The fastest place to buy a watch battery is a jewelry store or watch repair shop near you
A jewelry store or dedicated watch repair shop will have the battery you need in stock most of the time, and they can often install it while you wait — sometimes in under an hour. If you do not know a jeweler nearby, search "watch repair near me" or "jewelry store near me" and call ahead to confirm they stock batteries for your watch type. Many will ask what brand and model your watch is so they can pull the right battery before you arrive.
The trade-off is that jewelry stores charge more per battery than you would pay online — typically $5 to $15 for the battery itself, plus $10 to $25 for installation. If you are in a hurry or do not want to open your watch yourself, this cost is worth it. If you have time and want to save money, other options exist.
Key Takeaways
- Jewelry stores and watch repair shops stock watch batteries and can install them the same day, though they charge $15 to $40 total.
- Drugstores like CVS and Walgreens carry common watch battery sizes and often install them for $5 to $10, but selection is limited.
- Online retailers like Amazon and eBay sell watch batteries for $2 to $8, but you must know your battery's exact model number and install it yourself.
- Battery specialty shops (sometimes called battery stores) stock dozens of sizes and types, often cheaper than jewelry stores but without installation service.
- Big-box retailers like Walmart and Target carry basic watch batteries in their pharmacy section, though availability varies by location.
Drugstores: CVS, Walgreens, and similar chains
Most CVS and Walgreens locations stock common watch battery sizes in their pharmacy section, near the hearing aid batteries and watch bands. The advantage is convenience — you can pick one up while buying other things, and many locations offer installation for $5 to $10. Call the store first to confirm they have the size you need, because selection is smaller than at a jewelry store.
Drugstore staff are not watch specialists, so installation quality varies. If your watch is expensive or has a sealed case, a jewelry store is safer. For a basic quartz watch, a drugstore installation is usually fine. Expect to wait 15 to 30 minutes if you ask them to install it on the spot.
Online retailers: Amazon, eBay, and battery websites
Online sellers offer the lowest prices — watch batteries typically cost $2 to $8 — but you must know your battery's exact model number (like SR626SW or LR44) and you will install it yourself. Open your watch's case back with a case opener tool (sold separately for $5 to $15), remove the old battery, note its number, and order the matching replacement.
Amazon and eBay have fast shipping, often arriving in two to three days with Prime. Specialty battery websites like Batteries Plus Bulbs and Interstate Battery also sell watch batteries online. The risk is ordering the wrong size — if you guess wrong, you have wasted shipping time. Take a photo of the old battery or write down the number before you order.
Battery specialty shops and Batteries Plus Bulbs
Dedicated battery stores stock 20 to 40 different watch battery sizes and types, usually at prices between drugstores and online retailers ($4 to $12 per battery). They do not typically install batteries, but staff can confirm you have the right size before you buy. These shops are less common than they used to be, but Batteries Plus Bulbs has locations in most states and carries watch batteries.
If you have a local independent battery shop, call first — some have closed or moved. Batteries Plus Bulbs locations are listed on their website, and you can check stock before you visit.
Big-box retailers: Walmart and Target
Walmart and Target carry basic watch battery sizes in their pharmacy or electronics section, priced between drugstores and online ($3 to $10). Selection is limited to the most common sizes like SR626SW and LR44. Installation is not offered at most locations, though some Walmart pharmacies will install for a small fee — call ahead to ask.
These stores are useful if you need a battery the same day and do not have a jewelry store or drugstore nearby. Availability varies by location, so check the store's website or call before you go.
How to find the right battery size before you buy
The battery model number is printed on the old battery itself. Open your watch's case back using a case opener tool (a small, flat metal tool sold at jewelry stores and online for $5 to $15), or ask a jeweler to open it for you. Once the case is open, remove the battery carefully and look for a number stamped on it — this is the model you need to order.
Common watch battery types include SR (silver oxide), LR (alkaline), and CR (lithium). The number after the letters tells you the size — SR626SW and LR44 are two of the most common. Write this number down or take a photo before you shop. If you cannot read the number clearly, bring the old battery with you to the store so staff can match it.
If your watch is still under warranty or is a luxury brand, contact the manufacturer or an authorized dealer before buying a replacement battery elsewhere. Some high-end watches require a specific battery type or have sealed cases that need professional opening.
Comparing cost and convenience
| Where to Buy | Battery Cost | Installation Cost | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jewelry store | $5–$15 | $10–$25 | Same day (often 1 hour) | Expensive watches, sealed cases, no DIY |
| Drugstore (CVS, Walgreens) | $3–$8 | $5–$10 | Same day (15–30 min) | Common sizes, quick errand, basic watches |
| Online (Amazon, eBay) | $2–$8 | None (DIY) | 2–7 days shipping | Budget-conscious, willing to install yourself |
| Battery specialty shop | $4–$12 | None (DIY) | Same day | Uncommon sizes, informed information |
| Walmart / Target | $3–$10 | None (DIY) | Same day | Common sizes, no jewelry store nearby |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a watch battery myself?
Yes, if your watch has a removable case back. You need a case opener tool ($5 to $15), the correct battery model number, and steady hands. Pry the case back open gently, remove the old battery, insert the new one with the positive side facing up, and snap the case back on. If your watch has a sealed case or you are nervous about opening it, take it to a jeweler instead.
How do I know if my watch uses a battery or a mechanical movement?
If your watch has a second hand that ticks once per second (not sweeping smoothly), it uses a battery. If the second hand sweeps continuously around the dial, it is a mechanical or automatic watch and does not need a battery. Mechanical watches need servicing, not battery replacement.
What if I buy the wrong battery size?
It will not fit in the battery compartment, or it will fit but not make contact with the terminals. Do not force it. Take it back to the store with your receipt and exchange it for the correct size. This is why writing down the model number before you shop is important.
How long does a watch battery last?
Most watch batteries last two to five years, depending on the watch model and how often you wear it. Some high-drain watches (with a date window, alarm, or light) drain batteries faster. When your watch stops, the battery is dead and needs replacement.
Do I need to waterproof my watch after replacing the battery?
If your watch is water-resistant, a jeweler will re-seal it after installation to maintain that rating. If you install the battery yourself, your watch may lose its water resistance. If your watch is water-resistant and you want to keep it that way, have a professional install the battery.