You can replace most watch batteries yourself with a small screwdriver and a battery from a drugstore
Replacing a watch battery is a straightforward task that takes about 10 minutes and costs $3 to $8 for the battery itself. You do not need special training or expensive tools — just a small Phillips or flathead screwdriver, the correct replacement battery, and a clean, flat work surface. Most watches use standard batteries that you can buy at any pharmacy or electronics store.
The hardest part is usually opening the watch case without scratching it. Once the back is off, you will see the old battery sitting in a metal holder. You lift it out, note the battery number printed on it, buy an identical replacement, and slide the new one in. The whole process is reversible — if something goes wrong, you can stop and take the watch to a jeweler instead.
Key Takeaways
- Most watch batteries cost $3 to $8 and are sold at pharmacies, supermarkets, and electronics stores under their model number (usually CR2032, SR626, or similar).
- You need only a small screwdriver and a clean, flat surface; opening the case back is the trickiest step and takes the most care to avoid scratches.
- Write down or photograph the battery number before you remove the old one, so you buy the exact replacement and do not mix up different types.
- If the case back is glued or sealed rather than screwed, or if you strip the screws, a jeweler or watch repair shop can open it for $10 to $25.
Gather the right tools and battery before you start
Before you open the watch, you need to know which battery it uses. Look at the back of the watch case — most watches have the battery model number printed there, or inside the case once you open it. Common battery types include CR2032 (the flat silver coin battery), SR626 (smaller and thinner), SR927, and LR44. Write down this number or take a photo so you have it when you shop.
Buy the replacement battery at a pharmacy, supermarket, or electronics store. Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, and Best Buy all stock watch batteries in their battery aisles, usually for $3 to $8 per battery. Some jewelers and watch repair shops sell them too, often at a higher price. Do not buy a generic "watch battery" — buy the exact model number you found on your watch.
Gather a small Phillips or flathead screwdriver (whichever fits the screws on your watch case back), a clean cloth, and a small container or piece of paper to hold the screws while you work. Work on a clean, flat surface like a kitchen table or desk so you do not lose small parts.
Open the watch case back carefully
Look at the back of your watch. If it has visible screws around the edge, use your screwdriver to remove them one at a time, turning counterclockwise. Place each screw in a small container or on a piece of paper so you do not lose them. If the case back has a slot or notch but no screws, you may have a snap-back case — try gently prying the edge with a flathead screwdriver, but stop if you feel strong resistance, as this type can crack easily.
If the case back is smooth with no screws or notches, it is likely glued or sealed. Do not force it. Instead, take the watch to a jeweler or watch repair shop, where they can open it with a case opener tool for $10 to $25. Forcing a sealed case will damage it.
Once the screws are out, gently lift the case back straight up. If it sticks slightly, wiggle it gently side to side as you lift. Avoid twisting or prying hard, as this can scratch the case or bend the gasket (the rubber seal that keeps moisture out). Set the case back on your cloth in a safe place where it will not roll away.
Remove the old battery and install the new one
Inside the case, you will see the battery sitting in a metal holder or clip. The battery is usually a flat, round, silver disc. Look at the top of the battery — you should see the model number printed there (for example, CR2032). If you did not write it down before, do so now.
Gently lift the edge of the metal clip or holder to release the battery. If the clip is tight, use the edge of your screwdriver to lift it slightly, but do not pry hard. Once the clip is loose, slide the old battery out and set it aside. Do not touch the new battery with your bare fingers — skin oils can interfere with the electrical connection. Instead, hold it by the edges or use a clean cloth.
Slide the new battery into the holder with the positive side (the flat, unmarked side) facing up, which is the direction the old battery was facing. Lower the metal clip back down over the battery until it clicks or sits snugly. The battery should not move when you gently shake the watch.
Close the case back and test the watch
Before you screw the case back on, check that the gasket (the rubber ring around the edge of the case) is still in place and not twisted or damaged. If it looks bent or cracked, the watch may not be waterproof after you close it, but it will still work.
Line up the case back with the watch body and press it down gently. If it has screws, insert each one and turn clockwise until snug — do not overtighten, as this can strip the threads or crack the case. If it is a snap-back, press down firmly until you hear or feel a click.
Once the case is closed, press the crown (the button on the side of the watch) or move the hands to see if the watch is running. If it does not work, open the case again and check that the battery is seated correctly in the holder and that the positive side is facing up. If the watch still does not work after you reseat the battery, the problem may be something other than the battery — take it to a jeweler.
What to do if the case back will not open
If the screws are very tight and your screwdriver is slipping, try wrapping a rubber band around the screwdriver tip to increase grip. Turn slowly and steadily rather than forcing it quickly. If a screw is stripped (the screwdriver spins without turning the screw), stop when ready — forcing it further will damage the case permanently.
If you cannot open the case back yourself, a jeweler or watch repair shop can do it for $10 to $25 and will often replace the battery for you at the same time. This is worth the cost if you are worried about damaging an expensive or sentimental watch. Many jewelers offer this service while you wait, taking only 5 to 10 minutes.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common mistake is buying the wrong battery type. Always write down or photograph the model number on the old battery before you remove it. Putting in a battery that is too thick or too thin can prevent the case back from closing or cause the battery to lose contact with the holder.
Another mistake is touching the new battery with bare fingers. Skin oils can create a thin layer that blocks the electrical connection, causing the watch to run slowly or not at all. If you do touch it, wipe it gently with a clean, dry cloth before installing it.
Do not overtighten the screws when closing the case back. This can strip the threads, crack the case, or damage the gasket. Tighten until snug, then stop — you should not need to use force.
Finally, do not force a case back that does not want to open. If you feel strong resistance or if the screws are stripped, take the watch to a professional. A few dollars spent now saves you from a cracked case or broken watch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what battery my watch uses?
Look at the back of the watch case or inside the case once you open it — the battery model number is usually printed there. Common types are CR2032, SR626, SR927, and LR44. If you cannot find it, take the old battery to a pharmacy or electronics store and they can match it for you.
Can I use a different battery type if I cannot find the exact one?
No. Different battery types have different thicknesses, voltages, and sizes. Using the wrong type can prevent the case from closing, cause the watch to run incorrectly, or damage the internal contacts. Buy the exact model number.
What if the watch still does not work after I put in a new battery?
First, open the case again and check that the battery is seated correctly in the holder and that the positive side is facing up. Reseat it and test again. If it still does not work, the problem may be a broken contact, a damaged circuit, or corrosion inside the watch — take it to a jeweler for diagnosis.
Is it safe to replace the battery myself, or should I always go to a jeweler?
It is safe to do it yourself if you work carefully and do not force anything. The main risk is scratching the case or damaging the gasket, which affects appearance but not function. If you are nervous about an expensive or sentimental watch, a jeweler is worth the cost.
How long does a watch battery usually last?
Most watch batteries last two to five years, depending on the watch type and how often you use it. Watches with backlights, alarms, or other features drain batteries faster. When the battery dies, the watch straightforward stops — there is no warning.