Most Timex batteries come out from the back of the case, not the face

A Timex battery replacement means opening the case back, removing the old battery, and installing a new one of the same size and voltage. The process takes five to ten minutes and costs between $3 and $15 for the battery itself. You can do it at home with a case opener tool (usually under $10) and a fresh battery, or take the watch to a jeweler or pharmacy and pay $10 to $25 for the service.

The hardest part is not the replacement — it is knowing which battery your specific Timex uses. The model number and battery type are printed on the case back or in your manual. Once you have that information, the actual swap is straightforward.

Key Takeaways

  • Find your Timex model number on the case back or in the manual, then look up which battery it uses — common sizes are SR626SW, SR927SW, and CR2032.
  • A case opener tool (flathead screwdriver or dedicated watch tool) pops the case back off; some Timex models have a screw-on back instead.
  • Remove the old battery, note which side faces up, and drop in the new battery the same way before closing the case.
  • If the watch still does not work after replacement, the battery contacts may be dirty — clean them gently with a dry cloth before trying again.
  • Jewelers and pharmacies with watch service departments can replace the battery for you if you do not want to open the case yourself.

Find your Timex model and the correct battery type

Look at the back of your watch case. Most Timex watches have the model number stamped or printed there, along with water resistance information. Write down the full model number — it usually starts with T2 or similar. If the case back is blank, check the original box or manual.

Once you have the model number, search for it on the Timex website or in the manual to find the battery specification. Timex watches commonly use SR626SW (silver oxide), SR927SW (silver oxide), or CR2032 (lithium) batteries. The battery type is critical — using the wrong voltage or chemistry can damage the watch movement or cause it to run incorrectly.

If you cannot find the manual, take a photo of the case back and bring it to a jewelry store or pharmacy. They can identify the battery type in seconds and sell you the correct one.

Get a case opener tool and a fresh battery

You need two things: a case opener and a new battery. A case opener is a small flat tool designed to pry open watch case backs without scratching them. You can buy one online for $5 to $10, or use a thin flathead screwdriver if you are careful. A jeweler's screwdriver set (around $10) includes several sizes and is worth having if you plan to open watches more than once.

Buy the battery from a pharmacy, electronics store, or online retailer. A single SR626SW or SR927SW costs $3 to $8. CR2032 batteries are cheaper, usually $2 to $5. Buy one extra in case you drop it or need to try again. Check the expiration date on the package — old batteries lose charge over time.

Open the case back and remove the old battery

Place the watch face-down on a clean, soft surface like a cloth or towel. This protects the crystal and keeps the watch steady. Locate the small slot or notch on the edge of the case back — this is where the case opener goes.

Insert the flat edge of the case opener into the slot and gently twist or pry upward. The case back should pop off with light pressure. If it does not budge after a few tries, the back may be screw-on instead — look for a tiny screw head and use a jeweler's screwdriver to remove it. Do not force it; forcing can crack the case.

Once the back is open, you will see the battery sitting in a small metal holder or clip. Note which side is facing up — the positive side is usually marked with a + symbol. Gently lift or slide the battery out. If it is stuck, use a plastic tweezers or the edge of the case opener to nudge it free. Do not use a metal tool that could scratch the movement.

Install the new battery and close the case

Take the new battery and place it in the holder the same way the old one was oriented — positive side up. Make sure it sits flat and clicks into place. The battery should not be loose or tilted.

Press the case back on firmly until you hear or feel a click. If the back is screw-on, thread the screw back in by hand first, then tighten it gently with the screwdriver. Do not over-tighten — you only need enough pressure to seal the case.

Turn the watch over and check that it is running. If the second hand is moving, the battery is working. If the watch is still dead, remove the case back again and check that the battery is seated correctly and the contacts are clean. Wipe the battery and the metal contacts inside the case with a dry cloth, then reinstall it.

What to do if the watch still does not work

If the watch does not start after you install a new battery, the problem is usually dirty contacts. The metal clips that touch the battery can corrode or collect dust over time. Remove the battery again and use a clean, dry cloth to gently wipe the metal contacts inside the case. Wipe the battery itself as well, then reinstall it.

If the watch still does not work, the movement may be damaged or the battery may be defective. Try a different new battery from a different package to rule out a bad cell. If that does not work, take the watch to a jeweler — the movement may need professional service, which costs $30 to $60 depending on the problem.

When to take your watch to a professional

If you are uncomfortable opening the case, worried about damaging the watch, or the case back will not open, take it to a jeweler or pharmacy with a watch service counter. Most charge $10 to $25 for a battery replacement, and they handle the whole job in a few minutes. They also have the right tools and can clean the contacts if needed.

Some Timex watches have sealed or glued case backs that cannot be opened at home. A jeweler can open these safely. If your watch is vintage or valuable, professional service is worth the cost — a slip with a screwdriver can scratch or dent the case permanently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Timex battery last?

Most Timex watch batteries last two to five years, depending on the watch model and how often you wear it. Watches you wear daily drain the battery faster than ones worn occasionally. When the battery dies, the watch straightforward stops — there is no warning.

Can I use a different battery size if I cannot find the exact one?

No. Using the wrong battery size or voltage can damage the watch movement or cause it to run fast or slow. Always use the exact type specified for your model. If you cannot find it locally, order it online — it will arrive in a few days.

What if I lose the tiny screw when I open the case?

If the case back is screw-on and you lose the screw, a jeweler can replace it for a few dollars. Keep the screw in a small container while you work. Some people tape it to a piece of paper so it does not roll away.

Is it safe to open a water-resistant Timex watch myself?

Yes, as long as you close it properly. Water resistance depends on the seal between the case back and the case body. After you install the new battery, press the case back on firmly until it clicks. If the back is screw-on, tighten it gently. The watch will maintain its original water resistance as long as the seal is intact.

Can I replace the battery in a Timex smartwatch or digital watch the same way?

Most digital Timex watches use the same case-back method, but some newer models have sealed batteries that cannot be replaced at home. Check your manual or contact Timex customer service before attempting to open a digital or smartwatch model. If the battery is sealed, the watch will need to go to a service center.