You can change most Timex watch batteries yourself with a coin and steady hands

Most Timex watches use a snap-off caseback that you can open with a coin—a dime or penny works fine. Once the back is off, the battery sits in a metal holder and lifts straight out. The whole job takes about 10 minutes and costs $3 to $8 for a replacement battery. You do not need special tools or a jeweler's bench, just a clean, flat surface and good light.

The battery type varies by watch model. Common sizes are SR626SW, SR927SW, and SR516SW. Before you start, check your watch manual or the back of the caseback itself—the battery type is usually printed there. If you cannot find it, take a photo of the old battery once you remove it and show it to a pharmacy or watch battery seller.

Key Takeaways

  • Most Timex watches have a snap-off caseback that opens with a coin; look for a small slot or notch on the edge.
  • The battery type is printed on the caseback or in your manual—write it down before you open the watch so you buy the right replacement.
  • Once the back is off, the battery sits in a metal holder and lifts out straight up; do not pry it sideways or force it.
  • Replace the battery with the positive side facing up, snap the caseback back on, and test the watch before you put it away.
  • If the caseback does not budge or the battery holder is stuck, stop and take the watch to a jeweler rather than risk damage.

Locate the battery type before you open the watch

Open your Timex manual and look for a page labeled "Battery" or "Specifications." The battery part number will be listed there—it looks like SR626SW or similar. Write this number down or take a photo.

If you do not have the manual, flip the watch over and look at the caseback (the metal disc on the back). Many Timex models print the battery type directly on the caseback. You may need a magnifying glass to read it. If the caseback is blank, you can open the watch and check the battery itself once it is out.

Buy your replacement battery before you open the watch. Pharmacies, supermarkets, and hardware stores all stock common watch batteries for $3 to $8. Some Timex models use less common types that may take a day or two to order online.

Open the caseback with a coin

Place the watch face-down on a clean, soft surface—a cloth napkin or paper towel works well. Look at the edge of the caseback for a small notch or slot. This is where the coin goes.

Insert a coin (dime, penny, or quarter) into the slot and turn it counterclockwise, the same direction you would unscrew a jar lid. Turn slowly and steadily. You should feel the caseback loosen after a quarter or half turn. Do not force it—if it does not move, you may have the wrong slot, or the caseback may be stuck from age or corrosion.

Once the caseback is loose, lift it off by hand. Set it aside on a clean surface where you will not lose it. The inside of the watch is now exposed. You will see the battery in a metal holder, usually in the center or lower part of the watch face.

Remove the old battery and insert the new one

Look at the battery holder. It is a small metal cup or clip that holds the battery in place. The battery itself is a thin silver disc, usually about the size of a small button. The positive side (marked with a + or the brand name) faces up toward the watch face.

Gently lift the battery straight up and out of the holder. Do not pry it sideways or twist it—you can damage the holder or the watch circuit board. If the battery is stuck, use a plastic spoon or the edge of a plastic card to nudge it up from underneath. Never use a metal tool that could scratch the circuit board.

Place the new battery into the holder with the positive side facing up. It should sit flat and level. Press down gently until you hear or feel a small click—the battery is now seated. Do not press hard; the battery should rest in place on its own weight.

Close the caseback and test the watch

Pick up the caseback and align it with the back of the watch. The notch or slot should line up with the coin slot on the watch body. Press the caseback down gently to seat it, then insert your coin into the slot and turn it clockwise (the same direction you would tighten a jar lid) until it is snug. Do not over-tighten—you only need to turn it until it stops naturally.

Flip the watch over and check that it is working. The second hand should be moving. If the watch does not start, the battery may not be seated correctly. Open the caseback again, lift the battery, and press it back down firmly. Close the caseback and try again.

If the watch still does not work after two attempts, the battery may be defective or the watch may have an internal problem. Take it to a jeweler or Timex service center rather than continuing to open and close it.

Common mistakes that damage the watch

The most common error is forcing the caseback open. If the slot does not turn smoothly, stop. The caseback may be stuck from corrosion, or you may be using the wrong slot. Forcing it can strip the threads and make the watch impossible to seal. If the caseback will not budge after gentle pressure, take the watch to a jeweler.

The second mistake is prying the battery out sideways. The battery holder is delicate, and prying can bend or break it. Always lift the battery straight up. If it is truly stuck, use a plastic tool and lift from underneath rather than from the side.

A third mistake is inserting the battery upside down. The positive side must face up. If you put it in backwards, the watch will not work, but the battery itself will not be damaged. straightforward open the caseback, flip the battery, and close it again.

Where to buy replacement batteries and what they cost

Watch batteries are sold at most pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens), supermarkets, and hardware stores. They are usually near the jewelry counter or in the battery aisle. Prices range from $3 to $8 depending on the type and location. Some stores will install the battery for you for an extra $5 to $10 if you do not want to do it yourself.

Online retailers like Amazon and eBay sell watch batteries in bulk (often 5 or 10 packs) for $1 to $2 per battery, but you have to wait for shipping. If your watch is still under warranty, contact Timex directly—they may replace the battery for free or a small fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the caseback has no notch and I cannot open it?

Some older or waterproof Timex models use a screw-down caseback instead of a snap-off. These require a special caseback opener tool that a jeweler has. Do not try to pry it open with a coin or knife—you will damage the watch. Take it to a jeweler or contact Timex customer service for help.

Can I use any battery as long as it is the right size?

No. Watch batteries are labeled by chemistry type (SR, LR, etc.) and voltage. An SR626SW and an LR626 are the same physical size but different voltages. Using the wrong type can damage the watch circuit or cause the battery to leak. Always match the exact part number printed on your old battery or caseback.

How long does a Timex watch battery last?

Most Timex watch batteries last 2 to 5 years depending on the model and how often you use features like the light or alarm. Quartz watches use very little power, so batteries last much longer than in other devices. When the battery dies, the watch straightforward stops—it will not damage the watch to leave a dead battery in it.

Is it safe to open my watch if it is waterproof?

Opening a waterproof watch yourself can damage the seal and make it no longer waterproof. If your Timex is rated for water resistance (like 50m or 100m), take it to a jeweler or Timex service center. They have the tools to reseal it properly. If it is a basic watch with no water rating, it is safe to open yourself.

What should I do with the old battery?

Watch batteries contain mercury or other metals and should not go in the trash. Take the old battery to a pharmacy, jeweler, or electronics recycling center. Most accept them for free. Some retailers that sell batteries will also take old ones back.