or SR927SW) — this is the exact replacement you need. Note which side faces up and whether there is a plastic tab under the battery.

Step 3: Remove the old battery. Use the tweezers from your kit to gently lift the battery out. If there is a plastic tab, pull it first. Do not touch the battery surface with your bare fingers; oils can affect its performance. Set it aside.

Step 4: Insert the new battery. Place the new battery in the same position as the old one, with the same side facing up. If there was a plastic tab, position it under the battery. Press gently to seat it.

Step 5: Replace the case back and screws. Align the case back with the watch body. Insert the screws by hand first, then tighten them with the jeweler's screwdriver. Tighten in a crisscross pattern (like tightening a car wheel) so the back sits evenly. Do not over-tighten — you only need them snug.

Step 6: Test the watch. Move the watch to your wrist and check that it is running. If it does not start, the battery may not be seated correctly; open the case again and reseat it.

Opening and replacing a snap-back case

A snap-back case has a smooth metal back with no screws. It is held on by friction and a small lip. To open it, you need a case opener tool designed for snap-back cases — this one has a flat blade or a notched edge that slides under the back to pry it open. Some kits include both screw-back and snap-back openers.

Slide the blade under the edge of the case back, starting at the side opposite any branding or text. explore steady, even pressure and work your way around the edge until the back pops off. This takes more force than a screw-back, but do not pry violently or you will bend the back. Once open, follow the same steps as above: note the battery type, remove it with tweezers, insert the new one in the same position, and snap the back on by pressing firmly until you hear or feel a click.

When to take your watch to a professional

If your Michael Kors watch is water-resistant (usually marked as 3 ATM, 5 ATM, or higher), the case back has a rubber gasket that seals out moisture. When you open the case, you disturb this seal. A jeweler will replace the gasket when they put the back on, which costs $5 to $10 extra. If you do the replacement yourself and do not reseal it, water can get inside and damage the movement.

Take your watch to a professional if the case back will not open without excessive force, if the screws are stripped or stuck, if the crystal is loose or cracked, or if you are not confident handling small parts. A Michael Kors store or a local jeweler can do the job in 10 to 15 minutes. Many jewelers offer this service while you wait.

Finding the right replacement battery

Michael Kors watches use several common battery types. The most frequent are SR626SW (used in smaller dress watches), SR927SW (used in larger or chronograph models), and SR920SW (used in some sport models). Check your watch manual, the Michael Kors website, or the old battery itself to find the exact code. Do not guess — putting the wrong battery in will either not power the watch or may not fit at all.

You can buy replacement batteries at pharmacies (in the watch section), online retailers, or jewelry supply stores. A single battery costs $3 to $8. Buy from a reputable seller to avoid counterfeit batteries, which may not hold a charge or may leak inside the watch. If you are unsure of the type, bring your watch to a jeweler and ask them to identify the battery — most will do this for free.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Michael Kors watch battery last?

Most Michael Kors watch batteries last two to three years with normal daily wear. Quartz watches (the most common type) use very little power, so the battery drains slowly. If you wear your watch constantly, the battery may last closer to two years. If you wear it occasionally, it may last three years or longer.

Can I replace the battery in a Michael Kors smartwatch?

No. Michael Kors smartwatches have sealed, non-replaceable batteries. When the battery fails, you must send the watch to Michael Kors or a certified repair center. Some smartwatches have a two-year warranty that covers battery replacement at no cost.

What if the watch still does not work after I replace the battery?

The movement may be damaged or the battery may not be seated correctly. Open the case again and reseat the battery, making sure it is flat and in the same position as before. If it still does not work, the watch likely needs professional repair. Take it to a jeweler or Michael Kors store.

Do I need to waterproof my watch again after replacing the battery?

If your watch is water-resistant, yes — a jeweler should replace the gasket and reseal the case. If you do it yourself, the watch will no longer be water-resistant until it is resealed. Do not wear it in water or expose it to moisture until a professional has sealed it.

Where can I buy a Michael Kors watch battery replacement kit?

Watch battery kits are sold online through Amazon, eBay, and watch supply retailers. They are also available at some jewelry stores and pharmacies. A basic kit with a case opener, screwdrivers, tweezers, and a battery costs $8 to $15. Make sure the kit includes the correct opener for your watch type (screw-back or snap-back).