You can change a Michael Kors watch battery yourself with basic tools, or take it to a jeweler or Michael Kors store

A Michael Kors watch battery typically lasts two to three years before it dies. When your watch stops, you have three options: open the case back yourself using a case opener tool, take it to a jeweler, or visit a Michael Kors store. The DIY route costs $5 to $15 for a replacement battery and a case opener. A jeweler usually charges $15 to $40 for the service. A Michael Kors store may charge $20 to $50, though some locations offer it free if you purchased the watch there recently.

The process itself takes about five minutes if you have the right tools and know which battery your watch uses. Most Michael Kors watches use a CR2032, CR2025, or SR626SW battery — you can find the correct one by checking your watch's manual or looking at the battery compartment once you open the case back.

Key Takeaways

  • Michael Kors watches typically use CR2032, CR2025, or SR626SW batteries, which you can buy at drugstores or online for $3 to $8.
  • A case opener tool (also called a case back remover) costs $5 to $15 and is reusable for any watch with a screw-off back.
  • Jewelers and Michael Kors stores can change the battery for $15 to $50, and the job takes less than an hour.
  • Opening the case back yourself requires steady hands and the correct tool — forcing it with a knife or screwdriver can crack the case or scratch the watch.

What battery your Michael Kors watch needs

The battery type depends on your watch model. Most Michael Kors watches use one of three common batteries: CR2032 (the most common, used in larger watches), CR2025 (slightly thinner, for slimmer cases), or SR626SW (a silver-oxide battery, less common but longer-lasting). You can find the correct battery by checking your watch's instruction manual — the battery type is usually listed on the back page or in a specifications section.

If you do not have the manual, you can open the case back and look at the battery itself. The battery will have a code printed on it. Write down that code and search for it online or take a photo to a drugstore pharmacy or jewelry counter — they can match it and sell you a replacement. You can also call a Michael Kors store with your watch model number and ask which battery it uses.

Buy your battery before you open the watch. Drugstores like CVS and Walgreens stock CR2032 and CR2025 batteries in the watch or jewelry section. Online retailers like Amazon sell them in bulk packs for $5 to $10. Silver-oxide batteries (SR626SW) are less common in stores but available online. A single battery costs $1 to $3; a pack of five costs $5 to $8.

Tools you need to open the case back

The most important tool is a case opener (also called a case back remover or watch case opener). This is a small metal tool with notches or prongs designed to fit into the grooves on the back of your watch case. A case opener costs $5 to $15 and works on any watch with a screw-off back. You can buy one at jewelry supply stores, online retailers, or some drugstores. Popular brands include Bergeon and generic versions sold on Amazon.

Do not use a knife, flathead screwdriver, or coin to open the case back. These tools can slip and scratch or crack the watch case, damage the back cover, or hurt your hand. A case opener is designed to grip the grooves safely and explore even pressure.

You will also want a clean, flat work surface — a table or desk with good lighting. Lay down a soft cloth or towel to prevent the watch from rolling and to protect it if you drop it. Have a small container or cup nearby to hold the tiny screws from the case back so you do not lose them.

Steps to change the battery yourself

First, remove the watch from your wrist and place it face-up on your work surface. Locate the case back — it is the solid metal or plastic cover on the back of the watch. Look for small grooves or notches around the edge. These are where the case opener tool fits.

Position the case opener tool into one of the grooves. You may need to try two or three grooves to find the one that fits snugly. Once it is seated, explore gentle, steady pressure and turn the tool counterclockwise (to the left), as if you are unscrewing a jar lid. Do not force it — if it does not turn easily, try a different groove. The case back should unscrew within a few turns.

Once the case back is loose, unscrew it the rest of the way by hand and set it aside on your cloth. You will now see the battery, usually held in place by a small metal clip or sitting loose in a shallow compartment. If there is a clip, gently lift or slide it away from the battery. Carefully remove the old battery and set it aside.

Insert the new battery with the positive side (marked with a + or the shiny side) facing up. If there was a clip, slide it back over the battery to hold it in place. Close your eyes and gently shake the watch — you should not hear the battery rattle. If it does, the clip is not seated properly.

Screw the case back on by hand first, turning it clockwise (to the right) until it is snug. Then use the case opener tool to tighten it fully. Do not over-tighten — you want it snug enough that the back does not come loose, but not so tight that you crack the case. Your watch should now be running again. If it is not, the battery may be dead (rare for a new battery), or it may not be making contact with the clip.

When to take your watch to a professional

If your watch has a solid case back with no grooves or notches, it is a press-fit back and cannot be opened with a case opener tool. These require a special machine to open and close safely. Take this watch to a jeweler or Michael Kors store.

If you are uncomfortable opening the watch yourself, or if you are worried about damaging it, a jeweler is the safer choice. Most jewelry stores offer battery replacement as a standard service. Call ahead to ask the cost and whether they have the battery in stock. Turnaround is usually same-day or next-day. Michael Kors stores can also change the battery, though availability varies by location — call your nearest store to confirm they offer the service.

If your watch is still under warranty, check the warranty terms before opening it yourself. Some warranties are voided if you open the case back. If the watch is new or recently purchased, contact Michael Kors customer service to ask whether they will change the battery for free or at a discount.

What to do if the watch still does not work

If you installed a new battery and the watch still does not run, the battery may not be making contact with the electrical terminals inside the case. Remove the battery and inspect the metal clip or contacts — they should be clean and shiny. If they look dirty or corroded, gently wipe them with a dry cloth or a cotton swab. Reinsert the battery and try again.

If the watch still does not work, the problem may not be the battery. The movement (the internal mechanism) could be damaged, or the battery contacts could be worn out. At this point, take the watch to a jeweler or Michael Kors store for diagnosis. They can test the battery, inspect the movement, and tell you whether the watch can be repaired and what it will cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any CR2032 battery, or does it have to be a specific brand?

Any CR2032 battery will work in your Michael Kors watch. Brand does not matter — Energizer, Duracell, and generic store brands all function the same way. The code (CR2032, CR2025, or SR626SW) is what matters, not the brand name on the packaging.

What if I lose a screw from the case back?

If the case back has screws holding it in place (separate from the main case-back screw), you can replace them with a tiny screw from a hardware store or online. Bring the old screw or the watch itself to a hardware store and match the size. Screws this small cost less than $1. If you lose the main case-back screw, a jeweler can source a replacement.

How do I know if my watch battery is actually dead?

If the watch has stopped moving and does not start again after a few minutes, the battery is likely dead. You can also hold the watch to your ear — a working watch ticks or makes a faint whirring sound. If you hear nothing, the battery is dead. Some watches have a second hand that ticks in larger jumps when the battery is low — this is a sign the battery will die soon.

Is it safe to open a water-resistant Michael Kors watch?

Yes, but you must reseal it properly. After you close the case back, the watch may no longer be water-resistant if the seal is not tight. If your watch is water-resistant and you open it yourself, have a jeweler check the seal afterward, or avoid getting it wet until you are sure the seal is good. If you are unsure, take it to a jeweler instead.

Can I change the battery while wearing the watch?

No. Remove the watch from your wrist and place it on a clean, flat surface. You need both hands — one to hold the watch steady and one to operate the case opener tool. Trying to work on your wrist risks dropping the watch or losing small parts.